NUBIANMESSAGE NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY | RALEIGH, NC | THENUBIANMESSAGE.COM | wednesday, april 18, 2018
TAKING THE
Next Steps
wednesday, april 18, 2018 | 2
Letter from THE EDITOR
THISISSUE
4 FOOD, HOUSING RESOURCES Where you can go for help.
6 TRACEY RAY SAYS GOODBYE Her legacy and parting words.
H
ey y’all!
My name is Keilah Davis, and I’m honored to serve as the next Editor-in-Chief for Nubian Message. First, I must thank our founder Tony Williamson. None of this would be possible without his vision and leadership 25 years ago. Secondly, Nubian Message has some cool changes coming to you next year. I would tell you now, but then it wouldn’t be a surprise. You’ll just have to keep reading and following us on social media @NubianMessage (hint, hint). Much of this issue is about transitioning from NC State to whatever is next. Anahzsa says goodbye to Nubian Message, Dr. Tracey Ray is leaving NC State, students of color talk about code switching and senior leaders reflect on the marks they’ve made on NC State’s campus. I hope you enjoy these stories and get a kick out of the latest edition of The Ebony Belltower. Lastly, I’m going to commit to including a proverb in each of my letters. These proverbs have come to mean a lot to me in my time here at NC State, so I want to share them with our readers. If you hang around the African American Cultural Center or Dr. Jamila Simpson’s office, then they will probably be familiar to you. If not, then I hope you find these proverbs encouraging and uplifting. “I am because we are; we are therefore I am.”
7 CODE SWITCHING
On AAVE and “Talking White.”
8 PAN-AF HIGHLIGHTS
Photo gallery of this year’s events.
10 BLACK SENIORS MOVIN’ UP Leaders give NC State parting words.
12 SHAWN’S TAKE ON CLASS Classism in the black community.
12 PUT RESPEK OUR NAMES When whites appropriate ethnic names.
14 MEN ARE LEGIT TRASH A Black man discusses depths of sexism.
15 TOP MOMENTS OF 2017-18 Highlights of the academic year.
Keilah The Sentinel of the African -American Community at N.C. State Since 1992. Keilah Davis
Editor-in-Chief
Kennysha Woods
Managing editor
Only with the permission of our elders do we proudly produce each edition of the Nubian Message:
Dr. Yosef ben-Yochannan, Dr. John Henrik Clark, Dr. Leonard Jeffries, The Black Panther Party, Mumia A. Jamal, Geronimo Pratt, Tony Williamson, Dr. Lawrence Clark, Dr. Augustus McIver Witherspoon, Dr. Wandra P. Hill, Mr. Kyran Anderson, Dr. Lathan Turner, Dr. M. Iyailu Moses, Dokta Toni Thorpe and all those who accompany us as we are still on the journey to true consciousness.
WEDNESDAY, april 18, 2018 | 3
Farewell from ANAHZSA JONES H
ello lovely people,
Part of me is really going to miss saying that. Well this is it; the final issue of the year. I’m not crying yet, but the water works will come, I promise. This year has been a roller coaster, not just for me, but for Nubian. If you take out the late nights—and early mornings—we spent in this office, it’s been mostly ups. I have been so honored to serve as the Editor-in-Chief for Nubian, especially in its 25th year. Twenty-five years of black excellence, of being the voice of the black community here at State, and even though I’ve only been part of the paper for a couple years, that mission has become mine. Going forward, I know I’ll carry the spirit of the paper, making black voices heard, celebrating black triumphs and holding my community accountable, for the rest of my life. Shout out time!! First, I have to thank my TRiO advisor, Sarah Wright, who sent an email to Nubian Message letting them know I was coming to an interest meeting before I even decided I wanted to go. Then, of course, the amazing staff here at Student Media, especially our advisor. Every time she came in the office, we knew we had at least an extra hour’s worth of work to do, but her suggestions always made the paper better. Then, my incredible staff. Though we be but little, we be fierce! To our readers; thank you so much for your support. Know that everything we do is for you. I know Nubian will only get better from here. I’m leaving it in the very capable hands of my managing editor, who I would have been completely lost this year without, Keilah Davis. Being editor takes more than I knew I had it in me to give, but I know she’s got it. Every late night, every early morning, every idea and article, she was right there, probably singing or screeching like a pterodactyl. The point is, I know she’s got this. But do me a favor and check in with her. Letters to the editor, questions, comments—all of it will only make the paper better. And now, I guess it’s time to say goodbye. Nubian Message, NC State, it’s been real. Love, now and forever, Anahzsa
wednesday, april 18, 2018 | 4
news
food and housing resources at nc state Kennysha woods Managing Editor
F
ollowing the release of the food and housing insecurity survey by the Food and Housing Security Among NC State Students Initiative, Nubian Message is providing information on food and housing resources available on our campus.
