A FIRST AMENDMENT PUBLICATION Woodland Hills, California
Volume 139 - Issue 7
Wednesday, October 25, 2023
One Copy Free
Brahmas lose tight game
PRO?CON: cultural appropriation
3
Spirit day pride
5
Football homecoming results 6
2 Opinions 6201 Winnetka Ave. Woodland Hills, CA 91371 Room: Pierce College Village 8211 Phone: (818) 710-4115 Phone: (818) 710-4117 Website: www.theroundupnews.com E-mail: newsroom.roundupnews@gmail.com
Editor-in-Chief.....Benjamin Hanson
Managing Editor.........Rachael Rosenberg Design Editor.................Fabiola Carrizosa Photo Editor...................Ashley Shellmire Photo Editor............................Owen Meza Copy Editor......................Olivia Espinoza Opinions Editor........Christian Castellanos News Editor...........................Sophia Cano Campus Life Editor............Clemente Pasillas Sports Editor............Nusaybah Al Mansur Sports Editor......................Reuben Santos Social Media...............Daniela Raymundo
Reporters:
Raquel Frohlich Maxine Chaykovskiy Dialaysia Whittaker Gerardo Escobar John Ormeno Jacob Macofsky Tyler Hale Brian Khoury Alexis Brown Isabella Marino Alexis Martinez
Advisers:
Jill Connelly Jeff Favre Tracie Savage
Photographers:
Hunter Hammerot Myraneli Fabian Linda Zimmerling Felipe Gamino Sonya Miller Luis Quintana Devon Thompson Jr. Kareem Andrades Aidan Nary Madison Cheramie Icy Smith Emil Rizkalla Daniel Decamp Ellie James Dannie Carreon Diego Cardenas
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Editorial: From the desk of the Roundup
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Honk, honk! Trunk-or-treat!
n Halloween night, homeowners prepare a bowl of candy to hand out goodies to children dressed in costumes. But it is not uncommon to welcome November with a full bowl of candy that will inevitably be eaten by the same person. The sound of excited children ringing the doorbell at one’s stoop is anticipated, but there is no guarantee that the children will arrive. Perhaps children have grown up, and there are no more trickor-treating aged people in the area. Perhaps children should be gathered in one area that is designated for asking for candies while in costume. Pierce College should host a trunk-or-treat event for children and families. According to an article from housekeeping.com, participants go and bring their cars to a central location, usually a parking lot. The drivers and their
Photo illustration/Roundup News/RACHAEL ROSENBERG families decorate their cars for Halloween, sometimes creating elaborate scenes out of their trunks. Palomar College in San Marcos, Calif. is one community college that is hosting a trunk-or-treat this year. Churches, community centers and parks already host trunk-or-treats throughout Los Angeles. Trunk-or-treat at Pierce can draw the parent-
STREET BEAT How do you feel about cultural appropriation? “I feel that people who culturally appropriate aren’t very conscious of what they’re doing. If you going to appropriate one’s culture, have some knowledge of it. If you don’t, then obviously you are culturally appropriating, and that is not respectful to those who are actually a part of that culture, who might go through struggles that you might be unaware of.” Nicole Aguirre- Communications major “If you want to partake in a certain culture, then you have to respect it and you have to recognize that in the past, those groups have been marginalized for things that you’re now appropriating for yourself.” Natalie Yoo- Nursing major
Front: Laron White (0) takes the possession of the ball during a game against Pasadena City College in Woodland Hills, Calif., on Oct. 21, 2023. Photo by Myraneli Fabian.
students and their extended families. People can volunteer to participate in the event by registering their cars. Pierce students may volunteer to run the festivities while wearing costumes as they do it. There are two possible locations for a trunk-or-treat. Lot 7 is of ample size for the event, but lot 1 would work just as fine. Additionally, adults may
do their part in making the children’s experience fun. Car owners may prepare their trunks with Halloween decorations. A way to motivate people to decorate their cars as creatively and elaborately as possible is to have a contest. Awards can be given to the best decorated car overall and to the scariest car. The trunk-or-treat would feel incomplete without Halloween music. Attendees could enjoy the event while listening to classics such as “Monster Mash” and “Thriller.” Hosting a trunk-or-treat is another community event that may help to return a sense of community and morale to the student body, especially after 2020, a year that affected peoples’ anxiety over socializing. momsla.com currently has many trunk or treat events listed for this coming Halloween. Pierce can be one of those locations on the list.
“It’s interesting, because some people are going to offend others if they are not using it in the correct way. However, if someone likes that culture and if done the right way, then it can really be acceptable.” Ana Garzon- Marketing major
Quotes by Jacob Macofsky Photos by Emil Rizkalla
““I don’t think it’s right when people do it, and we often see it on social media a lot. Will I go out of my way to say something? Probably not, “ Crystal De La Rosa- Psychology major
Opinions 3
Wednesday, October 25, 2023
Is cultural appropriation good or bad?
