September 23, 2019
GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY'S STUDENT NEWSPAPER
Volume 7 Issue 4
FOURTH ESTATE Vegan Society at GMU organized protest in front of Eagle Bank Arena for PBR event
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SCOOTERS ON CAMPUS (P. 3) || NEW WOMENS CLUB SOCCER COACH (P. 7) || HIDDEN HANGOUTS: CUE BUS (P. 9) || ENDING MENSTRATION STIGMA (P.15) Fourth Estate is a free publication, limit one copy per person. Additional copies are 25 cents payable to the OfďŹ ce of Student Media.
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FOURTH ESTATE
09.23.2019
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
DANA NICKEL HAILEY BULLIS Co Editor-in-Chief
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
ALEXANDRIA MCALPINE Art Director
Dear Patriots, “When will we be at the point [in the semester] where I can say that my big achievement for the week is putting a section together?” asked our Sports Editor, Natalie, earlier this weekend. I think that’s a valid thing to ask at this point, if you want my opinion. I feel like this may be premature to say — also, I’m so sorry to all my professors for this — but this is the part of the semester where all we can manage is to attend our classes and hope for the best. Meanwhile, my counterpart and Co Editor-in-Chief, Hailey, is making waves with our new weekly newsletter, Fourth Estate Weekly. But I’m writing the most-anticipated Letter from the Editor of the week, so let’s not compare our achievements. You know, if I’m being 100 percent honest with everyone, I practically begged my friend and former Managing Editor, Basma Humadi, to ghostwrite this for me. And it’s usually only a little more than 300 words. She respectfully declined. Though I might not be overly energetic about greeting you all with my witty observational humor, I am excited for the paper we’ve put together for you guys. We’ve got some excellent content for you guys this week. Our News section wrote about the role of Mason’s newest faculty senate chair, Shannon Davis. Culture touched on the hottest places to drop in the next time you find yourself on the CUE Bus. Sports has given us the opportunity to learn more about one of Mason’s women’s soccer stars and Opinion has provided all of you with a wide variety of ideas and values. As always, if you have any questions, comments or concerns, feel free to reach out to us at masonfourthestate@gmail.com.
LAURA SCUDDER DELANEY HARRISON Copy Editors ABIGAIL ADCOX News Editor JACK HARVEY Assistant News Editor PETER NJOROGE Culture Editor IZZ LAMAGDELEINE Assistant Culture Editor NATALIE HEAVREN Sports Editor DOMENIC ALLEGRA Assistant Sports Editor CHRIS KERNAN-SCHMIDT Opinions Editor BILLY FERGUSON Online Director LEXI REYES Social Media Editor
Sincerely,
DOMINIQUE BERNARDINO Multimedia Editor
Dana Nickel Co Editor-in-Chief
EMMETT SMITH Distribution Manager KATHRYN MANGUS Director DAVID CARROLL Associate Director JASON HARTSEL Assistant Director
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COVER PHOTO CREDITS Alexandria McAlpine / Fourth Estate
NEWS
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
09.23.2019
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CAMPUS SCOOTERS SET TO ROLL OUT
Mason to introduce electric scooters as the newest form of transportation MADISON SCHOFIELD STAFF WRITER
FOURTH ESTATE ALEXANDRIA MCALPINE
Josh Cantor, director of parking and transportation at Mason, said that “trying to make the sidewalks as safe as possible … especially with construction going on in many areas” has been a priority throughout the entire process.
Electric scooters have exploded in popularity in recent years. They’ve been popping up in cities all across America and soon they’ll be arriving at Mason.
pilot program starting in July. Mason is currently in the process of finalizing details with the vendors and the City of Fairfax, and is hoping to launch the program in early October.
Along with the City of Fairfax, Mason has been working with scooter companies Bird, Lime and Spin, which the city used for their scooter
This announcement comes after years of working with the City of Fairfax and Fairfax County on a bike share feasibility study, and searching for
To emphasize the importance of sidewalk safety, Cantor said the Parking and Transportation Office has been working with legal and risk management teams to get a policy approved which will restrict scooters, bikes and golf carts from sidewalks. Scooters will be welcome in bike lanes and limited roadways, leaving the sidewalks open to pedestrians. Along with sidewalk safety, finding a location to house the scooters is also a factor the office is considering. “When you’re riding a scooter, don’t just leave it in the sidewalk where it can be a trip hazard or can be in the way
of someone who has a mobility issue,” said Janet Walker, the transportation programs manager. To help combat this, “scooter corrals” will be established in various locations across campus for students to park the scooters in once they have reached their destination. Walker also added that scooters that are left in the middle of the sidewalk can be reported in the scooter app and impounded. The scooters will be showcased on Sept. 27, during which students will be able to ride the scooters from Peterson Hall into Fairfax to enjoy the Rock The Block event hosted by the city on the fourth Friday of every month.
FOURTH ESTATE ALEXANDRIA MCALPINE
alternative transportation for students and staff outside of cars and the CUE bus system.
LAST WEEK IN THE NEWS Monday, Sept. 16 Key economic and security partner Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa of Bahrain welcomed to the White House. Former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer debuts on “Dancing with the Stars.”
Tuesday, Sept. 17 New York state prosecutors subpoenaed President Trump’s tax returns for his accounting firm. Drone attacks knock out half of Saudi oil supply.
Wednesday, Sept. 18 Robert O’Brien named as National Security Advisor. 2001 photo of Justin Trudeau in blackface surfaced.
Thursday, Sept. 19
Friday, Aug. 20
Democratic donor Ed Buck to face federal charges of drugging victims and causing them to overdose.
At least 4 dead, dozens injured in bus crash near Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah.
Amazon to buy 100,000 electric vans as part of climate pledge.
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio drops out of race for 2020 Democratic presidential nomination.
Eighth death linked to vaping illness, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“House Hunters” host Suzanne Whang dies at 56.
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NEWS
09.23.2019
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
PHOTO COURTESY OF SHANNON DAVIS
Fairfax Ice Arena is now hiring for the following part-time positions:
AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE FACULTY SENATE Davis discusses her role as the new chair of the faculty senate SUDIKSHA KOCHI STAFF WRITER
Dr. Shannon Davis, a professor of family sociology, was elected to serve as the chair of Mason’s faculty senate after serving as a faculty senator for the last four years.
To make sure that all undergrad students are accounted for, Davis makes sure that tasks she is not able to handle are delegated to other faculty members.
The faculty senate is an elected body of faculty members at Mason that represent the general faculty at Mason, including full-time instructional, research and clinical faculty members. One of the main responsibilities of the faculty senate is to maintain a sense of shared governance with Mason’s administration.
As chair, Davis must also ensure that the senate represents Mason faculty in both administrative and legislative conversations. These conversations often relate to tuition, budgeting and standards for professors and other faculty at Mason.
One role that the faculty senate plays is the oversight of curriculum and degree programs while maintaining academic freedom. Each academic department has the right to create the curriculum of its classes, while the faculty senate must ensure that the curriculum meets certain requirements that the university has. “It is essentially shared governance in that the faculty works with the committee to make sure that undergraduates have the skills and competencies they need when they graduate,” Davis said.
In serving as the head of the senate, Davis must also coordinate with the executive and standing committees, and regularly communicate with the provost to deal with issues outside of the university’s control. “One example we had where faculty representation was critical was an issue dealing with how Mason could grow bigger in the online space. There were rumors that the Mason administration was going to purchase an external entity and create an online university separately, which brought up serious concerns about the role of faculty in decision making and the role of the curriculum,” said Davis.
The faculty senate worked with the provost in holding four to eight town hall meetings for faculty and students to hear what people’s concerns were. “The faculty senate was instrumental in holding public conversations about the issue,” Davis said. “My role as co-chair of the search committee and chair of the faculty senate is to figure out how to better partner with other decision makers in the university to deliver better and more efficiently on our mission, as well as not to overtax the faculty and students,” continued Davis. According to Davis, at the end of the day, the most important goal is for the faculty to put students first, no matter what. “The goal is for students to have the most challenging intellectual experience they can get while gaining the skills to create a better world.”