Food Resources Feed the Pack Food Pantry: This pantry provides free food and beverage items, reusable dishware and cutlery and hygiene products to all Wolfpack members. They’re also taking volunteers, donations and outreach opportunities. Location: 1333 Broughton Hall Hours of Operation: Mondays—Thursdays from 2-6 p.m. Fridays noon-4 p.m. Contact: feedthepackpantry@ncsu.edu More in My Basket: This program aids North Carolina residents in accessing Food and Nutrition Services (aka, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)) through application assistance and educational outreach. Contact: English: 1-855-240-1451 Español: 1-888-382-7105
Campus Farmers’ Market: Local food vendors gather and sell affordable foods in the Brickyard on Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Community Donations: During Monday evenings, perishable and non-perishable food is distributed on campus. Contact: Text 919-888-8762 Housing Kitchens: Most residence halls have a community kitchen and cookware available for check-out at the info desks.
HOUSING RESOURCES Temporary and Emergency Housing: Currently two residential spaces are available to those needing emergency housing for 2-3 nights. Contact: Katrina Pawvluk: 919-515-4339 and kjpawvlu@ncsu.edu Break Housing: Students in the TRiO programs are eligible to receive housing over break. Information provided by go.ncsu.edu/pack-essentials
Anna Lee/Graphic Designer
GENERAL RESOURCES TRIO Student Support Services (SSS): This program is dedicated to helping under-resourced undergraduate students complete their college degree. They provide academic and professional coaching, development opportunities, resource referrals and financial literacy education. Location: 204 Park Shops Contact: trio-programs@ncsu.edu 919-513-7774 Program application and requirements at https://trio.dasa. ncsu.edu/student-support-services/eligibility-information/ Wolfpack Styled Professional Clothing Closet: NC State’s Career Development Center provides donated professional clothing to the Wolfpack at no charge. Location: 2100 Pullen Hall Contact: Wolfpack Styled Facebook, 919-515-2300, or ncsuclothingcloset@gmail.com for appointments Donations taken Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
wednesday, april 18, 2018 | 6
features
Dr. Tracey Ray: Passing the Baton
Before leaving for the next part of her journey, Dr. Ray tells us how we can make NC State even better. Keilah Davis Editor-in-Chief
“Y
’all got the baton. I’m very excited for what is to come of my student body,” Dr. Tracey Ray once said in a Nubian Message interview. At that time, she was describing the new wave of student activism and passing the baton on to her students, but a year later, this statement seems like it foreshadowed the future. After over 20 years of service, Assistant Vice Provost for Student Diversity Tracey Ray is leaving NC State. “A lot of people have been really happy for me because I’m going to a great opportunity,” Dr. Ray said. She will be working in the Office of the President at West Chester University of Philadelphia. “It gives me the opportunity to lead at a higher level.” Dr. Ray’s NC State journey began as an undergraduate in 1989. During her academic career, she served as president of the Society of Afrikan American Culture and chair of the African American Student Advisory Council. Dr. Ray also earned her PhD in social psychology from NC State in 2001. After working for a nonprofit, Dr. Ray returned to NC State as the inaugural director of Multicultural Student Affairs, a position she held for 10 years. In 2011, when the university’s strategic plan called for the creation of the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity (OIED), Dr. Ray was named Assistant Vice Provost for Student Diversity, and she has held the position since then. Dr. Ray recalled that in the early days of OIED, the division’s main goal was to develop a mission and vision. “In our early time in OIED, our tagline was ‘We make NC State even better,’ so we wanted individuals across campus to see that their efforts in diversity and inclusion as something that made NC State even better than it was for everybody,” Dr. Ray said. Now, seven years later, Dr. Ray expressed pride in OIED’s progress but also acknowledged there is still work to do. “I would hope, not just for OIED, but for any institution of higher education around the country to do two things,” Dr. Ray said. “One is focus not just on numbers as it relates to diversity, which is very important, but to also make sure that they’re taking that next step, which is inclusion. It’s making people feel welcome and invited and helping them have that sense of community.”
JORDAN TAYLOR/Staff Photographer Dr. Tracey Ray is an alumna of NC State and received her PhD, Masters, and Bachelors degrees from the institution and attended when the Nubian Message was founded. Dr. Ray wants everyone to know that voice matters, and that the Nubian is important because it helps to reinforce inclusion of all of the different minorities in the NC State community. Here she stands beside Winslow Hall on Monday Nov 20, 2017.
