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s t u d e n t n e w s pa p e r o f w a s h i n g t o n a n d j e f f e r s o n c o l l e g e w j r e da n d b l ac k . c o m W a s h i n g t o n , P e n n s y lva n i a M a rc h 1 2 , 2 0 2 1
WHAT’S IN THIS WEEK’S PAPER... CURRENT EVENTS
SAB and Hillel Society Purim Carnival
On Mar. 1, 3.9 million doses of Johnson & Johnson’s newly authorized COVID vaccine began being shipped across the U.S. -P.7
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DIVERSITY
n Feb. 25, the United States carried out airstrikes in eastern Syria against buildings belonging to what the Pentagon reported to be Iran-backed militias responsible for recent attacks against American and allied personnel in Iraq. -P.11
OPINIONS Cherokee Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. recently asked Jeep to end the use of the Cherokee name, citing that they did so without permission and the commercialization of the Cherokee people is a problematic representation. -P.12
SPORTS
This year, Team LeBron, featuring stars like Giannis Antetokoumpo, Steph Curry, and more, defeated Team Durant 170150 with Bucks forward Antetokounmpo winning MVP honors. -P.18
WJREDANDBLACK.COM
Courtesy @washjeffhillel on Instagram
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Red & Black
12 March 2021
SAB and Hillel Society Purim Carnival Sofia Jenkins Red & Black Staff
March 5, the Student Activities Board and the Hillel Society put on Washington and Jefferson College’s own Purim Carnival in the Rossin Ballroom. The students and faculty of W&J came together to host this fun and exciting event. Purim is a celebration of deliverance from a plot of extermination in Ancient Persia during the sixth century BCE. This celebration is often called the Jewish Mardi Gras and it is normally celebrated with masquerade parties. For W&J’s Purim carnival, groups and organizations at W&J all came up with an idea for a booth, assembled it and ran it at the carnival, while other students walked through and enjoyed the games and prizes. All of the booths were inspired by a different carnival game, including a “Minute to Win-It” table, a ring-toss table and a Jenga table, all sponsored by different clubs on campus. Attendees of the Purim Carnival overall had a very enjoyable time, including Abby Hipkins ‘24 who attended the carnival and said, “I thought it was really cool! The different games and activities from the clubs were fun and they had cute prizes.” Along with the in-person carnival, the SAB team also included Purim trivia games and different online carnival games that remote students could play and still feel like they
Courtesy Sofia Jenkins
The SAB and Hillel Society Purim Carnival was hosted in the Rossin Ballroom for both students and faculty alike.
were enjoying Purim at the inperson carnival. These types of games included “Guess the Candy in the Jar,” “Maze” and the Recipe Challenge! Those who participated in these events could have the chance to win amazing prizes like a 24-inch tv, a smart desk lamp, a candy basket, a $15 Amazon gift card or a popcorn maker! The chairmen of SAB believe that this event was a total success. President of SAB, Debilea Chapel, who is online this semester, handled the online part of the carnival, while chairman Hannah Bado worked the in-person booth for the SAB. This carnival was a great way to bring all of the students of W&J together, whether on-campus or remote, to celebrate an important holiday in the Jewish community. The combined efforts of the SAB and the Hillel Society were successful in providing fun activities and an enjoyable environment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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12 March 2021
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CAMPUS NEWS 3
Campus Student Spotlight: Kaitlyn Ewing ‘21 Reilly Oliverio Red & Black Editor
Kaitlyn Ewing is a senior English and psychology major here at Washington and Jefferson College. She is originally from Huntingdon, Pa. which is about three hours away in the central Pennsylvania area. While she was there, she attended Huntingdon Area High School. She originally heard about Washington & Jefferson College from friends from high school and, after checking out the school, decided to go there. Another reason she is a President is so she could continue participating in varsity sports as she did in high school. When asked about why she decided her majors, she responded, “I was randomly placed into a psychology class, and I loved it. I then realized I wasn’t too bad at English, so I decided to pursue a major in that too.” During her time here, there have been some teachers that have stood out to her such as Dr. Verdun and Dr. Bennett. They stood out to her from her studies and outside of the classroom saying, “Both of them were extremely intelligent and caring. They are great professors, and they are trustworthy people.” During her time at W&J College she has been a part of many organizations and clubs. Kaitlyn has made a point of being involved and active on the
Washington and Jefferson campus. She is a part of Army ROTC, Varsity swimming, Varsity water polo, SAAC representatives, Jaybirds acapella, Student Christian Association, Franklin Literary Honors Society and Psi Chi Psychology Honors Society. Along with being a part of those student organizations she has also participated in intramural softball and equestrian club during her first years at W&J College. When asked why she decided to be involved in so many clubs she said, “I wanted to see different perspectives of college life.” Kaitlyn also talked about her reasons for joining ROTC program here at the school saying, “I decided on ROTC because I wanted to see what it was about, and it quickly became a dream career for me.”Some of her favorite parts of being involved in these campus organizations is, “being involved in these organizations is getting to meet such extraordinary people, and I was able to enjoy every activity. It made my schedule fun and every day was different.” Outside of school Kaitlyn has many different hobbies. Some of her hobbies include running, journaling and photography. Off-campus she likes going on late night runs to Sarris ice cream and random trips to Walmart. While quarantining earlier this semester she kept herself busy watching TV as she loves movies and also took up some time journaling. During her time at W&J, Kaitlyn has made a multitude of memories. When asked she said, “My favorite memories at W&J are when my friends would hang out on the weekends. I really enjoyed my Florida training trips for swim and water polo. I also had tons of laughs with my ROTC peers.” Once she graduates Kaitlyn has some big
plans. She’s been accepted to get her Masters in Science in experimental psychology. Along with that she will be graduating as a second lieutenant in the National Guard. Kaitlyn spoke on this saying, “I intend to continue to get my PhD in either experimental psychology, IO psychology or health psychology, and eventually, I plan to be a full-time research psychologist for the Army.”