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Please email Todd Martin at: tmartin@fairfaxicearena.com or pick up an application at 3779 Pickett Road Fairfax, VA 22031
NEWS
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
09.23.2019
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SUPREME COURT RULES IN FAVOR OF TRUMP ASYLUM RULE Central American migrants to be denied asylum grants BRAD BRYRNE STAFF WRITER
Acosta continued, “We live in a country where we can help and prevent these situations from happening to innocent people, but due to the ignorance of many people, America will continue to strive to be “great again” while denying immigrants the right to live safely.”
On Sept. 12, 2019, the U.S. Supreme Court officially ruled to allow enforcement of a new Trump administration rule that will prevent most Central American migrants from seeking asylum in the U.S. This new policy is meant to deny asylum to anyone who passes through another country on the way to the U.S. without seeking protection there.
Tigar later appealed when the 9th Circuit enforced the policy on asylum seekers in New Mexico and Texas, but the 9th Circuit again dismissed the order on Sept. 10, 2019. The Supreme Court’s action will allow the Trump administration to impose the new policy nationwide while the court case continues. Mason’s Hispanic Student Association (HSA) commented on the ruling, stating, “HSA is utterly disappointed with the ruling because many of our members are from Central America and first-generation. This ruling
PHOTO COURTESY OF MASON POLICE
MASON WEEKLY CRIME LOG
FOURTH ESTATE BILLY FERGUSON
The new order had been blocked by U.S. District Judge Jon Tigar in San Francisco two months prior in July. It was overruled by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, who diminished Tigar’s order so that it applied to Arizona and California.
does not reflect the principles of this country.” HSA continued, “Our parents came to this country in hopes of a better future, however, this ruling prevents others from that opportunity. Nevertheless, we are here to support and empower
la comunidad.” One member of the HSA, freshman Arianna Acosta, voiced her opinion on the ruling. “I think the Supreme Court decision to deny nearly all asylum requests from Central Americans and other
Wednesday, Sept. 18 — Fairfax Campus/Mason Shuttle Bus
migrants is inhumane and cowardly … They don’t only come here for the “American Dream,” but to avoid getting murdered by gangs, to avoid getting raped and left to die, to avoid having their sons or daughters being left motherless or fatherless,” Acosta said.
Another member of the HSA, freshman Joaquín Perez, voiced his concerns on the matter. “Being a Latino student, I feel for them. The United States has an interesting history of blocking immigrants from getting asylum, which is unfortunate based on what this country says to believe,” said Perez. “The high court ruling leaves the Trump administration free to apply the new policy to immigrants who crossed the southwestern border from mid-July onward. It does not apply to those who arrived earlier or who enter the U.S. by boat or plane,” according to Politico. Currently, over 45,000 people have been turned away from the United States as of 2018 and are now waiting in limbo across the border in Mexico, hoping their asylum claim passes. In the meantime, this new policy will go into effect.
Monday, Sept. 16 — Fairfax Campus/Student Housing
use of a credit card.
Sexual Assault/Rape: Complainant (GMU) disclosed being sexually assaulted by a known Subject (GMU) on two separate occasions. Due to confidentiality of reporting, limited information is available regarding this incident.
Case 2019-009015 — Pending
CSA Report #0911619 — Information Only
Tuesday, Sept. 17 — Rappahannock parking deck
Monday, Sept. 16 — Fairfax Campus
Hit and Run: Complainant (GMU) reported a hit and run of a vehicle.
Stalking: Complainant (GMU) reported receiving unwanted contact from a known Subject (GMU) on multiple occasions.
Credit Card Fraud/Larceny: Complainant (GMU) reported the theft and unauthorized
Case 2019-008980 — Inactive
Tuesday, Sept. 17 — University Drive Drug Law Violation/Tobacco Violations: Two subjects (GMU) were referred to the Office of Student Conduct for possessing illegal drugs. Case 2019-009011 — Referred to OSC
Case 2019-00895 — Pending
Monday, Sept. 16 — Fairfax Campus Fraud/Scam: Complainant (GMU) reported a phone scam. Case 2019-008946 — Information Only
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NEWS
09.23.2019
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
VEGAN SOCIETY FIGHTS TO BAN BULL RIDING EVENT
Bull Riding event at EagleBank draws protests ABIGAIL ADCOX NEWS EDITOR
PBR is described as “The Toughest Sport on Dirt.” Held at venues nationwide, the top 35 bull riders in the world compete each week in the televised Built Ford Tough Series. Each event is in a rock concert environment, complete with pulsating music, explosive pyrotechnics and fast-paced production. The Vegan Society of GMU created an online petition prior to this event to gain awareness for their cause to “Ban All Events at George Mason University Involving the Use of Animals as Entertainment.” The petition garnered almost 14,800 signatures as of Sunday, Sept. 22.
FOURTH ESTATE ALEXANDRIA MCALPINE
On Sept. 21, protestors lined the sidewalks holding signs and chanting with megaphones near the west entrance, drawing attention from
passing cars and attendees waiting to get into the arena. Mason students — as well as George Washington University and University of Maryland students — and local community members were present at the protest. Signs from protestors read: “Animal entertainment is a dying industry,” “PBR: Get off our campus,” “Only bullies ride bulls” and more. As well as signs, protestors chanted: “Their lives, not ours. Their backs, not ours” amongst other things.
but clearly they do,” said sophomore Allison Trainor when asked why she decided to protest. In addition to the online petition, Nicoletta also gathered signatures on paper — reached over four pages worth of names. To gain awareness ahead of the event, the Vegan Society at GMU handed out leaflets and chalked on surfaces around campus, as well as tabled in the Johnson Center.
“They’re being bred into existence for the sole purpose of being used for money and entertainment,” said Rachael Nicoletta, member of the Vegan Society at GMU.
The Vegan Society at GMU also created a letter and sent it to President Holton’s office, but received no response. When Nicolotta contacted her office directly, they referred her to the general manager of EagleBank Arena, Barry Geisler. According to Nicoletta, Geisler said that this was an issue they would have to “agree to disagree” on when she asked if PBR would be invited back for future years.
”I saw the petition on Facebook made by Rachael and I was honestly so shook. I remember looking at it for the first time and thinking that it had to be a joke, because things like this don’t happen at Goerge Mason
Regarding the animal welfare and safety of the bulls, PBR has detailed information on their website about the animal safety and welfare measures in place, including a redesigned bucking chute to improve rider and bull safety.
One protestor expressed how the animals were being used solely for entertainment.
PBR also has measures in place for transporting the bulls, requiring them to ride in trailers with air-ride suspensions, not being hauled for more than 10 hours at a time and ensuring that they are housed at local ranch facilities with proper pen sizes for each bull.
In response to claims that it is unnatural for bulls to buck, PBR’s website states, “The success of bucking bull breeding programs around the world has proven that genetics are the main factor in determining [a] bull’s desire and ability to buck.”
Overall, Nicoletta emphasized that their goal was not to advocate for better welfare standards, but the complete abolishment of animals used for the entertainment industry.
In a 2017 article in The Standard, Andrew Giangola, a spokesperson for PBR, said, “The bull’s genitals are not touched (or) tied, and there is no electroshock. Some people are misled about how we treat these animals. Just as a thoroughbred race horse is raised to run, these bulls are raised to buck.“
“To be lunged around to different stadiums around the world and then forced into flank straps and then released into large, crowded, loud stadiums which is completely unnatural for bulls considering their general nature is gentle and docile,” said Nicoletta. At the protest, the Vegan Society at GMU passed out leaflets from the organization Last Chance for Animals and flyers that read, “During these events, PBR staff agitate the bulls in a dark area before releasing them into a loud, bright and crowded stadium with a human on their back.”
“I think ultimately animals are being mistreated and I don’t think there’s a good reason to mistreat animals. And I definitely don’t think entertainment is one of those reasons,” said Mark, a junior at the University of Maryland. He had heard about the protests from a Mason student in a Facebook messenger group. Nicoletta said that the Vegan Society will continue to protest the use of animals for entertainment until events of PBR’s kind are banned from campus.
