The Lumberjack -- April 21, 2022 by The Lumberjack

Vol. 113 Issue 13 | April 21, 2022 — April 27, 2022

Every Voice at NAU club hopes to use its voice to enact change MARK FABERY & EMMA LONG

Trigger warning: Mentions of sexual assault

S Supporters for transgender rights protest new Arizona legislation while walking along Route 66, April 16. Octavia Freeland | The Lumberjack

Anti-trans legislation sparks PRISM protest outside city hall

XAVIER JUAREZ

AU students protested the recent passing of Senate Bill 1138 and SB 1165 — two bills attacking transgender people in the state of Arizona. The protest took place in front of the University Union Starbucks Saturday, April 16, with volunteers arriving at 10 a.m. to decorate signs. The march through Flagstaff was followed by a protest in front of Flagstaff City Hall, which started at 11:30 a.m. At the protest’s peak, there were more than 30 people in attendance. The protest was organized by People Respecting Individuals and Sexual Minorities (PRISM), a club that seeks to empower, advocate and support the LGBTQIA+ community. Cedar Morris, a transgender student and secretary of PRISM, said the protest has been in the works for a couple weeks, spurred on by the passing of SB 1138 and SB 1165 on March 30, just one day before International Transgender Day of Visibility. “We just decided that we finally wanted to take charge and do something in our community, so we decided to do something and take a stand,” Morris said. Both of the bills PRISM was protesting limit the rights of transgender people in the state of Arizona, according to an Instagram post. SB 1138 prevents Arizona youth from receiving irreversible gender-reaffirming surgery until they are 18-years-old and SB 1165 prevents transgender youths from competing in school sports as the gender they identify as. Governor

Doug Ducey’s press release described the laws as “common sense.” However, not everyone sees the laws that way as Morris said he believes the laws may lead to more harm than good. “I think it’s one of the few legal ways they can discriminate against trans youth,” Morris said. “I think they’re just finding any excuse they can to be transphobic, and this is one of the ways they can say, ‘Well trans kids, biologically, are different, so why don’t we just attack that?’” During the protest, many drivers and onlookers honked their horns, raised their fists and cheered out their windows. Valerie Bishop was one of many protestors who made their voices known, who voiced the sentiment that transgender individuals are

human too. “There are a lot more trans people than people think,” Bishop said. “We’ve always been around, we’ll always be around. We’re humans too, just treat us like it.” Bishop, a 2019 NAU graduate, said restrictions which the new laws put in place could hurt transgender visibility. Moreover, Bishop said she is worried the passing of the bills could encourage people to think transphobia is acceptable. “I’ve had people on the streets here in Flagstaff yell slurs at me,” Bishop said. “I’ve been assaulted, I’ve had people try to sexually assault me and it’s just kind of — enough is enough. I don’t want to see that get worse.” Continue reading at JackCentral.org

exual assault is the most underreported crime on college campuses, and college women are at an elevated risk of sexual violence in the United States. Every Voice at NAU is a newly formed group focused on ending sexual violence on campus through lobbying state politicians to pass studentwritten legislation. The legislation is aimed at providing resources and solutions to end sexual violence on Arizona’s college campuses. Statistics from the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network note sexual violence is more prevalent at colleges than other crimes. This can lead to a higher risk of sexual assault for female college students, according to the American Economic Association. NAU has implemented numerous programs and policies to combat rape culture at the university and keep students safe. However, in a 2021 Annual Security and Fire Safety Report for NAU’s Flagstaff mountain campus, NAUPD reported 26 cases of rape, 27 domestic violence cases and 29 stalking incidents. In general, crime statistics are not exclusive to gender, although 91% of sexual assault victims are female, according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center. Payson Hudson is the co-founder of Every Voice at NAU. “There is no law in Arizona addressing campus sexual violence, and students really want to change that,” Hudson said. “Our organization is the first to do this, and we are the ones that are bringing this conversation to the table.” Hudson said she wants to see free access to medical and legal support services for students through partnerships between universities and rape crisis centers. In addition, she noted the state should enact policies which will protect students under the influence of drugs or alcohol from punishment for underage possession after reporting a sexual assault. Moreover, Hudson said she would like to see universities offer confidential advising services, because she believes the majority of students who report to NAU are not receiving the resources they need. “Amnesty policies basically codify that students cannot be held for breaking Student Code of Conduct when they were assaulted, so it really protects survivors in the sense that they can come forward and work for it in a safer way,” Hudson said. “We also push for confidential advising services, through resource advisors to make clear students’ rights and options.” NAU’s Sexual Misconduct Policy states a commitment to non-discrimination on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment. The policy outlines the steps of a formal complaint and grievance process. See ASSAULT continued on Page 5

Protesters conduct a peaceful protest against recent state bills that seek to limit transgender rights, April 16. Octavia Freeland | The Lumberjack

FROM THE EDITOR

JOHN CHAFFEUR ASSISTANT FEATURES EDITOR

rom the very beginning of my time here at The Lumberjack, I’ve always known I’ve been accepted with open arms. As Hannah Elsmore and I were both stepping into new roles as editors, we were both behind the curve. To help mitigate our struggles, the whole staff helped lift us up to be in a position to succeed. This gesture The Lumberjack staff gave us, was something that has encapsulated my time on the Editorial Board. As graduation is right in front of us, I would like to show gratitude to the people who have assisted me. I would like to personally thank Hannah for being such a great friend, editor and journalist, Emily Gerdes who has taken on multiple work-intensive responsibilities and continued to thrive in the process, Camille Sipple for being there any time I needed help on a matter, Josh Osby for being my right-hand through thick and thin, David Harpster who has been so amicable and understanding of my own personal struggles, and the rest of The Lumberjack for always being there. Writing for The Lumberjack the past two semesters has been one of my most fond college experiences. With the knowledge that I’ve learned from my peers, as well as the experiences that I have gained through interviews, writing stories and meetings with my fellow co-workers, I couldn’t have asked for a better send-off into graduation. I’m delighted and blessed to have the group that I’ve had around me and I look forward to seeing their prosperous careers in the future and their accomplishments as it unfolds. Thank you for reading

ONLINE AT JACKCENTRAL.ORG

Wildfire ignites near Timberline neighborhood Continue reading on JackCentral.org

VOL. 113 ISSUE 13

Phone: (928) 523-4921 Fax: (928) 523-9313 Lumberjack@nau.edu P.O. Box 6000 Flagstaff, AZ 86011

EXECUTIVE BOARD

EDITORIAL STAFF

VISUALS

MacKenzie Brower, Editor-in-Chief Camille Sipple, Managing Editor Emily Gerdes, Director of Digital Content and Social Media Kylie Soto, Copy Editor Lauren Gomez, Director of Print Design Lydia Nelson, Director of Marketing

Mark Fabery, News Editor Daisy Johnston, Assistant News Editor Josh Ostby, Online News Editor William Combs III, Senior Reporter Marley Green, Op-Ed Editor Jessie McCann, Assistant Op-Ed Editor Hannah Elsmore, Features Editor John Chaffeur, Assistant Features Editor Katelyn Rodriguez, Culture Editor Haylee Sorensen, Assistant Culture Editor Brenden Martin, Sports Editor Will Hopkins, Assistant Sports Editor Lian Mueno, Assistant Director of Print Design

Brian Burke, Director of Photography Megan Ford-Fyffe, Assistant Director of Photography Jonah Graham, Senior Photographer Madison Easton, Senior Photographer Shawn Patti, Director of Multimedia Brittani Poeppel, Director of Illustration

FACULTY ADVISERS David Harpster, Faculty Adviser Rory Faust, Sports Adviser

CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS The Lumberjack is committed to factual correctness and accuracy. If you find an error in our publication, please email MacKenzie Brower at msb389@nau.edu. APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022

EVENTS CALENDAR APRIL Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday 1

2 Global Game Day @ the International Pavilion

Spring Has Sprung NAU Global Cabaret Virtual Art Exhibit @ Hozhoni Art Gallery

10 Moonshine Bandits on Bucked Up tour @ The Museum Club

17 Theatrikos “Steel Magnolias”

11 OhGeesy World Tour @ Orpheum Theater

NAU School of Art Faculty Exhibition @ NAU Art Museums

19 CAL/SBS Film Series: “Into the Wild”

Built to Spill @ Orpheum Theater

25 Spring Has Sprung Virtual Art Exhibit @ Hozhoni Art Gallery

Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival @ Orpheum Theater

NAU Jazz Combos Concert @ Kitt Recital Hall

Prochnow Movie Night: “The 355”

Prochnow Movie Night: “A Journal for Jordan”

“Our Town” @ Clifford E. White Theater

Big Sky Men’s and Women’s Tennis Championship begins

Anger Management Comedy Show @ Orpheum Theater

Big Sky Women’s Between Two Edges: Golf Championship Intersecting Cultural ends Identities Art Exhibit Display

27 AXE Out Stress @ Union Pedway

Between Two Edges: NAU Undergraduate Intersecting Cultural Expo Identities Art Exhibit Display

NAU Undergraduate Expo 24

Sarah Shook and the Disarmers concert @ Orpheum Theater

NAU School of Art Faculty Exhibition @ NAU Art Museums

Big Sky Women’s Golf Championship begins

Saturday

NAU 2022 Film Festival @ Orpheum Theater

The Zookeepers Live @ The Museum Club

16 ZoSo: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience @ Orpheum Theater 23 NAU Undergraduate Expo

30 Big Sky Men’s and Women’s Tennis Championship ends

SOCIAL MEDIA

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NEWS Fossil Free club demands NAU divest from extraction industry