Dr. Ray continued, “Number two, from a national landscape, our country is at a critical time for these conversations around diversity and inclusion, so we need to talk more, not talk less. Higher education needs to inject itself from a scholarly perspective into national conversations from an interdisciplinary perspective around the human experience. Whether that be connected with DACA, race relations, debates around history and the preservation of history though monuments, we need to be in places and spaces to help engage in thoughtful and informed dialogue on these topics.” Very few, if any, people at NC State have Dr. Ray’s range of experiences. From student to staff to senior administrator, she has seen many sides of this university. Through it all, she has demonstrated her commitment to making NC State better by centering and advocating for students. “I cannot take credit for that legacy,” Dr. Ray said. “All I’m doing is walking in the steps of those who came before
me: Dr. Clark and Dr. Witherspoon, Wandra Hill, Thomas Conway, who is about to retire as president from Elizabeth City State University. I had amazing mentors at NC State who connected with students on a personal level as well as doing amazing things as administrators. So my hope is that that legacy is very much alive at NC State.” As Dr. Ray said just a year ago, she has passed the baton, but this time she’s passing it on to her fellow administrators. She ultimately believes that the tradition of student-centered faculty and staff “runs deep” at NC State. Dr. Ray wouldn’t name anyone specifically, but she’s grateful that there are faculty and staff here, both new and old, that will continue cultivating this tradition even in her absence. To students, she offered these parting words: “Be open to opportunity. I know students come in goal-oriented, but part of college is discovery. I wouldn’t be the person that I am if I let my plan dictate what I would do.”
WEDNESDAY, april 18, 2018 | 7
features
Sounds about white: CODE SWITCHING FOR COLLEAGUES, CLASSMATES Yesenia jones casey johnson Staff Writers
I
n his 2008 interview with “Inside the Actors Studio,” Dave Chappelle said, “Every Black American is bilingual. All of them. We speak street vernacular and job interview.” This statement encapsulated an everyday experience amongst black professionals. The practice of consciously or unconsciously switching between African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) and Standard American English is routine for many black Americans who are attempting to gain success and stature in the business word. This is the act of code switching. “Code switching is simply using one [language] variety and then shifting predominately to another variety,” said Dr. Walt Wolfram, a distinguished professor at NC State and a sociolinguist who studies social and ethnic dialects of American English, like AAVE. “[There’s also] ‘code meshing,’ where you mesh codes in ways that combine them,” said Wolfram. “That gets away from some binary things like, ‘You use this code at home, this code at school.’ When in reality, people may use different codes in both places in different situations.” Neil Hairston, a Career Ambassador and fourth-year student studying psychology, describes his usage of AAVE and his unconscious ability to code switch. “For me it is a very contextual thing,” Hairston said. “When I’m here at State, [I use] not as much [AAVE]. It depends on where I am. When I go back home and I’m around a lot of people I grew up with, it tends to show itself more. It’s a very unconscious thing, but I’ve slowly become a little more conscious of it.” One of the most complex environments to use code switching is in the workplace. Black professionals have to constantly decide whether or not to use AAVE and if there will be consequences. Words like “bruh” and “yo” blur the lines between common terminology and AAVE, often making it difficult for blacks to maintain professionalism while staying true to themselves and their identity. Black professionals, students and intellectuals often find themselves being criticized
JESSICA HERNANDEZ/Staff Photographer Elliott Holiday, a fourth-year student studying physics, poses in Talley Student Union for the cover of Nubian Message.
for the way they speak by people from their own communities. Comments like “You sound white” or “You act like a white person” often haunt them when interacting with friends and family. Another Career Ambassador, and thirdyear statistics student, Lexi Bynum says that she hears this when returning home: “Whenever I go home, they say that I ‘talk white’ because I talk with more enunciation and more ‘properly’ than they do.” Wolfram gave context to the term “talking white.” He said, “The whole notion of talking white developed during the last half century as African-American speech
became more emblematic in terms of culture. The notion of black and white speech developed out of the concept of ‘acting white,’ which developed in a highly segregated context. Black speech and acting black became an oppositional thing, and speech became tied up with that with that oppositional identity.” On the other side of the spectrum, black people can often be ridiculed for their use of AAVE. Hairston shared his experienced: “I used to say, ‘used to could,’ if I was talking about something I used to be able to do... ‘I used to could do that’... I don’t use it anymore because I got made fun of for it.”