FOURTH ESTATE ALEXANDRIA MCALPINE
Protests took place over the weekend at a two-day Professional Bull Riding (PBR) event outside of EagleBank arena. The Vegan Society at GMU organized two separate protests through Facebook ahead of the scheduled event on Sept. 21-22.
SPORTS
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE @IVESTATE_SPORTS
09.09.2019
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WOMEN’S CLUB SOCCER FINDS NEW COACH soccer team as well as a swim team.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MASON RECREATION
Sophomore forward Kayla Herrera is excited about the new addition. “[I’m] excited to have a new coach on the team that has experience to work with us. She’ll make us better as a unit and I hope we win a bunch of games as a result.”
Last season was an exciting one for Mason’s women’s club soccer team. While there was a lot of new talent brought in by former coach, Nick Ortiz, he was forced to step down due to other job responsibilities. With a new season on the horizon, the team’s club president, Katy Wildeus, needed to find a new coach for the girls. After talking to multiple candidates, Wildeus chose one that sounded like the perfect fit for the team. 31-year-old Ashley Vaughn ultimately
ended up being the pick for the club. She has experience playing with a Division I program in James Madison University — however, her time playing for the school team was cut short due to a pair of ACL tears. She then decided to switch to club soccer, with which she fell in love, and finished out her time at James Madison University playing club soccer. Vaughn not only has experience playing at a high level, but she also has coaching experience as well. She recently coached a middle school girl’s
When asked about how she feels going into her second year with the team, Herrera also said, “I feel more responsibility to welcome the freshmen. Since I joined mid-year last year it was harder for me. But this year there is a new attitude, it’s very positive, and I know all of the new girls will fit right in.”
teammates and simply getting an opportunity to play the game I love. These girls are like family to me and there’s no one else I’d rather take other teams down with.” Herrera also mentioned the downsides that come with any sport. “With the game comes injuries as well. I hate having to see some girls get wear and tear on their body and have to give up playing.” That’s something that
coach Vaughn can sympathize with and hopes the players will not have to experience themselves. After a disappointing 1-4 loss against Georgetown University and a comeback 2-2 tie against American University, coach Vaughn and the team look forward to the rest of the season and are focused on the team’s doubleheader against Salisbury University and Navy.
There is a lot of talent on this year’s team. Eleven new girls have joined, all playing various positions around the pitch.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MASON RECREATION
EVAN PASCAL STAFF WRITER
Now that Vaughn has pieces to work with, it will be her job to figure out how to put those pieces together. When asked about the best parts of playing club soccer at Mason, Herrera said, “Stepping on the field with my
SPORTS IN BRIEF Women’s Soccer Last week, Mason took on the Towson Tigers, winning 1-0. The first half was uneventful, as there were only a combined three shots on goal (two for Mason, one for Towson). However, at the 37th minute sophomore Emma van der Vorst collided with the goalie, leaving van der Vorst on the ground. She did not return to the game and there has not been an update from team officials. The scoring silence was broken by Emily Bradshaw in the 51st minute. The goal was assisted by Gabriela Rivera. Towson never scored the equalizer, leaving Mason with a victory.
Men’s Soccer As of Sept. 20, Men’s soccer is currently on a five-game losing streak, with four of those five losses on the road and one at home. The Patriots will have to recover if they want their Atlantic 10 Championship hopes to stay alive. Men’s soccer first lost to Navy, 1-0 on Sept. 2. Next, they lost to Appalachian State, 2-0 on Sept. 6. After that was a 3-0 loss to Campbell on Sept. 8. Then came Liberty University on Sept. 14 who beat Mason at home, 3-1. Finally, Mason lost to Drexel University 2-0 on Sept. 17. Mason has two games left in non conference play against Bucknell on Sept. 24 and at Longwood on Oct. 1. Men’s soccer plays their first A-10 conference game against George Washington on Sept. 28. Men’s soccer will play four home conference games this season against Dayton (Oct. 5), Davidson (Oct. 12), La Salle (Oct. 23) and VCU (Nov. 2).
Women’s Volleyball On Sept. 13 and 14, Women’s volleyball participated in the Maryland Tournament at the University of Maryland (UMD). Women’s volleyball first took on the Princeton Tigers, losing in a close first set 25-22. Mason failed to even the score, losing again in the second set 25-14. Princeton finished the match by defeating Mason in the third set 25-16. Mason volleyball’s next opponent was the host team, UMD. Mason won the first set by two, 28-26. The Terrapins then equalized the sets by winning set two, 25-15. Mason volleyball then took control by winning the third set, 25-23. UMD then blew out the Patriots in the fourth set, 25-9. With the score tied, the Patriots managed to win the last set 16-14. Women’s volleyball finished the tournament playing Arkansas. After a close first set, the Razorbacks pulled out a win, 25-20. The Patriots then answered back with a 25-19 second set win. However, Mason’s efforts were not enough as they lost the next two sets, 25-20 and 25-14. Mason finished with a record of 1-2 in the tournament.
SPORTS
09.23.2019
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MAKING A NAME FOR HERSELF
Women’s soccer junior Kayla Hamric eyeing a special season KAITLYN FLETCHER STAFF WRITER
Kayla Hamric had a breakthrough start to her junior season. Within the first six games of the season, the 5-5 junior forward and midfielder has already matched her career-high in assists. As a four-year varsity starter at Battlefield High School in Haymarket, Virginia, Hamric is used to pushing herself both on and off the field in order to achieve more than just a win. In 2014, 2015 and 2016, she guided the Battlefield Bobcats to not one, not two, but three Virginia 6A State Championships, receiving the Most Valuable Player award.
and was third on the team in goals, assists and points, which were all career highs. Now, less than halfway through the season, Hamric has matched her career-high in assists and is pushing herself to surpass it. “It feels amazing to have accomplished that. I knew coming into this year that I wanted to push myself, test the limits, take shots, give other people the chance to take shots and it’s just an amazing feeling to break that record,” explained Hamric.
During her sophomore season, Hamric’s stats consisted entirely of career highs. As a team, Mason went 14-6 overall last season and Hamric established a name for herself.
Hamric credited her motivation to becoming an upperclassman. “Having that turning point of becoming an upperclassman and becoming a player and individual that both freshmen and sophomores may look up to has inspired me,” she said.
She finished the season with three goals and three assists for nine points
During the summer, Hamric credited her productivity to her workout plan.
Each player was provided a custom workout plan based on their position. “Not losing our fitness and capabilities was important. I wasn’t just sitting on the couch all summer, I had specific exercises and workouts that I had to complete,” she explained. Hamric matched her career-high assist total while facing off against the James Madison Dukes in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Hamric earned three points during against JMU, two in the 31st minute of play and the third in the 56th minute of play, when she tied her assist record. Her first two points came from a bending corner kick that found the back of the goal to give Mason a 1-0 lead. Not too long after, Hamric connected with sophomore defender Kolbrún Eyjólfsdóttir who turned a corner kick shot attempt into a rebound goal. Despite Mason’s initial lead, James
Madison later responded with two goals to take the lead and win the match. Hamric noted support from her family is also her motivation, saying, “They have been there for me my entire life and have always supported me. Whether I have a good game or a bad game, they’re always there to watch and give me a hug after and my dad will give me pointers which are helpful. The support that they have given me is unbelievable.” Individually, Hamric’s goal for the season is to push herself 100 percent each day and give it her all in each practice and game. Hamric has one goal in mind, win the Atlantic 10 Championship. “This year I’m really hoping that we can push through, make it into the semifinals, become A-10 champions and make it into the NCAA tournament because that would be an
unbelievable experience.” With an overall record of 2-4-1, Hamric noted there have been a lot of ups and downs that the team has faced so far. Hamric also emphasized the good team chemistry this season. “Our chemistry is really high compared to past years. We’re all really fighting for each other on the field and we have a bond that is really needed when playing a game like soccer,” she said. On Thursday, Sept. 26, Mason will go head-to-head against A-10 foe Massachusetts on their home turf. “We want to treat this game as if it were a home opener,” Hamric said. “If we treat it like a home opener, we’ll have the right attitude, energy and mindset to pull out a win.”