March 10 WILLIAM COMBS III At 6:16 p.m., a student reported three April 11 for a non-student trying to get to the vehicles stuckNAUPD in the snow near theand At 3:34 a.m., a custodial staff bus station. responded he newly reactivated Fossil Free Skydome Practice Fields. NAUPD member at the Performing and Fine assisted. NAU (FFNAU) club is taking March 7 responded and assistance was providArts building requested a walkthrough action to demand the NAU At 8:56 a.m., a student requested ed. Facility Services was contacted to of the building. NAUPD responded At 11:11 p.m., a taxi driver reported Foundation change the way it invests. assistance outside McKay Village after plow the roads and put cinders on fare the and provided assistance. a subject refusing to pay their The NAU Foundation operates as a falling on ice. NAUPD, Flagstaff Fire hill. of Drury Inn & Suites. NAUPD outside non-profit organization that manages Department (FFD) and Guardian At 12:22 p.m., a Gabaldon Hall responded and the non-student was and invests all donations for the purpose Medical Transportthe (GMT) responded. At 10:53 an Allen Hall of RAservices resident reported odor of gas from cited andp.m., released for theft of advancing the university. The student was transported to Flagreported a damaged ceiling tile. an oven. NAUPD and Flagstaff Fire and trespassing. Organizers for the club said FFNAU staff Medical Center Department (FFD) (FMC). responded and NAUPD responded and took a report. is currently drafting a letter to President found the appliance was an electric April 15 José Luis Cruz Rivera and foundation At 12:54 p.m., a RA reported a “McMarch 11 stove. At 10:05 a.m., a non-student board members requesting transparency Connell Hall” sign had been taken. At 8:29 p.m.,NAUPD a Drury Inn & Suites walked into to make a traffic when it comes to the foundation’s NAUPD responded and later destaff member reported a male April 12 complaint. NAUPD responded and assets as well as divestment from assets termined the sign had already been non-student for clothing. OffiAt 3:31 a.m., Flagstaff Police assistance wasasking provided. in the fossil fuel industry. FFNAU found. Department and an anonymous subject cers responded and no criminal activ- representatives said they would like to witnessed. requested a welfare check on a student ity was At 7:49 p.m., a student reported see those funds reallocated to portfolios March 7 outside McConnell Hall. NAUPD that persons in a vehicle had shot them they deem socially responsible. At 8:56 a.m., a student requested Marchan12airsoft gun near South San responded and the student was found with Students Jady Kralovic and Olive assistance outside McKay Village after Francisco At 12:04 a.m., a faculty member reto be in good health. Street and Mountain View Dunn are co-presidents of FFNAU. falling on ice. NAUPD, Flagstaff Fire questedNAUPD a welfareresponded check on aand previous Drive. took a Kralovic said she and Dunn have Department (FFD) and Guardian student. NAUPD was unable to conAt 10:20 a.m., a Reilly Hall RA report. learned from the pitfalls of the previous Medical Transport (GMT) responded. tact the subject and the requesting reported the theft of couch cushions. organization and are aiming to create a The student was transported to Flagparty was notified. NAUPD responded and took a report. At 8:35 p.m., a Pine Ridge Village good relationship with NAU. staff Medical Center (FMC). RA reported two students with BB guns “Something that we wanted to work March April 13 in their13 room. NAUPD responded and on that the past leadership of the club At 12:54 p.m., a RA reported At 11:11 a.m., NAUPD reported At 5:47 a.m., a Drury Inn a&“McSuites two students were referred for a violation had an issue with was a lot of activist Connell Hall” sign had been taken. observing a vehicle violation off camemployee requested a welfare check of the Student Code of Conduct. strategies that rile people up, so we are NAUPD responded and later depus. A citation was issued for driving on a non-student. NAUPD, FFD and deviating from that,” Kralovic said. “We termined sign had already been license, Guardian the Medical Transport (GMT) without a validApril 16 no valid reg- want to meet with Cruz Rivera, and he found. and proof The responded, and the non-student was istration At 6:37 a.m.,of insurance. a non-student seems open to having those kinds of vehicle was towed for a mandatory found to be intoxicated, but refused requested a welfare check on a Mountain conversations, rather than having a sitAt 10:27transport. p.m., a subject reported a 20-day impound. medical View Hall resident. NAUPD responded in outside his office and demanding and Reilly Hall resident making suicidal and the student was given a public assist yelling things at him. We want to first statements. NAUPD responded, loMarch 14 At 9:11 a.m., a Blome building ride to FMC. have a conversation and see where his cated the student good ill. health and At 6:58 p.m., a student reported a susemployee reportedinfeeling NAUPD, head is at.” provided the student with a public picious person in the area of lot 3C. FFD and GMT responded and the At 10:12 p.m., a Cowden Hall RA Kralovic said she believes it is important assist ride to The Guidance Center. NAUPD responded but no contact employee was transported to Flagstaff reported the theft of a room placard for FFNAU to keep a good relationship was made. Medical Center (FMC). sign. NAUPD responded and took a with the administration, especially with March 8 report. the new president at NAU. Cruz Rivera At 6:03 p.m., NAUPD received mulAt 5:47 p.m., a passerby reported March 15 is not the main roadblock when it comes tiple fire alarm notifications coming At 4:26 p.m., a staff member reportpossible smoke coming from a sewer At 11:58 p.m., a McConnell Hall to the university’s divestment in fossil from Mountain View Hall. NAUPD ed graffiti on a blue light phone near vent near San Francisco Street and resident reported a student experiencing fuels, Kralovic said, it is the foundation and FFD responded, the area was Knoles and McConnell DrivesAt 4:44 Franklin Avenue. NAUPD responded suicidal ideation. NAUPD, FFD and board which controls funds amounting searched and determined the alarm and confirmed there was steam coming GMT responded and the student was to $170 million as of 2017. was caused by a mechanical failure from the sewer, but no further assistance transported to FMC. Not only is it a priority to be in good from a dryer. Fire Life Safety was nowas needed. standing with the administration and the tified. April 17 foundation board, Kralovic said, but also At 10:39 p.m., a Pine Ridge Village At 9:39 a.m., a student reported the Flagstaff community as a whole. March 9 resident reported feeling ill. NAUPD, another student passed out on a bench “While we are a recognized club, At 12:20 an employee FFD andp.m., GMT respondedreported and the outside Allen Hall. NAUPD, FFD we really are a larger movement and finding in the University Union. and GMT responded, but the student resident drugs was transported to FMC. not just contained to NAU students,” NAUPD responded and entered the refused medical transport. Kralovic said. “When we have met with found drugs into evidence. A report April 14 community partners, they have made wasAttaken for information only. Police 11:44 a.m., Sedona At 1:09 p.m., a Pine Ridge Village comments about previous groups, saying Department arrested a subject on an resident reported the odor of gas. that they were not rooted enough in At 7:02NAUPD p.m., a Campus Heights active warrant. One staff non- NAUPD and FFD responded, and the community so then when students member reported having constipastudent was extradited and booked into found the odor was from a battery that graduate the momentum has left with tion. NAUPD, FFDDetention and GMTFacility. reCoconino County was charging. them. You really need to have people sponded and the staff member was here long term.” transported FMC. At 6:33 to p.m., a Physical Science FFNAU’s first large-scale community building employee requested assistance event is taking place in a park outside of campus where students and members of the community can come together to mingle and discuss a strategic plan. The potluck and arts and crafts event will take place on Wednesday, April 20 at Jim Cullen Memorial Park. Dunn said the club has plans to work with the other Arizona COMPILED BY MARK FABERY

universities to create momentum for divestment statewide. For now, they are taking it one step at a time. “The fossil free movement is global,” Dunn said. “It started out as college students demanding their universities to divest from the fossil fuel industry, and already there has been $40 trillion that has been divested worldwide. That is significant and hopeful and we are trying to harness that power at this university.” Dunn said it is important for the university to divest assets from dirty banks, or those which invest in the fossil fuel industry. Wells Fargo, Chase Bank and Bank of America are some of the businesses she said need to be held accountable. FFNAU’s goal is for the university to redistribute funds into credit unions, as well as remove dirty bank ATMs — ATMs from banks which invest money into the oil industry — from campus, Dunn said. “There are a lot of really good alternatives that invest in socially responsible and localized institutions,” Dunn said. “We are trying to get NAU to remove dirty bank ATMs from campus because every time someone uses one of these ATMs, the bank makes a certain amount of money and that money is going directly to the fossil fuel industry. That is our money, and we should have a say about how it is invested.” Kralovic said although it may be an annoyance for the NAU Foundation to take the time to reallocate their assets, eventually it may prove to be more cost effective. “BlackRock, a consulting firm, has done multiple analyses on portfolios that have fossil free, renewable type investments versus traditional portfolios that have fossil fuel projects and investments on them and found that with the portfolios that have renewable energy investments perform better or on par with traditional portfolios so it is really not a concern,” Kralovic said. The Lumberjack reached out to the NAU Foundation board for a comment but have yet to receive a response. For more information, visit fossil_ free_nau on Instagram.

ILLUSTRATION BY DOMINIC DAVIES

APRIL 7, 2022 — APRIL 13, 2022

ASSAULT continued from page 1 A formal complaint requires a statement of the allegation and a specific action requested of the university. Complaints may be submitted by the complainant or Title IX coordinator, as stated by the policy. Furthermore, the policy states the grievance process has “equal opportunity” for both parties to review evidence, present witnesses and participate in hearings, while live hearings are required and both parties are provided with the option to appeal. “The dismissal [of an allegation] does not preclude action under another provision of the university’s code of conduct,” the policy states. Some university responses to a violation of the Student Code of Conduct are suspension, expulsion, degree revocation, administrative hold, restricted access to university property and notation on transcript. An alternative option to the grievance process is an informal resolution process like mediation. At the beginning of the process, a respondent may face emergency removal if it’s determined they pose an immediate threat. This process, Hudson said, is the reason why only 2% of sexual violence cases are reported to NAU, due to the fear of possible retaliation and general fear of the criminal justice system. Hudson said the state should have confidential resource officers that act as a shoulder to rely on for survivors. “NAU and every university needs a confidential resource officer,” Hudson said. “I think every university in Arizona can really benefit from that, but right now we do have resource advisors, but they are not confidential, and they are Title IX resource advisors. That’s a whole other barrel of monkeys.” Kinsey Kavanagh, ASNAU vice president of student affairs, has been a supporter of Every Voice at NAU. Kavanagh said the resources NAU has available to sexual violence survivors are not provided in a clear way to students. Hudson and Kavanagh agree there is a lack of clarity from NAU when it comes to resources for sexual violence survivors. Kavanagh went as far to say she has no clue how to report a sexual assault, although she is in student government. “Personally I would have no idea what to do next,” Kavanagh said. “I’m in student government, and I sit on these committees, and I would not know what my first step is.”