Wolfram explained potential consequences of vernacularity. “Cases of linguistic profiling turn into incidents of linguistically based discrimination. An estimated four to six million of these cases occur every year,” Wolfram said. “There’s this association that if you talk like that, I don’t know how credible you are because there’s an association with intelligence and credibility. It’s not just about language. It becomes about character and competence.” Last week, Wolfram attended screenings for his documentary, “Talking Black in America,” which focuses on black dialects across the U.S. and the Bahamas. “It talks about the legacy and what AAVE has given to American English.,” Wolfram said. “The idea is to change the narrative from one of controversy and negative stigmatization to embracing positive respect for the systematicity.” While the usage of AAVE can be harmful to social stature, it’s an important aspect of black culture. “It’s a way of feeling connected in a community that has gone through so much,” Bynum said. “Hearing AAVE lets me know I’m in a safe space. The person I’m speaking with knows some of the struggles I have been through.” Bynum suggests that it is important to conduct yourself in a manner that is both professional and true to yourself. “Be yourself,” Bynum said. “It is so easy to fall into the habit of trying to be this perfect candidate for the job, but sometimes this comes off as formulaic and robotic. You want to be the person they think about later and remark on how much they liked you. You can’t do this without being your authentic self.” When moving from college into the professional world, it’s important to find a happy medium. Situations like client meetings and proposals may require standard American English. However, aspects of AAVE can be incorporated in ways that still maintain professionalism. Research the company you will be working for, get to know what the people there and find a way to be your authentic self while chasing down your dreams.
wednesday, april 18, 2018 | 8
2018
features
PAN-AF
FOR THE CULTURE
National Pan-Hellenic Council hosted their annual Pan-Afrikan Week step show in Talley Student Union Ballroom on April 14, 2018. The Mu Xi Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. won the competition. Clockwise from top left: Marquan Hamilton from the Eta Omicron Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc; A member of the Gamma Sigma Chapter of Lambda Theta Phi Fraternity, Inc; Wesley Coats from the Kappa Lambda Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc; a member of NC State’s step team. (Kaydee Gawlik/Staff Photographer)
features
WEDNESDAY, april 18, 2018 | 9
P
an-Afrikan Week 2018: For the Culture featured events ranging from Trap N Paint to the 21st annual African American Textile Society Fashion Exposé. Here are some photos capturing the highlights!
The 21st Annual Fashion Expose was hosted by the African American Textile Society in Talley Student Union’s Ballroom on April 12, 2018 as part of Pan-Afrikan Week. Fashion Exposé began in 1997 and is the longest running fashion show and student design competition at NC State. Clockwise from top: Veronica Harper from the collection by Rebecca Freer and Haley Petrone, both second-years in Fashion in Textile Design, walks down the runway at Fashion Exposé; Alexis Roston looks down at the end of the runway as a part of designer Payton Reed’s collection; A model faces the judges as part of Hsi-Yun (Cindy) Wang’s collection. (Sarah Cochran/Staff Photographer) Top: Dance Visions dance company displayed a piece called Ode to Bae during its 2018 concert which represents a free-falling romance. The 40th anniversary of the concert was held in Talley Student Union Ballroom on April 9. (Cody Helm/Staff Photographer) Bottom: NC State’s Uninhibited Praise Gospel Choir, led by president of the group and fourth-year psychology student Camerian Williams, sings during the Sunday Mornin’ Pan-Afrikan Spring Concert in Talley Student Union Ballroom on April 8. The choir, also known as “UPGC”, sang a variety of songs throughout the concert. (Emma Dimig/ Senior Photographer) Jamilah Lemieux gives a talk entitled “Being Black in America” in Piedmont Mountain Ballroom in Talley Student Union on April 10. Lemieux was the keynote speaker for Pan-Afrikan Week. (Jessica Hernandez/Staff Photographer)
wednesday, april 18, 2018 | 10
features
seniors of color:
Anahzsa jones
Editor-in-Chief, Nubian Message
Q: How have you left your mark on NC State?
Q: What’s your favorite memory of your time at NC State.
I haven’t made an impact on my own; it’s been through my work with and for the Nubian that I think a lasting impression was made. We’ve covered some really important things, like that racist GroupMe thing a couple years ago and DACA last year and the Food and Housing Insecurity study this year. We’ve brought light to these issues and given voice to those who may not be heard otherwise. I feel like my time at NC State has been about me, yes, but also about the Nubian and what it is we provide to the campus. I’ve been honored to be a part of it.
My favorite memory is probably the moment I decided to switch majors from zoology to English. It was scary, but exciting, to change my entire life plan. I came into NC State expecting to leave for vet school. Instead, I’m looking towards a career in young adult books that I can’t think about without smiling. That moment was full of support, hope and love from my friends, family and professors. Instead of feeling like I wasted two years, I just felt excited for all the years to come.