As her senior year is ending, she is trying to finish strong and not get senioritis! Kaitlyn wanted to shout out some friends, mentors and colleagues here at W&J College, “My mentors are Dr. Bennett, Dr. Verdun, Dr. Bradshaw and Major Wade. Some friends who really guided me are my sister Kristin, Jocelynn DePaul and Noah Lampl. All of the people I have met have shaped me into who I am today.”
Courtesy gopresidents.com
Kaitlyn Ewing is a senior at Washington & Jefferson College planning on graduating in May.
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12 March 2021
Red & Black
Upcoming Career Service Events
Event:
Date: Time: Type:
Description:
Fridays Food for Thought: Career
Event:
Friday’s Food for Thought: Career
Pathways Lunch & Learn Series –
Pathways
Personal Branding: Market Yourself
Networking
Friday, March 12
Interviews
Lunch and
&
Learn
Series-
Informational
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Date:
Friday, March 26
Virtual – Go to the Handshake Events
Time:
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Calendar to access the Zoom link
Type:
Virtual – Go to the Handshake Events
Career Pathways presents Friday’s Food for Thought, a Lunch & Learn series designed
Calendar to access the Zoom link
Description:
Career Pathways presents Friday’s Food for
to strengthen your skills, benefit you as a
Thought, a Lunch & Learn series designed
current college student and into the years
to strengthen your skills, benefit you as a
after graduation! Join Jami and Rachel each
current college student and into the years
week to hear about a variety of relevant and
after graduation! Join Jami and Rachel each
useful topics!
week to hear about a variety of relevant and useful topics!
This week Jami will be presenting strategies to best market yourself! So, grab your lunch and “Zoom” in!
This week Rachel will be presenting networking strategies and interviewing! So, grab your lunch and “Zoom” in!
To access the Zoom link, go to the Handshake Events calendar!
To access the Zoom link, go to the Handshake Events calendar!
12 March 2021
Red & Black
Campus News 5
Follow @wandjcareerservices on Instagram The Career Services Office would like to know if you are following us on Instagram? If you are not, you definitely should be! Not only will you be kept well-informed about the events and programs we sponsor, but you will be entered into raffles all semester long. Names will be drawn from our followers for great prizes such as: a limited edition HydroFlask, Starbucks gift cards, W&J swag, and much more!
Coming Soon: New Red & Black Website! Over the fall semester, Raheem Clemons, our Website Design Manager, built a new website for the Red & Black. In the next month, we will transition away from Issuu (our current online platform) and launch the new website that will list our articles in a blogpost format. Until the new website’s launch, find the Red & Black in the major academic buildings on campus and digitially on Issuu (at https://issuu.com/rednblackwj/docs).
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12 March 2021
Red & Black
Speak Out! What is your favorite place to study on campus? “I like the library the best. I work there so I know all the quiet places, and I can get away and concentrate on my studies.” - Ben Fisher ‘21
“My favorite place to study is in Burnett. I like the long whiteboards. I have most of my classes there, so I am familar with the building. Also, if Im there during the day, I know where my professors’ offices are located.” - Brendan Tribeck ‘21
“I like to study in the Swanson Center. The layout is really cool. I know the building well, and it is usually pretty quite!” - Lindsey Diggan ‘23
Red & Black Established 1909 Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Campus News Editor Current Events Editor Diversity Editor Opinions Editor Sports Editor Social Media Manager Website Design Manager Distribution Manager Interim Faculty Advisor
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12 March 2021
Red & Black
Current Events 7
Current Events
J&J Releases New COVID-19 Vaccine
Courtesy CNBC
The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is the third approved COVID-19 vaccine.
