BVCL
BLACK VOICE CARTA LATINA MAGAZINE
INSIDE THE ISSUE
news
DON’T SHOOT: THE CRIES OF A NATION IN DISTRESS A RESPOONSE TO FERGUSON REMEMBERING THOSE LOST EBOLA! EBOLA! READ ALL ABOUT IT!
Features
MISS GHANA USA RUNNER-UP: VANNESSA QUANSAH EASTERN SERVICE WORKERS ASSOCIATION: THE HANDS AND FEET OF THE PEOPLE THE FUTURE PROJECT 2 - BVCL MAGAINE | September 2014
Editorials
THE PEOPLE FORMERLY KNOWN AS “NIGGER” THE FIGHT AGAINST MYSELF ON THE FIELD: THE TALES OF A RUTGERS FOOTBALL PLAYER
ARTS, CULTURE, & ENTERTAINMENT MIXED FAMILY AND TRADITIONS GET ON UP: A MOVIE REVIEW September 2014 | BVCL MAGAINE - 3
Letter from the Editor
Dear Reader, It seems as if the entire world has been in a constant state of transition lately. Every news story is one of power struggle, the struggle to stay alive, the struggle to stay safe, the struggle to be heard.
Then again, haven’t things have always been changing? Maybe for once our generation is becoming hyper aware of these things. Yet, people say our generation is naive, that we spend too much time on our phones and not enough in the world, that we don’t talk to people face to face anymore. People say we are the lost generation. To be honest, that hurts a little bit. I’m not lost. I found myself in my this group of social media activists and youtube promoters. At a very young age, we learn to navigate the internet and use it to our advantage. We are opportunists and most importantly, gossipers. We inform each other when the mainstream media may fail- and that’s been a lot lately. This summer, I found myself getting more up to date and wholesome information from Buzzfeed and Huffington Post. We found out that Michael Brown was shot on Twitter first before CNN. We can see the civilian movement mobilizing through hashtags faster than BBC can cover it. Our Facebook debates are public before MSNBC can produce a segment. We are the media. Things becoming relevant when we all talk about it, when we take to the streets and the internet and discuss. Does that sound lost to you? The New Era of BVCL hopes to harness your thoughts and opinions. Tweet us, hashtag us, message us, send us pictures. We want to know what’s happening inside your head and in your world. You matter! Stay aware, stay changing, stay found. Sincerely,
Ijeoma Unachukwu Editor-In-Chief
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Meet the Executive Board Editor in Chief Ijeoma Unachukwu
Editors Kim Nebedum Jennah Quinn
Layout Editor Lisa Maria Segarra
Marketing Director/Public Relations Jennifer Ngandu
Advertising Manager Christiana Osawe
Online Content Manager Deji Folarin
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Tensions
reached an all time high when riots broke out during a candlelight vigil for Brown on Sunday night. The riots continued into early Monday morning.
What happened
in Ferguson was tragic but it also shined light on the constant racism and discrimination African Americans are faced with daily. It should have also served as a wake-up call, showing that our fight for equality isn’t over.
We are working towards a common goal for the sake of a better future for Africa.