Q: How have you left your mark on NC State?
in the movie that I’ve experienced as a Latina and was able to articulate my own experiences as a woman of color. [The night of the screening], UAB also held a panel that I served on and that moment of my vulnerability was honestly the first time I’ve truly felt comfortable and CONFIDENT in my identity.
This past year I have served as the first Latinx Student Body President in the history of NC State. I’ve worked to bring the student (especially those of color) voice to trustee meetings and have represented our entire student population across the state.
Q: What’s your favorite memory of your time at NC State.
Jacqueline GONZALEZ
Student Body President
Dear White People was my favorite moment/era. Some white people were offended, others had genuine dialogue. I got emails, admin got emails—this movie/ event/signs were EVERYWHERE. This conversation even trickled into CLASSROOMS. I still talk about Dear White People all the time because I found moments
I’ll give you the question my dad gave me: Let’s say you won the lottery and would be provided for the rest of your life. The only condition is that you still have to work. What would you do? Don’t chase the money; do what you love, find a way to make it work for you, and the money will come.
Q: What’s next for you? This summer I’m moving to NY to get a job at a publishing company and begin the climb to editor of young adult fantasy novels. Wish me luck!
Q: Do you have any words of wisdom for students of color?
Q: Do you have any words of wisdom for students of color? In college especially, you’ll want to compare yourself with what other people are doing. You might become envious of others’ success and applaud others’ misfortune. Shut. That. Down. We must always be supportive of each other and uplift each other because that is how we succeed together.
Q: What’s next for you? I will be serving as Finance Director for a woman of color running for a statewide position. Her name is Anita Earls, she’s running for NC Supreme Court and you should check her out! In the near future I would also like to pursue a master’s degree in public administration and work in North Carolina government/politics.
features
WEDNESDAY, april 18, 2018 | 11
student leaders reflect on their time at nc state, their futures and advice for students of color Q: How have you left your mark on NC State?
Didier Turcios
President, Mi Familia
Bria Edwards swann
Chairperson, Afrikan-American Student Advisory Council
with helping start the conversation about NC State’s very first Latinx Endowment.
During my time as president, I have been able to leave my mark at NC State in numerous ways. To begin with, I helped write and pass Resolution 60: Undocumented and DACA Student Support Act last year, a recommendation from the Student Body at NC State to the chancellor asking for the continuation and additional support of undocumented students at NC State. Additionally, I co-founded the Hispanic/ Latinx Collaborative, a true umbrella organization composed of student leaders working together to unify, develop and strengthen the unity of the Hispanic/Latinx community at North Carolina State University. Lastly, I have left my mark at NC State by launching Mi Familia’s very first scholarship, a scholarship given to a high school senior who wants to attend NC State and make a positive impact in the Hispanic/Latinx community, along
Q: What’s your favorite memory of your time at NC State.
Q: How have you left your mark on NC State?
Q: What’s your favorite memory of your time at NC State.
I believe I help instill self-determination and awareness in the Black community that we lost at one point in time. I also feel I helped enable student leaders to become more proactive instead of reactive in emergency situations.
My favorite memory was being able to participate in the Die-In against police brutality my freshmen year.
My favorite memory during my time at NC State would have to be helping to lead the Defend DACA rally. The rally was meant to raise awareness about the effects of the termination of the DACA program. I very much enjoyed leading this event for the reason that the termination of the DACA program left many members of our community fearful and vulnerable, and there was a need to show out and make sure that our fellow DREAMers knew that there was a large community who stood alongside with them during these uncertain times.
Q: Do you have any words of wisdom for students of color? My words of wisdom to my fellow students of color would be to put your fear aside
Q: Do you have any words of wisdom for students of color? I would say be bold and get involved in things you have a passion for instead of things that look good on your resume because it’s easier to work on things you like and love.
and to show up. Too many times, we don’t act or we don’t stand up because we are too scared to do so. We know that something is wrong, but we just sit there and do nothing. We need to set our fear aside and stand up for what is right. I strongly believe that if we are to make any change in this world, we need to show up and stand for what is right. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “The greatest tragedy of this age will not be the vitriolic words and deeds of the children of darkness; but the appalling silence of the children of light.” Don’t be silent. Show up. Stand up for what is right.
Q: What’s next for you? After graduation, I will be working at RTI International as a statistician. I plan to eventually go back to school and pursue my PhD in psychology, focusing my research on mental health issues among migrant/immigrant communities.