CON:
PRO:
Cultural appropriation has positive effects By Nusaybah Al-Mansur Reporter
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ultural appropriation has been considered controversial. It has been demonized in the media, especially in this digital age when celebrities take part in it. There are many examples, such as when Ariana Grande culturally appropriated Japanese culture in her song “7 Rings” and when Kim Kardashian blew up social media debuting cornrows, a traditional African American hairstyle. This is because many of those people who have sported ways from other backgrounds have often misused and miscredited the sources, only adding to the misrepresentation of many cultures outside of White American culture. Oftentimes, this makes people think that a majority and privileged group is attempting to exploit the customs of a minority group, a concept that has taken place many times in history. But cultural appropriation could be associated with cultural appreciation. It can change the narrative and bring recognition to the people of a respective culture. Cultural appropriation can be utilized to represent a state of awareness and solidarity. In early October of 2023, hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators, both Palestinian and non-Palestinian alike, gathered together in the streets of New York chanting “Netanyahu you will see, Palestine will be free!” According to a PBS article, “Many waved Palestinian flags or wore keffiyeh, the black and white checkered scarfs
that have come to symbolize Palestinian solidarity. In this case, for the Muslim and nonMuslim demonstrators wearing the keffiyeh, there was no notion of cultural appropriation, but rather of solidarity and proper crediting, proving that cultural appropriation can indeed be funneled to cultural appreciation. Cultural appropriation, when used properly, can have positive effects on society and the way people view cultures outside of their own. According to a 2022 New York Times article, “Some argue that cultural appropriation is good — that it’s just another name for borrowing or taking inspiration from other cultures, which has happened throughout history and without which civilization would wither and die.” Cultural appropriation can open the opportunity for intercultural sharing by allowing people to express their love or appreciation for other cultures. According to a 2019 New York Times article, “Without embracing and building upon the ideas of other cultures, humanity remains static. History has proven that cultural appropriation is critical for human progress, and without it the future is bleak.” Cross-cultural understanding and appreciation can be products of cultural appreciation, which can foster a more inclusive society. It is not something to be ignored that when people adopt elements from other cultures, it can promote dialogue and break down cultural barriers. Ultimately, this can lead to a more interconnected world where diverse traditions are celebrated.
By Alexis Brown Reporter
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ultural appropriation is one of the most misunderstood concepts in our society today. To take one’s culture without fully understanding the history and values behind it can cause severe emotional damage. Cultural appropriation often occurs within the context of historical power imbalances. For instance, when a dominant culture borrows elements from a marginalized or oppressed culture, it can perpetuate inequality and reinforce stereotypes. This is one reason why cultural appropriation is a sensitive issue. In an article written by the LA Times, they introduce American cultural theorist, Minh-Ha T. Minh-Ha T. Pham, has introduced a more potent concept called “racial plagiarism.” This concept focuses on the exploitation of the knowledge, labor, and cultural heritage of racialized groups to the advantage of dominant groups, all while perpetuating existing dominant socioeconomic structures. According to the LA Times, “Not only does the group already in power reap a reward with no corresponding improvement in status for the group copied from; in doing so, they sustain, however inadvertently, inequity.” Some argue that cultural appropriation is good,that it’s just another term for appreciating and highlighting another culture. A fine line exists between appreciating and appropriating a culture. Appreciation involves learning about and respecting the
Cultural appropriation hurts marginalized cultures culture, while appropriation often involves taking elements out of context for personal gain or superficial reasons. An article written by Iowa State Daily, explains a way to avoid appropriation is by, “doing your own research appreciating the culture because cultural appropriation brings up the history of oppression, spreads misinformation in marginalized communities and perpetuates racist stereotypes.” Cultural appropriation also highlights the issue of double standards. Members of a dominant culture who borrow traditional clothing or symbols from a minority culture and use them for fashion purposes are often seen as trendy. However, when members of the minority culture wear the same clothing or symbols, they may face discrimination or be labeled as “ghetto.” An article written by The Bottom Line at UCSB provides examples of praised celebrities who profit from the exploitation of other cultures. The article explains, “The white culture we live in subdues black people who practice black culture as a stereotype, yet praises white people who exploit this same black culture as being edgy or fashionforward.” It points out media personality Kylie Jenner who often wears her hair in cornrows and enhances her lips and receives positive feedback from the public, whereas black people are often criticized for wearing different hairstyles such as braids and cornrows. Black people constantly face racist slurs for the appearance of their lips, while Jenner’s lip jobs have led to her receiving monumental profits and praise in the makeup industry.