Emotional support dog, Meatball, sits next to the sign “We Deserve A Rape Free Campus!!” as a part of Every Voice NAU’s sexual assault awareness rally in front of University Union on central campus, April 12. Taylor McCormick | The Lumberjack To fix these issues, Kavanagh said NAU should provide pamphlets, which would show survivors of sexual violence possible options for what to do next. “I’ve heard there are so many different routes, so many of them could be wrong and so many of them are right,” Kavanagh said. “I know we have great connections like Victim Witness Services, now Every Voice, North Country, Planned Parenthood, these are great facilities, I couldn’t tell you what they would do for me, though, or why to go to them or when.” Moreover, Kavanagh said she believes NAU pretends to act as if sexual violence is not happening, as the university provides consent training to students. Kavanagh also sits on the Health Promotions Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence Task Force. The task force consists of both on and offcampus resources working collaboratively to address campus sexual violence. Kavanagh said she wants to see the council introduce an individual who can be a confidential adviser for students and see the council provide pamphlets full of resources for survivors. Kavanagh plans to work with Hudson and ASNAU over the summer to collaborate on a resolution with action items for NAU to follow which would improve resources on campus. “[ASNAU] doesn’t want to propose something that

is half-assed, and we are wanting to hit the ground running in early August, September, with a resolution to present to ASNAU,” Kavanagh said. “I don’t want to post something kind of calling out the university without action items, I plan on working with Every Voice and getting student perspectives of what they want to see executed.” The club organized a protest in front of the University Union April 12. A group of 14 students rallied, carrying signs with phrases such as “Take rape seriously,” and “We deserve a rape-free campus.” Hudson said the protest was a way for students to raise awareness, but also come together as survivors and supporters to make NAU a safer place to learn. “What we wanted to do was have this event serve as an outlet for students to raise awareness of the issue,” Hudson said. “We want students to come together and recognize that we have power to make campus a safer place, and not only that, but we can facilitate a community that makes survivors feel safe and feel heard.” Hudson and Kavanagh said they hope to use their platforms to enact change on NAU’s Flagstaff mountain campus, while also promoting advantageous resources for survivors.

State Director of Every Voice Coalition, junior Payson Hudson, walks with other protesters holding signs and chanting during Every Voice NAU’s sexual assault awareness rally on central campus, April 12. Taylor McCormick | The Lumberjack

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OPINION

Bridgerton breaks stereotypes

I Brown Jackson's Supreme Court Confirmation Marks a milestone

gainst fervent objection from 47 Republican United States senators, a smart, qualified Black woman was confirmed to the U.S. Supreme Court on April 7. Ketanji Brown Jackson, a former U.S. Court of Appeals judge for the D.C. circuit, is the first Black woman to be confirmed to the highest court in the land in its 232-year history. She handled a frankly ridiculous MARLEY line of questioning from Senate GREEN Republicans with class; this included a question from Sen. OPINION EDITOR Ted Cruz about the definition of a woman. I am unsure how a question of that nature relates to Brown Jackson’s judicial expertise. Outside of politics — as judicial matters such as this should be — Justice-designate Brown Jackson was an excellent choice. This is not only because of her capability; the representation and unique perspective she brings to the Supreme Court is immeasurable in value. It’s no question that when old, straight white men are exclusively in power, people who do not fall into that demographic suffer. Women, LGBTQ+ people and People of Color are not being advocated for in situations that affect them. About 77% of sitting judges in U.S. circuit or district courts are white, and People of Color tend to receive harsher or longer prison sentences. For example, Black men receive almost 20% longer sentences on average than white men in similar situations. Brown Jackson has an opportunity no other Black woman has had in history. In a world where they are consistently denied a voice, I can’t fathom the impact her image and position must have on young Black women. They must feel such deep disgust watching the deplorable way Republicans treated Brown Jackson during her hearings. I imagine they also feel extreme pride to witness her handle it with such grace. I mentioned before that politics should be put aside when discussing the judicial system. It is true that the U.S. Supreme Court is not a place for activism or social change. Inevitably, however, politics end up factoring into every facet of government, regardless of whether or not they should be considered at all. During a time when citizens are concerned about inflation and women are increasingly nervous about their fundamental rights being taken away, President Joe Biden’s approval rates are incredibly low. It was a crucial political move for him to nominate a liberal judge that Democrats could get behind. The party has been fractured since the Trump era; this was a major step in unifying liberals mere months before midterm elections. Brown Jackson will likely accrue many accomplishments during her time on the Supreme Court. However, one of the most important things she will ever do is represent a group of people who have not been represented on the Supreme Court in 232 years.

EMMY BINING

t is no shock South Asian women have been underrepresented in mainstream media for years — there has never been positive representation. They are portrayed as nerds with heavy accents, often used as a form of amusement for viewers. They are, of course, never the love interest. This has long been the case — up until now. The Netflix original show “Bridgerton” offers refreshing representation of South Asian women. Two sisters, Edwina Sharma and Kate Sharma, are new in town and have caught the eyes of London’s high-class society. They are seen as desirable, elegant and sophisticated. They are also well spoken and well mannered with slight Indian accents. The accent was presented in a passive, yet heartwarming way, and for the first time, it wasn’t used as a form of mockery. The film industry has portrayed South Asian women with darker complexions as undesirable, even in Bollywood film productions. Well known actresses in Bollywood classics all have a lighter complexion such as Kareena Kapoor, Katrina Kaif and Aishwarya Rai. Since having lighter skin fits into western beauty ideals, the industry maximizes on casting light-skinned actors. Fair skin is glorified in India; there are many advertisements in mainstream media for products that can lighten skin. One of the themes for the 2019 Bollywood film "Bala" is colorism, as it shows issues women have with darker skin. Yet, the actress playing the lead, Bhumi Pedneker, has a fair complexion. It seems as if the directors contradicted their whole point. The fact that shondaland, a film production company, has different casting and character development in "Bridgerton" is astonishing. Every single person the Sharma sisters interact with is amazed by their beauty and elegance. They were both desirable, without an attempt of whitewashing them in any shape or form. They play the female lead roles and have an extensive amount of screen time — something that many South Asian women do not get. South Asian women are viewed as the goody-two-shoes stereotype: Always obeying and never questioning anything, even if it means sacrificing their happiness. Like most ancient stereotypes, South Asian women are told to appear ladylike, do as they are told and, of course, never attract negative attention.

ILLUSTRATION BY DIANA ORTEGA

APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022

During the time period of the show, it was tradition for only a man and a woman to dance together. However, the Sharma sisters challenge the social norm by dancing together, showing how they are unbothered by expectations and other people’s thoughts. As a viewer, it’s clear to see they feel empowered, courageous, confident, and seem to be much happier than the traditionalists. Kate Sharma is strong-willed from the start; she is independent, admirable and doesn’t fear standing up to someone who may have higher status. Her scenes with Anthony, the love interest, demonstrate her control over her own sexuality, which is hardly ever seen in female South Asian characters on television. Living in a country that has an entirely different lifestyle and culture may make people want to conform to that way of living. What I love about “Bridgerton” is that they take pride in their culture instead of shying away from it. Even in television programs, People of Color have been portrayed as embarrassed of their culture. Yet, the writers infused the characters’ culture in many ways. When Edwina is sad, she reverts to her cultural practices, like when she oils her hair. The show also includes Haldi, an Indian pre-wedding ceremony tradition, which is performed on Edwina, the bride-to-be. The ceremonial mixture of turmeric, water and oil is used to bless and protect the couple. When watching a film or television show as a kid, I always desired to be the main character. I found myself trying to uplift representations that were simply not a representation of me or the South Asian community as a whole. Coming from a South Asian background myself, I have never identified with a character up until now, and it has made me even prouder of my roots. The inner child in me screamed when I saw the representation I never got growing up, and I can’t imagine the positive impact it will have on younger generations. This show allows South Asian women to identify with these characters and, finally, see something different on screen. “Bridgerton” should serve as an eyeopening example and influence to other mainstream films and television programs for their positive representation of South Asian women.

Vehicles fill Milton Road at around 3 p.m., April 15. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack

Misery on Milton as changes approach

EMILY REHLING

raffic on Flagstaff’s main passageway has been considerably higher in recent weeks as pavement construction takes place on Milton Road. When enduring the stop-and-go, it’s hard not to notice how dismal the stretch has become, not just to drive on, but to look at. Milton Road is the friendly face that greets all of Flagstaff’s visitors — the main entryway into the city. It’s hard to get anywhere in Flagstaff without having to spend some time on Milton. Unfortunately, it’s also the most dreadful street in existence. That may sound like hyperbole, and it is — but it’s safe to say most Flagstaff drivers carry a strong disdain for Milton Road. Constant traffic adds minutes and accident risk to drivers’ commutes, with nearly 1,500 crashes recorded during a study of the road that took place between 2012 and 2016. This study was used for the Milton Road Corridor Master Plan, developed by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) in 2018. The plan identifies its purpose as “[addressing] current safety and traffic congestion issues by evaluating a mixture of previously recommended and newly introduced System Alternatives,” to take place over the next two decades. Some of the proposed changes include expanding right-of-way transportation and creating alternate routes. Milton Road has experienced substantial change since it was initially created to serve as a connection between highways. Today, the road hosts a large portion of the commercial development in Flagstaff; multiple fast food restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations and other shopping centers litter Milton Road and its connecting routes. NAU students and faculty also make use of the road, as it connects to campus through multiple intersections. The master plan seeks to accommodate the changes in Flagstaff’s development, which makes up a massive increase of traffic on the road. Yet, these changes will affect the city’s image and character. Milton Road is the first impression most visitors will have of Flagstaff, so these changes need to maintain the city’s integrity. For many, that integrity lies in the natural beauty and environmental initiatives that make Flagstaff a green city. Milton Road, in all its truck stop-derived glory, already perpetuates a contradictory image to those eco-friendly values. Shouldn’t these changes address environmental concerns caused by the corridor as opposed to adapting to commercial development? The master plan acknowledges the importance of environmental stewardship to the community and emphasizes that ADOT and the Flagstaff Metropolitan Planning Organization (FMPO) are prioritizing “sensitivity to environmental concerns.” While the plan takes those concerns into consideration, it’s hard to see what benefit it will create for Flagstaff’s ecosystems. Development in Flagstaff is a hotly debated topic to begin with. While Flagstaff has never been a city that people associate with commercialism, development is on the rise. Demand for more retail has naturally increased as populations and the university grow. Though it can improve the city’s aesthetic appeal, the developers building Milton Road do not seem to be taking that fact

into consideration. Additionally, many have criticized the poor planning of these developments. Making Milton Road easier to navigate will benefit commercial retail properties that sit on its wings, but will do little to nothing to improve the city’s environment and ecosystems. Drivers may not clutch the wheel as tight when traveling on Milton, however they should notice their city moving away from the characteristics that make it unique. Restructuring streets like this helps facilitate more development. Alternative plans need to be considered to show residents that city planners still appreciate them as well as what they value. City planners are missing out on an opportunity to beautify Milton Road and create better representation of Flagstaff for visitors and residents. Although the master plan may make traveling on Milton Road a little less miserable, it’s been created for the wrong reasons. ADOT and FMPO should be working to create an experience that is not just easier, but more enjoyable and sustainable. Milton Road could be lined with parks, museums, arboretums and plenty of other features that showcase Flagstaff’s commitment to a green community. Instead, drivers are treated to charming views of a backed up McDonald’s, strip malls and clouds of exhaust. One of the greenest cities in Arizona should not be represented by a hub of chain retail and deteriorating gas stations. The fact of the matter is drivers can look forward to change in Milton Road’s future. The problem is that this change is taking Flagstaff in the wrong direction, one that ignores everything the city values and promotes.