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NEWS
Remembering those lost
NEWS
CHRISTOPHER ETIENNE
A small group of protesters gathered in Rutgers New Brunswick next to Voorhees hall to express their discontent about the Mike Brown case Friday. The meeting began with the lighting of candles and a moment of silence for Brown and others who were wrongfully murdered by overzealous law enforcement officers. The facilitators of this event Monique Porow, Brooklyn Hitchens, and Portia Allen-Kyle explained that this is a recurring injustice that needs to be addressed. According to Porow four African American males lost their lives to the hands of officers in less than a month’s time. Editor of New Brunswick Today, Charlie Kratovil says, “As citizens we have a responsibility to hold these government entities accountable for their action.” Kratovil explains that change will only come with consistent agitation. He says “we Pictures courtesy of Justin Henderson have to step up, document everything, monitor cops more closely. Currently these kind of injustices plays a major and bring it to the proper authorities.” Move.org is launching a petition that role in bringing about a change. She If we let them get away with small would require all cops to wear camer- empathizes with the officers who atcrimes, they will be trying to get away as on their persons. According to the tempt to stay true to the ideals of their with bigger crimes.” Porow supports petition the cameras would be con- job. She says “they are officers who do these comments stating that these nected to the internet, recorded foot- come to work with the intent to proofficers must get investigated and age would then be delivered to a third tect and serve everyone, and it’s unfortunate that charged when they get lumped they are at fault. up with the peoShe says “when ple who have we don’t charge done things like them, we are this.” The crowd saying it’s okay agreed that for them to con- Charlie Kratovil, Editor of New Brunswick Today both citizens tinue to commit and officers these crimes.” Allen-Kyle says this matter does not party made up of citizens who have no have to take steps to make sure that stop with young black males. She goes affiliation to law enforcement. The pe- these tragedies no longer take place. on to speak about the death of 93 year tition critiques the legitimacy of inter- We have to become more aware of our old Pearlie Golden and 7 year old Aiya- nal affair investigations, stating that rights, remain proactive in politics, na Stanley-Jones saying that “its peo- the account of random citizens would and most of all we have to continue ple as a whole whose lives are being be more reliable. Others feel that cit- to advocate against injustice. Porow devalued.” So what can we do to en- izens have to become more aware of explains we must continue to seek out sure that officers are not abusing their their rights. Porow claims that under- justice and “never get tired of fighting, authority, how can we bring about a standing what you should do when because we did not get this far by getchange? Some argue that we must you are witnessing or experiencing ting tired.
“As citizens we have a responsibility to hold these government entities accountable for their action.”
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First Amendment rights. By Tuesday, August 12th, Ferguson, Missouri resembled a war zone. The FAA issued the area a no fly zone to provide a “safe environment for law enforcement activities,” according to Matthew Hosford of ABC news. Between the police department not releasing the name of the officer who shot and killed Michael Brown and ordering the media to leave, there are some shady things coming from the government of this area. The actions of the police department as well as other government offices lead many to wonder what sort of integrity do these people have and what are they hiding? What would cause someone to shoot and kill an unarmed teen? These are questions that are causing a national uproar. These protests and riots do not come as a surprise to the people living in the area. They have become a result of the ongoing tension between the people of the Ferguson and the local police department. This leads us to wonder, with all of this happening, what has our nation come to, and where is it going?
“Don’t Shoot”: The Cries of a Nation in CIANA Distress DAVIS Michael Brown was a seventeen-year-old young man with promise. He, as many other freshly graduated high school students around the world, was heading off to college to start his life. Unfortunately, his life was cut short one fateful August afternoon after being shot by a police officer on his way to his grandmother’s home in Ferguson, Missouri. St. Louis County police chief, Jon Belmar, stated at a press conference Sunday morning that Brown was shot after he and the shooting officer had a struggle over the officer’s gun in his patrol car. After one shot from inside the patrol car “more than a couple” followed into the street. However, eyewitnesses saw and stated otherwise. They reported to news crews on the scene that Michael Brown was murdered execution style by the officer after Brown had clearly surrendered. These conflicting stories led many to questions on whether this shooting justified, or whether it was another senseless murder of a young black man. Soon after the shooting, protesters arrived at police headquarters demanding answers. According to Antonio French, an alderman in the city of St. Louis, the police’s statements offered no hope to the people of Ferguson that justice will be served to the party responsible, which caused unrest within the groups of protesters. Tensions reached an all time high when riots broke out during a candlelight vigil for Brown on Sunday night. The riots continued into early Monday morning. Looting and the burning of a local gas station occurred in the midst of the riot. The riots were displayed for the world to see on social media. Thousands of people watched and read as the riot continued in the St. Louis suburb. Antonio French was among those reporting what was going on throughout the protests. The riot and protests sparked trending topics and conversation that could not be ignored by social media users. Needless to say, the nationwide attention gave the protesters fuel to keep their fight for justice going. The protests continued into the following week gaining momentum and also, more action and attention from the police. On August 11, 2014, protesters were greeted with as many as three-hundred police officers. According to KSDK TV an NBC affiliate in St. Louis, mass arrests, tear gas, wooden pellets, and rubber bullets were all used against protesters. The protesters retaliated peacefully shouting “Don’t Shoot” and “No justice, No peace” at the police officers as they continued rallying on the streets. Officers also ordered the media to leave the streets of Ferguson and not report what was going on thus, violating their
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A Response to Ferguson
NEWS
W
hat happened in Ferguson was tragic but it also shined light on the constant racism and discrimination African Americans are faced with daily. It should have also served as a wake-up call, showing that our fight for equality isn’t over. We as a people are too comfortable and comfortability is the enemy of progress. Hence there haven’t been any major advances in civil rights since the 60’s and because of this police brutality is slowly and surely becoming less shocking and more and more routine. I refuse to stand idly by while the ones that are supposed to protect are attempting to kill us off one by one. So since police brutality is acceptable so shall brutality against police and I guarantee you this revolution will be televised.