4 News
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Representatives Crisis Management: CSUN guided students through transfer A Possible Career Former LAX Head of Media Relations speaks to students about crisis management By Gerardo Escobar Reporter
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he was at a doctor’s appointment 42 miles north of LAX when she found out there had been a shooting. A gunman had killed one person and wounded others, and within five minutes was taken down by an officer. Chaos followed suit from fleeing passengers and airport personnel. She quickly made her way to the airport. Former LAX Head of Media Relations and LAPD Spokeswoman Mary Grady presented on what crisis communication is on Thursday in Village 8210. Crisis communications, a subspecialty in public relations, is a career path journalism and public relations students may consider. Grady recounted her experience and what she learned during the 2013 Los Angeles International Airport Shooting, where Paul Anthony Ciancia opened fire in the airport and killed a TSA officer and injured a few others. Crisis management is a strategy used by organizations, agencies or companies to protect their reputation when their services are interrupted, according to Grady. Grady highlighted the importance of learning about crisis management, and why those who are in journalism, media relations or public relations may find it helpful. “In everybody’s lives,
they deal with some type of a crisis and/or are impacted by some type of crisis,” Grady said. “Having a better understanding of how they can handle it themselves and/or respond to a crisis is beneficial information for anybody and everybody.” Grady mentioned what she hopes the students can take away with them from the presentation. “The students, whether they are working careers in journalism, public relations or the City of Los Angeles, have a clear understanding of all the different kinds of opportunities,” Grady said. “When you are dealing with something as specific as crisis, what the roles and responsibilities would be for each of those types of positions.” Film Production major Luis Lindao came to the presentation because he was interested in what was going to be discussed as well as to broaden his knowledge. “I was not aware of the shooting in 2013,” Lindao said. “I learned how a crisis like that is managed. She was very in depth with the process, the steps taken and the problems you can come across and how to handle them.” Lindao found it interesting how social media played a role in managing the situation. “I thought that was an interesting aspect, the importance of using hashtags and using social media to make your status as an official source,” Lindao
said. “So that it would not get caught up in other news outlets, rumors and other people’s interpretation of what they understand is happening.” Grady mentioned that something to learn from the 2013 incident was not using hashtags on Twitter in order to establish the media relations team as the official source for information, so people can have a steady stream of reliable information. The 2013 LAX shooting was one of the first instances of social media being used during crisis communications. Due to the prevalence of smartphones, there were many people who could be considered citizen journalists who captured what was going on. Social media is used by crisis management to gain situational awareness, according to Grady. Journalism, Marketing and TV Cinema major Oscar Silva wanted to learn more about Grady’s profession. “It makes me understand a little bit more of what I am going to be going through down the line,” Silva said. “There’s a lot to do in her role, like strategizing on the crisis she mentioned. It is very hectic.” Grady thinks it is important as an organization dealing with a crisis to show empathy and to release information. “Tell your own bad story yourself,” Grady said.
process
Roundup News/HUNTER HAMMEROT
Bryan Gittins, Outreach Counselor at CSUN waits for students to discuss college transfer options at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif., on October 19, 2023.
By Maxine Chaykovskiy Reporter
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Transfer Center with both appointments and walk-ins. “We offer pre-admissions appointments for the students here. Basically they come in and find out if they are eligible to transfer to our campus or not,” Gittins said. “We’ll let them know what classes they should take to finish off a semester or to be eligible to transfer to our campus. We’ll let them know the admissions requirements and help them through any application questions that they might have.” Gittins has been a CSUN Representative for about eight months, but this is his first fall semester, which has a larger scale of students applying. “My favorite thing is to help transfer students. The transfer process is definitely a lot easier and more straightforward than applying as a first time freshmen,” Gittins said.