FOURTH ESTATE DOMENIC ALLEGRA
FOURTH ESTATE DOMENIC ALLEGRA
8
CULTURE
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
09.09.2019
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“MIGRATION STUDIES” REPLACES STATISTICS WITH PEOPLE Film about Budapest semester trip premiered at Mason NAYOMI SANTOS STAFF WRITER
The 50-minute documentary takes the audience on a journey with Mason students who traveled from Budapest to Serbia in order to meet with refugees and migrants. The program has three major themes, according to Lukacs: global migration, nationalism and national identity, and minority rights. 2015 marked the beginning of an influx of migrants mainly from Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq into Europe. Known as the refugee crisis, the phenomenon sparked a global debate over the rights of those migrants and the responsibilities European countries have to take them in.
A semester-long study abroad program, called “New Borders in a Borderless Europe: Refugees, Minorities, and National Identity,” was created here at Mason in response to the crisis. The program in Budapest allows both undergraduate and graduate students to take classes about 21st century immigration in Europe, and gain internship experience with Hungarian non-governmental organizations. “We have recently become intolerant of this kind of movement of people … but it is very important,” Lukacs said. The film gave a poignant perspective on an issue that many have read or heard about. “This film is to humanize the issue.” In the film, the students were asked to describe how they felt about what they were experiencing, and many opened up about their own lives. Many of the students were children of immigrants or immigrants themselves.
One of the program participants lived as a refugee in Djibouti for the first six years of his life. “I think it is very unique to have students who are immigrants themselves to interact with refugees,” Lukacs said.
words to say. “This program touches on the most salient and burning issues,” said Lukacs.
For those interested in learning more about the program, Lukacs will be having an information session on Wednesday, Sept. 25, at the Global Education Office in the JC at 1 p.m.
One of the most important perspectives that the film offered was that of the refugees themselves. A migrant from Algeria left behind his family and now “only has God.” Another teenager said that all they wanted was a “relaxed life and to be able to go to school.” The students had an opportunity to talk with the migrants, and a few played games with the children. The refugees opened up to them, but many found it difficult to find the right
Fairfax Ice Arena is now seeking Ice Skating Instructors to teach Beginner/Intermediate level group, and private lessons. Please contact Todd Martin at: tmartin@fairfaxicearena.com • 703-323-1132 or pick up an application at 3779 Pickett Road, Fairfax, VA 22031
@ivestate | gmufourthestate.com
PHOTO COURTESY OF YEHUDA LULZAES
On Friday, Sept. 20, Dr. Yehuda Lukacs presented “Migration Studies,” a film about the experience of students who participated in the spring 2017 Budapset study abroad. The film, which highlighted the student’s visits to refugee camps in Serbia, premiered in the Johnson Center (JC) Cinema.
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CULTURE
09.23.2019
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
FACES OF MASON delves into the lives of Mason students, faculty or alumni, and organizations every week. This week we take a close look at student Jordan Moser and alumnus Tejon Anthony INTERVIEWS BY IMANI HOLLOMAN
Student, Jordan Moser Which came first, rapping or singing? It was singing that came first. I was in a play at my church when I was mad young, like 9 years old. And I was the lead for the play and so I had a solo performance at the end of the play. I remember thinking I did really good, and then the church like gave a standing ovation at the end, so that was the first time I really enjoyed singing and wanted to get more into it. So I started singing in chorus in middle school and high school. PHOTO COURTESY OF JORDAN MOSER
Rapping was definitely more of a spur of the moment thing. My friend Titus, my brother Cullen and I just figured it would be cool to start rapping in middle school. I was always a better singer than rapper, so I stopped rapping after middle school while continuing to sing. But literally last year I was like, ‘What the heck?,’ and figured I [would start] rapping
again, as my sense for lyrics and beats and what works for me changed over the course of like six years, so I was so much better than I was in middle school. Who inspired you to rap? Who inspired you to sing? I don’t believe I really found any inspiration to rap or sing when I started doing it. Of course, there were people that were [doing] it that I thought were cool, but I would say I was more inspired by myself to do something new. One, because I was kinda talented and I thought it could go a long way, and two because literally everyone wanted to rap in middle school. I was just one of the guys who actually did it. Have you ever been scared to perform in front of a crowd? So, as someone who did theater and chorus for all of middle and high school, being on stage just became like
second nature to me. But it’s different when you’re by yourself and you’re showcasing your talents, and you want people to like and appreciate it. So I still get a little bit nervous sometimes. That’s why I gotta get the adrenaline going before I go out there because it helps a lot. Are these just hobbies, or do you plan on taking it to a professional level one day? Of course. Everybody who does music has dreams of taking it to a professional level, to make it something they’re really known for, and I’m no different. But I don’t know if I can put the time and find the resources to really go after making music the way I really want to. So I’m content right now with it just being a hobby, even if it’s the most fun hobby I have.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TEJON ANTHONY
A l u m n u s , Te j o n A n t h o n y
So, how is post-grad life? Post-grad life is actually pretty boring. Once you find a career path, you will
get into the routine of doing the same things over and over again, so your days tend to run together. With being
a post-graduate, there also comes other responsibilities that I have like paying my own bills and being accountable in the workplace.
operations. My main role is to make sure that all of our transactions are documented and precise in case the company gets audited.
How long did it take you to land a job after college?
What is the most stressful part of your job?
I acquired a job a few months prior to graduating. Initially, I was seeking to continue my career in computer programming as a software engineer, but trying to work for the government is a long process. In the meantime, with the connections that I have through wrestling, I was offered the opportunity to work in finance with my coach’s wife at Greenleaf Health, Inc. Greenleaf Health is a small consulting firm that specializes in maneuvering through the FDA [Food and Drug Administration] process.
The most stressful part of my job is learning the new terminologies of the job. Accounting and finance are both foreign to me considering that I have a background in technology. Also, my company deals closely with the FDA, where you have to know certain terminologies that pertain to the company which can be challenging to remember.
What is your current profession? My current profession is working as an associate director of finance and
Do you have any financial advice that you could give current undergraduate students? The advice that I would give undergraduate students at Mason is to stay home if possible. Cook food at home as opposed to spending your money on food from restaurants often.
I saw on your Instagram that you have been traveling a lot lately. Where was your last adventure? The last trip that I went to was Miami, Florida. This trip was a graduation present to myself. During my time there, I was able to watch my favorite football team, the Baltimore Ravens, play a game. I also enjoyed the nice weather, the beach and the night-life in South Beach, Miami. What were you involved with as an undergraduate? Outside of the classroom, I was a Division 1 wrestler on campus, where I was a captain for three years. Wrestling took up most of my time during Mason, but I was also involved with the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and joined the service-based fraternity Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated.
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HIDDEN HANGOUTS: CUE BUS Check out these cool locations in Fairfax accessible through the CUE bus routes.
FOURTH ESTATE ALEXANDRIA MCALPINE
NAYOMI SANTOS STAFF WRITER
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FAIRFAX SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ‘DOWNTON ABBEY’ ERA A local orchestra performs a concert to go along with new movie When discussing generational interest in classical music, he believes that the way music is marketed is of the utmost importance. He said ensembles are tinkering with dress, interactive technology and other factors to reinvent and rebrand the experience of going to the orchestra. Camphouse also mentioned that not all orchestra performers are enthusiastic about this move towards newer music. “Many orchestral musicians today are conservative. Some welcome it, some do not,” he said.“I think they’re wrong.”