RAWLE A. DAVID
“Don’t Shoot” continued... It seems with these recent events America has taken a turn towards the 1960s. What’s next? Fire hoses spraying the people who are simply pleading for the justice they deserve? Ferguson police seem as though they are preparing for an all out war, not crowd control. The only ray of hope is the thousands of people rallying behind the fight for justice for Michael Brown and the many others who have been wronged by the people put in place to protect and serve.
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EBOLA! EBOLA! READ ALL ABOUT IT NANA AFRIFAH
By now, I am sure plenty of people have heard about the Ebola epidemic. The outbreak has been the largest of any kind with a 90% fatality rate (World Health Organization). A confirmed case of Ebola patients in West Africa (Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria [as of late]) has been approximately 2,127 people and of those 1,145 have died (WHO/Reuters). It is important to educate the community because the more you know, the better your chances of survival are.
What is Ebola?
Ebola Hemorrhagic Fever (EHF) or Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is a “virus that causes bleeding inside and outside the body (WebMD).” It’s unclear exactly where the virus originated from, but health officials believe that fruit bats are natural hosts of the virus.
How does Ebola virus spread?
The Ebola virus spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids such as: blood, saliva, or other bodily secretions. From what we know, the virus cannot be transmitted through the food, water, or air.
How is Ebola treated?
Since there are no vaccines or specified treatment, prevention, diagnosis, and quarantine are very important components in stabilizing the spread of the virus. However, experimental treatments are undergoing as well as vaccines.
What are the symptoms of Ebola?
Typically symptoms of Ebola mimic those of the flu: fatigue, nausea, headache, vomiting, and diarrhea.
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EBOLA FAST FACTS - Ebola has a 90% fatality rate - Over 2,000 people have been confirmed to have contracted Ebola - More than half of those patients have died - It is unknown where Ebola originated from
NEWS
RUTGERS CAMPAIGN Students, faculty, and medical proffesionals from throughout the Rutgers Community have joined together to aid education on the prevention of Ebola. Find out more info by scanning the QR code below or visiting the website.