Lekhya Kollu Red & Black Staff
On Mar. 1, 3.9 million doses of Johnson & Johnson’s newly authorized COVID vaccine began being shipped across the U.S. The J&J vaccine, which was authorized Feb. 27 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration,
represents the third vaccine approved for preventing COVID-19 in the United States. As with the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine distribution is being monitored by the federal government to ensure equitable allocation based on population. Unlike the PfizerBioNTech and Moderna vaccines, this new vaccine only requires a single dose and does not require ultracold storage before being administered. These lower requirements make this vaccine more accessible to people unable to return for second doses, and to community health centers that do not have the resources to refrigerate Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna
vaccines at their required temperatures. With a 66 percent efficacy rate in preventing moderate to severe cases of COVID-19, as determined in an international study, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine efficacy is lower than both the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna’s vaccines. More importantly, however, it is still effective in preventing hospitalization and death 28 days after it is administered. The new vaccine’s lower efficacy rate can also be explained by the fact that its clinical trials were conducted in regions where many were affected by the more contagious South African variant of COVID-19, which was not fully understood at the time. The 3.9 million doses now being distributed
represent Johnson & Johnson’s entire current inventory, but the company promises to make available 100 million shots by June, and up to a billion by the end of 2021. While 50 million Americans have now received at least one vaccine dose, COVID-19 cases in the U.S. seem to be leveling off at high numbers after weeks of declines. Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the CDC, continues to warn against rolling back public health guidelines, as a fourth surge is still a risk due to the more contagious COVID-19 variants now spreading through the U.S., such as the B.1.1.7 variant from the United Kingdom and the B.1.351 variant from South Africa.
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Red & Black
Allegheny Awarded Grant to Reduce Homelessness
Courtesy WPXI
Allegheny County plans to use the Continuum of Care Grant to provide permanent supportive housing, rapid rehousing and more.
Sofia Jenkins Red & Black Staff
This past week, Allegheny County was awarded a $21.8 million dollar grant to assist in the county’s efforts to reduce homelessness. This grant is named the Continuum of Care Grant (the ‘Grant’), and is awarded to a county in the United States every
year. The Grant is awarded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to the county that is recognized for exemplary efforts in reducing homelessness in their community. Allegheny County plans to use the Grant to fund 65 projects that will be organized by 20 different agencies in the area. The Grant this year was an increase of an additional $1 million dollars over the grant awarded last year. The agencies in Allegheny County are extremely grateful for this because they are allowed to exert control where each dollar is going to in their county. The Department of Human Services in Allegheny County will oversee the distribution as well as provide
fiscal and operational oversight for this major project. Incoming DHS Director Erin Dalton emphasized, “We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for acknowledging the success of our programs, and we are appreciative of our partner agencies who continually help us provide individuals and families with effective housing solutions.” The agencies which are working day in and day out to help reduce the homeless in Allegheny County are ecstatic as they see that the government is noticing and recognizing their homeless-reducing efforts and helping them achieve their goals. Allegheny County Executive, Rich Fitzgerald,
announced that the County was receiving the Grant along with the statement, “This award is a significant recognition of the County and its provider’s efforts to find solutions for the complex housing needs of our most vulnerable residents.” These various agencies plan to use the Grant to provide permanent supportive housing, rapid rehousing and assistance for other housing programs to include organizations that allocate the money to addressing specific streets in Allegheny County that have higher rates of homelessness. Overall, this is a wonderful award to Allegheny County that will provide a great boost to resolving homelessness efforts in the area.
Diversity 9
12 March 2021 Red & Black
Diversity
The Equality Act Advances to the Senate Dylan Bertovich Red & Black Staff
The Equality Act is an act that has been discussed for many years and has never successfully been passed. The act would ban discrimination against people based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It would also substantially expand the areas to which those discrimination protections apply. The Equality Act would amend the 1964 Civil Rights Act to explicitly prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The bill would also impact public businesses, such as the recently popular flower and cake shops, preventing discrimination in their forms. This bill under this capacity would limit the ability for any individual to claim that they had these rights under religious liberty. These areas of religious liberty implications have been a concern to many representatives and senators, who support those areas. Groups including the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Orthodox Jews and Seventh-day Adventists, among others, say it could halt free and reduced-cost lunches for children across the country who attend single-gender parochial schools.
And, they insist it could also require church community halls to rent space for LGBTQ ceremonies, and threaten federal security grants for synagogues and mosques facing violence. While this has been a concern, there has been a dramatic uptick in anti-transgender messaging to prevent the passage of the bill. Rep. Newman stated, “I knew from that day on, my daughter would be
living in a nation where in most of its states, she could be discriminated against merely because of who she is. And yet, it was still the happiest day of my life, and my daughter has found her authentic self. And as any mother would, I swore that I would fight to ensure this country changes for the better.” This led to a cross hall fight with Rep. Taylor-Greene, who does not
support transgender youth. Greene responded to Newman placing a transgender flag on her door with placing a vile sign on her wall, demeaning transgender youth. This has been a popular topic on Fox News and other right-wing news platforms that despise equality. This should not prevent the Senate and House from passing the act and guaranteeing rights for all.
Courtesy Devils Lake Journal
The Equality Act passed the House in a vote of 224-206, with every Democrat supporting the measure joined by the support of three GOP lawmakers.