The Fairfax Symphony Orchestra (FSO) presented “Music from the Downton Abbey Era” at the Center for the Arts in conjunction with the release of the new “Downton Abbey” movie. “Downton Abbey,” a wildly popular British drama created by Julian Fellowes, follows the life of a wealthy English family and the management of their grand estate. The show was a hit. According to IMDb, the PBS series collected over 57 awards, including three Golden Globes, over its five-year run. The FSO elected to open their fall season at Mason with a curation of mostly English music, including the original suite composed for the series, to accompany the release of the film. The show is set in a classical period of English history, but the music from the concert does not align with typical performances from orchestras in the U.S. On the list of scores performed, there was no Brahms, Beethoven, Bach, Mozart, Schubert or Rachmaninoff. The performance was created to place the audience into the series, rather than re-highlight a popular work from one of the many stalwarts of classical music. A c c o rd i n g to Christopher Zimmerman, the ensemble’s conductor and musical director, the timing of the concert and the film release are no coincidence. Zimmerman was
originally approached by the FSO’s executive director Jonathan Kerr, and being an Englishman, he took to the idea. Zimmerman has been working with the FSO for over 10 years, as well as conducting professionally for 30. In addition to his work in Fairfax, he also conducts the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony Orchestra in North Dakota and the American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras, a program for D.C. area youth. When discussing how to create a successful concert season, Zimmerman described a fairly delicate process that involves balancing the wants of older audiences while incorporating new composers doing interesting things. “The biggest part of the audience is older people,” he said. “On the whole, they want you to program all the favorites — the big classical favorites — which is in the past era, of course.” He continued, “But, in order to try and attract people who may not have been brought up listening to this stuff all the time … I try bringing pieces which are written more recently.” “I think for someone who is not interested, who thinks they are not interested in this stuff, or have no kind of connection with this [music] ... they would be more interested in hearing a piece written for orchestra by some cool dude that’s alive now rather than a guy who had a powdered wig on,”
he said. To Zimmerman, there are too many variables involved in filling venues to conclude that all orchestras need to do is program more contemporary pieces. “Usually our marketing people [do] try and promote with youth in mind, like everybody else does, but you still don’t know what the result is going to be,” he said. The FSO is not alone in this trend towards embracing contemporary material to diversify audience and attendance.
While some musicians may be hesitant to move towards newer music, Camphouse believes that they will follow the money. “Players will be more receptive … if it means their livelihood,” he said. Senior classical voice major Bridgett Nestfield agrees with Camphouse’s stance. She has also seen the hesitancy from some older performers and teachers on pushing towards contemporary music. “Historically, there’s this hyper focus on Germany … all things German are the best,” she said. “I don’t think any of this music is sacred one way or
another. So, if they’re making money and they’re having a good time, that’s fine.” “Music from the Downton Abbey Era” was a clear example of true quality in entertainment. Zimmerman’s conducting was energetic, precise and jovial. The orchestra was immaculate and the soloist navigated through the music with ease and grace. “The Downton Abbey Suite,” the composition taken directly from the series, stood out from the others. The piece was emotional, technically inventive and modern. It was also the most approachable score played by the ensemble. Following the inter mission, Zimmerman kindly thanked the audience for attending the concert instead of going to see the new movie and he recommended that they do it next weekend. The audience for orchestra will not change overnight. It will take many more champions of contemporary music like Zimmerman, and many more concerts like “Music From the Downton Abbey Era,” to inspire a new generation of classical listeners.
Orchestras across the country have been incorporating contemporary music into their repertoire. This year alone, The National Symphony Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony and more will be incorporating works by 21st century composers into their seasons. Mason’s Director of Concert Bands Mark Camphouse finds performances like “Music From the Downton Abbey Era” a commendable effort. “I think that kind of programming is refreshing,” he said. “Symphony orchestras throughout the United States ... all American professionals are searching for ways to make what they do more marketable.” Camphouse also believes that contemporary composers deserve credit and can provide an exciting way to create a “different soundscape” for audiences.
PHOTO COURTESY OF FAIRFAX SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
PHOTO COURTESY OF FAIRFAX SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
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How you can save money on food this semester IZZ LAMAGDELEINE ASSISTANT CULTURE EDITOR
At least, the ones who can afford regular meals would be. The Hope Center for College, Community and Justice has found that the amount of food insecurity students face varies widely, from 19 to 65 percent. Any students who face this issue also have to deal with the side effects of poor nutrition. The New York Times reported that these include “poverty naps,” where students sleep rather than deal with their hunger. Food can be expensive even for the students who can afford it. When there are multiple excellent dining options on campus, as well as in the surrounding area, it can be easy to watch your bank account drop as your
stomach fills. Here are some ways to prevent that from happening at Mason this year. Mason has many different restaurants, but there’s probably only a few that will become your favorites. Pay attention to the establishments that fall under this category. These restaurants are the ones where you will know the menu backwards and forwards. Going to eat at the same place multiple times a week might allow you to know it has specific deals at specific times — information you wouldn’t have otherwise. Once you know your campus favorites, you can find out what the best deals are. This can come from a discount, a coupon or even just by buying the cheapest option on the menu. For $5, you can buy two breakfast croissants from Dunkin. At Red Hot and Blue, half of their meals are $5 or $7. You can buy bagels from Panera Bread
and Einstein Bros. Bagels for around $2. Buying the cheapest, most filling meals you can find will keep you, your stomach and your wallet happy. On-campus students can also eat in one of the dining halls: Southside, Ike’s or The Globe. Depending on your meal plan, it might be the dining option you use the most this year. Each hall has set prices for each meal. Southside is open late during the week, while Ike’s is open 24/7.
also try Simply to Go, which is swipebased and allows students to grab simple meals on the go. If you live off campus or have a kitchen, shopping for groceries might replace eating on campus. Wherever
you shop, chances are there are some great deals to be found. Always take advantage of them. Even though a cheap can of soup or canned vegetables may not look like much, they can make all the difference in a pinch.
Each dining hall has its strengths and weaknesses. The Globe has been said to have the best dining hall food, but can be hard to get to. Ike’s is convenient, but often only has one real meal option other than cereal, fruit and other generic choices late at night.
FOURTH ESTATE BILLY FERGUSON
If you are what you eat, Mason students would be Dunkin iced coffees, Chipotle burrito bowls, Ike’s late-night breakfasts and groceries from Walmart or Giant.
Knowing what you like and what you don’t like will help prevent wasting your swipes and spending your time eating food you don’t like. You can
INSIGHTS INTO DIPLOMACY
A firsthand look at the life of a foreign service officer AHMED FARID STAFF WRITER
Stricker, a lifelong diplomat whose job focused on diplomatic security, provided students with valuable insight and advice on the inner workings of the State Department and what life is like as a foreign service officer. The stated vision of the U.S. State Department is the promotion and demonstration of “a free, peaceful
and prosperous world.” The State Department works towards this vision by collecting FOURTH ESTATE ALEXANDRIA MCALPINE
In an effort to help students broaden their views and gain insight into different work fields, Mason hosted Government Week from Sept. 16–20. The week included resume workshops, networking events and lectures held by distinguished government employees. One of these events included Insights into Diplomacy, a talk by former service officer Carol Stricker held on Tuesday, Sept. 17, in the Johnson Center.
accurate and relevant infor mation on the current state of affairs in countries all over the world. They also analyze this data in order to allow the U.S.
government to make informed policy decisions.
At a time when diplomacy seems to be taking a backseat, Stricker argued that it could not be more important. She provided many examples of how diplomacy has served both the U.S. and the international community at large. The aid package sent to Europe to alleviate the destruction of World War II, the Marshall Plan, is a key instance of how diplomacy worked to restable much of Western Europe after one of the most destructive periods of history. Stricker also shared with students a story she witnessed while serving overseas in Georgia.
In 2003, a local employee whose father had disappeared under Soviet rule volunteered to go to Baghdad and help set up the U.S. embassy there. He did this because he had personally seen the impact U.S. diplomacy had on Soviet states, and wanted to help other countries who had still not gained their freedom. For that man, U.S. diplomacy helped shine a light on the oppression they were living under. Stricker admitted that the life of a foreign service officer is a challenging one. Anyone wishing to be a career diplomat needs to go on everyday with “passion, persistence [and] knowledge.” She stressed how rewarding the career has been for her.