Q: What’s next for you? I’ll be finishing my degree in December and moving to Texas shortly after to advance my career in nutrition, focusing on obesity and weight loss management in the morbidly and super obese populations.
wednesday, april 18, 2018 | 12
opinion
A House divided:
Classism in the Black Community Black people are divided. Although it is often seen as taboo to air out certain problems within the black community, these issues must be discussed and unpacked. One of the most pressing issues affecting the black Shawn community is classism, fredericks and it is alive and well on Staff Writer college campuses. America’s class divisions are nothing new. Social class has been an expansive divider in America between those who could own property and the means of production and those who could not. These class issues have a historical context in which black people were economically marginalized based on slavery and the Jim Crow laws. Today, that looks different. Because of affirmative action policies and historically black colleges and universities building the black middle class, there is a newfound prosperity that the overall black community is enjoying. However, this prosperity is not universal. For people on the lower ends of American society—the poor and black— not much has changed. Currently, there are now two different black Americans: the privileged and the underprivileged. The privileged are the middle and upper classes and the underprivileged are the lower class. This dynamic is also on college campuses, especially PWIs, where most of the black people who attend these universities are privileged. And this is not just me speculating; a study conducted in 2017 by the Education Trust titled “A Look at Black Student Success” reported that more low-income black students graduate from HBCUs than white colleges. The study also found that roughly half of the 105 HBCUs that were surveyed had a freshman class in which three-quarters of the students were from low-income backgrounds, while one percent of the 676 non-HBCUs surveyed had a high percentage of low-income students. These numbers should not be shocking. HBCUs have long dealt with the stigma of serving poor students. HBCUs have constantly had to deal with the questioning of the quality of education they provide because of their student population. This is not me endorsing HBCUs, but noting the disparity in class among black populations
attending PWIs. Simply put, black students at PWIs are not usually from the struggle. Poor people are often not welcomed at these institutions. The population at PWIs is representative of a privileged class in the black community—a class that is separate from the poor people. Kallyn Tall, a third-year student studying social work, reflected on how this divide affects students of color:: “I think students of color feel this divide to a severe degree. They already do not experience privilege by being a minority. So to have finances be an issue is another thing added to the list, in which it does not allow for students to feel included and that they can relate to their peers. I do not think that is something you judge someone by.” “I believe we are all at a stage in our life because of a series of events that have happened to us,” said Tall. When I first came to NC State, being someone from a poor background and having grown up in Durham, NC State was a culture shock—not just because of the predominantly white campus culture, but because of the black population. The black people were of very privileged backgrounds I could not relate to and different from the black people I grew up with. They went to predominantly white high schools and struggled with feeling black while I came from predominantly black institutions and was secure with my blackness. They were not from working class families, did not have the same mentality and were very immature about the ways of the world, such as the harsh realities of people from poverty, making me feel even more isolated on this campus. Most of my peers that I have interacted with had the privilege of attending good schools, having relatively stable family situations and, above all else, growing up in safe, white suburban neighborhoods. I do not mean to disparage anyone or look down upon anyone’s struggles because even with all these privileges, we face different hardships in different ways. As a study by Bhashkar Mazumder of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago has found in “Black-White Differences in Intergenerational Economic Mobility in the United States,” being born into a black middle-class family does not mean you stay there; in fact, you are at a greater risk of
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Put Some Respek on OUr Names “Her name is Reina, it means queen,” a white mother of two said as her daughter rambunctiously ran around my grandmother and I as we waited for our ice cream. Coincidentally, my younger sister’s name is also Reina, yesenia so I was very aware of the Jones fact that it meant queen Staff Writer in Spanish. Reina is a Hispanic name. It is commonly used by Hispanic fathers who can often be heard calling their daughters and wives “mi reina” (my queen) or “mi reinita linda” (my little cute queen). Over half of my family is Hispanic, and because of that, I have heard the name Reina used in various ways. The name is culturally significant, as almost all ethnic names are. It enraged me, and I wondered how the young child’s mother could have the audacity to steal a name from a culture that is not her own, and from a group of people who are consistently oppressed for their cultural heritage. This is something that white Americans have continuously done throughout history. It is a part of their white privilege. For hundreds of years throughout American history, white people in the United States have had control over what is deemed culturally acceptable in American society. Slave masters forced African slaves to whitewash themselves by leaving behind all aspects of their culture, including their culturally significant names. First names like John, Thomas and Eric and surnames like Johnson, Jones and Brown replaced traditionally African names and are still present in the black community today. In the 1820s, Irish settlers began arriving in the Americas by the thousands due to the potato famine occurring in their homeland. They were refused jobs, housing and government assistance simply based on their Irish heritage, which was recognizable because of their traditionally Irish names. The inequality Irish settlers faced continued until they became completely assimilated into white American culture and were finally able to deem themselves as white American people. In recent history, forced assimilation of ethnic groups is still prevalent and affects marginalized groups on a daily basis. Hispanic immigrants are often criminalized and discriminated against simply for attempting to maintain ties to their home-