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Red & Black
12 March 2021
Vagasil: Corporate Greed and Purity Myths Akansha Das Red & Black Staff
In early Feb., feminine hygiene brand “Vagasil” released a new vulvacleansing line tailored to teens called “OMV!” which was meant to be a play on “OMG!” The line has vanilla and clementine-scented products such as personal wipes, a wash and an antiitch cream that is meant to “cleanse the vulva.” The irony and the cause for much backlash among OBGYNs around the country, notably Dr. Staci Tanouye, Dr. Jen Gunter, Dr. Jennifer Lincoln and Dr. Danielle Jones is that the vagina is selfcleaning and nothing but soap (at that too – hypoallergenic soap) is needed to best clean the vulva according to Dr. Charvone Momon-Nelson at UPMC in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Yet, OMV! Remains a product that Vagasil sells, representing a perfect example of corporate influences preying on youth by affecting their body image with mythical claims. The marketing techniques that Vagasil uses are directly predatory for children. Gunter, author of The Vagina Bible and an OBGYN herself, says that the product claims to make the vulva “pure, clean, fresh and natural” and therefore plays into purity culture and acts as if vulvas and vaginas are dirty when really the vagina is self-cleaning thanks to the Lactobacillus bacteria and other vaginal flora. The company is also able to hide behind phrasing like “safe and were tested rigorously” and “gynecologist-
tested” in order to further profits. In actuality, safe does not indicate necessity and gynecologisttested doesn’t mean gynecologistrecommended. In using language like “glowing-up” and adapting “OMG,” Vagasil is intending to target teens that are especially vulnerable and can be lured into thinking they need to be dependent on these products their whole lives. Tanouye, a gynecologist in Florida, put it best. “How many times have we talked about how this industry preys on the insecurities of women? ... And now we are directly targeting teens to tell them that they’re dirty.” Yet beyond the corporate interests at play, there are major health concerns,
especially for more marginalized individuals. When Vagasil’s products are sold at drug stores in low-income communities, they target individuals who may not be aware of the needs of the vagina and may not have the time to seek out their physician for a vaginal health concern, let alone accurate information about their vaginal and gynecological health. The unfortunate part is this simply creates a cycle of ill health. Gunter states that introducing new chemicals – even water as used with douching – can make one susceptible to STDs, UTIs and bacterial infections can cause changes in vaginal pH which can trigger a whole host of other problems.
Many of these products that Vagasil touts have chemicals that can inflame the vulva region and worsen the very same problem customers set out to solve. As simple as the message should be about Vagasil’s OMV!, it has left patients with false notions about what their vaginal health requires. Gynecologist Dr. Irobunda says over 30 percent of the patients she sees will use products from brands Vagasil or Summer’s Eve. Marginalized communities and teens are especially vulnerable to the dual trouble of corporate interests and medical myths that Vagasil represents, and it’s time this be addressed and rectified.
Courtesy iSpot.tv
Vagasil’s marketing towards teens is harmful to children and makes false claims, ignoring information known by healthcare workers.
12 March 2021
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Red & Black
American Imperialism: The Forever Wars Amanda Fitzpatrick Red & Black Editor
President Biden inherited the forever war and made the campaign promise to the American people that this would end. However, following the latest Syrian airstrike, the question remains if he will give it away. On Feb. 25, the United States carried out airstrikes in eastern Syria against buildings belonging to what the Pentagon reported to be Iranbacked militias responsible for recent attacks against American and allied personnel in Iraq. Biden authorized these strikes in response to the rocketing Iraq and the described threats to American and coalition personnel there, blaming a deadly Feb. 15 rocket attack. Because of the presence of ci-
vilians, specifically a woman and children being spotted in the area, Biden called off an airstrike against a second target in Syria last week. Why are we striking Syria when the original attack occurred in Iraq? What really is an Iranian-backed militia? If this Iranian-backed militia is really a threat, can we ensure we hit the Iranian-backed militia, and not innocent civilians? The U.S. government has asked us to accept that they know the answers. However, they evidently often do not. Little is even known about the group and whether its truly backed by Iran or if it is connected to the organizations that used the facilities that the U.S. bombed. In fact, the New York Times reported that “Some American officials contend that the group is merely a front for one of the better-known Shia militias.” Perhaps more concerning is that the president alone has the power to make these violent decisions without input from
our other branches of government, let alone without true input or understanding of the very people who put the president in that position of power. For a president who once insisted on the end of forever wars, Biden must consider the consequences of his actions and the reality of American imperialism in the Middle East. To make this situation more complex, U.S. forces train Iraq’s formal military and counterterrorism units. Ironically enough, these very individuals receiving U.S. training fight alongside the very militias the U.S. just bombed. How can we say we are defending one part of our coalition by bombing another portion of it, albeit an unacknowledged portion? In addition to the twisted logic of continued Middle East intervention, NATO has deployed thousands more soldiers to Iraq. Despite Biden’s promise on the campaign trail, the American military footprint in the Middle
Courtesy WIO News
President Biden inherited America’s “forever wars” in the Middle East, but his recent air strike in Syria conflicts with his campaign promises.