Left to Right: Jonathan Hogan, Dr. Mafudia Suaray, Nana Afrifah, Sékou Mansare and Abu Bakarr Conteh
THE “STOP EBOLA” CAMPAIGN AT RUTGERS UNIVERSITY
A
team of medical professionals, faculty and students from the Rutgers community are working together to aid in the first stages of Ebola education: prevention. Since Ebola is spread through bodily fluids, and many medical correspondents in Africa lack basic essentials for protection (like gloves, full body suits, and facial masks), the team pictured left are trying to get medical supplies to the areas heavily affected. Leading the way, Dr. Mafunia Suaray of Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School speaks about the importance of knowing the difference between Ebola and other infectious diseases and diagnosis: “The symptoms of Ebola can be very similar to malaria, like the fever and the tiredness…The diarrhea and vomiting can look like cholera…If you have been around somebody that has had Ebola, it is very important to get tested so they can know that it is Ebola or not.” Fronting the educational movement both in the United States and in Western Africa, educational efforts in Sierra Leone and Guinea are being assisted by two of the Mandela Washington Fellows (originally President Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative). The fellows, Sékou Mansare of Guinea and Abu Bakarr Conteh of Sierra Leone represent an emerging generation of young Africans whose dedication and talent to serving will make a mark on their communities. Sékou and Abu Bakarr are supporting the “Stop Ebola” initiative by using their networks at home to spread knowledge, awareness, and resources. As students of Professor Denniston Bonadie’s (Department of Africana Studies) Pan-African Movement course, Jonathan Hogan and I could not allow this opportunity to pass us. I hope this project will spark the change we need to unify the African Diaspora on campus. We are working towards a common goal for the sake of a better future for Africa.
Get more information at africanhealthnetwork.com
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Inspiration is the key to changing not only our schools and cities but, the entire world! I find it so important for young people, especially in urban communities, to realize their potential at a young age so that they never settle for less...
FEATURES The root and the biggest impediment of achieving my goals in life is fear. I was fearful of running for Miss Ghana USA. I have to constantly remind myself that fear is a mental limitation. I challenge myself to change my way of thinking and look past my self-doubt. 14 - BVCL MAGAINE | September 2014
ABOUT VENNESSA QUANSAH: MISS GHANA RUNNERUP KIM NEBEDUM
As you may or may not already know, Rutgers University’s very own Vennessa Quansah participated in a respectable competition this past Spring, Miss Ghana USA. Miss Ghana USA has a tremendous vision: “To be recognized as a world class organization that consistently brings amazing women to the forefront and supports them as they work to achieve their individual goals in the context of their cultural roots.” The annual competition is solely based on uplifting women who are not only goal-driven, but want to make a difference in their community. Vennessa’s participation in the competition is enough to show how dedicated she is in making her mark on ground that others have overlooked. Thankfully, she agreed to share with us her experience and gave us a sneak peek on what she plans on doing with her future as a humanitarian. The interview went as follows: BVCL: What led you to run for Miss Ghana USA? Was it something you always imagined yourself doing? VANNESSA QUANSAH: “Never in a million years would I have imagined myself running for Miss Ghana USA, a prestigious title only one person each year is selected to hold. I always thought pageants were cool however I never thought it was something I would be bold enough to do. When you think about it, you are subjecting yourself to judgment. People critique you in every regard. From your appearance, to how you speak, to how perform your talent. Everything is analyzed. I didn’t want to put myself in that position because I was scared. I didn’t give pageantry much thought until one day I had a discussion with the 2nd runner up for Miss Ghana USA 2012, Ellen Osei, and former Miss Ghana 2013, Lisa Aido. They told me about their experiences and how enriching their journeys were. I of coursed listened to them and their thoughts but of course I still had second thoughts. They told me I’d be a great candidate because I’ve always been the one to be concerned with humanities, social issues, and volunteerism. They told me to give it a try. I kept that very thought in back of my head. When the time came around and applications were out, I had an amazing discussion with my sister and her husband. They encouraged me to take advantage of the opportunity. When I really thought about it, I said to myself, why not embark on a journey that could add value to my life and give me a bigger platform to make a difference in others’ lives. So before I knew it, I found myself filling out the application and I got to work. My ultimate goal was to raise an awareness of an issue near and dear to my heart. The pageant gave me the opportunity to raise awareness on the high maternal mortality rates