The San Francisco peaks overlook the development and traffic of Milton Road at around 3 p.m., April 15. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack

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OPINION

Battle over bodies: Women's reproductive rights

LISA HALL

hroughout history, women have fought for reproductive rights and won. When the government challenged legislation, we fought and won

lawed completely. There are at least 13 states that would effectively ban abortions. On the other side though, there are at least 17 states that have protected abortion again. Yet, here we are, with states enforcing 15-week abortion bans and the feder- rights in this case. al government looking to overturn abortion rulings. Arizona residents seeking an abortion will likely have to travel to another state Gov. Doug Ducey signed the 15-week abortion ban into law March 30, to legally obtain the procedure if Roe v. Wade is repealed. In Coconino County, making Arizona the first state this year to place felony charges on doctors who women would have to travel nearly 241 miles — over four hours of driving — to perform abortions after 15 weeks, outside of medical emergencies. Cortez, Colorado to receive a legal abortion. In Arizona, only a small number of abortions happen after the 15-week mark Some people simply do not have the means to make a trip like that, which and tend to be for minors, those with health conditions or people who did not will lead them to seek alternative options which are not nearly as safe as going to a have access to care sooner. Signing this bill into law put countless women at risk medical professional. for unhealthy and unwanted pregnancies. This will create many risks for women as they are forced to seek alternative Alexis McGill Johnson, president of Planned Parenthood Action Fund, said abortion methods, such as under-the-table procedures or over-the-counter drugs. “Arizona politicians — including the governor today — are willfully ignoring History will repeat itself, and many women will end up suffering as a result. both public opinion and science with the sole goal of stripping constituents of The GOP plans to defend the abortion restrictions by stating the left is extheir constitutional rights.” treme in their pro-choice views. I cannot see this as anything other than church Historically, men have generally been opposed to reproductive rights and and state crossing over, because there is no logical reason for the government to wanted women to stay in traditional homemaker roles. Granting this freedom interfere with women's decision to have children. provided women with autonomy over their own lives to make their own reproBeyond the GOP’s simply untrue defense, it is not supported by the majoriductive decisions. ty of U.S. citizens. In fact, a 2021 Gallup Poll reported 58% of Americans were In the 1960s, women's rights groups and feminist activists gathered in an efopposed to overturning Roe v. Wade. fort to overturn abortion restrictions and fight for legal and safe abortions. Most arguments of the right come from a place of personal beliefs, one of During this time, the women's rights movement grew rapidly. Women dewhich is that life begins at conception. Although used often, this argument should manded the same rights as men, including the ability to make decisions about not be deemed valid, since heartbeats cannot be detected until 5-7 weeks. their own bodies, which apparently is not a basic human right today if you ask The government's attempt to restrict abortions again sets women back decades Gov. Ducey. and takes away from the monumental progress that has been made. On Jan. 22, 1973, Roe v. Wade was passed into law by the United States It is abysmal that this right is being questioned. Regardless of personal beliefs Supreme Court, which removed all abortion restrictions nationwide but allowed on abortion, the U.S. government previously granted the right. states to create individual abortion restrictions in the second and third trimester To say it is a violation of human rights under the Constitution does not truly of pregnancies. convey the level of disrespect and mistreatment that women have had to endure That does not mean abortions were easy to get at that time, though. States from the government for so long. immediately enacted restrictions, which mostly impacted low-income families and Women are questioned in every possible way when it comes to bearing chilminority women. Congress motioned to block Medicaid from covering abortion dren. If a woman does not want kids, it is an issue. If a man does not want kids, procedures, effectively preventing affordable abortions for people insured by it. it is completely acceptable in society. Women are often directed away from havAs abortion restrictions continue to expand across states, the battle for safe ing their tubes tied by medical professionals, whereas men are hardly questioned abortions remains. Abortions can be a traumatic experience. Adding screaming about vasectomies. Women are shamed for having sex and men are praised for it. protestors, outside judgement and societal standards to the mix creates unnecesEvery aspect of the decision to ban abortions comes from an evil place that is sary roadblocks, when it is really no one's business except the person who is preg- meant to control women. We already won this fight, and we can do it again if we nant. need to. Now, once again, abortion protections are being overruled in the Supreme Court. If Roe v. Wade gets overturned, it doesn’t mean abortions will be banned everywhere, but that states will have the power to create their own laws regarding abortions. In Arizona though, if the law gets overturned, abortion will be out-

A composite image of a 1970 protest commemorating women's suffrage in New York City paired with a 2021 image of a women's reproductive rights protest in Flagstaff, Arizona. Photo illustration by Emily Gerdes | The Lumberjack.

APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022

The silence of female music artists

NAZREEN ALI

eople are told to do what they love and follow their dreams. As they develop in the professional world, women often find this statement doesn't apply to them. The music industry is constantly enforcing strict demands on female artists, so much so that they rarely ever have a say in what they do. They are harassed behind the scenes and are not given the same amount of respect as their male coworkers. Media harassment of women is not a new topic to most. In December 2019, Taylor Swift was awarded and named Woman of the Decade for Billboard, an American music and entertainment magazine. She responded with a 15-minute speech about the misogynistic standards of the industry that affect her career. In her speech, Swift talked about how her management team said she needed to respect everything they made her do. “I saw that people love to explain away a woman’s success in the music industry,” Swift said. Her team forced her into a pop-sounding type of music

that she didn’t prefer, which left her little room for creative freedom. No one knew Taylor Swift was pressured to create a completely different genre of music, and as a result, turned her entire career around. Swift said in her speech that her team implemented changes to her career in response to backlash from fans in each genre she attempted. “Oh, they’re saying my music is changing too much for me to stay in country music?” Swift said. “All right. OK, here’s an entire genre shift and a pop album called 1989.” Her shift was not entirely popular among her audience that adored the “old Taylor.” She can’t do anything her own way without her audience, team and other artists criticizing her choices. The music industry is holding back female artists’ creative freedom and containing their careers to clear-cut paths — and most of the time, the artists

ILLUSTRATION BY DIANA ORTEGA don’t even want to go the route they were given by their management team. Pop star Kesha was drugged as well as sexually and verbally abused by her producer Lukasz Sebastian Gottwald. She was forced to maintain a certain physical appearance for her career, leading her to struggle with bulimia. After years of harassment, Kesha responded with a lawsuit against Gottwald in 2014. In 2016, The Washington Post mentioned in an article that Kesha was checked into a treatment center and revealed to the public that she was diagnosed with an eating disorder. There were already rumors that Kesha was withheld from creating her own songs freely after her sudden shift in albums from her 2010 album “Animal” to the 2012 “Warrior” album. As her music changed, nobody thought about her wellbeing or why her new music releases had taken a few years' pause. The article also talks about the lawsuit, and how a major release of information was kept behind-the-scenes for publicity purposes. In court, Rosemary “Pebe” Sebert, Kesha’s mother, said Gottwald had not only contributed to her illness, but continuously pushed it on her daughter. Sebert told the court that Gottwald had told her daughter to lose weight and compared her body to a refrigerator. Since Kesha’s last album, “Warrior,” her contract and Gottwald’s authority has limited the production of her personal music. Kesha said she has been making music frequently, but her contract with Sony restricts her from releasing it with anyone except Gottwald. All Kesha wants is to be out of her contract. “I know I cannot work with Dr Luke [Gottwald],” she said in an injunction. “I physically cannot. I don’t feel safe in any way.”

She’s not asking for a new career — she just wants to continue the one she has without putting up with harassment in order for her songs to be produced. In April 2016, her court hearing ended with the New York County Supreme Court Justice Shirley Kornreich dismissing Kesha’s claims on verbal abuse and stating that the sexual harassment happened “outside New York and beyond the legal time limit.” This is an outrageous statement, since it was found that the judge had bias in favor of Gottwald. The courtroom is no place for this; the court is supposed to view the case from both sides. Contrary to the public notice from Kesha and her team, Gottwald is still successful with his other clients while continuing to embed the gross risqué culture into their music. He has not been stopped, only congratulated on his successes. Kim Petras, a famous pop artist who also works under Gottwald, recently released her EP, “Sl*t Pop.” Famous entertainment journalist Jordan Page stated on Twitter, “something [is] off with Kim Petras’ new EP being titled ‘Sl*t Pop’ and it being entirely produced by Dr. Luke [Gottwald]. A man surrounded with notorious accusations of sexual harassment and assault?” Cancel culture is socially acceptable until a man is criticized, rather than a woman. Gottwald is still supported by other artists even after the public release of his allegations. It is disgusting and vile to see men like him get away with their disrespect toward the women that work for them.

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FEATURES

Sustainability on campus: A marketing tool or a catalyst for change?