lands and their cultural heritage. Black, Middle Eastern and Native American people have also received the same treatment. All of these groups face a constant struggle between assimilating into American culture to avoid discrimination and maintaining cultural ties with their homelands. Normally, one of the main ways to pass down cultural heritage is to name your child something that is significant to your culture. According to a study done by MIT, names like Brendan and Greg received 50 percent more job offers than names like Tamika, Rasheed and Aisha. This effectively punishes ethnic people for having names that are culturally specific. When white Americans give their children names that are specific to another culture, their children may face the same name-based discrimination. However, white children with ethnic names are still afforded the benefits of being white during a job interview. Shaunta Grimes, a white American contributor for Coffelicous.com, wrote about her experiences as a white woman with a traditionally black name. “When people hear my name without knowing anything else about me, they assume I’m black,” Grimes said. “It happened all the time when I worked at a paralegal firm. I’d answer the phone… and sometimes, people were very rude to me. They’d talk over me or interrupt me. They’d yell at me if I told them something they didn’t want to hear. Then they’d come into the office and meet me. And I could actually see their entire attitude toward me shift. White privilege clicking into place was almost audible.” While this is only the experience of one person, it is hard to argue against the fact that gaining privilege on the basis of having white skin is a daily reality for all white Americans. Therefore, by giving a white child an ethnic name you’re stealing someone else’s culture while still benefiting from white privilege. White American parents are continuing the legacy of their ancestors by using their privilege to decide what is culturally acceptable and what is not, consciously deciding to love our culture but not love us. As the future parents of the next generation, when the time comes to choose a name for your child, take a step back, analyze your privilege and put some respek on our names.
opinion
wednesday, april 18, 2018 | 13
DISCLAIMER: THIS EBONY BELLTOWER CONTENT IS PURELY SATIRICAL.
Spend two days giving back…
...And spend two weeks backpacking across exotic lands! “Use your white privilege to curb your white guilt!”
—Sally Whitename, ambassador for Melanin Deficient Inc. CONCEPT BY CASEY JOHNSON, GRAPHICS BY ANNA LEE
wednesday, april 18, 2018 | 14
opinion
Black men’s privilege within the black community “Men are trash.” This sentiment has been expressed on my social media many times, causing heated discourse about toxic men—specifically black men. A significant number of black women have used this expression on social media when discussing their issues with black men. As a black man, after much spiritual meditation, I have to Shawn say I agree. Generally, in my humble Fredericks opinion, men are trash. Staff Writer Disclaimer: Before people scream that I am being a white knight, I must admit that I’m a “ain’t ish” negro too. I have leaned on black women in my time of need because I knew I could. I’ve referred to women as bitches and hoes (and I still do when I am in my feelings) and have told women I felt something for them even though I knew that I did not. All that being said, black men are trash, and we as black men have to acknowledge this. We have let black women suffer for too long in order to satisfy our own desires. For too long, black women have had to carry our weight, whether it’s holding together the family unit or bearing the constant expectation to advocate for us without reciprocity.
Black men tend to be very critical of black women. We hold them to impossible standards, constantly critiquing what they wear, their capabilities and their ability to raise a family. Beyond criticism are the cultural and social norms of black men disrespecting black women. I stopped counting how many times my favorite rapper would address black women as bitches. And you know what is really sad? I’m just scratching the surface level. This is not including the facts about sexual violence and domestic violence perpetrated against black women. The Center for Disease Control study entitled “Racial and Ethnic Differences in Homicides of Adult Women and the Role of Intimate Partner Violence” found that black women in the U.S. are victims of homicide at the highest rates of all adult women. According to “Female Victims of Violence,” a 2007 report from statisticians of the Bureau of Justice Statistics, black women are four times more likely than white women to be killed by intimate partner violence. In 2010, the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey found that black women are more likely to experience rape than women overall. The majority of these crimes are intra-racial. According to a report by the Violence Policy Center, in 2015, 86 percent of the homicides where the race of the female victim and male offender were known were intra-racial.
Men, our toxic masculinity is literally killing and mutilating women. We have to understand the consequences of our privileges and advocate for black women, especially if we are witnesses of a situation. Think about it. How many times we have to cut one of the homies off because he was too disrespectful towards women? Zakiya Covington, a third-year student studying science technology and society, stressed the importance of men understanding the struggle of black woman. “I want black men to understand that, I mean I know they’re not gonna fully understand, but to acknowledge where our frustration comes from as black women,” Covington said. “And to understand the standards we are held to as black women, and why it is difficult for us to interact with black males.” Black men, we must become stronger advocates and better men for the black women in our lives. We like to think of ourselves as protectors until it is time to protect. It is about time that changed. We all have to understand our privilege within the patriarchal society we live in and think about how we are impacting the women in our lives. Men can get resources and education on how to be less trash through engaging in discourse and actually listening to women. On campus, men can learn more about being better men through programming and events held by the Women’s Center located on the 5th floor of Talley Student Union.
