NYU’s Independent Student Newspaper | est. 1973
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Monday, January 22, 2018
Volume L, Issue 1
ARTS
FEATURES
OPINION
SPORTS
Globes Misguided Gender Bending
Inclusivity at the 60th Grammys
‘Black Mirror’ Obscures Women’s Health
ON PAGE 4
ON PAGE 7
ON PAGE 9
Organizations Scrutinized After Nassar Victim Testimonies ON PAGE 11
PHOTO VIA WIKIMEDIA
NYU Does Not Track Suicides
NYU Welcomes Puerto Rican Students By MACK DEGEURIN News Editor
VIA PIXABAY.COM
Although NYU does not record annual student suicide statistics, a WSN investigation discovered 15 confirmed cases since 1990.
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By CAROLINE HASKINS Investigative News Editor
YU does not track student suicides from year to year, according to an email from university spokesperson John Beckman. An investigation by WSN found 15 confirmed cases of NYU student suicides since 1990. Although NYU has a variety of mental health services, tracking the student suicide rate is a potentially life-saving way of measuring the success of these programs. While universities are encouraged to monitor student health, they are not asked to track student suicides. A recent
investigation from the Associated Press found that only 46 of the largest public colleges in the United States track student suicides, and only 27 have tracked them consistently in the past 10 years. Since 1990, there have been 15 confirmed suicides of an enrolled undergraduate or graduate student at NYU. Eighteen of these years contained no student suicides, and the number of suicides in a single calendar year never exceeded three. There have been eight accidental student deaths since 1990, but these cases were not included in the chart to the right. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
A towering mango tree once stood triumphantly outside of Christian De La Cruz’s grandmother’s house in Santa Isabel, Puerto Rico. The 26-year-old said the tree, which had become a hallmark in the area for its juicy fruit offerings and timeless beauty, had remained a constant companion to the home well before his own birth. On Sept. 20, that changed. In a phone interview, De La Cruz recounted hearing news channels warn of an impending Category 5 hurricane expected to pass directly over the island. The eye of the storm had its sights set on Carolina, De La Cruz’s hometown. He and his brother hastily packed their bags and made the drive south. When they arrived they hunkered down in his grandparents house. For De La Cruz the evening was surreal, but he says he could see the fear painted on his grandparents’ faces. When De La Cruz emerged from his bombarded home the following day, he remembers a scene of complete devastation. Trees and power lines littered the ground; all outside communication had ceased, and the streets had been replaced by rivers. Christian described the scene like that of a nuclear wasteland. And lying there beside the house, was the age old mango tree, snapped in half like a chopstick. CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
Check Out The
Superlatives CHART BY CAROLINE HASKINS
Data from nytimes.com, upi.com, nypost.com, gwhatchet.com, nymag.com, nyulocal.com, dnainfo.com and gothamist.com.
Feature nyunews.com/SUPERLATIVES
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Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
NEWS
Edited by Sakshi Venkatramen and Mack DeGeurin news@nyunews.com
NYU Does Not Track Suicides | CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
After five student suicides between 2003 and 2004, the university restricted balcony access, created the 24-hour Wellness Exchange hotline, expanded counseling hours, hired more counseling staff and installed protective glass panels around the Elmer Holmes Bobst Library, which were replaced by the current permanent metal fixtures in 2012. There were also three confirmed incidents of an NYU faculty, staff or administrator committing suicide since 1990, with the last confirmed incident occurring in 2000. When these incidents are included, the total number of confirmed suicides rises from 15 to 18. No accidental deaths
were included in the chart below. The most recent mental health data specific to NYU students is nine years old. In 2009, the University of Michigan’s Healthy Minds Network reported that 55 percent of NYU students experienced emotional or mental difficulties that damaged work in the previous year, and the American College Health Association found that 22.5 percent of these students attributed these difficulties to anxiety. The data in these surveys is cited in LiveWellNYU’s student health framework, but neither survey is publicly available. The framework also stated that NYU’s health services would be assessed from fall 2012 to spring 2017 by the American College Health Association, but no findings were publi-
CHART BY CAROLINE HASKINS
Data from nytimes.com, upi.com, nypost.com, gwhatchet.com, nymag.com, nyulocal.com, dnainfo.com and gothamist.com.
cally available at the time of writing. Since university policies are meant to protect the wishes of victim’s family, not every incident of a student suicide is widely known within the NYU community. An email or announcement about a student’s death is only made at the request of the victims family, and some families opt for silence. As determined on a case-by-case basis, an email about a student’s death may be sent to students affected by their passing, such as fellow members of a club. If many students already know about the suicide, the university may issue a statement to the entire NYU community with crisis resources. According to previous reporting, the NYU Student Health Center currently has over 50 clinicians on staff, who provide walk-in appointments, individual counseling, group counseling, psychiatry and a variety of other services. To speak with a crisis counselor, call 212-443-9999 for NYU’s 24/7 Wellness Exchange hotline or 1-800-2738255 for the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Hotline. View the online version of this article for more information about the NYU Student Health Center’s counseling, psychiatry, and mental health services. Email Caroline Haskins at chaskins@nyunews.com.
NYU Names Leading Sustainability Administrator By ALEX DOMB Deputy News Editor
The Violets are going green with the recent appointment of Cecil Scheib to the position of assistant vice president for Sustainability. NYU announced on Jan. 9 that alongside Director of the Office of Sustainability Dianne Anderson, Scheib will spearhead future sustainability initiatives on campus. Scheib previously served as NYU director of Energy and Sustainability starting in 2007, but left the position in 2012 when he was appointed managing director of the Building Resiliency Task Force for the City of New York and chief program officer for the Urban Green Council. Prior to his original position at NYU, Scheib earned a Bachelor of Science in civil and environmental engineering from Stanford University. In a statement to the community, President Andrew Hamilton echoed the university’s commitment to combat climate change and framed Scheib’s appointment as crucial in future efforts. “[NYU] is committed to continue taking concrete actions to reduce its carbon footprint; to make sustainability a higher priority within our community, both individually and institutionally; to operate more sustainably; and to be a sustainability leader in higher education,” the statement read. “The appointment of Cecil Scheib as the assistant vice president for Sustainability is an important step in realizing those goals.”
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Scheib expressed his excitement about the position in a statement to WSN. “I’m thrilled to return to NYU in this sustainability role,” Scheib said. “Everyone’s been incredibly welcoming and it feels like coming home.” One of NYU’s most prominent climate activist groups, NYU Divest, expressed support for Scheib’s hiring and hopes that his appointment will facilitate the group’s future activism. “We really look forward to working with him and [Anderson] on decarbonizing NYU and aligning its Climate Action Plan with the imperatives of climate justice,” NYU Divest wrote in a statement to WSN. “We hope that university executives listen to [Scheib] and the community, and NYU faithfully implements our shared vision of a just transition to renewable energy.” Alternate Student Senator for Sustainability and head of the student organization EcoReps Edin Thornton had a similarly optimistic reaction. “This appointment is yet another step in the right direction for making sustainability successful at NYU,” Thornton said. “Mr. Scheib will be able to carry on sustainability efforts in a continuous and intentional way, and his hiring signifies a meaningful and definitive commitment toward permanently advancing sustainability at NYU, made by the highest levels of our university.” In spite of its urban location, NYU has made strides in reducing its carbon footprint in recent years. NYU opened a co-
CRIME LOG
Student Reports Missing Silverware in Coral By ALEX DOMB Deputy News Editor
From Jan. 3 to Jan. 20, the NYU Department of Public Safety received four reports of criminal mischief, one report of fondling, two reports of harassment, seven reports of larceny and one report of stalking.
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF
On Jan. 3 at 10:30 a.m., an NYU resident assistant reported that she found graffiti on a poster on the 11th floor at Lipton Hall. A police report was filed, and the case is open and under investigation. On Jan. 5 at 9:40 a.m., an NYU affiliate reported that an unidentified person had damaged the locks in the women’s locker room at Elmer Holmes Bobst Library. Police notification was declined, and the case is open and under investigation. On Jan. 11 at 4:25 p.m., an NYU RA reported that profanity had been written on the sixth floor hallway at Founders Hall. Police notification was declined, and the case is open and under investigation. On Jan. 16 at 8:00 a.m., a member of Public Safety reported that there was graffiti on an air conditioning unit on the roof at Forbes Building. A police report was filed, and the case is open and under investigation.
FONDLING
PHOTO COURTESY OF NYU
NYU names Cecil Scheib as the new assistant vice president for Sustainability. Scheib will lead school-wide sustainability efforts in the hope of making the university a more environmentally friendly campus.
generation plant in 2011, and according to the statement regarding Scheib’s hiring, NYU met its 30 percent carbon reduction commitment ahead of schedule. Despite this recent progress, Scheib is well aware that the threat of climate change is more pressing than ever before and that the university’s efforts are far from complete. “With the knowledge we’ve all gained in the five years since I left, and building on the great work over the past five years of the Office of Sustainability, I hope we can do even more,” Scheib said. “The campus community is increasingly aware of issues of climate change, resiliency and equity and environmental justice. This will give us lots of new opportunities to improve our campus as well as experiences that will persist long after college.” Email Alex Domb at adomb@nyunews.com.
On Jan. 19 at 9:35 a.m., an NYU student reported that she was the victim of a fondling at Rubin Residence Hall. Police notification was declined, and the case has been referred to the Title IX office.
HARASSMENT
On Jan. 5 at 1:15 p.m., an NYU staff member at the College of Dentistry reported that she received harassing, non-threatening emails. Police notification was declined, and the case is open and under investigation.