East is not decreasing. This strike was ultimately a violation of Syria as a sovereign nation, and only permissible by the U.S. due to the now 20-year-old, post-9/11 Authorization for the Use of Military Force. Continued airstrikes are a constant reminder to Middle East civilians of the forever war, which has been continued by the presidential administrations of both parties. While airstrikes are an apparent expression of American imperialism, U.S. counterterrorism operations have taken place in 85 countries in the past three years. Though the Biden administration deserves credit for announcing its decrease in support for Saudi Arabia’s genocidal war in Yemen, it is unclear how or what kind of assistance the U.S. will continue to offer Saudi Arabia going forward. Not to mention, the U.S. has continued to provide assistance and aid to Israel despite the continued occupation of Palestinian territories that fly in the face of United Nations resolutions deeming that Israel’s settlement activity is a violation of international law. However, United Nations resolutions are merely a slap on the wrist with continued U.S. support. Ultimately, if Biden truly wishes to end forever wars, some trust must be placed back in the hands of the people of the Middle East and American imperialist measures must be withdrawn. In this way, imperialism and racism go hand in hand. Both stemming from the same political body and same political order, racism and imperialism stand in the principle of American superiority and this ideology must end to move forward in combatting racism both at home and abroad. Continued airstrikes, without congressional approval or United Nations support, act as a display of power and disregard for Middle Eastern life and sovereignty.
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Red & Black
12 March 2021
Book Spotlight: “We Should All Be Feminists” Akansha Das Red & Black Staff
Chimamanda Adichie’s 2014 short story, “We Should All Be Feminists,” based on her Ted Talk of the same name goes deeper than diversity on its book cover in discussing feminism and gender equality. Serving essentially as an Intro to Feminism, the 50-page novel touches on purity myths, legitimizing feminine qualities, males in feminist conversations, victim blaming, intersectional feminism and the importance of representation. As much as I enjoyed reading and learning about intersectional lenses through the novel, I found myself longing for more, particularly including LGBTQ+ people in the conversation and providing more comprehensive refutations. For starters, one should be aware that much of the book is composed of personal anecdotes from Adichie rather than broad evidence-based claims. Nevertheless, she raises some incredibly interesting questions—one of them being why we prop up the egos of males so incredibly high. Adichie discusses the way that expressing and pushing men to exhibit a toxic level of traditionally defined masculinity leads to a cycle of gender inequality in which any perceived threat to this ego leaves them incredibly sensitive and hurt and requires that women constantly be in subservience to men running in a consistent hamster wheel trying to please them. This is just one of the many ways Adichie emphasizes why men
be included in feminist conversations echoing sentiments that everyone is disadvantaged by gender inequality. Yet, I wish Adichie had gone one step further to include LGBTQ+ individuals in this conversation as they are so often left out of mainstream conversations. Discussing the ways trans women must also be considered women and how valid nonbinary individuals are along with the complexities of gender identity could have made a powerful impact on her readers given the wide platform—especially among older readers—that Adichie has. Adichie also raises fair critiques of the mainstream feminist movement in a poignant anecdote about the predicament she felt when not identifying with the concerns of many White feminists, and yet not being able to call herself an African feminist as this “didn’t exist” according to her friends.
Discussing the amount of pressure on Nigerian women to find a husband (discussing how a friend was treated with more respect at work if she wore a wedding ring) was one of the many ways Adichie expanded the conversation of intersectional feminism and discussed the dual pressures Nigerian women face. Finally, one of most bold and yet important parts of the book was Adichie’s discussion of purity myths and women’s sexuality. Women’s health and sexuality are so heavily stigmatized and it’s often inconceivable that sexual health is a discussion for women as well and pleasure is a legitimate right. In Adichie words, “We teach girls shame. Close your legs. Cover yourself. We make them feel as though by being born female, they are already guilty of something.” When it comes
to sex work, Adichie explains how it’s unfair to demonize sex workers who are simply responding to a demand in society. As the rights of sex workers rightfully become part of the conversation, it’s important to focus on this distinction. Adichie’s novel “We Should All Be Feminists’’ makes for a powerful and quick read. I particularly enjoyed its beautiful incorporation of fiery quotes like “The male ‘gaze’ as a shaper of my life’s choices is largely incidental.” However, I am wary of over-romanticizing any work of art. While Adichie’s “We Should All Be Feminists” is incredibly important in incorporating diverse perspectives, including ALL genders from across the spectrum, along with elaborating on the refutations she includes for skeptics of feminism, would have strengthened the power of her book.