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A STUDENT’S GUIDE TO THE INTERNET ARIANNA GOODMAN STAFF WRITER
I hope by now that we all know what the internet is, but in case some of you are wondering, the internet is the system of networks interconnected between devices to provide you with access to information from all around the world. It should come as no shock that with all of that information floating around out there that the internet can be a pretty intimidating place for some people. However, there is no need to fret or fear, for I, your friendly neighborhood Patriot, am here. I have collected several internet resources that I believe can benefit you academically, emotionally and financially. So firstly, I hope you’re not using Microsoft Edge as your internet
browser. The new color scheme isn’t enough to remove the bias we all have against its predecessor, Internet Explorer, and I would be remiss to pretend otherwise. These days, Google Chrome is the only real option, albeit the new Firefox Quantum is a close second in my book. Regardless, all of the following sources should work in whatever browser you choose, but do note that I can only speak from my experiences with Google Chrome. Now that that’s out of the way, let’s start with the most dangerous resource of them all: YouTube. YouTube is already well known for the incredible diversity of its videos, and in fact, it is that diversity that can get us into trouble. To use YouTube for
school requires a significant amount of self-discipline. It is incredibly easy to get lost down a rabbit hole that somehow leads you from “Trigonometric Integrals” to “World’s First Cat Lifeguard.” However, if you are able to restrain yourself from clicking the all-too-alluring thumbnails of well-dressed kittens, there are numerous videos explaining — for free — various academic topics, making YouTube one of the greatest resources for those of us who are visual learners. A quick tip would be to use a browser extension to remove the recommended sidebar from videos. This way, your attention can be entirely devoted to the video you intended to see. Or, creating multiple accounts can symbolically signal your brain to shift from entertainment mode to education mode.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JACOB AUDICK
Similarly, Mason offers a considerable amount of resources for finding information online. The Mason Libraries website allows you to search through their databases to find books, articles and more that you have free access to as a student. Additionally, Mason has partnered with LinkedIn Learning, which houses many (now free for us) educational courses ranging from entrepreneurship to programming. Speaking of programming, if any of you want to improve your typing speed, I would also recommend Keybr.com. It’s
simple interface makes it easy to use, and if you make an account, it will track your progress over time. There are even multiplayer modes for those competition junkies out there. As for those of us who have trouble focusing, relaxing and sleeping, Rainy Mood is a website and app that plays lovely ambient rain storms on repeat forever. You can use it to help you focus, to help you relax after a long day and even to help you fall into a deep and restful slumber. I’m not sure why, but I love the organic white noise during really long study sessions. If I ever get bored of it, I know it’s time to take a break. Additionally, if you have a problem with maintaining a consistent sleep schedule like I do, you may find sleep calculators to be particularly beneficial. Sleepyti.me, for instance, can show you the best times to try falling asleep in order to wake up feeling more rested by using the concept of completed sleep cycles. So, on a night where you stay up way too late cramming (or playing Teamfight Tactics), I’d recommend checking the site to see what cycles you have left to work with. That way you might still be sleep deprived, but at least you’ll be a little less groggy. Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about money. College students are often regarded as having very little money. Perhaps students are just bad
at managing their funds, or perhaps it’s the terrifying amount of student debt that hovers over some of our heads. Regardless of your situation, we all could probably use more capital, and thankfully, there are many, many organizations who are willing to help us, even if just a little. UNiDAYS is one such website that collects the offers of several different stores and puts them all on a silver platter for you to choose from. Once you verify you’re a student with your school email, you will have access to a plethora of discount codes and deals. BigWords is probably even more useful for college students as it searches the web for the cheapest deals on textbooks. Search by ISBN, title, or author and it will show you the market price as well as some cheaper options from around the internet. All in all, the internet is an amazing resource for students, and free unadulterated access grants each of us the opportunity to grow and learn from people all over the world. While yes, there are some negative or even dangerous things out there, the mere ability to communicate with people at the blink of an eye is paramount to its potential. The internet, in the end, is a tool for you to use, and like with many tools, there are good and bad practices. So, as long as you stay safe and have fun, there are so many more interesting programs available for you to explore.
WHY THRIFT SHOPPING SHOULD BE YOUR MAIN FASHION OUTLET CHRISTINA O’FARRELL STAFF WRITER
As I have gotten older, I started to question how some of these brands were able to spit out so many trends so quickly, while being so cheap at the same time. Given that I’m an advocate for both fashion and the environment, I decided to research some of these fashion brands to figure out how they were making these clothes so fast. What I found shocked me. These fastfashion brands were not helping the
environment at all, but were making it worse. One of the most shocking facts I found was that fast-fashion is one of the top polluters in the world. That was enough for me to decide that I needed to make a change to the way I was shopping. I decided to set out on a Friday afternoon to go to a local thrift store to try to find some new clothes. Once I got there, I was able to find vintage Levi jeans — that are usually sold at stores like Pacsun or Urban Outfitters for almost 70 dollars — for only 10 dollars. I also found a pair of Tommy Hilfiger jeans for only seven dollars, so I definitely felt super accomplished. Finding these big and expensive
brands at a thrift store for such a cheap price is what really convinced me to continue making these trips. About two years later, I’m still chasing down every deal and most of my clothes are from thrift stores. The brands that I wear are either high-end clothes, or brands I’ve never heard of that aren’t deemed as fast fashion. Just by going to the thrift store for the majority of my clothes, I know I’m contributing to the wellbeing of the planet. I try to encourage all of my friends to thrift shop more, even taking them with me. Each time I’ve gone with friends, they’ve always been able to
find at least one item they liked — whether it was something as small as a belt to something as large as a formal dress. Not only does thrift shopping help save the planet, you’re always saving some money. I’m able to buy three outfits for under 30 dollars, which is the price of one full outfit at a fastfashion store. Why wouldn’t you want to save the planet while also saving your money?
FOURTH ESTATE ALEXANDRIA MCALPINE
I’ve had my fair share of trips to Forever 21, H&M, Pacsun and all the other big-name, fast-fashion stores at the mall. You could go through my wardrobe and find many of those brands folded in my drawers.
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MASON SHOULD HAVE MUSIC PLAYING OPPORTUNITIES FOR NON-MUSIC MAJORS
CLAUDE MCVICKER STAFF WRITER
Lately, I’ve found myself feeling inspired or stressed and wanting to play piano. I’ve wandered to the performing arts building, looking for a piano to play, but with no luck. If you’re like me, then chances are
that listening to music or playing an instrument is an important aspect of your life, and for good reason. Music provides many important benefits to one’s health, such as:
improving ones mood, lowering blood pressure, improving sleep quality and even helping post-surgery outcomes for patients who listened to music before an operation. So, it’s no surprise that most people have a relationship with music in some way.
FOURTH ESTATE RICK GIRARD
I started playing piano around the age of 6, and took lessons on and off for a few years before stopping all together. At the time, I didn’t have the patience required to sit in front of a keyboard, pressing the same keys over and over and over again until muscle memory eventually kicked in — just for that portion of the piece — before moving on to another section, where I would then repeat the process. However, about two years ago, I became addicted to listening to piano covers of songs. I eventually thought to myself, “Why don’t I give piano another go?” I’ve been teaching myself
how to play different songs since then.
during their downtime.
Piano is very important to me. It helps me relax, express myself and even get rid of negative feelings. It’s sort of an odd thing to explain, but when I play piano it’s almost as if all the things that have been bothering me — the thoughts I pushed back and believed to have forgotten about — reemerge and exit my body onto the piano keys.
A room filled with string, brass, or woodwind instruments would be nice too, although I see problems arising with strings and bows snapping and different people putting their mouths on the same instrument.
Many people are like this: they experience some type of benefit from playing an instrument. So you can imagine my disappointment when I couldn’t find a way to quickly play some piano in between classes. Personally, I think it’d be nice if Mason had some sort of room, filled with digital pianos and headsets, for students who aren’t enrolled in the School of Music. This way, people can have some way of playing piano
Mason does offer piano lessons; however, most of them are scheduled during the late afternoon/early evening, which is when many students do their homework, and having to pay for lessons would likely discourage most students from taking them. To finish, I’d like to quote something Dr. Linda Apple Monson, the director of the Mason school of music, stated during an interview: “When you truly have the gift of music in your life, you feel whole.”
