Red & Black
The Free
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 F e b ru a ry 1 9 , 2 0 2 2
WHAT’S IN THIS WEEK’S PAPER... CAMPUS NEWS 2022 Summer Magellan Updates........1-3 Spring 2022 Involvement Expo............. 3 Professor Alamilla’s Art Show................. 4
CURRENT EVENTS “We don’t talk about Bruno” topping US Charts!........................................................... 6 Supeme Court Justice Election............ 7 Joni Mitchell Joins Spotify protests.... 8 Mindfullness in Athletics........................ 9 BA2 Covid Variant...................................... 10
DIVERSITY
How Black History Month Started....... 12 Tammy Baldwin & the LGBTQ+............ 13 The Meaning Behind MLK Day............. 14
SPORTS W&J Students Respond to Lack of Coaching Diversity in Football............. 16 Figure Skater Falls at Olympics............ 17
OPINIONS The Paradox of College..................... 18-19
2022 Magellan Extended to Senior Students PAGE I-III
WJREDANDBLACK.COM
Courtesy Washington & Jefferson College
1 CAMPUS NEWS
Campus News Red & Black
19 February 2022
2022 Magellan Extended to Senior Students Kathryn Hahn Staff Writer & Manager
For many students, one of the major components of the expected college experience at W&J is the opportunity to receive Magellan funding, a travel program that the Covid-19 pandemic temporarily halted. Yet, concerns have been raised about whether the reimplementation of Magellan funding for seniors with canceled projects is actually feasible, or if it’s more of a farce. “W&J students including myself spent weeks, even months, preparing and researching for their Magellan projects (a main reason I came to W&J) in 2019,” Arabella Thompson, a senior with a previously funded Magellan explained. “Now that Magellan’s are being accepted this year, previously awarded students like myself are being denied what we were already promised and earned, while our money is sitting in a fund waiting to be rightfully distributed to us.” Thompson is referring to the opportunity for students to travel internationally, as their previously approved, pre-pandemic applications permitted. However, limits on International Magellan funding to level I and II countries eliminate all
Courtesy Emilija Manevska, Getty Images
In the age of the Covid-19 asks, vaccines, negative tests, and all sorts of precautions have become the new norm for travel
previously approved applications. While first and second-year students may see expanded travel options as restrictions ease further, many juniors and seniors are faced with a loss of vital cultural experience that the College emphasizes. Numerous graduating seniors like Thompson also presented similar complaints. In response, Vivienne Felix - Associate Dean of Students & Director of the Center for Professional Pathways at W&J, as well as the 2022 Magellan advisor - extended an invitation via email to discuss options for the 2022 Magellan during an advising meeting. The email stated that the intent of the meeting, which
took place on December 8, 2021, was to “[reshape] previously funded Magellan Projects to meet the realities of the current Covid-19 environment and share your learning, if re-awarded, with the W&J community.” The meeting determined that senior students could reapply for the Magellan, with adjustments to fit projects within the newly determined Covid-19 travel considerations. Adhering to the new adjustments does not guarantee funding to students, only reconsideration. However, Thompson, who had attended that meeting, explained in electronic correspondence to other senior students that there was a “lack of
compromising/active listening” on behalf of the administration, and the students did not feel as the new circumstances accurately encompassed student desires or concerns. “Students were given an opportunity to voice their thoughts, which aligned with our commitment to aggressively move forward to support modified Magellan Project proposals for eligible members of the class of 2022, and offer the Magellan opportunity to first-year, sophomore, and junior-year students,” Felix explained in response to student concerns. Story continues on pg 2
19 February 2022
Red & Black
CAMPUS NEWS 2
2022 Magellan Extended to Senior Students
Courtesy Washington & Jefferson College
Washington & Jefferson College’s official Magellan Project seal.
The new application policies for 2022 Magellan projects do not significantly differ from the previous requirements. International travel has always been limited to countries with a level I or II travel advisory by the US Department of State, the current application includes all traditional components, and the process timeline is following its usual schedule. The main difference in the process is that the application now requires a “Covid narrative,” which includes an overview of travel advisories, personal health, and safety protocols, a vaccination record or approved exemption, and a backup plan, lest travel advisories and restrictions change. However, these policies and new travel conversations raise noteworthy considerations for students. The possibility of international travel is slim to none. As of February 10th - six days before applications were due - only two countries are listed with a level two travel advisory by the US Department of State. On the day applications were due, February 15th, only three countries were
within the accepted advisory level. No country is listed as a level one, which nearly removes opportunities for international travel. Given the limitations with international travel, previously funded applications fall outside of all travel advisory limits and will no longer be considered unless redesigned for a domestic location. Dr. Felix explained that the U.S. Department of State was elected as the main resource for these restrictions as its travel advisories provide “a consistent tool to inform W&J’s assessment of health and safety risks outside the U.S.” “This resource is broadly used to help travelers remain safe, and collaborate with experts to consider many factors, such as crime, terrorist activity, civil unrest, health, natural disaster/weather, and current events like the impact of COVID-19, in determining Travel Advisories,” Dr. Felix said in electronic correspondence. Students pointed out that traveling within the US is often less safe than traveling abroad. Despite the CDC’s classification of the US as a safety level
four, domestic travel is still deemed acceptable compared to travel to other countries with the same restrictions, safety standards, vaccination rates, and infection rates. Upon original request, Dr. Felix and Rachel Stalker, the Assistant Director of Career Pathways and a Magellan Advisor, did not offer a response to this concern. Additionally, as many students have brought to the attention of the administration, there are international students currently studying on campus here at W&J from the same countries that students are not allowed to request placement in. In response to these questions about studying abroad, Dr. Felix highlighted that the Office of Study Abroad is an entirely separate entity from the department that oversees Magellan funding. Sara Kochuba, the Director of the Office of Study Abroad, did not comment on these different policies between Magellan and Study Abroad travel restrictions. “There were students who did not get to have the experience they had planned for,” Kochuba said.