Courtesy Womens Republic
“We Should All Be Feminists” is a book-length essay by the Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
12 March 2021
opinions Red & Black
Opinions 13
Jeep Takes Advantage of the Cherokee Nation Paul Collier Red & Black Editor
Following the removal of the Indian mascot from Cleveland’s MLB team and the Redskin mascot from Washington DC’s NFL team, the pressure put on brands profiting from native likeness to end their problematic representations has increased. As such, Cherokee Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. recently asked Jeep to end the use of the Cherokee name, citing that they did so without permission and the commercialization of the Cherokee people is a problematic representation. The Jeep brand responded that their vehicle names have been chosen to represent Native Americans for their
“nobility, prowess and pride” (NYT). The response of Jeep is one of the worst examples of placing monetary interest over actual dialogue. While Jeep claims dialogue is open and their goal is respect, they never asked for permission to use the Cherokee name. This means they’re profiting from a key part of the identity of different humans, while also not giving any of the money back to the Cherokee people even though these people are the reason Jeep can use this name at all. While money is not forgiveness for problematic representation, it’s especially insulting that they would not consider the Cherokee people when appropriating their name for a brand label. Jeep’s representation of Cherokee people is equally problematic, as it pushes an antiquated and onedimensional view of the Native Americans as noble and prideful people. They can claim this is a good
view, exemplifying their honor, but it actually diminishes them into a legend of the past that fought off expanding colonialists as long as they could before finally being destroyed, going down fighting. This view, however, is far from correct: though diminished by American manifest imperialism, these populations are still alive and well, and represent actual people, not caricatures of honor that the settlers built up in their minds to further congratulate themselves after they destroyed them. This problematic representation of Native Americans must end. Consumers must boycott corporations that refuse to remove Native American caricatures from their products, and pressure must be put on government officials to end the representation of Native Americans without agreement from the existing nations and financial compensation. If products continue to show problematic caricatures of
E ditorial P olicy The Red & Black is the official, registered student-produced newspaper of Washington & Jefferson College. It is published Fridays with the exception of exams and break periods. Editorials are based upon the opinion of the respective writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper, the
College or its students, faculty, or administration. The Red & Black welcomes all reader contributions, but reserves the right to reject letters of pure promotional nature, as well as letters which do not meet its standard of integrity, accuracy and decency. The Red & Black also reserves the right to edit submissions.
Native Americans, they will continue to be a disrespected people by an America that has already destroyed their original existence.
Courtesy The Guardian
Chuck Hoskin Jr. calls for the end of Jeep’s Cherokee branding.
C ontac t Letters are due on the Monday before publication and may not exceed 600 words. All letters must include the author’s name, campus box and telephone number. Names may be withheld upon request under certain conditions on rare occasions. All letters may be submitted to redandblackstaff@jay. washjeff.edu.
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14 Opinions
12 March 2021 Red & Black
India’s Government Creates Farming Monopolies
Courtesy La Via Campesina
Indian Farmers protest over governmental, economic and social injustices.
Akansha Das Red & Black Staff
In late November of 2020, farmers (especially in the Northern Indian regions of Punjab and Haryana) began protesting the Indian government in response to three bills (The Farmers Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, The Farmers’ Produce Trade & Commerce Act and The Essential Commodities Act) that are beginning to erode the mutualistic relationship between farmers and the government. Since the Green Revolution in the 1960s, Indian farmers have enjoyed the right to primarily use government-run wholesale markets, but the new laws are beginning to erode this structure, allowing farmers to use online markets, and creating more competition between vendors.
As many farmers do not have deep knowledge of selling tactics for their crops, the APMCs (a type of government-run market) provided a monopoly that reduced the burden on farmers. While the intention of the laws might have been well-meaning, in actuality, they force farmers to adjust to a system they have no comfort navigating and destabilize the markets, allowing big corporations like Ambani and Adani to drive down prices. At a time when there is an epidemic of suicide among farmers and corporate influences are beginning to dominate the country, I wonder how much the protests are due to specific concerns and how much is deep-rooted frustration from gradual losses and increasing disenfranchisement since the 1960s. The rising mechanization and climate change results that increase soil salinity, pH and erosion have made it difficult for Indian farmers to produce high crop yields. Adding to
that the fact that most farmers don’t receive subsidies for electricity and or irrigation from wells and the fact that only 22 crops (the ones deemed “essential” for diet by the Indian government) are subsidized makes the dissatisfaction leading to mass protests understandable. Underlying this complex web are also broader issues about the Indian government’s use of brutality. At least 147 farmers have died during the protest from excessive force from law enforcement, suicide, cold weather and accidents according to CNN. When protests first began, police firing, tear gas and water cannons were often used to control the upwards of 100,000 protestors. The current prime minister (Narendra Modi) and his party (the Bharatiya Janata Party or BJP) have received backlash from 16 different political parties for their use of force. Because of this, many internationally recognized figures such as Meena Harris, Greta Thunberg and Rihanna
have drawn attention to the protests via social media but have received criticism from much of India’s upper class for “meddling in Indian affair” and from the farmers themselves who feel that attention is being drawn away from their specific frustrations and concerns. While external attention to the issue has been posed as a negative thing by many Indians, I argue that this attention is a positive and muchneeded thing. Providing a spotlight on the authoritarianism happening in a country illuminates not only the fallacies of the government in regards to its handling of citizens, but also for not handling the issues the being protested in the first place. Furthermore, such international attention poses international pressure for change and amplification of the farmer’s voices, so there is no reason that a spotlight on government brutality and working-class concerns be mutually exclusive.