LARCENY
On Jan. 8 at 12:05 p.m., an NYU staff member reported that her handbag was missing from her office at Silver Center for Arts and Sciences. A police report was filed, and the case is open and under investigation. On Jan. 8 at 10:55 p.m., an NYU alumni reported that his cell phone was missing from a public charging station at Palladium Athletic Facility. A police report was filed, and the case is open and under investigation. On Jan. 10 at 5:30 p.m., a nonNYU affiliated person reported that his scarf was missing from a coat check at 7 East 12th St. Police notification was declined, and the case is open and under investigation. On Jan. 12 at 8:30 a.m., an NYU staff member reported that cash and credit cards were missing from her purse in the coat check area of a party at 1 Washington Place. Police notification was declined, and the case is open and under investigation. On Jan. 15 at 6:40 p.m., A nonNYU affiliate reported her bike was missing from the bike racks in front of Meyer Hall. A police report was filed, and the case is open and under investigation. On Jan. 17 at 2:20 p.m., an NYU student at the Dental Center reported that her ring was missing. A police report was filed, and the case is open and under investigation. On Jan. 18 at 3:45 p.m., an NYU student reported that his silverware was missing from his dorm room at Coral Tower Residence Hall. Police notification was declined, and the case is open and under investigation.
STALKING
On Jan. 5, an NYU staff member at 726 Broadway reported that he received several harassing, non threatening phone calls from a known stalker of his roommate. A police report was filed, and the case is open and under investigation. Email Alex Domb at adomb@nyunews.com.
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Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
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NEWS
Edited by Sakshi Venkatramen and Mack DeGeurin news@nyunews.com
NYU Welcomes Puerto Rican Students | CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
De La Cruz, like many college students in Puerto Rico, had his hopes of finishing college abruptly uprooted. However, he, along with an estimated other estimated 55-58 students, will have the opportunity to finish the semester, tuition free, at NYU as part of the Hurricane Maria Assistance Program. The university first announced the program in November 2017 but has recently increased its admitted students from 50 to 63 due to the large number of applicants, said Assistant Vice Chancellor Josh Taylor in an email. According to Taylor, NYU received 400 applications for the program. The program provides students with a full paid tuition of 12 to 18 credits, an NYU meal plan, housing in one of NYU’s residence halls and free access to NYU’s health insurance program. Only undergraduates who were already enrolled in undergraduate universities in Puerto Rico and in good academic standing were considered for the program. Those who applied would fall under a special tuition program and would be considered a Visiting Undergraduate Student, according to Fortune. Visiting Undergraduate single semester tuition is valued by NYU at $25,322. Additionally, students are required to pay the expected tuition of their
PHOTO BY MACK DEGEURIN
NYU’s Hurricane Maria Assistance Program increased its number of admitted students affected by the national disaster that occured on Sept. 16 - Oct. 3.
Puerto Rican university, as NYU specifies on its website. “In an effort to ensure that this program does not negatively affect schools in Puerto Rico, students will be expected to pay their regular spring tuition to their home campus.” De La Cruz is just one of an estimated 114,000 to 213,000 Puerto Rican residents who are expected to exodus the U.S. territory by 2019, according to the Center for Puerto Rican Studies at Hunter College. These numbers may not decline any time soon. Hurricane Maria’s initial aftermath claimed 64 lives and left 95 percent of the island without electricity. However, nearly four months
hence, much of the island remains without electricity. Ana Garcia, one of the 63 Puerto Rican students accepted into NYU’s assistance program, said her home is amongst those still without electricity. In the wake of Maria’s destruction, Garcia said she was forced to read textbooks and finish assignments in complete darkness, with only a handheld flashlight to light her way. Even her university, the University of Puerto Rico, struggled to maintain constant power. “Nothing is guaranteed right now,” Garcia said. De La Cruz blames the slow recovery on what he sees as widespread
political and business corruption throughout Puerto Rico. The psychology and film student was also skeptical of the government’s report that 64 people died. He suggested that based off of what he had seen on the ground that the number of dead must have been larger. “Politics in Puerto Rico does not represent the people,” De La Cruz said. When asked why she thought the recovery process had moved so slowly, Garcia attributed several factors but said above all, people did not expect the severity of the storm. “Nobody was expecting how chaotic it would be,” Garcia said. Inconsistent electricity and a slow recovery have left some to seek new beginnings away from home. Not long after the hurricane made landfall, New York City opened a Hurricane Service Center aimed at assisting all hurricane victims but with an emphasis on displaced people from Puerto Rico. The service center attempts to get displaced victims back on their feet by offering health services, providing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for food and transitioning children into New York public schools. According to Elizabeth Angeles, a project manager for New York City’s Emergency Management Center, over 1,400 visitors have received aid from the service center. Outside of New York, other major
universities, including Brown University, Cornell University and Tulane University have offered their own assistance programs for Hurricane Maria victims. Brown reportedly will not charge accepted Maria students tuition and is also aiding in travel expenses. Jeff Schiffman, director of Admissions at Tulane, told WSN that Tulane felt a moral responsibility to aid hurricane victims. Tulane faced it own natural disaster with Hurricane Katrina, 13 years ago, which forced its students to complete courses and attend classes at universities around the country. According to Schiffman, NYU allowed some Tulane students to attend classes at the Washington Square Campus during this time. For De La Cruz and Garcia, the Hurricane Assistance Program offers a glimpse of relief after months of anxiety. De La Cruz said that he had applied to NYU after graduating high school but had been denied twice. When he heard that NYU was offering a hurricane assistance program, De La Cruz was still without electricity. Similarly, Garcia said she heard about NYU’s program while sitting at a bakery, trying to charge her phone and laptop. Both De La Cruz and Garcia will begin their first day of classes today. Email Mack DeGeurin at mdegeurin@nyunews.com.
‘White Genocide’ Drexel Professor Taken on as Visiting Scholar By SAKSHI VENKATRAMAN AND MACK DEGEURIN News Editors
Former Drexel University professor George Ciccariello-Maher, who drew controversy last year for tweeting, “All I Want for Christmas is White Genocide,” has been taken on as a visiting scholar at NYU Tisch School of the Arts’ Hemispheric Institute of Performance and Politics.
VIA TWITTER.COM
The professor resigned from Drexel on Dec. 31 after facing harassment for his notorious online presence and being placed on administrative leave in early October for what Drexel described as security concerns. Prior to this past October, however, Ciccariello-Maher’s former university had released public statements disavowing the content of his Twitter posts. Following his infamous, “white genocide” tweet, Drexel responded, writing, “While the university recognizes the rights of its faculty to freely express their thoughts and opinions in public debate, Ciccariello-Maher’s comments are utterly reprehensible, deeply disturbing, and do not in any way reflect the values of the university.”
This response led some academic groups, such as the American Association of University Professors, to criticize Drexel’s condemnation. In an interview with WSN, vice president of the AAUP Hank Reichman said that by condemning Ciccariello-Maher’s speech and placing him on leave, the school had given into right wing demands. “This is a problem because I will acknowledge that in this atmosphere that has developed in the country that when you say something that certain elements of the society doesn’t like, there is a whole bunch of people who end up with these threats and some of them are pretty terrifying,” Richman said. “But the problem is that if you accede to the threats, if you give in to them, then it sends the message that it works. You have silenced the person.” In a Washington Post essay penned by Ciccariello-Maher, the professor defended his statements and suggested that his critics were politically motivated. During an interview with CNN, Ciccariello-Maher pulled out his phone and played a threatening voicemail he had received. A man with a deep voice said, “You’re nothing to be but just another target. You’re f-cking dead, kid. Watch out. You want a white genocide? We’re going to start with you motherf-cker.” Following multiple written and verbal threats, Ciccariello-Maher expressed concern for his own and his family’s safety. “More and more, professors like me are
being targeted by a coordinated right-wing campaign to undermine our academic freedom — one that relies on misrepresentation and sometimes outright lying, and often puts us and our students in danger,” Ciccariello-Maher said. Drexel students also voiced displeasure over the university’s response. Over 9,500 people signed their names to a petition defending the controversial professor. While still at Drexel, Ciccariello-Maher was added to the Professor Watchlist, an online database created by Turning Point USA to highlight leftist college professors who allegedly discriminate against conservative students. The list of mostly left-wing professors includes four NYU faculty members. Also included on the list is former John Jay College of Criminal Justice professor Michael Isaacson. Ciccariello-Maher’s ultra-left wing Twitter presence, including attacks on capitalism, police and the military, has made him the subject of numerous criticisms and vilifications online. “After a year of harassment by rightwing, white supremacist media outlets and Internet mobs, after death threats and threats of violence directed against me and my family, my situation has become unsustainable,” he said in a Facebook post. On Jan. 1, just one day after leaving Drexel, he announced the beginning of his tenure as a visiting scholar at the Hemispheric Institute. In an email statement, NYU Senior Vice President for Public Affairs John Beck-
man asserted that Ciccariello-Maher has little affiliation with the university. “NYU has not hired Professor Ciccariello-Maher,” Beckman said. “Rather, during calendar year 2018, he will have an unpaid affiliation as a visiting scholar with the Hemispheric Institute of Performance and Politics.” When asked by WSN to explain the specifics of Ciccariello-Maher’s security concerns, Drexel’s Executive Director of Media Relations Niki Gianakaris did not comment but instead referenced an early statement released by the university. “Associate Professor George Ciccariello-Maher has decided to resign his employment from Drexel University in order to pursue other opportunities. Drexel University has accepted his resignation and recognizes the significant scholarly contributions that Professor Ciccariello-Maher has made to the field of political thought and his service to the Drexel University community as an outstanding classroom teacher. Drexel University wished Professor Ciccariello-Maher well in his future pursuits.” The Institute, while headquartered at NYU, has over 60 member universities from North and South America. “Visiting scholars are selected by faculty involved with the Institute,” Beckman said. “Their appointments do not entail classroom or other academic duties.” Gallatin senior Gabriel Medrano, who has been following Ciccariello-Maher for some time, is looking forward to his pres-
ence on campus. “I think it’s a really good move for the university to take on a scholar who has been a subject of so much hate from the right,” Medrano said. “I really like how bold and unapologetic he is online. The [College Republicans] have brought on right-wing speakers. I think it’s great that there will be a leftist speaker on campus.” Medrano also believes Ciccariello-Maher’s December 2016 tweet, “All I Want for Christmas is White Genocide,” has been taken out of context. “That specific tweet is how boldness from an academic can be misinterpreted,” Medrano said. “‘White genocide’ has been a term used by the alt-right for a long time to describe things like interracial marriage. Ciccariello-Maher was just satirizing the term.” CAS senior and NYU College Republicans President Elena Hatib feels differently about his status as a visiting scholar. “I don’t think he’s different than people like Milo Yiannopoulos who say extreme things on social media,” Hatib said. “They do it for their image and provocateur status. [Ciccariello-Maher] is more appropriate for being on social media or blogging rather than being a scholar here.” Ciccariello-Maher did not respond to multiple interview requests. Email Sakshi Venkatraman and Mack DeGeurin at news@nyunews.com.
Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
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ARTS
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Globes’ Misguided Genre Bending By NATALIE WHALEN Film Editor
VIA FACEBOOK.COM
“The Post” stars Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks as photographed above. The film tells the story of the Pentagon Papers scandal, and the journalists who challenged the Nixon administration to expose government corruption.
A Tale of Two Administrations By RYAN MIKEL Arts Editor
Steven Spielberg’s Golden Globe-nominated biopic “The Post” revives the specific but timely story of the Pentagon Papers scandal and the ragtag journalists who went head-to-head with the Nixon administration to expose four decades of government corruption. In the motion picture headlined by two hallmarks of American cinema — Meryl Streep as Washington Post publisher, Katharine Graham, and Tom Hanks as The Post’s hard-hitting editor, Ben Bradlee— Spielberg excavates the 1971 scandal, revealing unsettling parallels between the political climates of then and now. “This is a story that is vaguely familiar to all of us in this day and age,” Spielberg told WSN in a video interview. “[It was] an audacious attempt for the president of the United States to attempt [to] silence our First Amendment rights.” Familiar, indeed. Our current commander-in-chief, Donald Trump, holds a similar relationship to our fourth estate, which he has called “scum” and “the enemy of the people.” But let’s not forget the man who first named the press the real enemy decades ago. The year is 1971. The voting age was lowered to 18, and a movie ticket costs barely a dollar. Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher just ended free milk in schools, the Vietnam War is still ablaze and our government is embroiled in an international scandal at the helm of then-local paper, The Washington Post. The Post and its competitor, the New York Times, race against the clock at the legal orders of Richard Nixon himself to expose the Pentagon Papers — a top-secret, 7000-page report detailing the government’s deceptions about the Vietnam War that spanned three decades, four U.S. presidents and thousands of U.S. soldiers’ lives. “[It] was an audacious, never-meant-tobe-released-publicly study of the fact that the entire Vietnam War under four presidential administrations was a complete lie,”
Hanks told WSN in a video interview. “Every administration knew [the war] was unwinnable and yet each administration committed more resources and more young men to that engagement in order not to suffer the humiliation of an American defeat on their presidential watch.” The Nixon administration responded to the two publications with a federal injunction that halted any further publication of the Pentagon Papers. The Supreme Court responded, as well, but in favor the press, famously citing, “The press was to serve the governed, not the governors,” and the rest is history. Today, a similar narrative has played out on our Twitter feeds, with Trump taking more than a few jabs at the press, both before and during his time in the Oval Office. He has used his presidential weight and 140 characters — now 280 — to threaten the press relentlessly. At a rally in Fort Worth, Trump hinted at the arrival of new libel laws that will “sue [the press] like [they’ve] never been sued before,” claiming “with me, they’re not protected.” The press has been made into a scapegoat to create an ever greater divide between the nation’s two major political parties. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, Democrats and Republicans disagree now more than ever on the press’s positive and/or negative role in society. Since Trump’s inauguration earlier this year, six-in-ten Republicans think media criticism does not keep our nation’s leaders in line. Nine-in-ten Democrats think differently. With such evident parallels, Streep told WSN in a video interview that she hopes everyone takes something away from this film, even Trump himself. “I actually think [Trump] may really like ‘The Post,’ weirdly,” Streep said. “[Maybe] he [will] stop the shenanigans and give some respect for people who are operating on their principles and not on their appetite.” “The Post” is in theaters nationwide. Email Ryan Mikel at rmikel@nyunews.com.
Films about women are not comedies. Or at least, they aren’t just limited to the comedy genre. Women can serve up more than laughs and eye candy. Forced to address the recent sexual assault allegations that have taken down Hollywood powerhouses, the Golden Globes set the tone for this year’s awards season earlier this month through championing films where women take the lead — “Lady Bird,” “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” “The Shape of Water,” “The Post” and “I, Tonya” — all of which received nominations and wins in major categories. But like Natalie Portman pointed out when she announced the “all-male nominees” for Best Director, some of these nominations feel arbitrary and have the need to meet an unspoken quota, especially evident in how the Hollywood Foreign Press Association chooses its nominees and winners. To be more specific, the lack of logic was demonstrated in the association’s choice to nominate “Lady Bird” as a comedy and “Three Billboards” as a drama. It is not unprecedented for the Globes to nominate dramas as comedies in order to maintain its ratio of nominees. In 2015, “The Martian,” a science-fiction survival film starring Matt Damon, was put in the comedy category and met by confusion. However, given the nature of “Lady Bird” and “Three Billboards” in particular, their designated categories seem to speak to attitudes in Hollywood that still have room for change. “Lady Bird” is inarguably the more groundbreaking film, not only in how it approaches its subject matter –– the coming-of-age of a teenage girl, Lady Bird (Saoirse Ronan), and her relationship with her mother (Laurie Metcalf) — but also the fact that it is written and directed by a woman, Greta Gerwig. It was the only nomination with a female writer and director. It’s honest in ways films rarely are — you cannot help but love even its most unlikeable characters, and even its most lighthearted moments feel profound. It treats its young female protagonist seriously, though her motivations and actions are misguided at times. It is funny but it’s realistic and poignant and heartfelt, too. Despite this, Gerwig lost Best Screenplay
to “Three Billboards” whose writer Martin McDonagh wasn’t even nominated for ‘Best Director.’ McDonagh’s film also features a female protagonist (Frances McDormand), a mother hoping to bring attention to the unsolved murder of her daughter. But unlike “Lady Bird,” “Three Billboards” was advertised largely as a black comedy. Sure, there are some heartfelt moments when the film redeems a racist cop and McDormand delivers some powerful speeches, but the way in which the film treats McDormand does not always make sense. Her motivations towards the end of the film are relatively unclear, and she does a lot of things — like kicking children in the groin — that don’t actually make her seem like an empowered woman. The film barely even ventures to explore McDormand’s relationship with her daughter, offering only a short flashback to the day of the murder. In fact, its comedic elements outshine its dramatic. However, the Globes indicated a clear favorite. McDonagh’s film, a supposed drama, though tone-deaf and dragging at times, was deserving of more awards and nominations than Gerwig’s comedy. And I haven’t even mentioned the Golden Globes’s lack of progress in terms of race. “Get Out,” a similarly masterful thriller about American racism, was also nominated as a comedy. Its leading actor, Daniel Kaluuya, a black man, was snubbed when James Franco — who admitted to soliciting sex from an underaged girl in 2014 — won Best Actor for his imitation of Tommy Wiseau. The awards also completely snubbed woman of color Dee Rees’ “Mudbound,” which she wrote and directed. The Golden Globes seemed to stand on the precipice of progress, but the progress it boasts is far from equal. The coming-of-age film “Lady Bird,” similar in many ways to the 2014 Best Drama winner “Boyhood,” except its protagonist is female, is tagged a comedy, while McDonagh’s farce is marked a drama. After last year’s post #OscarsSoWhite turnaround, Hollywood seems to be back to celebrating white male mediocrity in the same subtle ways it has for decades. With any luck, the Oscars might surprise us with another “Moonlight” moment and start taking stories about women and minorities seriously. Email Natalie Whalen at nwhalen@nyunews.com.
VIA TWITTER.COM
The 75th Golden Globe Awards, on Jan. 7, 2018, wasn’t as progressive towards women and minorities as the Time’s Up movement promised it to be.
Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
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Four NYU Musicians to Watch By CONNOR GATESMAN Music Editor
Even though winter break has just come to a close, here at WSN we’ve been toiling away, compiling a fresh list of even fresher tracks made by NYU’s very own. This university hosts a wide variety of up-and-coming musicians on the cusp of breaking through. Use this list as a roadmap of sorts for navigating the musical maze of both the school and the city. With winter raging on, you need to stay warm. This is where Jesediah’s “Stove On” comes in handy. The track is smooth and bouncy,
VIA FACEBOOK.COM
An audience looks on at a performance held in the Skriball Center for Performing Arts. Seats should be just as filled this upcoming semester.
Skirball Spices Up Spring Semester By MATTHEW HOLMAN Entertainment Editor
Papers, projects and midterms will all shortly reenter the student body’s subconscious and fuel immense mental suffering across the Washington Square Park area. However, fear not because spring programming at the NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts is here to appease academic woes with artistic jolts. First on the roster –– and an explosive intersection of experimental theater with a potent political agenda at that –– “THISISPOPBABY: Riot” is a widely acclaimed Irish production that shimmied its way across the pond for a premiere in the United States, Feb. 15-17. Distinguishing lower Manhattan, an area rich in queer history, to host said premiere is a significant transnational tie to the performance: a celebration of queer activism and optimism in Ireland showcased through slapstick comedy, spoken word, high-flying theatrics and drag elegance. Quite the new twist on an old classic, the Berlin-branded theater troupe Gob Squad will bring its bristling exploration of Leo Tolstoy’s “War and Peace” to Skirball for a U.S. premiere, March 29-31. Set among an idyllic literary salon, the group dishevels posh performativity in substitute for feasting, feuding, dancing and generally creating a deliciously disorderly experience for the audience, whom are allowed to directly
participate in all of it. Perhaps the show is a good pick-me-up for those still mourning Broadway’s loss of “Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812.” Chaos will persist at Skirball after the Gob Squad’s departure, this time pulsating from Chile. A collective of young theatrical artists labeled Teatro La Re-sentida –– translating to The Resentful in English –– perpetuate its adversary art with the play “The Dictatorship of Coolness,” having its American premiere performed in Spanish with English supertitles, April 5-7. This stinging satire of Santiago breathes daring youthful energy into established norms of Chilean social infrastructure but doing so with the universal electricity of theater. Skirball will conclude its splendiferous spring season, May 4-5, with a deceptively simple outlook: just three musicians and six performers on a stage. They make up routine for Damaged Goods, the company forged by famed choreographer Meg Stuart. The uncomplicated foundation of this particular Goods production, titled “Until Our Hearts Stop,” is a mere facade: given the history of Stuart’s work, the nine individuals will synthesize an environment full of intense emotions, searing orchestrations and high art, all the while executing impeccable choreography. Email Matthew Holman at mholman@nyunews.com.