“
This was not the outcome that any of us wanted, but it is one that prioritized safety.” - Sara Kochuba, Director of the Office of Study Abroad
At the same time, Dr. Felix was able to clarify that the decision to allow travel domestically was made under the perspective of W&J’s position as a US-based institution. With this in mind, Dr. Felix is highlighting that, although the US is considered a level four in Covid safety, W&J cannot prevent students from attending. Likewise, the administration cannot prevent international students from
attending if they are enrolled at W&J, or if their credit-bearing institution is permitting their travel abroad. Additionally, Dr. Felix pointed out that all travel decisions are made largely in collaboration with academic affairs. Previous Magellan applications provided the opportunity to appeal for travel that was outside the accepted safety level, under the condition that students provided proof of a contingency and safety plan, along with an explanation of the project’s dependency on the location. Neither Stalker nor Dr. Felix responded to questions regarding the potential for a similar policy in 2022. Importantly, many other countries are banning travel from the United States – presenting further complications to an already heady situation. Even if students were permitted to reapply with original travel requests, there is a possibility that they would be denied by foreign and global Covid-19 safety guidelines. However, the question remains - if these countries are restricting travel from the US, what posits domestic travel as safer than all international travel? Many students also expressed frustration that concerns and opinions they presented to administration were not considered, particularly during the Magellan advisory meeting in December. “The meeting felt counterproductive - like we were given a sense of hope but then immediately invalidated by talking about ‘grief and losing things during covid’ immediately following our Magellan discussion,” Sonnet explained. “[it] was a screaming match between angry students and deans who seemed like they didn’t care to hear our opinions.”
3 CAMPUS NEWs 2022 Magellan Extended to Senior Students Back in December, students collectively began a petition on the grounds of fighting back against the red tape put in place by the Magellan community. The petition highlighted concern over the unadjusted use of the US State Department’s travel advisories. It points out that the US
Red & Black
has “nearly 10 times more covid cases than most of the level 3 or 4 countries,” yet domestic travel is not limited. The petition, which now has over 100 signatures, called for the administration to acknowledge their concerns: “The students would like for the college to keep their promise by giving these students the money that they legally own (without having to reapply for what is rightfully theirs), as well as have the ability to sign a waiver that allows them to travel to any country of their choosing at their own risk.” As of this reporting, the petition
has yet to receive a response from the Magellan staff or the administration. Thompson said she sent a formal email to the board of trustees in an attempt to bring light to student concerns and frustrations. Thompson has not received a response from the board. Dr. Felix helped to clarify that there is no direct board of advisors who worked to make decisions regarding the travel restrictions. However, original requests from students regarding the contact information of administrators and faculty directly
19 February 2022 involved in the decision were not provided. “If students have more questions about the Magellan Project or the Magellan Franklin Award, they should email professionalpathways@washjeff. edu,” Dr. Felix said. The Red & Black Campus Newspaper is currently looking to write a follow-up article in its February 25th publication that will aim to collect various student voices. Please contact the staff at redandblackstaff@washjeff.edu if you are willing to be interviewed.