12 March 2021
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Opinions 15
School Closings Threaten Students’ Mental Health Paul Collier Red & Black Editor
In Oct. 2020, researchers warned that continued social isolation could have a negative impact on mental health, leading to a wave of drug usage and depression after the virus has ended. Sadly, this increase in numbers relating to an incoming mental health crisis has already begun, so we are out of time on waiting for schools to reopen. Despite teachers’ unions fighting for schools to remain entirely virtual after teachers caught cases of COVID-19 at work, the Jan. reopening of Nev.’s Clark County School District was a major indicator that this model is no longer working. This is because from March 16 to Jan. 14, 19 children had committed suicide. There were nine total suicides the year prior, meaning the number has more than doubled as of two months ago. This includes over 4,300 virtually conducted wellness checks and 30 calls to the suicide hotline. Meanwhile, grades have suffered as 90.4 percent of schools have had a higher occurrence of F’s, and 77.2 percent of schools have had a higher occurrence of D’s. If the personal anecdotes of students haven’t made it clear, the numbers do: it’s harder to learn online for a plethora of reasons, and students aren’t mentally or emotionally handling the social isolation well. It’s important to note that, according to the CDC, the spread of COVID-19
seen in offices and long-term care facilities has not been seen in schools. In fact, there is little to no evidence schools are contributing to community spread, and the CDC has stated that due to low spread, if masks are worn and social distancing is conducted in the building, schools should be the first places to reopen, and vaccines are not mandatory for doing as such. Biden’s directive for schools to reopen five days a week is a good one. States should be putting teachers on priority lists for receiving the vaccine to further protect against school transmission and increase herd immunity. However, many teachers’ unions still oppose Biden’s efforts. It is noble that unions are fighting so hard to protect teachers, but there’s a slight problem: they’re endangering children and not following the science. The numbers make it clear. There is little benefit in terms of safety and a horrible detriment to mental health in keeping schools closed. Teachers’ unions are currently fighting from a position of fear that, despite the dangers of the virus, the numbers say is illogical. It’s endangering the lives of students from far more than the virus, for reasons that can implant themself in the psyche and be much longer lasting than COVID-19. I have no desire to put teachers in unnecessary danger, but in this case, the CDC has said the danger is minimal. Meanwhile, isolation is beginning to reveal the full extent of its danger for children. Of course, this does not mean to stop wearing masks and being vigilant. It does mean Biden is right that schools need to be reopened, and there is no reason to keep waiting.
Courtesy The Press-Enterprise
Riverside County, Cal. teachers receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
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12 march 2021
Lady Gaga’s Dogs Demand Misplaced Attention Paul Collier Red & Black Staff
Victims of an exceptionally bizarre crime, Lady Gaga’s dogs were kidnapped by an armed robber after the dog walker was shot. Luckily, he ended up alright and the dogs have been safely returned to Lady Gaga after being identified by a woman whose name is still being kept secret as the investigation is ongoing. This is one of the oddest crimes that has occurred because of the nature of the dognapping and because they’re a celebrity’s dogs, but I’m left wondering:
why do I really care? Sure, French Bulldogs are adorable and Lady Gaga has good music. But at the end of the day, in a world where horrible crimes and atrocities are committed daily, it’s also odd so much attention has been given to the dogs. They were returned. The walker is safe. Lady Gaga is safe. The LAPD is devoting time and resources to finding who took the dogs. Meanwhile, more important issues of racism and inequality occur without stories. LA County is in the middle of a homelessness crisis. New directives are being issued about COVID-19 and its relief daily. Simply, it makes no sense that any time at all has been given to Lady Gaga’s dogs, and there isn’t a benevolent reason that they
have received so much attention. The first reason I could think we care is that Gaga is a celebrity, and it’s odd to see something traumatizing happen to a celebrity. But when we glorify their lives over ours, and therefore focus our attention on their lives when they go bad, we end up helping to normalize the more common sufferings of people with less money and ability to survive safely every day. The same applies with the near lightheartedness of this story distracting from heavier news. What place are we in to allow ourselves to be distracted? There is work to be done and knowledge to be gained about injustices people face, so running a story about dogs is wasting space that could be given to continually
suffering minority people that need our attention. And in terms of animal cruelty, there are still animals abused and killed every day that do not get the full attention they deserve, and an environmental crisis destroying their habitats. And sure, we already know all of this. But that doesn’t mean we don’t have to use space to continue to educate ourselves or amplify the voice of another suffering person over that of returned dogs. I’m happy theat Gaga’s dogs were returned and are okay, like I would be for anyone that experienced this. But it’s important to always remain vigilant to the fact that, in terms of what we face every day, this is a benign crime. And there are more important matters to discuss.