Along with academics and student life, NAU attracts many with its outdoorsy campus and mission for carbon neutrality, April 17. Jonah Graham | The Lumberjack

MICHAEL MCCLURE

lagstaff has long been known as a home for the green-thinking, environmentalist minds of Arizona. The American Lung Association named Flagstaff one of the “cleanest cities” in the United States for air quality. NAU has pledged to reach its Climate Action Plan by the year 2030. With these efforts in place, it is still questionable whether all of this will be enough. Officials from NAU, Flagstaff and students on campus have said they believe it all might fall short of satisfactory. The U.S. has only recently reentered the global discussion surrounding climate change after the U.S.’ total withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement during the Trump administration. Many college campuses are making strides to reduce its negative environmental impact. Many universities have made adjustments in order to shift its daily practices to a more sustainable operation. NAU spends ample time and resources in order to

change the Flagstaff mountain campus for the better, but the Princeton Review does not list the university in the top 10 or top 50. Avi Henn, manager of the NAU Office of Sustainability, has followed the on-campus efforts put forth by the administration. Henn said he came to the U.S. from Israel as an adolescent and bore witness to the environmental damage caused by industrialization within the Gulf of Haifa, where he was raised. “The past two years we have fallen off,” Henn said. “The Office [of Sustainability] needs more resources. We just do not have enough staff and funding to achieve the goals we are hoping to, and a lot of our time is spent waiting on directives.” Henn explained some background of NAU’s commitment to its 2030 Climate Action Plan, mentioning a failed pledge in 2010 to reach carbon neutrality. “I try to remain positive, but we have already seen

one failure in NAU’s history,” Henn said. “It is going to take a major shift in how we live our daily lives. If the administration is serious about 2030 then many things that are taken for granted will need to shift to better alternatives or elimination entirely.” Prior NAU administrations laid groundwork for a substantial climate plan — to no measurable success. In 2010, former NAU President John D. Haeger announced a climate plan to gradually reduce emissions from then-current levels to net-zero emissions by the year 2020 in staggered amounts. This plan did not reach its goals and remains a priority for the university; however, the date is now pushed back to 2030. NAU has implemented the Sustainability Action Plan — a comprehensive and multi-faceted agenda which targets all aspects of living, including transportation, procurement and waste minimization. It remains the hope of the Office of Sustainability that

“WE’VE DONE ALL THE TALKING WE CAN DO. AT THIS POINT IT IS GOING TO TAKE A PARADIGM SHIFT, ONE WHERE THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY IS ABLE TO CHECK ITS PRIVILEGE AND REALIZE THAT MANY THINGS WHICH [WE] TAKE FOR GRANTED WILL HAVE TO GO.”

-Adam Shimoni, city councilmember

Left: Adam Shimoni, Flagstaff councilmember, poses for a picture during the NAU Arizona Students' Association press meeting, Oct. 5, 2021. Right: Avi Henn types on a computer. According to the Office of Sustainability website, Henn was influenced to pursue sustainability after experiencing the environmental damage of his hometown from heavy industrialization and poor planning, April 14. Jonah Graham | The Lumberjack

APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022

these pledges will be met. In light of all the efforts on the environmental front, both at NAU and nationally, some wonder how effective marketing may impact plans. New data has shown that more than $600 per student per year is spent on marketing efforts across the U.S., a figure exceeding $2 billion in 2020. Marketing efforts at NAU make mention of the programs related to environmental efforts. Research indicates that sustainability efforts attract sizable portions of the student body to both apply and enroll. Without enrollment numbers, government subsidization would be reduced and many facilities and programs would be rendered useless. Junior marketing student Nathan Converse said the situation is a very common occurrence when trying to reach new audiences. Converse said many scenarios he has seen in his courses remind him of the key points NAU is trying to advertise to the student population. “We actually studied situations like these recently in one of my classes,” Converse said. “Businesses, or colleges in this case, will exploit what they have in order to make it appetizing for the outside world. I believe NAU is making great strides towards a green environment, but a lot of it is definitely played up so that it looks good to the general public.” Flagstaff city councilmember Adam Shimoni said he is critical of these large claims from NAU and Flagstaff. Shimoni said he believes in the ideas but reiterated much of what is going on will simply fall short of what is necessary to help curb the effects of climate change. “We’ve done all the talking we can do,” Shimoni said. “At this point it is going to take a paradigm shift, one where the entire community is able to check its privilege and realize that many things which [we] take for granted will have to go. When people realize what all these changes in society will really look like, the urgency to address change all of a sudden becomes less dire because they get scared of how much they will

need to give up.” Shimoni said public transportation should be addressed as well, both in town and at NAU. As issues of equity and city expansion arise, the need for centralized public transportation will continue to grow. NAU operates a year-round comprehensive bus system. Shimoni said he believes a shift to electric options would be a good first step for the school to move in the right direction. With college enrollment declining across the country, individuals like Shimoni said they believe improved marketing strategies will become pivotal to the success of both private and public institutions. NAU puts its environmental missions on the forefront of its advertising; the claims can not be substantiated in all circumstances. Henn and Shimoni both said they believe observable change has become increasingly important.

including numerous Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design accreditations across campus which recognize environmentally conscious building practices. What remains unanswered from these efforts at NAU and across Flagstaff is if all of it will suffice for a cleaner future.

"I BELIEVE NAU IS MAKING GREAT STRIDES TOWARDS A GREEN ENVIRONMENT, BUT A LOT OF IT IS DEFINITELY PLAYED UP SO THAT IT LOOKS GOOD TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.”

-Nathan Converse, marketing major “It isn’t what we do, it's how we do it,” Shimoni said. “Our minds are on the right path and we are saying the right things, now comes the time to make noticeable and long-lasting change. [Climate change] has become such a political topic, when in reality, politics have nothing to do with it. We will never be able to do enough, but doing small things will be a great start.” Sustainability efforts at NAU are well recognized,

A young sapling grows near the forestry building protected by the care of NAU, April 17. Jonah Graham | The Lumberjack

Update: HRL responds to RA concerns over policy changes EMILY GERDES

After publishing an article titled, “Sudden changes in Housing and Residence Life bring discontent” which covered the changes occurring in HRL beginning in fall 2022, a spokesperson for HRL spoke about the issue providing additional context to the situation.

he Lumberjack reached out to Alicia Voytek, associate vice president of Campus Operations, looking for comment from Housing and Residence Life on March 10. The newspaper had not received an answer when the article was published March 31. Voytek responded to The Lumberjack on April 12. Voytek shared the following points of information via email to clarify the situation: • In June, RAs and RCAs were able to submit feedback for the upcoming 202122 academic year. Responses were upwards of 50 RAs and RCAs. • Only one RA and no RCAs attended the open forum hosted after the meeting where staff were made aware of upcoming changes. • The changes to the meal plan were made in order to create a more equitable environment, based on the community the individual lives in. A person living in a dorm without a kitchen will now receive a different plan than one living with a full kitchen. • Voytek also noted she plans to increase her presence around the Residence Hall Association and ASNAU. • Voytek said for the 2022-23 school year they have the highest percentage of returning student staff in over 25 years. This includes a 20% increase in RA staff interested in returning to their role.

The sun shines on the entrance to Reilly Hall after several days of snow, March 12. Jacob Handley | The Lumberjack

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FEATURES

SPILL TAB OPENS FOR WALLOWS

Top right: spill tab singer Claire Chicha performed at Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Middle left: spill tab singer Claire Chicha performed at Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Middle right: spill tab opened for the Wallows at Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Bottom left: spill tab opened for the Wallows at Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Bottom right: spill tab singer Claire Chicha performed at Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Octavia Freeland | The Lumberjack

APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022

Touch of the Moon MACKENZIE BROWER

If you are the shore and I am the waves, then I am constantly crashing back into you: Grains of sand and particles of salt uniting once again. You stretch for miles and no matter how far I retreat I can always find you somewhere where I need you. Storms will push me to find your steady arms waiting, always waiting. I will wash ashore but my grasp is weak and slippery, and I keep slipping back off your sides into the sea. I know you see me struggling to find a sense of grounding — you try to understand my reality. But you have never felt the touch of the moon the burning desire it leaves within you. And so here, I will remain. Waiting.

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FEATURES PHOTOGRAPHER SPOTLIGHT

Jonah Graham

once interviewed a photographer, asking for the best photo he ever took and he responded with, “I don’t think I have one, and I don’t think I ever will.” At that moment, I fell in love with photography. My name is Jonah Graham and I am currently a sophomore chasing dual degrees in construction management and journalism. I’ve been active with a camera since 2018, but it hasn't been a passion until recently. I don't specialize in a certain aspect but despite my lack of experience, I have realized why I love photography. Through my sun-damaged eyes, photography is the art of constantly being in pursuit of the best, but never capturing it. This may seem contradictive and daunting, but that's what makes photography so wickedly beautiful. Knowing you’ll never get that perfect picture, there's always a prettier sunset, creativity will hit when you’re all packed up and the next smile will be more genuine then the last. These are all things that cause people to push the shutter one more time. After I graduate, I have absolutely no idea what I will do. Whether that’s starting a career, living out childhood dreams or just getting lost. I don’t know, but just like photography, it doesn’t have to make sense to be something wonderful.

APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022

ILLUSTRATOR SPOTLIGHT

Tonesha Yazzie

á'át'ééh! Hello! I am Tonesha Yazzie (a.k.a @ toneythearte) and I have been an illustrator for The Lumberjack for three years now. Since I don’t pursue it professionally, I have always thought of art as a learning process: A way to learn more about myself and what's around me. Over the years, I have attempted many different styles and learned new techniques from some amazing peers but my approach to illustrations is unique. As a Native illustrator, concept has always taken precedence over skill. An idea can take many forms so my main focus has always been visual ideation. Thus, I try my best to utilize any technique to produce the final product. It’s less about developing a singular style but more about figuring out what works best conceptually but I always try to keep it fun, too!

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FEATURES MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE BOARD

Left to right: Lauren Gomez, Camille Sipple, Kylie Soto, MacKenzie Brower, Lydia Nelson, Emily Gerdes. The Lumberjack Executive Board poses for a photo outside the NAU Communication building, April 20. Brian Burke | The Lumberjack

Issue 13, Volume 113 of The Lumberjack is dedicated to both the women in the world and the environment. We decided to merge these two themes and create our Mother Nature issue. That being said, this semester’s Executive Board at The Lumberjack is unique, in that it is the first time in which the board is made up entirely of women — talk about breaking the glass ceiling of the industry. Senior MacKenzie Brower is the current Editor-in-Chief at The Lumberjack after working for the publication for eight semesters. Juniors Camille Sipple and Kylie Soto currently maintain the positions of Managing Editor and Copy Editor; they have dedicated their time to The Lumberjack since their first semester at NAU. Junior Emily Gerdes has worked for the paper for four semesters and is currently the Director of Digital Content and Social Media. Junior Lydia Nelson is the Director of Marketing and is currently in her first semester with The Lumberjack. Senior Lauren Gomez is currently the Director of Print Design and has worked at the paper for three semesters. We hope you enjoy this edition of The Lumberjack and take a few minutes to appreciate all the hard work and dedication our staff has put into this issue, and every issue we publish. We would also like to take the time to thank all our seniors who have given endless hours of effort in order to help make this publication what it is today. We appreciate you. Sincerely, The Lumberjack Executive Board APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022