Student Involvement Expo - Spring 2022 Akansha Das, Red & Black Managing Editor
On Tuesday, February 8, the Spring Student Involvement Expo occurred in the Media Room and Ski Lodge. From Sports tables like Intramural Volleyball Club and Cheerleading to academic clubs like Neuroscience Club to cultural student organizations like Indian Student Association (ISA) and Latinx Club, it was a showcase of the variety of student clubs and organizations that W&J had to offer! One of the cornerstones of small, liberal arts institutions like W&J are the variety of interdisciplinary interests and majors’ students hold allowing them to connect concepts and ideas across subjects and harness critical thinking skills they may not be able to explore in targeted degree programs. The variety of clubs that W&J offers are yet another way for students to explore interests they have or serve as a means of expressing
themselves in ways they may not be able to do effectively in the classroom. Sean Adamski’24, a member of Men’s Club Volleyball, commented that the expo was a great time to meet potential volleyball recruits and advertise their new club volleyball merchandise. However, there were some complaints among the student body. While there was appreciation for the arrangement, some wished social media pages and organizers would have been able to promote the expo to a larger audience or on greater platforms with a W&J sophomore saying they were unaware that the expo was happening until after the fact. Art major Alyssa Beckett’24 echoed desires for more and earlier advertising about this prime opportunity for networking with clubs as she was eager to learn more about activities on campus. Given that Beckett was remote her entire freshman year, the expo was a key time for her and many other virtual students to learn about campus opportunities. For members of student executive boards, the student involvement expo is a key opportunity to advertise and interact 1-on-1 with students and
Courtesy Akansha Das
The Red & Black Student Newspaper was in attendance at the Spring 2022 Involvement Expo!
deliver their “elevator pitch.” For students, the allure of the Involvement Expo includes not only the ability to join student organizations and learn about opportunities that interest them, but also collecting souvenirs and memorabilia from clubs ranging from stickers and pins to candy. The
creative ways student organizations choose to auction these items, from the Theatre Club’s creative “musical quote recognition” game to ISA’s interactive trivia game is another way to attract members and add some enjoyment to their booth and the event.
19 February 2022
Red & Black
CAMPUS NEWS 4
Come to Professor Alamilla’s Art Show!
Courtesy Washington & Jefferson College
Carolina Alamilla, visiting professor of art at W&J, adds some final touches to the installation of her Art exhibit in the Olin Art Gallery.
Alyssa Beckett Red & Black Contributor & Akansha Das Managing Editor
The Olin Art gallery is showing our very own professor Carolina Alamilla. She is a visiting assistant professor of the Olin art department here at Washington & Jefferson College. Her artwork in the Gallery is called “Space Swim”. To bring this idea to life she uses bright and playful colors to fill the space. Her art shows use objects that no longer have a function. She uses these objects to convey her message thought her art. The talk and show were supposed to be on February 4 but have been moved to February 25. This was due to the bad whether we had on that day. The show will be held in the Olin art gallery from 6:00- 7:30. The Artist talks
begin at 6:30 there will be some snacks and drink all of which is free. During the show, you may ask questions take pictures and maybe even find out something you did not know about Olin and its art department! So come down to the Olin Art Gallery see her amazing art and here her talk. W&J’s art shows are generally free for all W&J students, in contrast to the entrance fees that some outside and other professional art galleries may have. This is a somewhat rare opportunity for W&J students and staff to enjoy art from a member of our own community and is an extremely accessible way to enjoy art and interact with others interested in abstract and artistic concepts. Given the interdisciplinary mindset W&J fosters in the classroom, this is a great way to expand our thinking and find connections between Alamilla’s art and our own majors, experiences, and ways of thinking.
Courtesy Washington & Jefferson College
One of the features of professor Alamilla’s February exhibit, titled “Space Swim”
5 Campus news
Red & Black
19 February 2022
Career Pathways Event Alert!
Prudential Information Table Time & Location: Thursday, March 10, 2022 11:00 am - 2:00 pm The Commons Lobby
Description: Stop by The Commons Lobby from 11am-2pm on March 10 to network with W&J alum, Bryan Pirosko ‘02, Regional Director at Prudential. For more information visit their website: https://www.prudential.com/office/pennpenn
19 February 2022
Current Events 6
Red & Black
Current Events
“We Don’t Talk About Bruno” Currenlty #1 in US Lauren Phillips Staff Writer
Courtesy Alamy
Disney’s Encanto poster features Camilo Madrigal, one of the characters who sings in “We don’t talk about Bruno.”
The hit song “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” from Disney’s 2021 animated film “Encanto” is officially the number one song in the United States, dethroning Adele’s “Easy on Me” over the course of the past several days. “Encanto” has grown to become a wildly popular family film from Disney’s recent releases. The story follows the Madrigals, a family with magical powers that live a secluded life in the mountains of Colombia. When the family is threatened, a character named Mirabel (who is seemingly the only one in her family to lack a magical gift) embarks on a journey to restore balance and understand her long-lost uncle, Bruno. The story itself is a heartfelt and wholesome tale of compassion and family dynamics and the music has resonated with many viewers long after the film’s end. “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” a song that occurs early in the film, has been streamed over one hundred million times on Spotify. The entire soundtrack for “Encanto” also has sixteen million monthly listeners on
the app. Notably, the song was written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, most known for his work in introducing the world to the Broadway Musical “Hamilton” and his work on Disney’s “Moana.” The lyrics of “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” may sound familiar to those who have seen Miranda’s production, as both offer up intricate lyrics that make repeat listens necessary and enjoyable. This catchiness also pairs well with the genre of the song falling under Latin Pop. Each segment of the song is unique, but still features many of the defining characteristics that have launched other Latin Pop songs to their world-renowned status, such as Luis Fonsi’s “Despacito.” Fans have even taken to social media platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram, to show their appreciation for “Encanto” through the use of memes and lipsyncing. For Disney, the song’s popularity means that their previous top charting song from 2014, “Let It Go,” from “Frozen,” has been surpassed. The last time Disney released a number one charting song was in 1993, when “A Whole New World” from “Aladdin” took the top spot. Due to the ease of accessing streaming services in today’s world and Disney now being a primary household name for entertainment, “Encanto” remains on the rise.