Courtesy CNN
Lady Gaga poses with her french bulldogs in a photo circulated to help find them after being stolen.
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Pittsburgh Teams Welcome Back Fans Sofia Jenkins Red & Black Staff
Mar. 2 marked a big step to a return of normalcy for the residents of the Pittsburgh area—the Pittsburgh Penguins allowed 2,800 fans back to PPG Paints Arena for the first time since Mar. 8, 2020. This was allowed as a result of Governor Wolf ’s Executive Order issued on Mar. 1, 2021 which lifted Covid-19 related out of state travel restrictions and also revised the gathering restrictions in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Indoor events are allowed 15 percent of maximum occupancy of the venue, provided that attendees can maintain six feet of physical distance between themselves. Outdoor events are allowed 20 percent of maximum occupancy of the venue, provided the same social distancing measures are followed. “It is a great day for hockey, indeed, and we are very excited for our fans,” said David Morehouse, president and CEO of the Penguins. For the remaining 20 home games, no more than 2,800 fans will be allowed to attend Penguins games. Season ticket holders will be given priority to purchase
tickets before they are offered to the general public. In PPG Paints Arena, pods will be of 2 to 4 seats and will be spaced out across the arena to comply with social distancing requirements. Not only have the Penguins allowed fans to start attending games in-person again, the Pirates have recently stated that they will also be allowing fans to attend their games in-person again. The team will announce specific details on the safety precautions they will be taking and will be announcing ticket availability as we get closer to the Pirates home opener on Apr. 8, 2021. “Even though our capacity will be limited, Opening Day 2021 will truly be like no other. It will be much more than a game. It will mark a significant step in overcoming this pandemic. “We cannot wait to open PNC Park and host our fans for a summer-long celebration of reconnecting with family and friends around Pirates baseball,” the team said in a statement. There will be more information to come from the MLB and the Pirates specifically, but the team and executives are hopeful that they can maintain a safe respite for fans to enjoy the game of baseball. Both teams are very excited to have their fans back and have issued statements thanking Governor Wolf and expressing relief that, albeit in small numbers, fans will once again be able to cheer on their teams in person.
COVID-19
Courtesy CBS Pittsburgh
Gov. Wolf’s Mar. 1 Executive Order eased COVID-19 gathering restrictions.
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12 March 2021
NBA Mid-Season Recap
Courtesy CNN
Team LeBron beats Team Durant 170-150 in the NBA All-Star game.
John Kiebler Red & Black Staff
Sunday, Mar. 7, the NBA held their annual all-star game, signifying the half-way point of the season. This year marked the 4th year that the league used the new All Star Game format,
where two captains draft the player who were chosen to compete in the game. This year, Team LeBron, featuring stars like Giannis Antetokoumpo, Steph Curry, and more, defeated Team Durant 170-150 with Bucks forward Antetokounmpo winning MVP honors. The second half of this season should be quite interesting. In a surprising first half, the Philadelphia 76ers and Utah Jazz represent the 1 seeds, with teams like the Phoenix
Suns, New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls, and Portland Trail Blazers exceeding expectations. Meanwhile, teams like the Dallas Mavericks, New Orleans Pelicans, Boston Celtics and Miami Heat are doing much worse than anticipated. Like the standings, the award winners will likely come down to the last few games. Young guards like Trae Young, Luka Doncic and Jayson Tatum started the season with the best odds to win MVP. However, it has been the
big men this season, particularly Sixers C Joel Embiid and Nuggets C Nikola Jokic, who are front runners to win the award. Most Improved Player honors is currently favoring Rockets forward Christian Wood. Although, players like Jerami Grant and most notably Mikal Bridges are also in the conversation. With games resuming this Wednesday, Mar. 10, it’ll be interesting to see if this crazy, COVID-inflicted season will get any crazier.
12 March 2021
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PAC Accomplishments
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12 March 2021
Last Week’s Scores March 7 Softball Double Header at Bethany: 1-8 L & 13-3 W
March 9 Softball Double Header vs. Franciscan: 5-2 W & 6-0 W
March 10 Men’s Basketball vs. Thiel: 83-74 W
This Weekend
Courtesy GoPresidents.com
March 13 Women’s Soccer at Westminster: 1:00 PM Women’s Lacrosse vs. Waynesburg: 1:00 PM Men’s Lacrosse at Grove City: 1:00 PM Men’s Soccer at Westminster: 4:30 PM Softball Double Header vs. Chatham: 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM Baseball at Bethany: 3:30 PM Men’s Soccer at Westminster: 4:30 PM
March 14 Baseball Double Header vs. Bethany: 1:00 PM & 3:30 PM Women’s Tennis at Westminster: 1:00 PM Men’s Tennis at Westminster: 1:00 PM Courtesy GoPresidents.com