COLLAGE BY JULIA SALIBA
Jesediah, Pedro Canas, Master Swami and Julian LaMadrid are all new artists for NYU’s latest artists.
filled with crisp synths and punchy percussion. A junior in the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music, Jesediah (also known as Jesse Sgambati) has been on a roll recently, accumulating both listeners and clout. His raps come off effortlessly and it’s clear he’s got something to prove. When chilly weather hits hard, listen to Jesediah’s instructions and keep that “Stove On.” His other tracks like “G.O.A.T.” and “Lonzo” are also definitely worth checking out. Be sure to keep an eye out for his live performances around the city. The rapper brings an infectious intensity to the stage that can’t be missed. Electronic music maestro and sophomore studying Music Business at Steinhardt, Pedro Cañas is back at it with a brand new track, “Upscale Horror.” Cañas has been releasing music left and right as of late. This track serves as not only a follow up to his recently released “16-bit// POW-r2” EP, but a precursor “Just You,” to his upcoming project and biggest release to date, which drops on Feb. 15. “Upscale Horror” is an undeniably brutal tech house tune, but in the best way possible. It’s a driving machine composed of metallic synthesizers and clanky percussion. Cañas’ sample choice also serves to bolster the tune’s dark and brooding nature. This track might not be for the kids, but it’s most certainly fit for the dance floor. Also cooking up some heat is
Master Swami (also known as Marcus Harley), a junior in the Silver School of Social Work. Coming through with consistent releases, his persistence and presence has quickly become hard to miss. Swami’s latest offering is titled “MÅD” and is proof that the man refuses to be stopped. The sample-heavy beat is vibrant. His lyrics bounce confidently off the kicks and are full of variety both in their pacing and content. With tracks like these, Swami is without a doubt an artist to watch. As Master Swami continues to put out music, his progression is both evident and hard to ignore. For the more pop oriented, Julian LaMadrid, a sophomore in Tisch Performance Studies, won’t disappoint. Another artist in relentless pursuit of success, LaMadrid is a 19-year-old singer from Dubai who already has a catalogue of Billboard worthy bops. His most recent offering is the single “Warm.” The tune is filled with a dreamy keyboard melody woven with a hyponic beat. LaMadrid is clearly a talented crooner and sings with impressive ease, including a catchy hook and fitting verses to boot. Also worth checking out is “Understand,” a tropical tune that’ll transport the listener to an ocean-tinged soundscape that’s not only memorable but well-executed. Email Connor Gatesman at cgatesman@nyunews.com.
NYU Playwright Premieres at Winterfest By EMILY FAGEL Theater and Books Editor
The New York Theater Festival is currently holding its Winterfest competition, and on the docket this year is an original production from CAS sophomore Cayla Berejikian. “End of April,” written and directed by Berejikian, will be performed by a cast of 10 — eight of whom are NYU students — next month at the Hudson Guild Theater. Over 80 productions are participating in the festival, and $2,500 is awarded to the best play at its conclusion. Berejikian’s contender for the cash prize chronicles an impoverished girl named Katie who lives with her brother and bitter alcoholic mother. Others tell Katie that she has the unique potential to accomplish big things. Urged to go achieve what she is supposedly capable of, Katie struggles with whether or not she should leave the dull world around her. “The central themes in this show are hope, opportunity and the power of choice,” Berejikian said. “To some people, potential is unreachable, merely a dream obtainable only by those who are special or privileged. Beliefs like this are powerful as they define our reality, and they draw the line between hope and despair.”
This is the first full play Berejikian has written. Hoping to bring her story to the stage, she entered the festival and was chosen. Auditions were held, and the psychology major recruited a production team to bring the show together. “I wanted to recruit passionate NYU students who were seeking experience for their resumes,” Berejikian said. “I found a wonderful stage manager [named] Ruth Bergman, a producer [named] Yaneirie Rondon and a design team. We made a calendar and everyone got to work.” An experienced director, she trusts her actors to bring her story to life. “While I do have a vision of the show in my head, I am more excited to see what ideas the actors and designers bring to the piece,” Berejikian said. “There are so many ways to tell the story, and I trust and value their perspectives and creativity.” The Winterfest Festival is one of two major festivals produced by the New York Theater Festival. Both festivals are competitions, offering awards to not only the best play, but also to the best actor, actress, stage manager, set designer and more. The festival prides itself in giving playwrights and actors a chance to perform in a professional space and an accommodating atmosphere. Tisch sophomore Addie Guidry stars in “End of April” as Lola, a feisty, intelligent
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The New York Theater Festival will host their annual Winterfest Fest from Jan. 2 - Mar. 4. This year CAS sophomore, Cayla Berejikian, will have her original production for “End of April” performed on Feb. 22, 23 and 25 at the Hudson Guild Theater.
young woman. For Guidry, the opportunity to perform in a New York theater festival is unique and exciting. “It’s a great opportunity for students all around to do what they love and showcase their work,” Guidry said. “Not even just students — any artists in the city who are looking for a platform.” End of April is playing at the Hudson Guild Theater on Feb. 22 at 9 p.m., Feb. 23 at 6:15 p.m., and Feb. 25 at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $23 and can be purchased here. Email Emily Fagel at efagel@nyunews.com.
Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
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FEATURES
Edited by Yasmin Gulec features@nyunews.com
An Ultra Violet Solution By LIV CHAI Dining Editor
What happens when blue and red come together? If we’re talking politics, the mixture of blue parties and red parties can lead to a government shutdown. Luckily, Pantone is showing the world that two so-called wrongs can make a right by naming ‘Ultra Violet’ the Pantone 2018 Color of the year. And NYU is already ahead of the game since we’re bleeding violet and Pantone-approved for 2018. Pantone’s Executive Director Leatrice Eiseman told The New York
Times that ‘Ultra Violet’ is the “most complex of all colors,” taking two contrasting primary colors — blue and red — to create a drastically different product. This celestial, almost illuminating purple shade, known in Pantone dialect as “18-3838,” was chosen to signify “originality, ingenuity and visionary thinking that points us toward the future,” according to Eiseman. ‘Ultra Violet’ brings forth counterculture icons and rebels who did not adhere to with the norms of society. Pantone gathered inspiration from artists, such as Prince, Jimi Hendrix and David Bowie, for their unapologetic ingenuity and un-
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Left to right: Balenciaga, Gucci and Marni from various 2017 shows. Runways saw many brands showcasing Pantone’s color of the year, ultraviolet purple.
faltering spirits. In a time fraught with great political turmoil and injustice, Pantone seems to have chosen a color to light the way for the seemingly mysterious and looming future. As the vice president of the Pantone Color Institute Laurie Pressman put it quite pointedly, Pantone Color of the Year has become much more than a trendy shade in the world of design. ‘Ultra Violet’ is a color reflecting on what is needed in society: genuine creative spirit and ingenuity. With that said, however, ‘Ultra Violet’ has circulated on runways. Gucci fully embraced the mysterious hue of purple in its Spring 2018 Ready-toWear collection through plush velvets, luscious furs and swanky silks. For its Spring 2018 Ready-to-Wear collection, Versace showcased a mesmerizing head-to-toe look in ‘Ultra Violet’ as well. Last year, Pantone chose ‘Greenery’ to represent a new beginning. Pantone’s Color of the Year sets a certain tone for the upcoming year, and is open for any rising rebellious counterculture to brand as its color. Rather than a color for the year, ‘Ultra Violet’ represents a long-term attempt at change and a call to action for lost creative energy. Email Liv Chai at lchai@nyunews.com.
Never Too Old For Cereal By LIV CHAI Dining Editor
When’s the last time you were able to really splurge on a bite of your favorite childhood cereal? The Monster Cereals that always managed to sneak up around Halloween, or the Mud & Bugs cereal that featured Timon and Pumbaa? Even thinking about these breakfast delights probably takes you back to a certain time in elementary school when cereal was your lifeline. Getting such a strong sense of nostalgia is actually quite natural. Smells, tastes and textures trigger the hippocampus, which is a critical part of the brain primarily in charge of memory. With its connections to smell and emotion, the brain is able to pull vivid memories back to us with a single bite. What if we told you there’s a place that allows you to relive your childhood, eating fun sugary cereal to your heart’s desire with a seemingly endless number of topping combinations? Kellogg’s Cereal Bar officially opened its doors right on Union Square for cereal lovers and Kellogg’s breakfast enthusiasts. Not limited to cereal bowls, it also offers Eggos and Pop-Tart ice cream sandwiches on the menu, making for fun twists on our favorite treats. To visit the Union Square hotspot, take an elevator up (think of “Charlie
STAFF PHOTO BY LIV CHAI
Reminisce over childhood treats at the Kellogg’s Cereal Bar on Union Square. The comfy cafe features Kellogg’s-branded cereal with a choice of unlimited toppings.
and the Chocolate Factory’s” Great Glass Elevator). Instantly, you are hit with bright, colorful walls and a big open space full of swinging hammocks and the Fruit Loops’ mascot all over the walls. When asked about the very best combo of cereal to eat, one Kellogg’s worker pointed to the “Tried and True” menu that has been tested by the Kellogg family. A scrumptious list of cereal combinations such as “Christmas Morning” with cinnamon roll croutons and crystallized ginger and “Apple Pie” with salted caramel and Apple Jacks grace the menu. With a suggestion box by the cereal bar, customers can also submit their own creations for an opportunity to be featured on the menu. The Kellogg’s Cereal Bar is definitely on the pricier side. Two bowls of un-
limited toppings with strawberry and almond milk coming out to be around $14. My bowl was topped with rumroasted bananas and candied cashews. The toppings were infused with a ton of flavor, and having this breakfast ritual in such a cozy space was therapeutic. Of course, for most of us, as college students, cereal has played a critical substitute for proper meals. But with Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, TV, cards and board games, this seems like the perfect chill-out spot for an in-between class break, complete with sugary meals and relaxation. It’s nice to treat yourself from time to time, and if that comes in the form of a bowl of sugary goodness and nostalgia, then what’s to lose? Email Liv Chai at lchai@nyunews.com.