7 Current events
Red & Black
19 February 2022
Biden to Elect Black, Female Supreme Court Justice
Courtesy Kevin Lamarque through Getty Images
U.S Supreme Court building at dusk.
Lekhya Kollu Contributing Writer
On Jan. 28, a letter from over 100 influential Black women was delivered to the White House, thanking President Biden for his commitment to nominating a Black female justice to the Supreme Court. This justice, who will be nominated to replace the retiring Justice Stephen Breyer, will be the first Black woman to ever be nominated and appointed to the Supreme Court. “The person I will nominate will be someone with extraordinary qualifications, character, experience and integrity. And that person will be the first Black woman ever nominated to the United States Supreme Court,” Biden promised on Jan. 27. “It’s long overdue in my view. I made that commitment during the campaign for President, and I will keep that commitment.”
Biden first committed to nominating a Black female justice to the Supreme Court during his presidential campaign in South Carolina, a move which secured him key endorsements from the state. The letter also promised the writers’ support for the eventual nominee during the confirmation process, which is expected to be harder than ever. In the years since Justice Breyer’s confirmation, four of the seven justices that have been confirmed did so with less than 60 percent of the Senate’s support. In Oct. 2020, the most recent justice to be confirmed, Amy Coney Barrett, received zero Democratic votes supporting her confirmation. With the current Senate being ideologically split in half and with some Republicans already suggesting that the nominee is just a “beneficiary” of affirmative action, not a single vote can be spared for Biden’s pick. Some women rumored to be on Biden’s shortlist for nomination include South Carolina US District Judge J. Michelle Childs, DC Circuit Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, California Supreme Court Justice
Leondra Kruger and civil rights attorney Sherrilyn Ifill. Biden promised to officially announce his nominee by the end of February, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer hopes for the confirmation hearings to proceed
quickly. Those writing to Biden agreed: “We are urging the U.S. Senate to fulfill its constitutional responsibility by swiftly holding the hearings and bringing your nominee, once announced, to the floor for a confirmation vote,” the letter said.
Courtesy Kevin Lamarque through Getty Images
District of Columbia U.S. Circuit Judge nominee, Ketanji Brown Jackson, testifies before a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing regarding pending judicial nominations on Capital Hill.
19 February 2022
Red & Black
Current events 8
Joni Mitchell Joins in Protest Against Spotify Vaishnavi Peyyety Contributing Writer
Courtesy Cindy Ord, Getty Images
The Joe Rogan Experience, available
Accomplished singer-songwriter Neil Young has decided to remove his music from the popular streaming service named Spotify. In solidarity with his decision, Canadian singer Joni Mitchell removed her music from Spotify as well. These events were in response to Spotify’s
decision to host Joe Rogan whose podcast has “been criticized by doctors and scientists for spreading misinformation regarding the coronavirus and vaccines” (Cills). Mitchell also promoted the “Open Letter to Spotify” that was signed by “over a thousand doctors and scientists speaking against Rogan’s false statements regarding vaccine safety and coronavirus precautions” (Cills). In the letter, they explain how they hope to implement a misinformation policy because Spotify is allowing media to “damage public trust in scientific research and sow doubts in the credibility of data-driven guidance by medical
Courtesy Jesse Grant, Getty Images
On January 18th, 2020, Joni Mitchell attends the 35gh Annual NAMM TEC Awards, in Anaheim, California.
professionals” (“Joni Mitchell Library - an Open Letter to Spotify: JoniMitchell.com, January 28, 2022”). Joe Rogan’s podcast has discouraged vaccination in young adults, falsely stated that mRNA vaccines are “gene therapy,” encouraged use of baseless treatments for COVID and many other untrue theories (“Joni Mitchell Library - an Open Letter to Spotify: JoniMitchell.com, January 28, 2022”). Additionally, Rogan’s listeners average around 24 years old and according to Washington State data “unvaccinated 12-34 year olds are 12 times more likely to be hospitalized with COVID than those who are fully vaccinated,” an alarming statistic (“Joni Mitchell Library - an Open Letter to Spotify: JoniMitchell.com, January 28, 2022”). According to Neil Young, the listeners of this podcast can be easily swayed and convinced of statements that are simply untrue because generally young people do not believe that Spotify would promote false information. In response, Spotify issued a statement in which they claimed they “removed over 20,000 podcast episodes related to COVID since the start of the pandemic” (Cills). Spotify states they are not “editorially responsible” and can not control what Rogan believes or says on their platform.