specifically in Ghana. Being able to be actively involved in making the world a better place, being a representative of Ghana and the United States, and standing for a cause was what drove me to run for Miss Ghana USA.” BVCL: What role did your family and friends play when you were a part of such a competitive yet respectable experience? VQ: “My heart smiles when I think of the role my family and friends played. The love, support and encouragement they gave me was the greatest feeling. Starting from the day I announced I was running, they helped me coordinate a successful campaign and continuously cheered me on in the stands. It was through the fusion of my family and friends’ help that I was able to prepare myself for the big pageant day. My campaign was made up of my friends. My team consisted of 5 individuals who played an instrumental role in helping me manage my social networks, reaching out to different organizations, getting sponsorship, picking out my dress- to list a few. I also had some of my friends help me in other areas such as working with me to master my talent. I am beyond grateful for all the support I received from my supporters. I am truly blessed to have such great people in my life.” BVCL: As a member of the Black Community, what values do you hold pertaining to uplifting one another through good works? What are some things that you’d like to see happen? VQ: “As a member of the black community, I try to live each day of my life by being a woman of integrity. I want to
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FEATURES
see others fulfilling their life’s purpose. I encourage peace, love, and unity. I love seeing people coming together to achieve a common goal. For example, at the pageant house living with 11 other contestants, many people would have thought it would have been chaotic. I thought not all the girls would get along and arguments would occur. However, it was completely different. Though we all were in a competition competing for one crown, we saw the competition in a different light. We all were supportive of each other and helped each other when we could. The pageant house was full of love and unity. All the contestants got a long and we treated each other with respect. I want to see this more in the black community. I want to see more of us encouraging each other and working together to achieve greatness.” BVCL: What activities do you take part in both in and out of school that promote positivity and change? VQ: “All throughout my undergraduate experience at Rutgers I was extremely active in my community. I was a member of the student volunteer council, a Resident Assistant, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, a group facilitator for the National Society of Leadership, and more. I am proud to say that I love serving my community. I am a humanitarian at heart. BVCL: Are there any people in particular that motivate
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you to reach your goals and aspirations? VQ: “Absolutely, my mother has always been my rock and shield. I have to say she is one of the most intelligent, strong, resilient, loving, and caring person I know. My mom inspires me to be the greatest version of myself that I can be. Seeing how she lives her life propels me to want to strive to achieve my goals and aspirations. Without her, I would not be the person I am today.” BVCL: What are some of the struggles you face while trying to achieve your goals? HoW DO you overcome them? VQ: “The root and the biggest impediment of achieving my goals in life is fear. I was fearful of running for Miss Ghana USA. I have to constantly remind myself that fear is a mental limitation. I challenge myself to change my way of thinking and look past my self-doubt. Running for Miss Ghana USA was a huge step for me. Though I did not win, I placed top 5. I am proud I overcame my fear of subjecting myself to judgment. I challenged myself to do something that was so unlike me. Now, I feel that I can achieve and reach higher heights because I took a step in the direction I was scared of.” BVCL: What would you say to all the girls out there that are too afraid to chase their dreams because they feel as though they are too minor to actually achieve them? (African-American, Latina, etc.) VQ: “You have the world in your hands. You are worthy. You are important. You are talented. You are BEAUTIFUL. Don’t let anyone tell you any different because you validate yourself and your dreams. When you live life operating at your highest frequency you can achieve anything and everything. You are never too minor to actually achieve your goals. As Harriet Tubman once said, ‘Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world’.” Evidently, Vennessa has made it her goal to serve her community in a way that can inspire others to follow in her footsteps. She testifies to the fact that she could not have gotten as far without the love and endless support that she received from her family and friends. It is important to understand that it is much easier to bring one another up than it is to pull each other down. We should all make it a point to think of ways to enhance the world that we live in. It’s not getting any better, however it can get much worse if we remain stagnant. Vennessa is a great example of an individual that has chosen to lay a firm foundation for a journey towards making a positive difference. The world will not change if we do not want it to.