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The cast of “Big Little Lies” accepts the Golden Globe Award for Best Miniseries on Jan. 7, 2018. Stars wore black in support of the ‘Time’s Up’ and #MeToo movements.
‘Time’s Up’ Takes Fashion By CAROLINE WEINSTEIN Contributing Writer
At this year’s Golden Globes, one of the highlights of the night was the wave of black throughout the crowd to show support for “Time’s Up” and the #MeToo movement. “Time’s Up” is a legal defense fund created by over 300 women in the film and TV industries to stand up against harassment, abuse and assault in the workplace. While fashion is sometimes perceived as a superficial outward expression of personal style, many have used fashion throughout history to protest and raise awareness about different causes. Fashion is not only a tool for self-expression, but it is how people display their values. After all, what is closer to your heart than what you wear on your skin? The all-black fashion statement complete with pins that read “Time’s Up” showed widespread support for the movement and all victims who have been harassed or abused in the workplace. In the past, people at various award shows have used pins to draw attention and show their support toward a cause or initiative. At the 2017 Oscar Awards, many attendees wore blue ribbons to show support for the American Civil Liberties Union during the series of travel bans proposed by President Donald Trump. At the 2016 Tony Awards, stars wore silver ribbons to honor the victims and families affected by the Orlando nightclub shooting that occurred earlier that day. However, the 2018 Golden Globes was the first time in recent memory that a majority of attendees wore black to unanimously stand up for a single cause. Fashion statements, like the allblack dress at the Golden Globes,
have been made many times before. All-white was worn in the early 1900s by the suffragettes — women who wanted to earn the right to vote in the United States. This all-white fashion statement was revived just recently when a number of different congresswomen wore white during Trump’s first speech to Congress. In the 1960s, the counterculture movement used fashion to outwardly display its values as a movement, straying from traditional fashion, like sheath dresses and shift dresses, and opting for flowy skirts, tie-dye, flared pants and long hair. At the Women’s March in 2017, millions of women everywhere sported pink pussy hats to protest Trump and to show support for feminism. Even fashion moguls have used fashion as a means of protest in their various collections. In Chanel’s Spring-Summer 2015 runway at Paris Fashion Week, the show was all about feminism, complete with a faux-street runway and models with signs of protest in hand. The signs had phrases like “history is her story” painted on them. At Talbot Runhof’s Fall 2017 runway in New York, Runhof showed off a collection of truth amid the lies and fake news plaguing the nation. Pieces were marked with phrases like “unpresidented,” “persist,” “sad!” and “lie to me.” Anish Gupta displayed a Fall 2017 collection at London Fashion Week with pieces that included statements like “more glitter, less twitter” and “nasty woman,” among others. The fashion world has never hesitated to spread political or cultural messages, particularly in the past few years. Email Caroline Weinstein at bstyle@nyunews.com.
Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
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Edited by Yasmin Gulec features@nyunews.com
Inclusivity at the 60th Grammys By JENDAYI OMOWALE Staff Writer
The 60th Grammy Awards commence on Feb. 28 this year, and the nominations have been hailed as the most diverse in the ceremony’s history, with the two major categories, Album of the Year and Song of the Year being dominated by men of color. This shift acknowledges the contributions of artists of color in the music industry. “Urban culture is now pop culture,” the famous producer behind the works of hip-hop giants Jay-Z and Kanye West, No I.D said to the New York Times. CAS sophomore Red Ama Ali praised the diversity of this year’s Grammy nominations. “Black people created music and popu-
lar culture and we deserve to be awarded for it,” Ali said. The Grammys’ choices for nominees are also receiving attention because of the controversies surrounding the Grammys and its lack of diversity in previous years. In 2017, the Grammys came under fire for its decision to award Album of the Year to Adele’s “25,” which outsold every other album in 2016, rather than Beyoncé’s visual album “Lemonade,” which TIME magazine heralded as a cultural phenomenon and was acclaimed by critics. Those who opposed Adele’s win said the Grammys were not only behind with the times, sticking to the traditional album rather than the more experimental one that defined the year, but were too white and did not give proper praise to works by artists of color. The Grammys were in hot water in 2016 for a similar reason. “1989” by Taylor
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People of color, with artists like Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Bruno Mars and SZA received the most nominations at the Grammys.
Swift won Album of the Year over Kendrick Lamar’s critically acclaimed third studio album “To Pimp a Butterfly.” Several artists boycotted the Grammys, including neo-soul artist star Frank Ocean, who accused the award ceremony of cultural bias in an open letter on his personal Tumblr. Even the Best Urban Contemporary Album award created in 2013 by the Grammys by an rhythm and blues producer of color so that black artists would be represented, has been criticized by some as a consolation prize for black artists whose work will not be honored with a Record or Album of the Year award. “In attempting to create a black space on a predominantly white tableau, othering is a natural part of this construct,”music critic Brian Josephs of the Urban Contemporary category said. The 2018 nominations seem refreshing and well-received, like the Grammys and its majority old, white male voters have finally listened to the cultural pulse. According to Nielsen Music, the R&B/ Hip-Hop genre has dominated sales in 2017, with a lionshare of 24.5 percent of music consumption in the United States. The nomination of people of color in major categories acknowledges that artists’ of color talents are more than the Best Urban Contemporary category, they are also more than viable candidates for Album, Record and Song of the Year. Ali, NYU’s Black Student Union political action chair said she hopes next year’s Grammy’s will expand upon its musical diversity. “I do wish more black women were being no minated as well, but hopefully we will be next year,” Ali said. Email Jendayi Omowale at features@nyunews.com.
Abroad Is Not America By CARINE ZAMBRANO Abroad Editor
Winter may have arrived in New York City, but some of us will be spared of polar vortexes, bomb cyclones and extreme temperatures this semester. With 14 global locations and a highly international student body, NYU sends more students overseas than any other American university. As an international student myself, I think that studying abroad is a valuable and rewarding experience. It instills a cosmopolitan mindset and paves the way for great job opportunities (did you hear that employers love international experience?). However, you have to take your rose-colored glasses off at some point. Spending a semester away requires planning and preparation, especially if it will be your first time away from your family, friends and Amazon Prime. Here is a nice, straight-to-the-point piece of advice, that you should keep it close to your heart: whichver study away site you choose will be incomparable to the United States (except Washington D.C., obviously). Even us, international students, who have acclimated to this country we call our visa issuers, must get accustomed to this fact. It frustrates me whenever I see
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someone contrasting their abroad site with New York. While the U.S. may have lost credibility since Donald Trump became president, American lifestyle is still safer and more well-off than most of the rest of the world. According to the F.B.I., there were 1,197,704 crimes in the U.S. in 2015, while in Italy the same statistic was double that, despite the U.S. having more than five times as many people as Italy. Statista reported that in 2015, 2,416,588 crimes took place in the boot-shaped country. As of 2015, the U.S. ranks 10th on the United Nations Human Development Index, with a score of 0.860, on a scale that goes from zero to one. According to the U.N., the HDI is calculated by assessing an individual’s ability to live a “long and healthy life,” achieve a “decent standard of living” and a have a good access to knowledge. You should be aware you will not able to live an international version of your New York life abroad — and why would you want to, anyway? That said, American culture is also very distinct. It is completely OK if you are getting goosebumps about culture shock (like I am), but do some research before saying goodbye to Uncle Sam. It will probably ease your anxieties and make you more worldly. If you are going to a country where a Romance language — Spanish,
Italian, French or Portuguese — is the official one, keep in mind that these places have deep Roman Catholic roots. Why is that relevant, you ask? Well, customarily, stores will close on Sundays because people attend mass (including the store owners). Catholicism is also reflected in family structures, which tend to have more so-called traditional values and extend to unequal gender relations in society, also known as machismo. Living in a new country can be discombobulating, but chances are you will grow accustomed to the divergent context — like how I accepted the constant presence of American cheese. Roam around the streets, try local cuisine and meet new people. Studying abroad is a unique experience you will cherish in the years to come. You must be prepared to face that your abroad site most likely won’t resemble New York City or be imbibed in American culture, but cherish the silver lining.
Keep Quiet About These Speakeasies By LIV CHAI Dining Editor
There is something ridiculously scandalous and enticing about anything that’s supposed to be a secret. Being in the know and having to keep classified information somewhat is a talent. Professor of Management Michael Slepian from Columbia Business School conducted a study regarding the effects of secrets on an individual’s life and found that secret keepers felt a physical weight holding secrets. So it does not come as a surprise that when something as loud and rambunctious as going to a bar and grabbing a drink is supposed to be kept under the radar, everyone tries to get in on it. Speakeasies emerged during the strict years of Prohibition when people were doing anything to grab a drink. Bootleggers made quite a profit selling homemade alcohol, while speakeasies began flourishing all over the country. In New York City, the 1920s hailed a whole era of hidden bars. Anywhere from 20,000 to 100,000 speakeasies were established during the intense years of Prohibition. Speakeasies are still scattered throughout the city. Here is a list of a few gems to seek in the most inconspicuous places. In the backroom of Village Yokocho in the East Village resides Angel’s Share. With a large heavenly angel mural resting over the bar, the large line extending to the sushi bar at this particular speakeasy is sure to confuse the unaware diners. The Back Room is known to be one of two of the speakeasies still standing since Prohibition. Located in the Lower East Side, the bar is known for its interesting serving glasses. Cocktails are served in
teacups with beers in brown paper bags, a nod to its time during Prohibition. To enter, it is suggested to go down the stairs of “Lower East Side Toy Company,” through the back alley and up another flight of stairs to reach the entrance. For fun and games, the Sunshine Laundromat in Brooklyn has got you covered. With a simple menu consisting of beer and wine but close to 30 arcade games to play, laundry day won’t be quite the same. You’ll be in for a surprise opening a dryer door and entering this speakeasy. Located in Colorado and New York Death & Co. is a speakeasy renowned for its cocktails and has been awarded the World’s Best Cocktail Menu and Best American Cocktail Bar at Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards. Dimly lit, with essential mood lighting, this speakeasy has an intriguing and moody name that speaks for itself. Please Don’t Tell in the East Village, specifically past a phone booth inside Crif Dogs, is a popular speakeasy with wait times known to be painstakingly long. Crif Dogs, normally a popular hot dog joint, holds a bar with refreshing cocktails including ones made with bacon-infused bourbon. The most conventional establishments will lead to the most unexpected bars, as seen by many of the speakeasies on this list. While there are always more to explore, perhaps speakeasy enthusiasts will loosen their lips and continue sharing the swanky bars carefully hidden throughout the city just like how we’ve slipped a few secrets here for you. Disclaimer: WSN does not condone underaged drinking. Email Liv Chai at lchai@nyunews.com.