9 Current events
Red & Black
19 February 2022
H o w M i n d f u l n e s s T ra i n i n g C a n Give Athletes a Mental Edge
A sprinter takes off from blocks with determination.
Lauren Phillips Staff Writer
While many elite-level athletes are viewed as icons of physical fitness in society, their mental health may still fall by the wayside. These athletes can face extreme amounts of stress, not only because of performance pressure, but also due to grueling training schedules and difficulty managing relationships and life events. During the recent Tokyo Olympics, Simone Biles faced backlash due to withdrawing from five out of six final events, attributing this
Courtesy Patrik Giardino, Getty Images
decision to mental blocking. Viewers were left wondering: how could one of the most famous professional gymnasts crack under pressure? What’s rarely discussed, though, are the dangers of competing while experiencing mental blocks. For many athletes like Biles, a simple slip-up on the bars or a misplaced flip can lead to substantial injury and even death. When observing the mental health of athletes compared to the general public, rates of depression and anxiety disorders were similar. Eating disorders were also observed to be higher amongst athletes. Knowing this, prioritizing the mental health of elite athletes becomes complicated, especially because of the stigma that these athletes should
Courtesy Patrik Giardino, Getty Images
US Olympic athlete, and mental-health advocate, Simone Biles during competition
be pushing themselves well beyond their breaking point. Luckily, several studies conducted over the past few years have shown that mindfulnessbased training is one method that can alleviate some of this pressure and lead to better performances overall. Mindfulness and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) can be combined to teach individuals to accept difficult thoughts and feelings, as opposed to trying to get rid of them entirely. By labeling self-doubt or intrusive thoughts as a facet of an emotion, athletes can feel more in the moment during their games or routines. This is crucial in allowing athletes to access “the zone,” or simply feel as though they are fully present in each and every moment.
Experts recommend a minimum of twelve minutes of mindfulness practice daily to build mental “muscles.” This can vary from person to person, but includes tasks such as deep breathing, self-compassion and self-acceptance. Knowing how much stress and poor mood can disrupt focus, these twelve minutes are a great start for the general public and elite athletes alike to begin on a path of mental-health improvement and awareness.
19 February 2022
Red & Black
Current events 10
BA2 Covid Variant Updates Lekhya Kollu Contributing Writer
With vaccinations and previous infections building people’s immunity to old strains of SARS-CoV2, new variants that evade immune responses are gaining center stage. The latest of these variants is BA.2, a descendent of Omicron. In January, the World Health Organization reported rising BA.2 infections in Denmark, India, and the United Kingdom. In the United States, BA.2 has been detected in four states: California, New Mexico, Washington, and Texas. BA.2, like Omicron, has many mutations from the original virus, including 20 in its antibody-binding regions. These are the regions that vaccines help the immune system target, and so mutations in these regions make it harder for vaccines to be effective. Furthermore, BA.2 has also been dubbed the “stealth variant,” because it is missing mutations on its spike proteins that make it harder to identify using PCR tests. While it’s still unclear just how effective vaccines will be against BA.2, the growing body of research on previous variants has shown vaccines are effective at both short- and longterm immunity for all variants. For the short-term, vaccines provide protection against infection. However, as Moderna reported about its vaccine last week, even after a booster dose is given, the antibodies that can fully neutralize the virus lose effectiveness after six months. For the longer term, however, the vaccine is still good
at preventing serious illness and hospitalization for every variant thus far. As stated by a member of the WHO’s COVID-19 Response Team, Dr. Boris Pavlin, “Looking at other countries where BA.2 is now overtaking, we’re not seeing any higher bumps in hospitalization than expected.” While likely not more virulent,
evidence from early studies seems to suggest BA.2 may be more transmissible than the already highly transmissible Omicron variant. According to a paper published by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), contact tracing data showed that transmission to contacts of BA.2 cases is at 13.4 percent, compared to 10.3 percent for other Omicron cases.
Overall, there is no immediate cause for concern surrounding the BA.2 variant. The goal should be merely to reduce transmission of all variants by keeping up the same practices of masking, hand washing and social distancing used throughout the pandemic.
Courtesty Getty Images / IStock Photos
Digitalized Depiction of the Covid-19 Variant.
11 Current events
Red & Black
19 February 2022
Event: Vector Information Table Time & Place: Date: Monday, March 28, 2022 Time: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Location: The Commons Lobby
Description: Join Vatsal Sudani in the Commons Lobby on Monday, March 28 from 11am2pm as he presents information on opportunities with Vector Marketing.