FASA: TARA SA PINAS

Top: Filipino American Student Association members pose for a group photo at the Tara sa Pinas event in the du Bois Ballroom, April 16. Middle left: Kyle Sicat hits bamboo sticks on the ground to the rythm during Philippine dance called Tinikling with other FASA members during the Tara sa Pinas event in the du Bois Ballroom, April 16. Middle right: FASA members thank the audience for coming to the Tara sa Pinas event in the du Bois Ballroom, April 16. Bottom left: FASA President Gerrick Gansit and Historian Sophia Amor Co-MC the Tara sa Pinas event in the du Bois Ballroom, April 16. Bottom right: Madi Yamada performs with other HAPA members at the FASA Tara sa Pinas event in the du Bois Ballroom, April 16. Megan Ford-Fyffe | The Lumberjack

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CULTURE

Hometown Spotlight: Columbus, GA

I have a good feeling about Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

ot many video games catch my attention, but my boyfriend and I share a deep love for “Star Wars.” Therefore, we had to purchase the game. In childhood, we played Lego Harry Potter and Lego Indiana Jones — none compare to the newly released Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga game. The first time I opened this game was aweinspiring to say the least. The graphics are so improved and the mechanics of the game run smoothly. It’s satisfying to slash through droids and KYLIE enemies with new lightsaber movements. SOTO Aside from using a lightsaber, shooting also feels more natural and is equally as satisfying given COPY EDITOR the new animations in the game. There are also 380 characters to choose from and collect as you play. The characters are broken up into classes from heroes to villains and astromech to protocol droids; anybody can play as their favorite character. It even has Sy Snootles, a renowned singer in the movies. Additionally, there are different versions of characters to be unlocked. For example, a version of D-O has a Santa hat and, although he has no real purpose in the game, he looks cute regardless. Another funny feature the developers snuck in was mumble mode. In the old Lego games, the characters would mumble instead of speaking. This is something that is changed in the new game, but players have the option to change it in-game. They also created a mode in which players can play with baguettes as opposed to light sabers, with the same functionality. One of my initial worries was that players would be forced to start in a particular order, which is not true. Players can start in any order in the saga from their favorite episode to their least favorite. I started at Episode I and played through to Episode IX. As an avid lover of the prequels and original trilogies, I loved this aspect of the game. Perhaps the best part is that the game is meant to be played multiple times. Almost every time one plays it there is something new to be discovered. Although it is not necessary for well-rounded gameplay, you can also collect studs to buy new characters in the game. On top of this, once you unlock free play, anyone can aimlessly explore the worlds at their own pace. For someone who played Lego games as a child, this brings back a lot of memories. It’s also worth mentioning that the game is not as difficult as old ones were, at least to my recollection. I highly recommend this game for anybody who played the original Lego games as a kid. It’s a great experience especially if the player has a love for the Star Wars franchise. I rate it a 10 out of 10.

APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022

The Chattahoochee River is known to have the longest urban whitewater rafting course in the world. | Courtesy of Visit Columbus, GA. MARK FABERY

henever I tell someone I am from Georgia, the first thing that I hear is the all too familiar, “You’re from Atlanta, right?” The short answer is no. I am not from Atlanta or even the suburbs of Atlanta. I am from Columbus, a city that sits right on the border of Alabama and Georgia. It rests right on the Chattahoochee River and is home to the world’s longest urban whitewater rafting course. I am acutely aware that a majority of students at NAU have no idea what Columbus has contributed to history, so let me give you a quick rundown. Columbus is the hometown of novelist Carson McCullers and Ma Rainey, the mother of blues, just to name a couple. If you ask the right person, they will swear that Dr. John S. Pemberton — a veteran of the 1865 Battle of Columbus — invented Coca-Cola right in our city. You are welcome. It is only obligatory that I mention the history of Coca-Cola to any person who happens to be interested in my hometown, or I will surely be asked to visit one of the hundreds of churches that line every major street corner back home. One of the reasons why I love my hometown is its close proximity to Atlanta and Auburn, and to answer your question, yes, that Auburn. I have fond memories of my family and I taking trips to Atlanta to see the different museums, such as the High Museum of Art and the Coca-

Cola museum, among other famous attractions. Although I have lived in Columbus my whole life and effectively explored every nook and cranny of my hometown, I always enjoy finding and experiencing new places. Another appealing aspect of my hometown is its large number of parks and the quick drive to some of the best hiking trails in West Central Georgia — this includes the trails that feed through the Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park in Pine Mountain and Warm Springs. Although there aren’t many nearby attractions, I have gotten by on the weekends by spending time with friends and family in Uptown, which is our downtown, revitalized over 10 years ago and filled with boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops galore. I also spent some time at many Waffle Houses in high school after a football game, enjoying a cup of coffee and a signature All-Star breakfast dish. I always like to say that Georgia has its perks. The high humidity and 90plus degree days with the added bonus of tornadoes and hurricanes aside, Columbus is a great place to visit. Hell, our slogan is “We do amazing” for a reason. As a local hometown favorite, Country’s Barbecue, would say, “It’s the way people down here like it,” and that’s what I always tell people who ask me about my hometown. I promise you would not be disappointed if you ever find yourself in the Deep South.

Bringing awareness to mental health issues through music PAIGE SPRINGSTEAD

n the past, mental illness has been seen as difficult for some to talk about because of the stigmatization of the topic. Over the years, many musicians have spoken out about their struggles with mental illness. Singers Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga and Beyoncé are just a few women in music who have openly spoken and written about their mental health issues. Senior student Lisbeth Rodriguez said music helps her with de-stressing. “I do listen to most of [the artists’] songs, along with other artists to help bring my mood back up or relax my thoughts,” Rodriguez said. According to NorthShore University HealthSystem, music has been proven to help relieve stress, lift moods and relieve depressive episodes. These artists have been active in recent years when it comes to speaking up about their struggles in their music and interviews. Senior Samantha Hall said she sees the connection between the artists when discussing mental illness. “I can understand through their lyrics the way that they struggled through their lives and how they use their music to express their pain,” Hall said. “When they do interviews, they always speak about how they use their music to connect with others that are struggling in the same way.” An article from the New York Post details how Grande has been open about her mental health journey and how she planned to collaborate with Better Help, a mental health organization that strives to make therapy more accessible to the public. In Grande’s song “breathin” from her 2018 album “Sweetener,” she described her experience with periods of depression and anxiety following the bombing at her 2017 concert in Manchester, England. Lady Gaga has been a spokesperson for mental health since 2012, when she and her mother cofounded the Born This Way Foundation, an organization for people to turn to when struggling with their mental health and to provide resources for specific hotlines. An article from Digital Spy includes quotes from the singer regarding her mental health, including one about her experience with medication, particularly the fact she “doesn’t feel bad” about it. “Depression doesn’t take away your talents — it just makes them harder to find,” Gaga said through Digital Spy. “But I always find it. I learned that my sadness never destroyed what was great about me. You just have to go back to that greatness, find that one little light that’s left. I’m lucky I found one little glimmer stored away.” Fourth-year student Maeve Mallette said when she listens to Lady Gaga’s music, she hears the struggles the artist has gone through and how she brings awareness to it through the lyrics. “Advocacy and honesty is the big thing with mental health,” Mallette said in an email interview. “There won’t be such a stigma when people who are easily recognized (artists, actors, etc.) openly speak on these topics. This is an issue I really think needs more attention for younger folks. In general, just opening that line of communication with people can work wonders.” Recently, Gaga released a short film for her song “911,” which was featured on her 2020 album “Chromatica.” The film broke down her daily struggles with the side effects of the medication she takes for her mental illness. Singer and songwriter Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is known for her songs which many consider empowering through her use of lyrics about struggles

A bass guitar sits against an amp in Sechrist Hall during KJACK Radio’s open mic night, April 7. Photo illustration by Octavia Freeland & Jacob Handley | The Lumberjack she has endured. Hall, Mallette and Rodriguez all said they knew Beyoncé has been through tough times during her music career. They said they agreed that Beyoncé has broken the status quo in the music industry when writing about her mental health. They also said they wished more women in music would write and sing about their mental health to be able to relate to them better. In her song “Pretty Hurts,” the line “perfection is a disease of a nation” is about the impossible beauty standards women are subjected to starting when they are young girls. This stereotypical label of what a woman is supposed to look like affects most young women — they are made to think they have to look a certain way. Studies conducted by Teen Health and the Media found “53% of American girls are

‘unhappy with their bodies.’” Campus Health Services has many mental health resources for students to utilize, including a Mental Health Support Squad that provides one-on-one discussion with students that are there to learn to better help those who are also struggling. Overall, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga and Beyoncé have taken a stand to help shine a light on mental illness through their work. Mallette said she hopes there will be more awareness of mental health in the future that can help younger generations speak up about how they feel. With these three artists changing the stigma around mental health, they have provided younger generations with more access to mental health services, such as Grande’s support with Better Help and Gaga’s mental health foundation.

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CULTURE

NAU hosted Wallows

Front row concert goers wait for Wallows to start their performance at Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Octavia Freeland | The Lumberjack

CAMILLE SIPPLE

n April 13, students took to lining the walkways surrounding Prochnow Auditorium as early as 6:30 a.m. for a chance to see Los Angeles-based, alternative rock band Wallows perform live at NAU. The band, composed of Dylan Minnette, Braeden Lemasters and Cole Preston, has been producing music since 2017 with the release of their viral hit, “Pleaser.” While on their way to the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California, Wallows stopped in Flagstaff to give NAU students and local community members a vibrant night of music and energy. Junior Winnie Gutierrez said she was one of those who arrived at the auditorium doors by 6:30 a.m. and waited just over 12 hours to be one of the first inside. A longtime fan, Gutierrez said she also saw the band’s Phoenix performance a few days prior on April 10. “I’ve been a fan of them since 2018, and I just saw them last Sunday in Phoenix,” Gutierrez said. First-year Olivia Herndun, another longtime fan, said she also traveled down to Phoenix to attend the previous show. “I’ve listened to them since ‘Pleaser,’ and our freshman year, we made it a goal before we graduated to see them,” Herndun said. “So we saw them Sunday in Phoenix, and we found out they were coming here and decided we have to see them again.” Though most venues are reopening and artists are hosting tours again, for many, the Wallows concert was their first taste of live music since the start of the pandemic. First-year Skyler Grove was one of these individuals and said she couldn’t wait for the concert to begin so she could experience the rush of live music again. “I just really love live music,” Grove said. “I used to go to concerts all the time and this is my first concert for a bit since COVID hit.” For senior Diana Elliott, Wallows’ music meant much more than something to keep in the background while studying or listening to in the car on the way to the grocery store. Wallows kept Elliott company during the peak months of the pandemic, when quarantining was in effect. “[At the] beginning of COVID, I started listening to Wallows hardcore, so that was my solitary, by myself kind of deal, just listening to a lot of their albums and getting really into them,” Elliott said. “It was good for my mental health, listening to Wallows.” As 7 p.m. neared, the excitement among the lined-up crowd was palpable. When the doors finally opened, it became akin to floodgates, and fans streamed into Prochnow for a chance to get as close as they could to the stage. By 7:15 p.m. the pit area was packed tightly, with little room to even turn one’s body. People continued filing into the auditorium well past 7:30 p.m. and by the time the lights dimmed, Prochnow was packed to the brim with fans.