MENSTRuATION STIGMA HAS TO END. PERIOD.
SAVANNAH MARTINCIC STAFF WRITER
In Kenya, a 14-year-old girl started her period for the first time in the middle of a school day. Later that day, she killed herself. The Daily Nation, a local newspaper, reported that on Sept. 6 the girl suddenly discovered she had started menstruating for the first time. Caught off guard, she did not have a pad, causing her to eventually bleed through her uniform. The student’s resulting anxious behavior quickly attracted the attention of her female teacher. However, it was not positive attention she received. The girl’s mother, Beatrice Koech, told the Nation that the teacher said the girl was “dirty” for soiling her uniform. The teacher then kicked her out of class. Embarrassed, the girl walked home and told her mother about what had happened. Then, at a nearby water source, she decided to hang herself out of shame. The United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) estimated that around half of all school-age girls in Kenya do not have access to sanitary pads. Due to this, girls will frequently miss
days of school. According to the ZanaAfrica Foundation, more than one million girls in Kenya miss up to six weeks of school each year because they do not have consistent access to adequate menstrual products. In 2017, the president of Kenya signed into law the Basic Education Amendment Act which put the responsibility of providing “free, sufficient and quality sanitary towels” to every school-going girl who has reached puberty, in hopes of reducing the number of girls missing school during their menstrual cycle. “It shall be the duty of the Cabinet Secretary to provide free, sufficient and quality sanitary towels to every girl child registered and enrolled in a public basic education institution who has reached puberty and provide a safe and environmentally sound mechanism for disposal of the sanitary towels,” states Section 39 of the Basic Education Act. However, this law is extremely flawed. Many public schools across the Kenya have not received their allocation of sanitary towels. This can cause girls to resort to using materials such as torn pieces of cloth, animal skin, or even
leaves — all of which are extremely unhygienic and can cause infections. The alternative? Staying at home due to a culture that tells them they are unclean or weak, which causes a negative impact on their education and school performance. Some girls even drop out of school completely when they begin getting their periods. Cultural taboos and what people are calling the “culture of silence” around periods are endangering the health of not only cisgender women and girls worldwide, but also those who are transgender, non-binary, or intersex. Lack of access to sanitary products is even happening right in America’s own backyard. For many experiencing homelessness in the U.S., getting a period means choosing between buying sanitary products or food. Menstruating on the street looks like rationing products, infrequently changing pads or tampons or simply using other things like napkins instead. Sanitary products are also not usually donated to organizations like shelters or food pantries. “I really wish that people understood
that while donating clothes and other hygiene products is needed and greatly appreciated, pads, tampons, and [panty] liners are some of the most expensive products women face,” Taylor D., a woman who experienced homelessness, told Teen Vogue in an interview. A normal biological process for millions of people in the US ends up being one of the most burdensome and most expensive. As of July 2019, 35 U.S. states still employ the “tampon tax,” which is the sales tax applied to menstrual products like tampons, pads and cups. In the state of California alone, people who menstruate spend $20 million in taxes on menstrual products annually. These taxes imply that menstrual hygiene is a luxury, rather than a necessity; an inevitable consequence that results from leaving menstruation out of policy conversation. It is not just about access — or lack thereof — to period products that is concerning, but the entrenched misinformation and narratives surrounding periods. The seemingly eternal idea that menstruation is
unclean or impure is at the root of the issue. There is no doubt that these taboos are used as false justification to oppress those who menstruate. Period stigma around the world, therefore, is a human rights violation. It is isolating, depriving, and further exacerbates negative gender norms, especially in (but not limited to) impoverished countries. In 2019, it should not be a financial, social or educational burden to have a period. In 2019, a 14-year-old girl should not have to hang herself to avoid period shame. In 2019, adolescence should not be the end of a person’s potential. In 2019, menstruation should be a larger part of the sexual education curriculum and of policy conversations. “The culture surrounding menstruation must be changed, and it takes both women and men to make that happen,” said Thinx, a period underwear company, in a statement. “It starts with open, honest conversation, and continues with education that empowers women to feel aware of and comfortable with their bodies and flows.”
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ROOMMATE TROUBLES? NO PROBLEM!
SUMMER BROWN STAFF WRITER
Although we got along over text and as mutuals on social media, we definitely both agreed that we weren’t meant to live together. Throughout my time here at Mason and through working with the Housing Department in my role in Student Government, I began to notice how simple and widely available resources are for students who live on campus to help deal with any roommate issues. With that said, I believe students should definitely utilize those resources to help with any issue they come across I’ve already written an article titled “Be Patient With Housing” which suggests to students that patience is
the best when it comes to working with housing, as the processes associated with housing certainly take time, but I got a lot of students asking me about the resources housing provides that are available to them. First and foremost, the one piece of advice I heard a lot while working on issues with housing is to never jump up the ladder when someone immediate can help solve a solution. It was highly recommended to me, especially by higher ups in Housing and Residence Life, to tell students, “you and your roommate may be having an argument over a popcorn bowl, but that doesn’t mean Dr. Holland, Chief Housing Officer, is going to want to hear it!” So I suggest, start with your resident assistant (RA) or community assistant (CA). RAs and CAs are there to help manage and mediate any interpersonal conflicts you may have — although do note that CAs and RAs have different jobs! CAs are more rules, and safety and fire checksbased, whereas RAs are probably what you’re looking for in a conflict-type situation. I would recommend talking
to either, but definitely start with your RA depending on the severity of the issue, then move on to your CA. If the issue is still persisting and it seems the RA or CA isn’t much help, I would recommend moving up to your community director (CD). They oversee RAs and CAs in your hall and will definitely have a firmer grip on policies and what to do. Just the other day, in fact, my CD told me she is in charge of disciplinary orders within my residence hall, so if you’re looking for that route then you’re in luck. Maybe they can help if the issue you are having is serious and may violate housing policies.
where you’re completely away from the other individual (to whatever degree it seems you see fit) and you can breathe in peace. Or, If you’re really hellbent on getting the issue resolved, and not having to switch rooms, then I suggest you option two: go to the higher-ups in housing. Here, no matter who you approach, each housing officer will recommend you to the appropriate individual who will help you handle your case. There they will work with you and all involved parties to take care of the
issue at hand and your situation will be resolved in no time. My thoughts on all of this? Be reasonable and be patient! Conflict resolution takes time and lots of hard work, so if you need immediate changes, seek them out. If you can wait, then wait and take the most appropriate path. Just remember: don’t ask Dr. Holland about solving your popcorn bowl problem. You’ll end up wasting everyone’s time, but most importantly your own. Time is valuable!
If your issue is still not resolved, this is the time where you ask yourself something: is fighting over that popcorn bowl really worth it, or is your roommate making your life unbearable to the point that you can’t be near them at all for x, y and z reasons? If you answered yes to both parts of that question you can do one of two things. The first option is to talk to your CD and ask about a room change. Room changes will solve issues to the point
FOURTH ESTATE ALEXANDRIA MCALPINE
I remember my mother always said that two individuals can get along easily while living in separate households, but once you put them together they’re like two completely different people. I’ve noticed that this is the case throughout my time living on campus. Although I’m only in my second year, it definitely seemed to reign true during my freshman year too. That was when I had a squabble with my roommate.
WHY THE US CONSTITUTION IS THE GREATEST HUMAN DOCUMENT ALEX MADAJIAN STAFF WRITER
PHOTO COURTESY OF PIXABAY
Did you know that Sept. 17–23 is Constitution Week? On September 17, 1787 our founding fathers bequeathed us the greatest legal writing ever penned to paper. But why does it matter now? That was over 200 years ago! What on earth does the Constitution do to make America a better country than others today, or even back then?