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slipping into poverty than other people. However, this does not change the fact that many black people who go to PWIs are privileged and that the struggles of poor students of color like me are not seen. I am never one to complain about hardships, so do not pity me or any other student from this type of background. But people of privilege should understand their positionality and use that privilege for the benefit of others. How about you own up to your own privilege and lend a helping hand to the beautiful ghetto butterflies trying to make it out of the jungle that is poverty. Class should not divide the black community. It should motivate us to come together, but that will not happen until the privileged people understand their position and leverage it to make universities more accessible to poor black students. Propose campus programming on the issues of economic justice in communities of color and start building a bridge with black students at HBCUs and PWIs.
wednesday, april 18, 2018 | 15
opinion
top moments of the 2017-2018 academic year 2017 APRIL
AUGUST
Nubian Message Turns 25: November 29
DECEMBER
Kobi Felton: First Black Marshall Scholar: December 4
BIRT Established: April 2017
The Bias Incident Response Team of NC State started, serving as an entity to identify and handle reported incidents of bias on campus.
Solar Eclipse: August 21
Over 5,000 people gathered in the Brickyard to view the solar eclipse.
NAACP Returns: August 2017
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Student Chapter returned to NC State after three years of inactivity.
SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
Fenty Beauty Launch: September 8
Rihanna’s makeup brand debuted with 40 foundation shades, earning its label as one of the most brown and dark skin-inclusive makeup brands in stores today.
OCTOBER
MARCH
Social media activist and host of MTV’s “Decoded” Franchesca Ramsey was the keynote speaker of the Fall Diversity Dialogue during Diversity Education Week. Ramsey spoke about various social issues including privilege and activism through social media. Renowned spoken word poet Porsha O. held a writing workshop and show as part of Diversity Education Week. Porsha O. discussed themes of structural racism, sexism and systematic oppression.
At the 75th Golden Globes, Oprah won the Cecil B. DeMille award. In her moving acceptance speech, she honored the women who’ve endured abuse and assault and told the men using their positions of power to silence these women, “their time is up,” prompting us to ask, “Why not Oprah for president?”
Nubian Message wins awards: February 24
Nubian Message won Best of Show at the N.C. College Media Association for our 25th anniversary issue. We also received 2 awards and 3 honorable mentions in photography, design and opinion writing categories. The long-awaited film “Black Panther” finally hit theaters and was subsequently celebrated for its majority black cast and glowing representation of modern and traditional African cultures and society. A hit with critics and audiences, the film had the fifth biggest opening weekend of all time, grossing $665M domestically as of April, making it the third all-time money maker.
Mi Familia celebrated 15 years at NC State, as well as their new scholarship fund, with a Quinceañera-themed party. The organization focuses on connect Latin communities on campus.
Porsha O. speaks on campus: October 24
Oprah for President 2020: January 2018
Black Panther Drops: February 16
15 Years of Mi Familia: October 13
Franchesca Ramsey speaks on campus: October 23
Kobi Felton is NC State’s first black recipient (and third recipient overall) of the Marshall scholarship.
2018
Defend DACA Rally: September 8
Following President Trump’s decision to end DACA, NC State organizations including Mi Familia and Lambda Theta Phi held a rally at Stafford Commons to support students affected by the decision.
Nubian Message celebrated the 25-year legacy of Nubian Message founder and 1st editor-in-chief Tony Williamson. We published a special edition that focused on the history of black activism and black excellence at NC State.
APRIL
NC State Food and Housing Insecurity Survey: March 15
Th survey revealed that 14% of students experience food insecurity and about 9.6% experience homelessness. This survey aids in developing support for these members of the Wolfpack.
Beychella: April 14
Beyoncé is the first black woman to headline Coachella and gives audiences an iconic HBCU-inspired performance celebrating black fraternity and sorority life and pride in being black.
Kendrick Lamar Wins Pulitzer Prize: April 16 #Metoo Takes Over the Net: October 15
#Metoo, a movement started in 2006 by Tarana Burke that addresses sexual violence and support survivors of sexual violence, dominated Twitter after numerous people responded to the hashtag with their experiences of sexual violence.
Lamar was awarded the Pulitzer Prize in Music for his album DAMN. This is the first time an artist outside the classical and jazz genres have won the award.