Wallows frontman Dylan Minette performed at Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Octavia Freeland | The Lumberjack

APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022

s for the concert “Pleaser” of the year Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist spill tab opened the concert prior to Wallows entering the stage. Spill tab’s music ranged from acoustic indie stylings to groovy bass guitar beats that were reminiscent of disco as well as modern pop. Additionally, the artist moved between singing in English and French, creating another sense of variety within the show. First-year Liliana Valadez said though she and her friends came to see Wallows, they also enjoyed spill tab’s performance. “We loved spill tab,” Valadez said. “They were so, so good!” To cap off the set and finish warming up the crowd, spill tab ended her performance with a cover of Kelly Clarkson’s hit, “Since U Been Gone.” The cover was met with scream-singing from nearly every member of the Flagstaff crowd. After a brief intermission, Prochnow’s lights dimmed once again, this time to the sound of screams as Wallows walked onstage. Right out of the gate, Wallows portrayed their passion for performing through their music. The crowd was immediately on its feet, keeping pace with the energy the band naturally exerted. Valadez said Wallows perform amazingly in a live setting and their music is even better each time she sees them live, in concert. The band varied its setlist choices throughout the show and jumped between a mix of older music as well as songs off of their latest album, “Tell Me That It’s Over,” released March 25. This mix allowed for every type of Wallows fan to participate in the high energy concert and interact with the music, no matter how much or little they had listened to the band prior to the show. After an already lively show, Wallows concluded the night with their most popular song on Spotify, “Are You Bored Yet?” The song echoed throughout Prochnow as the audience joined the band and sang along. The performance left Valadez in joyful tears. “This is the second time we watched them in the past week and we thought it was amazing,” Valadez said. First-year Zoe Wagner and Valadez said they enjoyed the show in its entirety but specifically loved it when the band decided to play the song Wagner and Valadez displayed on their signs during the encore. Another instance that stood out to them was when they handed Lemasters a disposable camera and he took a photo with it on-stage before handing it back to them, Wagner and Valadez said. “They’re just amazing,” Wagner said. “They’re so kind and sweet.” Both Wagner and Valadez said the concert fulfilled all their expectations and more. Wallows shook Prochnow Auditorium as well as the NAU students in attendance on April 13. “I would say 10 out of 10, amazing experience,” Wagner said. “Probably one of the best days of my life, to be honest.”

Wallows frontman Dylan Minnette jumps during their original song “Scrawny” at their concert in Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack

Wallows member Braeden Lemasters slings his arm around Dylan Minnette in between songs during their concert in Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack

An audience member films the up-close performance from the band Wallows in Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack

Wallows, Dylan Minette performed at Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Octavia Freeland | The Lumberjack

Wallows frontman Dylan Minnette points his microphone at the audience encouraging them to sing along during the performance of their original songs in Prochnow Auditorium, April 13. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack

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SPORTS

The turnaround of NAU women’s basketball

WILL HOPKINS

AU women’s basketball may have lost the 2022 Big Sky title game to the Montana State Bobcats, but the tournament run signified a turnaround for the Lumberjacks that was five years in the making. NAU has slowly revamped its program and now finds itself looking like one of the conference’s top teams for years to come. The turnaround was by no means abrupt, but it does have a clear en run the sports indusstarting point. try and have been since After the 2016-17 season, NAU had to take a the beginning, making it long look in the mirror. The team hadn’t played difficult for women to get involved. in the Big Sky title game in 10 years — finishing In today’s society, women in sports are not uncommon, but it is a harder in the bottom half of the standings from 2008 development for females in the field. to 2017. NAU had been to back-to-back title As someone who wants to work in games in 2006 and 2007, taking home a Big sports and has several female friends Sky title in the former, so there was a precedent getting into the industry, I know the for the Lumberjacks to be seen as contenders. The problem was the team hadn’t come close struggles firsthand. Sports is a maleKRISTEN to the mountain top since. It was time for the dominated field; women in sports CHANCELLOR Lumberjacks to take the first step back toward have to try twice as hard yet have double the experience for some jobs. being contenders — that step began with the WRITER team’s leadership. However, disparities in the industry NAU head coach Loree Payne built an are not just with the employees. Female athletes are also in the area of impressive resume in the Pacific Northwest, leading Puget Sound for seven years in which the having to push harder than men. coach had not suffered a losing record. Payne also If you look at the salaries of male versus female athletes, on had experience at the Division I level, spending average, women take a much smaller salary. time as an assistant coach at the University of However, women in sports want so much more: The same Washington, which was a key factor in her employment opportunities men have in organizations in joining the Lumberjacks. coaching, athletic training, business, management and so on. “I knew that I wanted to be a head coach Women in sports want to see the success and opportunity that at the Division I level,” Payne said. “I knew a men get. couple people who kind of had ties to NAU, so I The world of sports is changing as women become more did my research and knew the program was in a involved. In 2021, the NFL had the most one-time female coaches ever in a season. 12 females worked in the league — one made history as the first African American female assistant coach. Men have created the base of sports. Women are not trying to change it but simply join it. They have every right to work in sports. It is becoming more common to see women as major employees of public relations (PR) offices for organizations, but there is so much more potential. As a woman in sports, you hear things all the time about how you won’t make it or you have to try twice as hard. The truth is, in some instances, women do have to try twice as hard. They have the determination to work even harder than some men in the industry. Being told so many times you won’t make it or you can’t make it pushes anyone to want to do something ten times more. This means there is nothing stopping women from entering the sports industry except the stereotype that surrounds them. It is not to say women can’t be cheerleaders on the sidelines or working in PR offices — the point is there shouldn’t be limitations. Instead of guys quizzing women on the 1992 roster of their favorite sports team, they should be saying, “Welcome to the sports world.”

Women belong in sports

really tough place. I probably didn’t realize how challenging that place was until I actually got on campus and got a chance to evaluate.” Payne wouldn’t be able to implement her style right away, needing time to bring in recruits she thought would fit, but the turnaround was clear to the previous group of players. Still, in her first season, Payne already had a number of key pieces for her rebuild in the program. Graduate forward Khiarica Rasheed had not been recruited by Payne and didn’t have an abundance of interest from Division I teams, with NAU as her only offer. Still, it is impossible to avoid what she did for the program and its psyche. “It was more structured, we were working towards a better culture,” Rasheed said. “I think those were the two main differences that we saw and we were working towards initially.” Rasheed’s name will be in the NAU record books for many years to come. As the program’s leader in games played and rebounds, and second in points scored, many programs will be kicking themselves for not giving Rasheed the chance that the Lumberjacks did. Payne knew Rasheed would be a piece of her plan before she set foot on campus, along with one other 2017 commit. Senior guard Lauren Orndoff was also vital to the turnaround, becoming a key player for the Lumberjacks almost right away, starting 20 games her freshman year. Still, the first year under Payne had its bumps, as the team finished its season with just a 7-23 record. “Lauren and Kai [Rasheed] were two kids

The Lumberjacks celebrate on the sideline after scoring a critical point against Portland State in the Walkup Skydome, February 17. Brian Burke | NAU Athletics

RECENT GAME SCORES: Men’s Tennis (4/16) NAU 7 - Portland State 0 Women’s Tennis (4/16) NAU 5 - Portland State 2 Big Sky Golf Championship (4/18-4/20) NAU 1st place (+8, 872)

APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022

Follow The Lumberjack sports reporters for live tweets and game updates! MIC Sports: @NAU_MICsports Sports Editor: Brenden Martin @BrendenMartin_

Asst. Sports Editor: Will Hopkins @Will_Hopkins_LJ

This week’s writers:

Kristen Chancellor @Kristen_SportsJ

Montrell Gantt @MontyBoy15

Head coach Loree Payne speaks to the team during a timeout against the University of Idaho in the Walkup Skydome, March 4. Brian Burke | NAU Athletics that we would have recruited,” Payne said. “I knew Kai was undersized, I watched her a lot in high school. I knew right away that Lauren was going to be a really great player.” One recruit stood out in the 2018 class for the Lumberjacks. Junior guard Regan Schenck joins Rasheed in the NAU record books, holding the record for assists in a season and sitting second all-time. Schenck had her choice of where she wanted to go, but NAU caught her eye. “The reason I chose NAU was because of the girls on the team, I loved all of them and the coaching staff,” Schenck said. “They were just super friendly and super easy to talk to and they made it easy to know that they cared about us and they wanted us as a team as well as individually to be successful.” Caitlin Malvar, a transfer from Puget Sound, also helped jumpstart the Lumberjack’s rebuild. Payne noted Malvar’s influence in the Lumberjack rebuild and she was just the beginning of a series of transfers that would set up the turnaround. This wasn’t part of Payne’s initial plans, but she adjusted and has managed to make the most of transfers at NAU. “She [Malvar] came in and probably gave us the biggest boost in that cultural change,” Payne said. “It’s tough, the transfer portal is a hot topic right now. I like to have the players who come in from day one, the Laurens and Regans who have been here that are invested in the program, who continually want to get better, but obviously we’re going to look in the portal for a right fit.” Players like Nina Radford, Jacey Bailey, Miki’ala Maio and JJ Nakai have also been crucial for the Lumberjacks. The second year after Payne’s arrival, the Lumberjacks improved, both in the regular season and the Big Sky tournament. NAU posted a 13-18 record and advanced past the first round of the tournament