The United States Constitution has done more to help you than you may realize — and that even includes the international STEM student with no interest in American politics. Let me explain. It has been said that America’s most important export is the U.S. Constitution. This is because the principles laid out in the text have been
replicated by every major (and many minor) democratic countries. Without the principles of the Constitution, the principles of a free society would be impossible. Few governments bother to separate powers, and fewer still give the most dangerous powers — the power of the purse and the military — to the law-making part of government rather than the executive. The authors of the Constitution understood it would be impossible to rein in a corrupt human being, so they simply constructed a government which pitted corruptible human beings against each other. It also has done more to protect minorities than any other document in history. Prior to the Constitution, the rights of a minority were at the whim of despots. Rights came and went with the culture and leaders, not the law. Our Constitution gave our country a groundwork for destroying the institutions of slavery and conserving the sanctity of the individual. In the words of Fredrick Douglas,
“Take the Constitution according to its plain reading, and I defy the presentation of a single pro-slavery clause in it. On the other hand it will be found to contain principles and purposes, entirely hostile to the existence of slavery.” I encourage you to read the whole “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” speech. By no means is the Constitution perfect. We must also thank antifederalist champions such as Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, and our very own George Mason who, through their scathing rhetoric, exposed the shortcomings of the Constitution. In the opening words of a letter from George Mason, he wrote the of gravest flaw in the Constitution: “There is no Declaration of Rights.” A part of the Constitution which does not receive as much honor and attention as it should is the Bill of Rights, which came in 1791, several years after the Constitution’s creation. Although only 10 of the 27 current
amendments were given then, it is important to note the magnitude of debt we owe those first 10. As much as I would love to share with you my love for each, it would be a better way to celebrate Constitution Week by reading them for yourself and reflecting on their purpose. Without our Constitution, America would be far worse than mediocre. The Constitution is the only force in America that stands in the way of a despotic autocracy. To my skeptical readers, I challenge you to find me a freer country which provides a protection of rights better than the U.S. Find me a country that protects its citizens from its own government better. Find me a country that lets its citizens do the most important thing we can do as human beings — pursue truth. Let us never forget the fact that there is but one piece of paper protecting us from tyranny. May that fire of freedom never go out.
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OPINIONS Opinions do not reflect the views of Fourth Estate. Submit opinions to ckernans@gmu.edu
09.23.2019
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WAR IS WAR, HELL IS HELL SAMUEL FELDHOUSEN STAFF WRITER
PHOTO COURTESY OF SAMUEL FELDHOUSEN
The first way that video games can harm you is through desensitization to violence. As mentioned previously, many triple-A (big budget games made by a large organization) games feature extreme violence as a selling point to general audience. While the gore presented in modern games is a sight to behold — in no small part due to how far their technology has advanced — and at a certain point it almost seems cruel. Despite this, the race rages onward, warping communities into cruel, brutal messes that care more about gore than anything else.
A grand and terrible myth of the video gaming industry is that video games cause violence — and it isn’t hard to understand why. Many mainstream games include hyperviolence and extreme gore as a major draw, leading to an arms race of violence that only gets bloodier as the technology improves. From an outsider perspective, it’s easy to think
that these kinds of games make people into soulless killing machines. However, thanks to a wide variety of experiments conducted by scientists around the world, we know that this myth simply isn’t true. While video games might not directly cause violence, there are other ways that they can harm people, and they’re right under the public’s nose.
Even beyond hyperviolence, the general trivialization of violence in gaming is a major problem. The biggest example of this is in the “Call of Duty” (COD) franchise, focusing on historical, modern and futuristic visions of all-out war. While the era changes, the general formula is the same: play as X, fight Y, win (probably). The major problem with COD is that it has a very action-movie-esque understanding of war, featuring everything from dramatic last-minute knife throws to duel wielding every pistol under the sun, a technique any
competent armed forces member wouldn’t be caught dead using.
goes deeper than immature morons screaming at you over their laptop mic.
More importantly, it shows next to no consideration to the people you’re fighting. You’re essentially treating them as faceless canon-fodder. In the real world, soldiers in conflict aren’t mindless automatons with a lust for murder, they’re real people — with real hopes, real dreams, real families. By abstracting the other side into a faceless evil, COD gives its players a sharply distorted view of what war really is: a hailstorm of death and destruction that tears through anything it touches, combatant and civilian alike.
Many people have accepted and normalized bigotry as a part of the gaming community. Even now, many people still drop slurs like pocket change, albeit at in much calmer tone than before. The worst groups are the communities around realistic-based shooters focused on actual wars, like World War II, the Vietnam war, or the conflicts we find ourselves in today.
Considering that the U.S. has been at war with no one in particular for a majority of the designers’ lives, you can certainly understand why this is a very big problem. One more way that games can harm you is in multiplayer communities, where bigotry and cruelty is treated as law. Many people have horror stories about the wild west of mid-2000s lobby chat, where at any moment the whole place could descend into a showdown of who can say the most slurs. But it
While many like to roleplay, some take it much too far. This can be anything from spouting racist rhetoric as a Nazi or shouting in broken English as a soldier of the North Vietnamese Army (NVA). While the game designers’ likely haven’t seen much of this personally, there are more than enough servers with “NO RACISM ALLOWED” rules to paint a picture. The next time you boot up your favorite game, you should consider how it’s affecting you. If you don’t figure that out sooner rather than later, you might not like who you see in the mirror.
GUN CONFISCATION IS MAINSTREAM DEMOCRAT POLICY – IT WON’T WORK SEAN HELWIG CONTRIBUTOR
America’s gun debate is frequently ruled by emotion on both sides. One of the left’s most common talking points is to ridicule conservatives’ fears of gun confiscation as irrational fearmongering. Recent events have demonstrated that gun confiscation is now a mainstream Democratic objective.
similar clauses that demonstrate the technical ignorance of its authors. If passed, the bill would ban one of the most common class of firearms in the nation, making it illegal to “import, sell, manufacture, transfer, or possess a semiautomatic assault weapon.” Enforcing this bill would require doorto-door confiscation.
bevy of gun control policies — some of which are legislative in nature and can only be legally enacted by Congress. This comment is especially rich, considering that many of Harris’ stump speeches feature her rallying against what she believes to be Trump’s numerous infringements against the Constitution.
H.R. 1296, the Assault Weapons Ban of 2019, seeks to ban all of semiautomatic assault weapons. The term assault weapon is an amorphous term even within the firearm community, and the bill would include any rifle with a pistol grip under its outright ban. To be clear, a pistol grip is simply the handle for the firearm. It is an ergonomic design feature that does not affect the capacity of the weapon to inflict violence. The bill is replete with
This and similar legislative efforts aren’t happening in a vacuum, but are being supported by numerous prominent Democratic presidential candidates. Beto O’Rourke proclaimed that “hell yes” he was coming for America’s AR-15s. Joe Biden endorsed a similar policy. Perhaps most stunningly, Kamala Harris said she would give Congress 100 days to fix the gun problem, and then would take executive action to implement a
The engine behind these efforts is — according to their advocates — the scourge of mass shootings. To be clear, staunching senseless violence is a laudable goal, and I have every belief that the legislators are doing what they are with good intentions. Despite this, the data does not support their actions. Let’s examine American homicides, of which mass shootings are just one category. Handguns are the most commonly used murder weapon
by far in the U.S. In 2017, just over 7,000 murders were committed with handguns. Rifles accounted for approximately 400. Murders with blunt objects (clubs, hammers, etc.) numbered at 467. Perhaps the numbers are different for mass shootings. After all, the typical image of a mass shooting is in a public place with an AR-style rifle. Despite this media image, a significant plurality of mass shootings are committed with handguns over rifles. Gun confiscation would not solve the problem. The lessons of history warrant great caution when the populace is disarmed. The recent attacks on civilians by the military in Venezuela should be fresh in people’s minds, or
perhaps the dictatorial evils of Hitler, who systematically disarmed the people who would eventually be his victims. Consider our own history. In World War II, Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) put thousands of Japanese Americans in internment camps without due process. American citizens were stripped of their rights and frequently lost their property with little to no remuneration. Government power can be abused. Firearms are a deterrent. Mass shootings are horrific and must be addressed. But no matter what Democratic candidates or legislators claim, banning and confiscating semi-automatic rifles won’t fix mass shootings — and it won’t fix American gun violence on the whole.
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09.23.2019
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