Carine Zambrano is currently studying abroad in Florence. Read the full story online at nyunews.com/abroad. Email Carine Zambrano at czambrano@nyunews.com.
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The Back Room is a celebrated Prohibition-era speakeasy tucked away in the Lower East Side.
Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
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OPINION
nyunews.com Edited by Tyler Crews opinion@nyunews.com
UNIVERSITY LIFE
Cold? Doesn’t Mean You Should Give Classes the Cold Shoulder By WAYNE CHEN Staff Writer
As the spring semester begins, not many students are actually excited about the coming months. This is especially true for those coming back from their warmer, more habitable hometown over break. With the temperature still occasionally hitting freezing, New York continues to give NYU students the cold shoulder — literally. As the new semester, new responsibilities and potentially challenging coursework creep closer toward students, it is becoming more tempting than ever to skip classes, especially since it is the beginning
of the semester and after all, things do tend to go slower. However, skipping class is a terrible decision. As painful as it might be to layer up, attending earlier lectures does actually help — it minimizes your chance of pulling constant all-nighters ahead of future exams. Knowing what is happening is paramount to understanding the material, and it helps alleviate pressure that might pile up otherwise. Moreover, fostering a relationship with professors early on is never a bad idea. Get on their good side, and one day they might help you out with your letter of recommendation or something similar. Many classes also happen to en-
courage the formation of social circles. These are easiest to join when class is starting and most students don’t know each other yet. By the time different circles and support groups have formed, it becomes harder to fit into them. Without a core support group, some classes, especially obscure ones, can be painful to survive as the se-
mester progresses. Furthermore, NYU kids understand that college classes are pricey. While different people have different financial situations, most NYU kids can agree on one thing: NYU tuition is ridiculously expensive, and not attending classes is the equivalent to throwing money down the drain. At times, attending lectures can be painfully unattractive in New York, especially when it’s cold outside, but as NYU students, it’s our duty to go. Nothing is a bigger bummer than wasting money or the opportunity to learn something that could be beneficial later in life. Once you are convinced to make the most of your schedule and to
go to all the classes that you are supposed to attend, new opportunities might arise. This could be the perfect time to put that coveted Canada Goose jacket or Burberry trench coat on your wish list; after all, being on a mission to learn is more than enough to justify a nice coat. If you’re tempted by invitations to go out and enjoy life instead of attending classes, just remember that exploring the city is much more pleasant when the temperature is just right. Save the fun for later, cover thyself and go to classes to win early in the game. Email Wayne Chen at opinion@nyunews.com.
culture
New Year, Same Me By SHRADDHA JAJAL Contributing Writer
New year, new me. How many times have you heard that in the last couple weeks? It seems that as soon as the year draws to a close, most people are talking about how they are going to change starting Jan. 1. New gym memberships rise more in January than in any other month in the year; it’s as if everyone is ready to make a lifestyle change. But as we all know, most New Year’s resolutions are broken sooner or later. Everyone has their own reasons for dissolving their
resolutions, but the primary reason that most resolutions are not met lies in the concept of New Year’s resolutions because they are simply not feasible. Jan. 1 is like life’s natural reset button. It’s a fresh start, and the urge to reinvent yourself is understandable. However, the flaw with reinvention is that it is not possible to wake up one day and completely change your lifestyle. A big goal without a plan is a recipe for disaster. Too often, resolutions are created by looking at other people’s expectations — reading a magazine that tells you how to get
fit by summer. While the beginning of the year is symbolic, if someone truly wants to make a change in their lives, any day of the year can be the ideal day to start. How can we make New Year’s resolutions more realistic? First, stop calling them New Year’s res-
olutions. Call them goals. A goal is not associated with the whole “new year, new me” phenomenon and is universally applicable in all aspects of life. Second, start small. Instead of trying to go from being a hard-core carnivore to a vegan, maybe start by cutting out just red meat. It is the little things, after all, that make a difference in the long run. Finally, think inwardly. What do you want to do? Not what society deems, not what your friends and family say, but what do you yourself want? The simple act of reflection can have a surprising effect on you and your goals.
The whole idea of “new year, new me” is preposterous because you are never going to be a whole new person. You can change the way you look and act, but there is no brand-new you. And that is completely okay. If people only understood that they do not need to change because of a holiday, there would be more healthy, completed New Year’s resolutions in the world. But remember, it is probably always going to be new year, same you. Email Shraddha Jajal at opinion@nyunews.com.
POLITICS
Appreciate Your Free Speech Rights on Social Media By MERT ERENEL Staff Writer
We are currently in a setting of political divide. It’s not shocking that the relationship between liberals and conservatives has been severed with a president that becomes more controversial by the day. New political movements such as the Alt-right are surging with provocative figures such as Richard Spencer, Milo Yiannopoulos and Steve Bannon, while left-wing organizations such as “Antifa” counter conservative movements with their own extreme approaches. These are mere examples of the degree to which our political climate has polarized and should not be a reflec-
tion of the average American citizen on both political sides. These movements do, however, reflect the fact that our political climate has become intense and heated up. On social media, it’s easy for us to spout our dislike for those on the opposing side of the political spectrum. We can go on for hours debating someone on Facebook, writing paragraph length posts on how terrible the government is or simply throw out an F-bomb to President Donald Trump on Twitter. And this can all be done without the slightest worry of legal penalty. Many young Americans take that for granted. In countries like Turkey, you don’t just lose your job if you criticize the government, you may also go to prison and have your life ruined.
In Turkey, for example, there can be far greater repercussions for speaking out against the government on social media. Itir Esen was 18 when she won Miss Turkey 2017. She would later represent Turkey in the Miss World competition and from there, would go on to start a career in modelling. Maybe, just like many other winners of Miss Turkey, she could have become a famous actress like
her aunt. But all of those possibilities ended when her crown was revoked over a tweet regarding a 2016 failed government coup attempt. The primary problem is the fact that the Istanbul Anadolu Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office wants to indict Esen for up to one year in prison for “publicly insulting a segment of the public based on social class, race, religion, sect, gender or regional differences.” This is an example of a country that has lost tolerance for even minor aggressions against national identity and authority. Yes, the tweet may as well be insulting and disrespectful. But does it really warrant legal penalty, and even if so, is a bad tweet really deserving of punishment in jail?
Think of all the tweets of celebrities and politicians in support of National Football League players bending the knee during the American national anthem, Facebook posts of photos in support of the American flag burning, memes or jokes against political figures, both current and historical ones. The abundance of these on social media in the United States is an example of the degree to which the First Amendment allows its citizens to use such a platform without the fear of legal persecution neither from state nor federal levels of government. For others, this may be seen as a natural fundamental right; for me, it is a privilege that I wish not to lose. Email Mert Erenel at opinion@nyunews.com.
Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
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OPINION
Edited by Tyler Crews opinion@nyunews.com
international
A Chilly Future for the Winter Olympics By ALISON ZIMMERMAN Deputy Opinion Editor
Starting Feb. 8, hundreds of athletes from around the world will lace up their skates and strap on their skis to compete in the 2018 Winter Olympic Games. Yet, even several weeks before the opening ceremony, the road to this Olympics has been rocky. The games are set to take place in PyeongChang, South Korea, placing the Olympics on the hot seat to settle some dicey issues of diplomacy with North Korea. Prior, the uncovering of Russia’s doping in the 2014 Sochi Olympics has led to the International Olympic Committee’s decision to ban some of the most formidable forces on the ice from competing under the Russian flag. This forces Russian athletes to compete as independent entities rather than representatives of their country (and it’s about time the IOC made some effort to stop the cheating). Still, problems facing these Olympics stretch beyond diplomatic tiffs and scandals. In conjunction with the increasingly unreasonable cost of hosting and ticket sales far undershooting projections, this Winter Olympic Games is simply not worth the trouble.
Geography considered, it’s no wonder the PyeongChang Games are a hard sell, even for the most devout fans. The 35,000 seat stadium constructed for the opening and closing ceremonies lies just 60 miles south of the North Korean border, conjuring uneasiness among those wary of North Korea’s militaristic volatility. Even locally, the Olympics have failed to generate excitement, leaving ticket sales 45 percent short of projections in December. But the shortcomings of the anticipated PyeongChang Olympics may not prove unique to the landmine location. The cost of the games, a mere $448,000 at the first modern Olympics held in Athens, Greece in 1896, has skyrocketed to an astronomical $51 billion for the Sochi Games in 2012. In response, four countries have dropped their bids to host the 2022 Winter Olympics, leaving only Beijing and Al-
maty on the table — both cities in countries with abysmal human rights records. It seems that the only countries willing to fork over billions on the Olympics are those less-than-democratic states hoping to make a political statement much to the discontent of the IOC. Norway, the last democratic nation in the running, dropped its bid in October due to a lack of domestic political support and dissatisfaction with the IOC. And who could blame them? Who would want to become beholden to the IOC, with its lavish hospitality demands and historically shady dealings with scandals among athletes? Is the Winter Olympics worth the diplomatic and financial headaches? All things considered, probably not. The games are wrought with scandal, political clashes and a seemingly unceasing trend of excess. The Olympics are meant to bring forth global unity and sportsmanship, yet it seems that finance and corruption have drowned out the spirit of the Games. Sure, it would be sad to see the Winter Olympics end, but given the circumstances, why bother keep them around? Email Alison Zimmerman at azimmerman@nyunews.com.