alifornia State University, Northridge (CSUN) representatives were hosted by Pierce College on Thursday for an educational and entertaining program. The purpose of the event, which attracted interest from students and teachers, was to give students who wanted to continue their academic career at CSUN thorough insights into the transition process. The CSUN representative engaged in one-on-one meetings with students, giving them personalized advice based on their academic backgrounds and interests, with an emphasis on providing counsel and information about the various programs, requirements and application processes at the university. CSUN Representative Bryan Gittins conducted one-on-one meetings with Read the rest of the story at students at the Career theroundupnews.com
Wednesday, October 25, 2023
Spirit Day pride
The Multicultural Center hopes to prevent animosity against LGBT members
News 5
Mentors bond with students over coloring during Coffee and Convos event By Tyler Hale Reporter
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romise Program firstyear students were able to meet and connect with their mentors through coloring books provided by the Coffee and Convos with Peers event on Thursday in the library October 19. Lead coordinator of the Peer-to-Peer program Sidra Bahadar arranged for the event to serve pastry snacks although no coffee, provided blank coloring book drawings of Roundup News/ELLIE JAMES characters. Echo Smith (left) and Kimberly Jovel (right) write supportive messages on the board for LGBTQIA+ Spirit Day at Pierce College in Woodland “The peer mentors Hills, Calif., on Oct. 19, 2023. suggested the drawings By Gerardo Escobar Center’s goal is to create note, write a message about also had artwork from the would be great conversation Reporter a safe space for all what the cause means to LGBT community and starters,” Bahadar said. . individuals by showing them and post it on the books regarding the topic “You need an ice-breaker to help new students open up. or students who support and awareness for white board. The notes of same-sex relationships. wanted to show the movement,” Onaga were posted anonymously. Spirit Day was selected They thought it would be their support for said. “We want our students “It is important to support by the Multicultural nice to color and talk about the LGBT community, to know that they are not LGBTQ+ youth because Center to support and their favorite TV shows,” the Multicultural Center alone and that they have there are people who spread acknowledge members of said Bahadar. Aiden Krueger was one located at the Library And allies that will support them hate, so we should spread the LGBT community and The Learning Crossroads and stand against bullying.” love,” one note said. their struggles, according of the first of many peer mentors to arrive at Coffee Building was the place to Those who walked into Another note expressed to Onaga. be. the Multicultural Center the support between “The Multicultural and Convos in the library LGBTQIA+ Spirit Day were greeted by a white different generations of Center’s goal is to be building on Oct. 19. A event on Thursday was board that read “Spirit Day LGBT members. inclusive of all diverse computer science major, he different from other events is the world’s most visible “Dear LGBTQIA+ Youth, people, and the LGBT began the event conversing held at the Multicultural anti-bullying movement your queer elders treasure community is a big part with two first year students. “I talked to this guy Center because it was an supporting LGBTQIA+ you. Your thriving is our of that,” Onaga said. all-day event for students youth,” written by Onaga. thriving,” the note read. “Bullying is a big problem named David who had a who wanted to show their People could take a sticky The Multicultural Center in the community. Suicide similar degree and shared support for the LGBT rates are high, so we want interest in games and community. to create a safe space for then Finn who came from Chatsworth Charter High Student Services Assistant “We hope that our students are able them.” like I did so we talked for the Multicultural to find a sense of belonging, strength about the commute,” said Center Kimberly Onaga and empowerment,” Krueger. said that Spirit Day is an - Kimberly Onaga anti-bullying movement Student Services Assistant to support the LGBT Read the rest of the story at Read the rest of the story at community. theroundupnews.com theroundupnews.com “The Multicultural
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Sports 6
Wednesday, October 25, 2023
Football drops homecoming game
By Raquel Frohlich Reporter
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n a game with consistent plays from Pierce College, the Pasadena City College Lancers etched a win against the Brahmas 20-17. Going into the game, the Brahmas’ record for this season was 3-3 and the Lancers’ was 5-1. “I was proud of this team because this is the best game we’ve played all year,” football Head Coach James Sims said. “To say that in a loss because we played all four quarters. There were games we won, that we did good in the first and second quarter, and then we did terrible, but still won the game. This is the first game this year that we played all four quarters, so I’m proud of them and I think this is something to build on.” Stefan Roberts scored two touchdowns—both in the first quarter—and Marcelo Asan-Ortiz scored a field goal in the third quarter, bumping the Brahmas up from 14 to 17. Quarterback Kadyn Parr was proud of the practice the team had put in this week. “For us even being in this game, they thought they were gonna kill us—we knew they weren’t,” Parr said. “Just a few mistakes by us that we want to clean up. We’re going to clean up at practice and then we’re looking forward to playing Valley next week.” Edge Kevin Herring also high-
lighted their practice throughout the past week, and said offense played great. Penalties are something to clean up on, he added. “Everybody worked hard, was fighting all four quarters, and just giving it all,” Herring said. Halftime featured two performances—one by the Pierce College Coed Cheer Team and one by the Cleveland High School Marching Band and Color Guard, which participated as part of a larger partnership with Pierce’s music department. Though it was hot, the marching band and color guard had a good and productive day, said Cleveland High School Director of Bands Cameron Yassaman. On Saturday, Oct. 28 is the annual Victory Bell game, where the Pierce Brahmas will play against the Valley Monarchs, and aim to return to Pierce with the bell. “We open in the floodgates, we’re gonna do a little bit of everything. Everything we can do walks away a victory in that game,” Sims said. “That game— there’s a game that we circle on our calendar. We could go 1-9, but if we win that game, we’re good.”
Roundup News/MYRANELI FABIAN Armando Solis-Vargas (2) shows defense during a game against Pasadena City College in Woodland Hills, Calif., on Oct. 21, 2023.
Roundup News/MYRANELI FABIAN Maqael Henderson (15) takes takes the possession of the ball during a game against Pasadena City College in Woodland Hills, Calif., on Oct. 21, 2023.
Jamarian Collins (3) is tackled by defense in Woodland Hills, Calif., on Oct. 21, 2023.
Roundup News/MYRANELI FABIAN