Learn More: For more information about Vector Marketing, visit their website: https://www.vectormarketing.com/
19 February 2022
diversity 12
Red & Black
diversity How Black History Month Came to Fruition Emree Downey, Contributing Writer
Black History Month is the annual celebration and observance of African American culture and triumph throughout United States history, conceptualized in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson. This commemoration lasts from Feb. 1 – Mar. 1 because this month coincides with the birthdays of both Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. As
many know, Frederick Douglass was an American slavery escapee who later went on to become a leader of the abolitionist movement in Massachusetts and New York, as well as an orator, writer and salesman. Former president Abraham Lincoln is most remembered for his signing of The Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. However, many may argue that he should not be praised for this because though he freed millions of slaves from captivity, it was mainly for political and economic reasons. Nearly a century ago, Black History Month was called Negro History Week by Woodson and others at the Association for the Study of African
Carter G. Woodson stands in front of a bookshelf
American Life and History. In the late 1960s, the idea eventually grew in acceptance and evolved as what is known today as Black History Month; this was mainly fueled by protests around racial injustice and antiimperialism around the United States. In 1976, President Gerald R. Ford officially recognized Black History Month during the bicentennial when he stated Americans should, “seize the opportunity to honor the toooften neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every endeavor throughout our history.” Former President Barack Obama also had a few uplifting words about the monthlong celebration in 2016. “[Black
History Month] is about the lived, shared experiences of all African Americans, high and low, famous and obscure, and how those experiences have shaped and challenged and ultimately strengthened America.” Though African Americans, and other people of color, should celebrate their heritage and culture every day, there is a certain thrill that one gets from having an entire month that recognizes it. We can look past all of the trials and tribulations that we have endured for centuries and acknowledge our roots and how far we have come as a community and as a societal whole.
Courtesy Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
13 diversity
Red & Black
19 February 2022
Tammy Baldwin makes Strides
Courtesy Kamil Krzacynski, UPI.com
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin speaks at the campaign rally for Wisconsin Democrats in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on October 26, 2018
Vaishnavi Peyyety Contributing Writer
Wisconsin senator Tammy Baldwin becoming the first openly gay individual elected to the United States Senate has made significant strides for the LGBTQ+ community. She “ran to make a difference and not to make history” as one of several gay and lesbian candidates in legislation (Grinberg). Her ability to stand her ground and be transparent about her sexuality, which the public is known to scrutinize, is truly empowering. This term she is working towards “spearheading legislation to prevent discrimination against LGBTQ Americans” (North). This noble cause follows the 2015 Supreme Court decision that allows LGBTQ people to marry the partner of their choice but fails to protect them from discrimination in the work place, job market or even while sitting down to eat at a restaurant (North). Even though
the Employment Non-Discrimination Act never passed Congress, Baldwin is ambitious to fight for legislation that covers work and other parts of life where LGBTQ+ people are mistreated. Baldwin knows that the bill most probably will not pass the Republicancontrolled Senate but she still strive to make LGBTQ+ struggles part of the national conversation. Baldwin’s election has had several positive effects on the way elections are viewed, not only in terms of LGTBQ+ rights but also for women’s rights. People are hopeful that more women in Congress “will change the discussion of policies affecting women and families” (Grinberg). This further relates to the well-founded research that “women in leadership leads to better outcomes for the community” (Grinberg). In an interview with Anna North, Tammy Baldwin mentions how the first opportunity for women to be firefighters was very significant and how this sort of “critical mass makes a difference” (North). Baldwin’s work so far proves to be promising as we move into a more inclusive and diverse world.
Courtesy Kamil Krzacynski, UPI.com
Tammy Baldwin arrives on stage before speaking at the campaign rally for Wisconsin Democrats in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on October 26, 2018
19 February 2022
Red & Black
diversity 14
The Meaning Behind MLK Day Emree Downey, Contributing Writer
As many know, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was an American Baptist minister and a civil rights activist in the 1950-60s. He is notorious for his substantial role in the American Civil Rights Movement and The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963. Dr. King was assassinated by the United States government on Apr. 4, 1968 for his outspoken awareness of the unfair treatment and discrimination against AfricanAmericans across the United States. Though he is no longer with us, his accomplishments and message live
on. In Nov. of 1983, former president Ronald Reagan signed the bill to adopt MLK Day as an annual federal holiday, beginning Jan. 17, 1986; two days following Rev. King’s birthday. MLK Day is a day that honors an American hero for his nonviolent resistance against racial segregation, and is usually celebrated with marches, parades and speeches given by civil rights leaders and politicians. On this day, certain organizations also undertake volunteer efforts in support of the MLK Day of Service as a gesture to acknowledge what Rev. King has done for the Black community. Though Rev. King is mainly remembered for his March on Washington demonstration, it is important that one does not forget that he was instrumental in the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which outlawed “discrimination in public
Courtesy Paul Schutzer, Getty Images
In front of the Lincoln Memorial, Reverand Martin Luther King Jr. addresses a crowd during “Prayer Pilgrimmage for Freedom,”in Washington D.C., 1957.