CULTURE
‘Black Mirror’ Obscures Women’s Health Care By PAOLA NAGOVITCH Deputy Opinion Editor
“Black Mirror” recently returned on Dec. 29 with a new season. The popular Netflix series is known for its exploration of the intersection between technology and humanity — more specifically focusing on the effect of technology on human activities and relationships. The second episode of the fourth season, “Arkangel,” chronicles the lives of a single mother, Marie, and her daughter, Sara, in a commentary about helicopter parenting. However, it creates a false narrative about women’s contraception, and consequently has the potential to hinder its access. Out of concern for Sara’s safety, Marie installs a device, called the Arkangel, in Sara’s brain, thus allowing her to track all of Sara’s movements through a tablet. Marie can see what Sara sees, check her health vitals and track her location. When Marie witnesses Sara having unprotected sex, she slips emergency contraception, or EC, into Sara’s smoothie. Sara discovers this when she vomits and ends up at the nurse’s office. The nurse explains to Sara that EC is “emergency contraception for terminating a pregnancy” or in other words, a means to guaranteeing an abortion. This explanation is an issue because EC is different from abortion pills.
SUBMITTING TO
Although “Arkangel” primarily focuses on helicopter parenting, the producers wrongly portrayed EC pills as abortion pills. This conflation of EC pills and abortion perpetuates the misconception that family planning resources, such as contraception, are characterized by abortions and further diminishes women’s access to health care. It is crucial to emphasize that EC pills are not abortion pills. EC pills will not interrupt an established pregnancy because they are not effective after implantation. EC pills are preventive pills. Even though it is a fictional show, “Black Mirror” should be conscious of the implications of this conflation during a political period where women’s health care is constantly under attack. Pro-life advocates, including Holly Scheer, refer to this episode as a source to uphold the narrative that emergency contraception pills are the same as abortion pills because they interfere with the progress of fertilization to implan-
tation, even though fertilization has not yet occurred. Referring to conception as the creation of life enables anti-abortion champions to conclude that EC pills are equivalent to abortion pills because it stops implantation after life has already been conceived. Moreover, equating the two pills also contributes to the pro-life belief that any form of contraception is a toll for abortion as opposed to a preventive measure. “Arkangel” plays into a false narrative that equates EC and abortion pills, and the consequences are a misconception that furthers the pro life agenda. “Black Mirror” needs to be more careful about the implications it has on women’s health care. Women’s access to health care in America is in danger under the administration of President Donald Trump. In 2017, the Trump administration dismantled an Obama administration birth control mandate that granted millions of women access to birth control without a copay. Therefore, shows with a wide platform, such as “Black Mirror,” must be vigilant about their content, whether it’s fictional or not. Overall, women’s reproductive health is a topic that should be treated with more caution to avoid further hindering women’s access to contraception. Email Paola Nagovitch at pnagovitch@nyunews.com.
STAFF EDITORIAL
New Year’s Resolutions for NYU
Last semester, the WSN Editorial Board responded to the issues on campus we felt needed addressing. While some of these problems have been recognized by the administration or are being resolved by students, others, we feel, still need attention. With the New Year having just begun, we believe that NYU could benefit from some self reflection and it is time to bring these issues back to the forefront. Without further ado, here are our New Year’s Resolutions for NYU in 2018.
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE NEEDED ON THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Last year, the NYU Student Labor Action Movement demanded student representation on the Board of Trustees. In response, President Andrew Hamilton insisted that having a student on the board would be a conflict of interest. SLAM was quick to call out the hypocrisy in Hamilton’s claim, and held a protest to emphasize that multiple members of the board had existing conflicts of interest, proving that the administration’s counterpoint was illogical. NYU still has not met SLAM’s demands, and is refusing to allow students to partake in the decision-making process of the board. Hamilton must recognize that students can be unbiased representatives on the Board of Trustees.
MEET SUSTAINABILITY DEMANDS FROM NYU DIVEST
NYU Divest occupied an elevator last semester to pose three demands to NYU; that NYU divest direct holdings in fossil fuel companies, hold a full board meeting open to the public that reconsiders university divestment and commit new funds to carbon-free screens. The first demand, as it turns out, was previously met, but Divest was disappointed at the lack of transparency concerning the issue as NYU neither released a statement when it dropped its holdings nor did it provide a reason as to why the holdings were divested. This year, we would like NYU to follow through with the other two demands and strive to be more transparent.
FACULTY NEEDS TO BE MORE SYMPATHETIC TO DREAMERS
Last October, a racist message was found in the bathroom at the Elmer Homes Bobst Library reading “Hasta Luego Dreamers.” In response, the NYU Dream Team along with 14 other clubs gathered to show their support for Dreamers in their “Anti-Hate Rally: Dreamers are here to stay.” The backlash to the rally from some members NYU’s administration was disappointing. The president of NYU’s Asian Pacific American Coalition with the support of other administrators and faculty stated his view that the students were “making a big deal out of nothing.” In 2018, we hope to see a shift in this attitude. We believe that NYU needs to be unified in its support of undocumented students. This support must not only come from the students, but must be voiced by the faculty as well. Read the full story online at nyunews.com/resolutions Email the WSN Editorial Board at opinion@nyunews.com
EDITORIAL BOARD: Tyler Crews (Chair), Paola Nagovitch (Co-chair), Alison Zimmerman (Co-chair) STAFF PHOTO BY ANNA LETSON
Send mail to: 75 Third Ave. #SB07, New York, N.Y. 10003 or email: opinion@nyunews.com WSN welcomes letters to the editor, opinion pieces and articles relevant to the NYU community, or in response to articles. Letters should be less than 450 words. All submissions must be typed or emailed and must include the author’s name, address and phone number. Members of the NYU community must include a year and school or job title. WSN does
not print unsigned letters or editorials. WSN reserves the right to reject any submission and edit accepted submissions in any and all ways. With the exception of the staff editorial, opinions expressed on the editorial pages are not necessarily those of WSN, and our publication of opinions is not an endorsement of them.
Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
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SPORTS Keeping up with the
BOBCATS
Edited by Maddie Howard sports@nyunews.com
MEN’S BASKETBALL
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
MEN’S WRESTLING
NYU 68 Emory University 73
NYU 64 Emory University 69
NYU 6 Long Island University-Post 38
NBA Leads The Way in Social Justice By BRENDAN DUGGAN Contributing Writer
Out of the four major sports organizations in the United States — the National Football League, National Basketball Association, National Hockey League and Major League Baseball — the NBA stands out as the most influential league of social impact. Philanthropy work to benefit underprivileged children and families includes both NBA-sponsored programs and individual players’ foundations. Aid and assistance demonstrate the power and influence of sports within American society, as programs and athletes continue to find creative ways to serve civilians in need. NBA Cares, the league’s “global social responsibility program” aims to address important social issues, encouraging children to stay healthy and active, mentoring younger generations and giving back to military personnel. Programs like My Brother’s Keeper — launched by President Barack Obama — recruited 25,000 mentors for young boys who need an influential figure in their life. Additionally, Hoops for Troops, an organization which honors former and active military men and women, collaborates with the Department of Defense to connect servicemen and women to work with several teams across the league. However, the NBA-affiliated philanthropic programs do not represent the only positive impact of the league. NBA players themselves take the extra step off the court and personally assist their communities, many of them having their own individual foundations that work with problems in their local cities.
VIA TWITTER
Golden State Warriors point guard Steph Curry with children at Nyarugusu Refugee Camp in Tanzania. Curry worked with Nothing But Nets, a charity that donates malaria-preventing nets to communities across Africa.
providing over 100,000 pounds of food, water, generators and medical supplies. In addition to assisting with disaster relief efforts, all-star athletes support military personnel, low-income families, ill children and other cohorts in need of assistance. Leading the charge in their communities are LeBron James and Steph Curry, the faces of the Eastern and Western Conferences, respectively.
“
... there has to be an uncomfortable element in the discourse for anything to change. GREGG POPOVICH
”
After Hurricane Irma, former San Antonio Spurs player Tim Duncan traveled to the U.S. Virgin Islands, where he was born, to personally deliver over 400,000 pounds of food. Dallas Maverick J.J. Barea flew to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria with a plane
LeBron’s legacy doesn’t only lie with his three NBA Finals MVP trophies, but eminates from his positive influence on today’s youth. Leading by example, the Cleveland legend has pledged over $40 million to provide a free education to 1,100 students
through the LeBron James’ Family Foundation. Steph Curry recently donated 20,000 pairs of shoes to children in Congo and also teamed up with the United Nations to donate malaria nets to villages across Africa. He also took a personal trip to Tanzania where he met with several communities in need. Other NBA stars including John Wall, Thabo Sefolosha, Pau Gasol and Kyrie Irving have found ways to help underprivileged communities through a wide range of charity works. The John Wall Foundation teamed up with the Passport to Manhood Program, which aims to employ young men with community service projects. Additionally, Wall works closely with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, demonstrating his support for kids with less fortunate health conditions. After an incident with New York Police Department officers outside of a Manhattan nightclub, Thabo Sefolosha suffered a broken leg and later won a settlement for four million dollars. Innocent from any crime or charge, Sefolosha decided to donate a sub-
stantial portion of his settlement earnings to Gideon’s Promise, an Atlanta-based defender’s organizations that helps protect low-income citizens in legal cases. A veteran of the NBA, Pau Gasol continues to be an activist for children’s health and wellness. Through the Gasol Foundation, the Spurs center works in both the U.S. and Spain on efforts to reduce childhood obesity through partnerships with UNICEF and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Attending high school in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Kyrie Irving recently helped renovate a gym and locker room at the Patrick High School. In addition to donating new shoes, Irving also gave the basketball team warm-up shirts that read “Once a Celtic, always a Celtic,” his high school and current NBA team name. When in Cleveland, Irving hosted a charity walk and basketball game to fundraise for Best Buddies, a group that provides employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Several NBA coaches have also spoken publicly about issues of race, politics and other current
controversial topics. Gregg Popovich stands alone as the longest tenured active coach in the NBA and all U.S. major sports leagues. When asked about the purpose of his charity work, Popovich said, “Because we are rich as hell and we don’t need it all, and other people need it.” While talking to the media about race, Popovich said, “Why do we have to talk about that? Well, because it’s uncomfortable and there has to be an uncomfortable element in the discourse for anything to change.” Popovich shows a genuine understanding of white privilege, and his decision to use his platform to discuss important issues displays his intellect and desire to change the racial culture in America. Stan Van Gundy, head coach of the Detroit Pistons, told reporters before a Pistons-Detroit Wizards game that he believes our country has been founded on protests. He applauds players who take a stand for injustice and sees them as “patriots” — sacrificing their positions to improve conditions for American people, just like the Founding Fathers. Van Gundy has also referred to himself as a poster boy for white privilege demonstrating his knowledge regarding his race as an advantage. Head coach of the Golden State Warriors, Steve Kerr has also publicly declared his disapproval of President Donald Trump while also talking about other issues, such as the legalization of marijuana in the NBA and NFL. Noting that marijuana has helped him with his chronic back pain, Kerr argues the drug should be used instead of painkillers like Vicodin. Talking about politics, Kerr strongly disagreed with many of the president’s new policies, but offered some big-picture advice to the man in the Oval Office. “You’re the president,” Kerr said in an interview with Sports Illustated. “You represent all of us. Don’t divide us. Bring us together.” Driven by coaches and players across the nation, the NBA continues to lead by example, assisting communities and social groups that need attention and opportunity. Raising the standard of kindness supports the NBA’s standing as the United States’ most prominent league going forward. Email Brendan Duggan at sports@nyunews.com.
Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
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SPORTS
Edited by Maddie Howard sports@nyunews.com
commentary
WEEKLY UPDATE
Organizations Scrutinized After Latest Nassar Victim Testimonies By MADDIE HOWARD Sports Editor
The sexual molestation case surrounding Larry Nassar, former doctor for USA gymnastics, has gained further public scrutiny as his final sentencing draws nearer. This is due to the victim impact testimonies that took place last week, in which numerous grown women came to court and shared their stories of Nassar abusing them as children. The more than 140 victims of Nassar’s abuse span across decades. His molestation has impacted the most decorated young women in USA gymnastics, with Aly Raisman, Gabby Douglas, McKayla Maroney and Simone Biles all stating instances of Nassar’s abuse. Biles is the most recent of the Olympic team to come forward, saying via Instagram post that she was initially reluctant to share her story. Biles will not be coming forward in court to read her victim testimony. Maroney, who signed a nondisclosure agreement regarding the abuse in a $1.25 million dollar settlement in 2016 with USA gymnastics, will face a $100,00 fine if she reads her victim testimony in court. Many have criticized the courts and USA gymnastics for the potential fine, saying she should be allowed to speak, given the nature of the abuse. Among her supporters was Chrissy Teigen, who tweeted that she would be “honored” to pay Maroney’s fine. Raisman, initially deciding not to speak, was praised for her speech’s denouncement of USA gymnastics and its supposed cover up of Nassar’s years of abuse. One of her main points
included the hypocrisy of the organization’s actions. She said that while it was willing to support — and capitalize on — the athletes during their moments of success, it often fell silent when it came to bringing repercussions to those who allowed those same athletes to be physically and mentally harmed. In addition to USA gymnastics, Michigan State University is also facing scrutiny for its handling of claims against Nassar, who was employed there in 1997 when a young female athlete first reported his abuse to the university. Other victims told university staff about his abuse as well, one account reaching the president of MSU, Lou Ann Simon. Despite many staff obtaining knowledge of Nassar’s misconduct, none of his actions were penalized. Many are now calling for Simon and other MSU staff members to resign or face penalty for their years of complacency. Among those complaining is Raisman’s mother, who took to took to Twitter to voice her complaints about MSU basketball coach Tom Izzo. The coach said that the victim testimonies against Nassar were difficult to hear, but then expressed his support for the university president. When asked about the likelihood of a situation such as Nassar’s occuring at New York University, student athletes and those involved in NYU Athletics expressed confidence in the institution’s ability to deal with such occurrences. “I strongly believe that my coaches would have zero tolerance for sexual misconduct carried out by anyone on our training staff and be anything but supportive of us coming for-
ward,” Ogawa said. Ogawa started every game for the Violets this season. CAS senior Victoria DeLeon is a student assistant in for NYU’s varsity strength and conditioning program. “I believe the athletic department at NYU cares deeply about all of the student athletes and if misconduct like that were to occur here I have no doubt that the NYU community would respond fully to the incident,” DeLeon said. “I have never felt that I could not be fully honest and open with any faculty member of the athletic department during my four years here. ” DeLeon has worked with NYU‘s strength and conditioning program for the past three years. Ryan McLaughlin is a Stern junior and a member of twhe baseball team. “I definitely think the athletic department would be receptive,” McLaughlin said. “In my experience so far at NYU the athletic department has our athletes’ best interest in mind and would work to solve any issues that would ever arise about sexual misconduct.” McLaughlin was named the youngest captain for the Violets last season, being the only sophomore leader. As accounts of sexual misconduct are brought forth across numerous industries, the way that the institutional leaders who enabled such behavior are punished has yet to be revealed. In the case of Nassar, victims seem adamant on ensuring that all involved face repercussions for their attempts to silence those who came forward. Email Maddie Howard at mhoward@nyunews.com.
Jan. 19 to Jan. 21 By MADDIE HOWARD Sports Editor
against Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
MEN’S SWIMMING AND DIVING
The women’s basketball team suffered two losses this weekend as it played two conference competitors, moving its overall record to 8-8. On Friday, Jan. 19 in New York the team faced Emory University. In the game, graduate student and team-standout Kaitlyn Read scored her 1,500th career point, leaving her with the fifth most points on the women’s basketball’s all-time scoring ranking. However, Read’s performance was not enough to move the Violets to victory, leading the team to a final losing score of 69-64. On Sunday, Jan. 21 in New York the Violets played its second conference game against the University of Rochester. The Violets led the game at halftime 35-39. Eventually, Rochester caught NYU’s trail and the game ended with a 8379 loss for the Violets. Women’s basketball will return to the court on Friday, Jan. 26 in New York for a conference game against Carnegie Mellon University.
MEN’S BASKETBALL Men’s basketball also lost both conference games this weekend against Emory University and the University of Rochester, moving the team’s record to 8-7 overall. On Friday, Jan. 19 in New York the Violets lost 73-68 to Emory, leading the game only once late in the first half. On Sunday, Jan. 21 in New York the Violets returned to the court to play Rochester. Gallatin senior Ross Udine led both teams with 21 points scored, but it was not enough to put the Violets past the Yellowjackets. The team lost with a final score of 87-82. The Violets will play its next University Athletic Association rival on Friday, Jan. 26 against Carnegie Mellon University in New York.
WRESTLING
VIA YOUTUBE.COM
Larry Nassar listens to his victims testify against him on Friday, Jan. 19.
On Sunday, Jan. 21 NYU men’s wrestling fell 38-6 to Long Island University-Post in Brookville, New York. SPS senior, Raymond Jazikoff and LS sophomore Evan Drill helped the team earn two individual wins. However, it was not enough to help the Violets win. Drill wrestled at 149 pounds, and Jazikoff wrestled at 157 pounds. The team loss put an end to its previous four-match winning streak. The Violets will return Saturday, Jan. 27 for a dual match
On Friday, Jan. 19 in Williamstown, Massachusetts the men’s swimming and diving team to faced home team Williams College and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The Violets split the event recording a 174-119 win against Williams but suffered a 177-23 loss against MIT. The next day on Saturday, Jan. 20 the Violets traveled to West Chester, Pennsylvania to face West Chester University. The Violets ended up earning a 199-98 win against the Division II school. This weekend of meets improves the team’s season record to 6-1. The Violets will return to the pool for the team’s senior day against the University of Bridgeport on Saturday, Jan. 27 in New York.
WOMEN’S SWIMMING AND DIVING Women’s swimming and diving suffered losses against all three teams they faced this weekend. On Friday, Jan. 19 the women’s team also traveled to Williamstown, Massachusetts to face Williams College and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The group fell to Williams 214-85 and to MIT 155-45. On Saturday, Jan. 20, NYU also traveled to West Chester, Pennsylvania to compete against West Chester University. However, the Violets again suffered a loss with a final score of 183-115. This weekend’s results moved the team’s overall season record to 3-4. Women’s swimming and diving will also return to the pool for the team’s senior day against the University of Bridgeport on Saturday, Jan. 27 in New York.
MEN’S VOLLEYBALL On Friday, Jan. 19 men’s volleyball traveled to Lisle, Illinois to face Benedictine University in its season opening game. The number-five-ranked Violets fell in three sets to Benedictine, with final scores of 25-17, 25-19, 25-23. On Saturday, Jan. 20 the team was hosted by North Central College in Naperville, Illinois. The Violets made a comeback from their opening game, recording wins against both host North Central and Marian University. The Violets will return to the court in Springfield, Massachusetts on Friday, Jan. 26 against Springfield College. Email Maddie Howard at mhoward@nyunews.com.
Page 12
Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
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“The Beautiful Brain: The Drawings of Santiago Ramón y Cajal” is the first U.S. museum exhibition to present the extraordinary drawings of Santiago Ramón y Cajal (Spain, 1852–1934), the father of modern neuroscience. The exhibit runs until March 31.
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Washington Square News | Monday, January 22, 2018
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EXPOSURE
Edited by Echo Chen multimedia@nyunews.com
Bad Jokes and Food By ECHO CHEN Multimedia Editor
Everyone loves a good pun, or a terrible pun that’s so terrible it’s good. This series “bad jokes and food” combines two wonderful parts of life into one through scrabble pieces and food styling. Here’s to hoping that the embarrassment I endured getting caught taking these photos at home and in public brings you some light, color and laughs this week. Keep up with my series on www.echoyunchen.com or on Instagram at @echothegecko