for the first time since 2013. The Lumberjacks continued the upward trajectory in 2020, making a charge to the conference semifinal, where they fell to Montana State. However, disaster struck the world of college sports just days after the conclusion of the season. COVID-19 forced every college program to change, with the pandemic limiting recruitment, crowd capacity and many other athletic staples. However, the changes didn’t stop there for the Lumberjacks. Social justice took center-stage following a summer of unrest — when NAU’s program took time to push for change. Rasheed took a leadership role for the Lumberjacks when it came to activism. “Usually I get these ideas or emotions and once I voice that I feel it would be important to do that, [Payne] helps provide the space,” Rasheed said. “There’s a lot of things that happen behind closed doors, but she really lets me lead that. She really doesn’t have to say much.” The Lumberjacks stayed off the court during the 2020-21 season during the national anthem in protest and the team’s social media took time to bring attention to victims of police brutality. “It was definitely something we talked about at my previous school,” Payne said. “Obviously the climate in social justice and all the events that have transpired over the last five years, I think it was something that we had to pay attention to. It needed action and I felt that our players were really in a position that they really wanted to have those conversations and bring awareness and we wanted to 100% support that and engage in those conversations.” The tough season amid the pandemic led to the Lumberjacks struggling in points, including a quarterfinal loss in the Big Sky Tournament, but NAU looks to have set itself up as a contender in 2022. The Lumberjacks pushed through injuries during

the regular season, struggling to keep a solid rotation together due to COVID-19 or other illnesses, but by the kick-off of the Big Sky tournament, the team looked near full-strength just when it mattered most. NAU entered on a three-game winning streak and the team continued that hot finish to the season on the way to a championship appearance against the Montana State Bobcats. The Bobcats were clear favorites, but the Lumberjacks managed to get going in the first quarter, only for a Montana state run and an injury to Orndoff to take the wind out of the team’s sails in the second quarter. The team clawed back into the lead in the second half, putting together a 17-0 run and taking a lead. Despite the team’s efforts, it was ultimately not enough; the Lumberjacks couldn’t hold their lead and Montana State was crowned champions of the Big Sky. Hope is not lost for the Lumberjacks, as the team now has a championship core in place. The group knows what it takes to challenge in the Big Sky conference and has shown it can recruit players that are also desired by other big-time programs. Additionally, Payne looks set to remain with the Lumberjacks for the foreseeable future, as the coach signed a five-year contract extension following the conclusion of the season. Payne has a clear vision of what she wants to do during that time. “Winning championships, that’s what I came here for five years ago,” Payne said. “I knew it wasn’t going to happen right away, but the progress that we’ve made and how far we’ve come and getting the program to a really stable level was really important and now we’re trying to build on that.” The future looks bright for the Lumberjacks, but only time will tell if this team can capitalize on its potential.

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SPORTS

Nyah Moran (left) and Millie O’Ketter (right) are showing people it’s possible to be a high performance athlete while being in a happy relationship, April 16. Jonah Graham | The Lumberjack

NAU athletes share inspiring relationship off the court MONTRELL GANTT thletes are humans. Sure, they entertain by creating spectacular moments and thrill with their tenacious play, but they are humans. They have emotions, families and lives away from the field of play. Nyah Moran, of NAU women’s basketball, and Millie O’Ketter, of NAU volleyball, are second-year athletes. The two young women met in summer 2020 when both women’s basketball and volleyball were on campus for offseason workouts. It was also when COVID-19 was at its peak, which limited opportunities to interact with people outside of sports. That changed when O’Ketter’s teammate Lyla Hollis reached out to Olivia Moran, Nyah’s twin sister, to hang out. After visiting Hollis’ dorm, O’Ketter and Nyah instantly became drawn to each other and began to hang out more. For O’Ketter, meeting Nyah sparked a feeling that was somewhat new for her. “It was weird for me because I was only interested in guys before meeting her, so when I met her I was like, ‘Oh — do I have a crush on her right now?’” O’Ketter recalled with a giggle. “But Nyah had always made me feel comfortable, so I never really got nervous about talking to a girl.” Like any relationship, Nyah and O’Ketter were looking for qualities that would complement one another. “We both have something that we’re always working towards, I just love that about her,” Nyah said. “For me, when we started hanging out as friends, she just kept ticking boxes,” O’Ketter said. “She’s very

APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022

nice, she’s caring and she’s obviously an athlete which has always been important to me, because I think it’s nice to have someone who’s determined in something other than school.” Fans at women’s basketball games are likely to hear O’Ketter cheer whenever her girlfriend drains a three or assists on a score, just like they would hear Nyah when O’Ketter keeps the ball alive during a set. That support has always been important to their relationship, not just as girlfriends, but as athletes in general. “It’s obviously nice to support each other and our relationship but with both of us being athletes we know how hard it can be during the season,” Nyah said. O’Ketter echoed Nyah’s feelings on having a relationship with a fellow student-athlete. “At the end of the day, like after a practice, I’m the one that she’s coming home to, and I see how hard she works. I think it’s important to emphasize every little moment because that’s what we work for and that’s why we’re here,” O’Ketter said. For Nyah, being with O’Ketter has created an elevated sense of passion for basketball. “Being able to see how much she loves her sport and wants to get better every time she’s at practice makes me want to push harder and helps me get through [the season],” Nyah said. For O’Ketter, being with Nyah has changed her way of thinking about not being so stressed about her performance on the court. “Nyah’s obviously a very hard worker but she also gives herself a lot of grace and a lot of empathy, so she gives herself breaks and sometimes realizes that it’s okay to have a bad day,” O’Ketter said. “I think

that allows me to have a different perspective to see her be okay with that and I can implement that into my mindset too.” With more coverage being provided to same-sex couples within sports like Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird, the industry seems to be turning a corner when it comes to improving LGBTQ+ representation in locker rooms and sports media — an improvement these young women are loving to see. “I think sports is a very hypermasculine place in and of itself, so to see queer couples, whether that be gay couples or lesbian couples, it’s just about the representation and having other people see that there are more than just straight couples out there [in sports],” O’Ketter said. “Especially for young people who are navigating their sexuality, or anyone for that fact — it just makes it really comfortable for them.” For Nyah, being comfortable and proud in her own skin isn’t just about doing it for herself, but about inspiring people like her little brother, who is transgender. “Just knowing how much my little brother goes through, I just want to be able to show him that you can be who you are and there are a lot of people who will support you and who you want to be,” Nyah said, holding back tears. Millie O’Ketter and Nyah Moran are athletes. They dedicate themselves to improving their performances and making their sports better. Beyond that, they want to make sports as a whole a place where queer couples such as themselves receive the same recognition as heterosexual couples.

NAU women make their mark in sports KRISTEN CHANCELLOR

hen it comes to sports, the first idea you may think of is the male coaches and athletes, fans cheering and stadium food. Rarely do people think about the cheerleaders, front office staff and other females in the organizations. For women who are trying to break into working in sports, it seems almost impossible with the overlooked resumes or the male presence dominating the league. When asking women or fans why sports is such a male-dominated field, the answer is simple to everyone: That’s how it has always been. Becca Sullivan, a sports videographer and intern for NAU Athletics said, that’s how sports have always been portrayed. “I feel as if it’s unfortunately always been this way,” Sullivan said. “From movies to TV shows, women always get seen as a cheerleader rather than being right on the field or court with the guys.” The stereotypes women in sports often face pertain to cheerleading and being there for their crush. Though not seen very regularly, women make up much of the office staff for teams, especially when it comes to engagement with fans, media and public relations. Women make up 38.8% of the league’s office staff in the NFL. Women simply want the chance to work in sports. The office staff is a great place to start, however, that can’t be the last stepping stone for women to grow

in the industry. Everyone has a passion, and people shouldn’t be hindered from working in sports on the basis of gender. For Andrea Perrone, a social media intern for NAU Athletics, her passion was always sports. “My goal originally wasn’t to work in sports, but I got an email about it and it sounded interesting, and I had worked in sports briefly and enjoyed it, so I was willing to go into it again,” Perrone said. “Now that I have been in it for such a time it’s just what I really like to do and I can’t see myself anywhere else.” The passion shows in those who work in sports, whether male or female. In many leagues, women are key to creating media while in others they struggle to be seen. Photographers and videographers have a balance of female and male. However, while women do the job as well, people listen to men’s opinions more often. “For decades, males have been on the front ends of movie making and content production, with women unfortunately being placed on the backburner,” Sullivan said. Looking at the different professional leagues, football and baseball are the most progressive in involving women. The NFL has female assistant coaches, trainers and CEOs. The MLB has female minor league managers. Alyssa Nakken became the first female MLB coach and, in 2002, the league hired Kim Ng as

the first female general manager in the league. The need for more recognition for women in sports goes further than professional leagues. Looking at high schools and colleges, females are not as present in any field. The stereotypes continue for everyone even down to interns. “People think I don’t know what I’m talking about or I don’t know about the sports, which is completely wrong,” Perrone said. Women in sports are unique in that they are starting to be OK with the lack of support from males and supporting each other instead. Everyone has idols in their life whether they pertain to their career or not. But with women in sports, they are each other’s idols. “Tana Hughes is a huge inspiration for me as a female working in the sports industry,” Sullivan said. “Her work and passion for basketball are extremely inspirational and something I hope to achieve in the future while working in the sports industry. She also led the entire Suns content team through their extensive playoff run last season which is awesome to see as a woman striving to make it in the sports world.” Being a female in a male-dominated industry can be overwhelming and daunting, however, that doesn’t stop anyone from making moves for

themselves. The industry is adjusting to the reality that women in sports are the future. People shouldn’t be handed opportunities on the basis of gender, but everyone deserves a fair chance. The industry is growing and so are the people within it. “I think finding a job has definitely gotten a little bit easier,” Sullivan said. “Companies are finally starting to embrace what we, as women, have to offer and bring to the sports world, which is awesome. While this should’ve been a thing a long time ago, I’m glad things are moving in the right direction.” Nothing is going to stop the new phase of women’s empowerment in sports. The women in the industry have the mindset to move mountains. Women have other women in the industry to thank as well as Title IX rules and new contracts with certain minority or women hiring laws. But laws and contracts do not dismiss the talent some employees have. Women in sports are heading into a new era ready to make a change. “I just love everything about working in sports,” Sullivan said. “Getting to travel, meet new people, create awesome content and, most importantly, follow my dreams has got to be the best feeling in the world.”

Left: Becca Sullivan shoots video of NAU men’s basketball sophomore guard Isaiah Lewis in the Walkup Skydome, Feb. 26. Brian Burke | NAU Athletics Right: Andrea Perrone is a social media intern for NAU Athletics. Photo courtesy of Andrea Perrone.

THE LUMBERJACK | JACKCENTRAL.ORG

APRIL 21, 2022 — APRIL 27, 2022