Courtesy Stephen F. Somerstein, Getty Images
Martin Luther King Jr. stands stoicly as he pauses amidst his speech in fromt of the Alabama state capital building in Selma, Montgomery, 1965.
accommodations, facilities, and employment,” and the Voting Rights Act in 1965 that allowed AfricanAmericans to more easily exercise their right to vote under the 15th Amendment. Rev. King’s contributions towards a more equitable way of life for all are seemingly endless. Many may not know, but following Rev. King’s death, his wife, Coretta Scott King, sued the United States government for his assassination and
won the settlement. That is what his holiday is all about, accountability and equal opportunity for all. Rev. King is survived by many family members who have continued his legacy and persist as civil rights activists. MLK Day is not just another holiday where you get an extra day off of work, this day represents the ongoing fight for systemic freedom, equity and equality for all Americans, especially AfricanAmericans and communities of color.
15 Diversity
Red & Black
19 February 2022
TRPIL (Transitional Paths to Independent Living) Information Table Time & Place:
Date: Thursday, April 7, 2022 Time: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Location: The Commons Lobby
Description: Join Trent Mason, Human Resources Director for TRPIL (Transitional Paths to Independent Living) as he hosts an information table in the Commons Lobby. Stop by to network and find out about all of the employment opportunities they have to offer.
More about TRPIL:
Transitional Paths to Independent Living (TRPIL) is a membership based Center for Independent Living operated by the local community of people with disabilities. We bring together individuals who face common barriers. Our Programs include Peer Support, Home Care and Nursing Home Transition, Youth Programs, Advocacy, and Information on equal access, assistive technology, education, employment, housing, and transportation. Through our affiliate TRPIL Community Services, we provide Medicaid based Home and Community Based Services. Become a Member and a Supporter. To see all of the career opportunities currently available visit their website: https://www.trpil.com/programs/employment/
sports
19 February 2022
Red & Black
Sports 16
Lack of Diversity in Football Coaches - W&J Students Respond Emree Downey & Sofia Jenkins Red & Black Staff Writers
Throughout the history of the National Football League (NFL), and many other professional sports, the lack of diversity has been an issue that needs to be addressed. Last week, Roger Goodell, the commissioner of the NFL, made a statement saying that the NFL has fallen short in history on hiring Black head coaches, and he is looking into why they have not hired more. Of the nine openings in this cycle of head coach hiring, only two of them were people of color. One W&J student, Nolan Rehrig, believes that there is, “actually more diversity in college athlete coaches than in professional sports.” With the Superbowl coming up, this topic has been the forefront of the discussion other than the game itself. Among Goodell’s constant run of press conferences recently, almost every single one brings up the problem of lack of diversity in NFL coaches, and specifically, the recent discrimination lawsuit filed by Brian Flores. Flores, former Miami Dolphins head coach, filed a discrimination lawsuit saying that teams were not taking his interviews seriously and
Courtesy Norm Hall, Getty Images,
Assistant coach Jennifer King of the Arizona Hotshots during warmups before a game at Sun Devil Stadium on March 24, 2019 in Tempe, Arizona.
that Dolphins owner Stephen Ross was pushing him to purposefully lose games to get a better draft pick and paying him $100,000 per loss. As anyone can see, this is a very extreme issue. When Goodell is asked about his thoughts about the lawsuit, he said these accusations were “very disturbing” and that they are going to “look further into it.” But we know
of nothing being done to resolve this issue yet, as well as the issue of lack of diversity. This is an issue that is not only occurring in the NFL. We see this lack of diversity in our everyday lives and we very rarely see things being done to fill the gap. We not only see this lack of diversity with people of color, but we also see gender gaps in prominent
roles all over our country. Ava Smith chimed in on this notion and claims that, “in men’s sports, maybe women don’t want to be coaches. I know I wouldn’t.” We have made great strides in recent years trying to fill the occupational gaps in different types of jobs, but we still have a long way to go.
17 Sports
19 February 2022
Red & Black
US-born Chinese Figure Skater Bashed Online After Olympic Falls Sofia Jenking Staff Writer
Zhu Yi, a US-born figure skater who decided to compete in the 2022 winter Olympics for China, has been receiving immense amounts of hate on social media after she fell multiple times during her two performances. Yi had given up her US citizenship after she was chosen in 2018 to compete in the women’s figure skating singles in this year’s Olympics. The 19-year-old
Us-born Chinese figure skater after one of her falls during the 2022 winter olympics
was seen on social media in China as “shameful” and “embarrassing” for the country. This was not only because of her two performances, that ultimately pushed China out of the medal race, but it also stemmed from the discontent of the skater herself. Many people on social media were outraged because Yi was chosen to represent China over her China-born
Courtesy Matthew Stockman, getty images
competitors. People began to bash her by criticizing her background and her poor grasp of Mandarin. There were even rumors spread around that the only reason why she was chosen was because her father is a prominent scientist in China. The hashtag “ZhuYiFellDown” became trending on the social media app Weibo, until it was eventually taken down. Some of the comments under this hashtag included “She has no strength and it seems like she has no passion and enthusiasm on the stage,” and “I hate that she’s crying. Can crying solve anything?” We have seen this in the past with a lot of other Chinese athletes. Team China athletes often face great scrutiny from the Chinese public and immense pressure to win medals for national glory. Zhu was one of about a dozen athletes recruited by China for its Winter Games medal campaign. Some people have been seen to be on Yi’s side by saying it is cyber-bullying what people are saying on social media about this 19-year-old girl. People on social media throwing so much hatred on these athletes, especially those as young as Yi, makes it so hard for these athletes to succeed because of the immense pressure that sits upon their shoulders. The Olympics itself carries so much pressure that every athlete feels, but when it seems as though your own country is not supporting you, that can make the weight feel almost double.
19 February 2022
Red & Black
opinions
Opinions 18
Letter to the Editor: The Paradox of College Akonsha Das Red & Black Managing Editor
Courtesy Katie Hahn
Now a junior, Ava Smith sits in her dorm taking classes over the internet during the height of the pandemic restrictions in the spring semester of 2021.
College is one of the most paradoxical experiences of life. A juxtaposition of intense responsibility and pressure and at the same time – one of the most carefree times of our life. A time we enter as children and leave as adults by legal definitions. A reality where academics and amusement, friends and competition cohabitate. A period where intense personal growth and professional/academic maturity is expected alongside complete social immaturity. As someone who started college in the chaos of 2020 and is
C ontac t
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 newspa-
per, 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.
continuing throughout the pandemic, I can tell you it is as exhilarating as it is exhausting. The romanticization of college most certainly has some merit. Nights of spontaneous roommate discussions, impromptu day trips through fields retreating from the colorful sunset, escaping finals stress with group scream sessions and the magical escapism parks provide. Or for others “moving away from home for the first time, swilling booze at a house party, touring houses during sorority rush, applying face paint for a football game, decorating the cold, cinder-block walls of a new dorm room” as Atlantic Writer Ian Bogost mentions. But this illusion ignores the mental health struggles that so many students endure and that COVID-19 has only exacerbated.
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.
Telephone: FAX: E-mail: Mailing Address:
(724) 223-6049 (724) 503-1049 redandblackstaff@jay. washjeff.edu Red & Black 60 S. Lincoln St. Washington, PA 15301
19 Opinions
19 February 2022
Red & Black
The Paradox of College
Akonsha Das Managing Editor
Like many issues, the current mental health struggles among students is not the result of one factor, but the compilation of many big transitions. The Director of the emotional health/ suicide prevention group, the Jed Foundation, noted that “It’s been allencompassing — the pandemic, the return to school,” pivoting from in person to online back to in person and trying to transition one’s mindset. Even before 2020, almost one in five students were diagnosed with anxiety or depression. Beth Daley, Editor and General Manager at “The Conversation” speculates this has much due to the pressure of technology, the stagnation individuals can feel from not meeting parent’s expectations or the comparison game of not being at the same point in their careers as their parents were in their day, homesickness, separation anxiety, and overwhelming financial stress/ looming debt to name a few. Adding
the expectation to “have the best four years of your life” adds the burden of attempting to deal with these stressors all while maintaining an Instagramworthy smile. Glennon Doyle, author and cofounder of philanthropy organization Together Rising, recently proclaimed in an episode of her podcast “Who wants to hear the best four years of your life will be done by the time you’re 24?” regarding the expectations set on the “college experience.” She expands by saying that this sentiment not only dismisses the challenges of these years but makes students feel inadequate if and when they encounter relationship problems, homesickness, academic and social pressure, mental health issues and disoriented feelings or loss of purpose which can all make college years incredibly tough. Students at Washington & Jefferson College are not immune to the struggles of tackling the paradoxes of college life, and it is time society start seeing this period for what it is: simultaneously exhilarating, exhausting and worthy of as much support as possible.
Courtesy Washington & Jefferson College
W&J’s beautiful Old Main as the spring buds bloom on the trees.
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 newspa-
per, 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.
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.
Telephone: FAX: E-mail: Mailing Address:
(724) 223-6049 (724) 503-1049 redandblackstaff@jay. washjeff.edu Red & Black 60 S. Lincoln St. Washington, PA 15301
19 February 2022
Red & Black
Current events 20
Upcoming Event you won’t want to miss!
Featured Employer Wednesday Series: Enterprise Time & Place: Date:Wednesday, April 13, 2022 Time:12:30 pm - 2:30 pm Location:Rossin Patio (inclement weather location: Commons Lobby)
Description:
Welcome to our Featured Employer Wednesday series, where each Wednesday of the spring semester the Center for Professional Pathways will host a new employer on campus! These pop-up style events will happen all over campus, so keep checking MyW&J, your Handshake Events Calendar and our social media to stay informed about each week’s event.
Learn More:
The employers we are hosting each week will be of interest to a wide variety of majors and are ready to talk about the internships and full-time opportunities they have available. Have a few minutes? Stop by to network, grab some swag, gain information and have a snack! For more detailed information, visit their website: https://careers.enterprise.com/