CREATING DREAMS KELLY LOPEZ I always knew that I wanted to give back to the world but I never knew exactly how I would do it. Last year, on one September morning, I received an email about an internship that would allow me to inspire youth in urban communities by way of art and creativity. As a Camden native with a passion for art, I knew that this was it! This was how I was going to give back. Never did I think that the organization that will have launched me into a space of inspiration, hope and possibility will have changed my life forever. The Future Project is the third largest growing educational non-profit in the country! Standing at the crossroad of education reformation and social justice, The Future Project’s mission is to transform each and every one of our public schools into spaces of inspiration and possibility! With the help of a Dream Director, students are reignited with passion and excitement for their futures. Students create what we call Future Projects which range anywhere from school clubs to national campaigns, and beyond. I have had the privilege of working with The Future Project for a year now in one of Newark’s public schools, Malcolm X Shabazz High School. As I took on the role of a Dream Navigator, I was responsible for meeting with dreamers every day to discuss what they wanted to change in their schools and their communi-
ties, and to create plans of action! In just a few months, Shabazz High School became Possibility High. Students were eager to manifest their dreams and hope was alive! Little did I know that as I was coaching students on how to create and execute their Future Projects, I too was being transformed. The Future Project has a way of showing you that anything really is possible! Dreams do come true! The Future Project measures things like grit, creativity and hope! These are
Photos courtesy of Kelly Lopez they never settle for less, so that they never stop chasing their dreams, and so that they can be icons in the way our world operates! This fall, The Future Project will be going national, reaching two new cities: Detroit and San Francisco, on top of cities we have already taken on: Newark, New Haven, Washington D.C. and New York! With the national and even international demand for The Future Project, there is no doubt that this movement will make a worldwide impact on the way we think and on what we, as a society, has accepted as truth. We are not bound by the unspoken restrictions imposed onto us by our society, by our politicians, by
The Future Project’s mission is to transform each and every one of our public schools into spaces of inspiration and possibility! the things that are going to change our young people. At The Future Project, we believe that inspiration is the key to changing not only our schools and cities but, the entire world! I find it so important for young people, especially in urban communities, to realize their potential at a young age so that
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Eastern Service Workers Association IJEOMA UNACHUKWU THE HANDS AND FEET OF THE PEOPLE In New Brunswick, a 67-year-old woman named Rosel- of New Brunswick, away from the pristine Rutgers Univerla has been operating the same heavy machinery at a warehouse factory for the past 30 years. Essentially, Rosella makes $8.25/ hour without employee benefits such as Healthcare and Dental care. Consequently, she hasn’t had a doctor’s appointment for 30 years and for the past 5 years, Rosella has been having acute pain in her eyes. Despite this, Rosella has been forced to work, as she is the sole provider of her family. In her community, there is a free health clinic; unfortunately, the clinic lacks optical services, so they referred her to a hospital in Newark. To see the doctor, Rosella had to miss two days of work, pay for expensive train tickets and a hundred-dollar consultation fee. She has been diagnosed with cataracts and since then, has been losing vision in her left eye. She cannot afford to miss any days of work for surgery to correct the vision in her left eye. Rosella commutes to work everyday, working 12 hour shifts at a hospital although her sight makes it near impossible to do so. For Rosella, the options are limited. Unfortunately, this case is not unheard of. In the heart
sity campus, we bear witness to poverty and turmoil. The underserved population works minimum wage service jobs that are appealing for college students, but crippling for those supporting a family. That’s where Eastern Service Workers comes in. Eastern Service Workers Association (ESWA) is a volunteer independent organizing drive that serves the lowest paid workers in Central Jersey. That includes hospital, fast food, retail workers and home care providers. A very high percentage of these people work in production and warehousing jobs through temporary work agencies that rarely pay over $10/ hour. ESWA provides for them an 11-point benefit program as a way to work together to stabilize their lives. The benefits include: food, clothing, preventative healthcare, and legal counsel. Michael Clark, the director of the volunteer organization, said that ESWA was started out of necessity when government budget cuts shut down previously-established government-funded volunteer programs.
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! JOIN a movement for change: VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME to advance our independent, all-volunteer organizing drive, and help reach those who share a common goal of eradicting the root causes of the growing poverty afflicting our area. YOU CAN LEARN how to become an advocate in our selfhelp benefit program that is free-of-charge for members of the association and includes preventative medical care, legal advice, emergency food and more; learn to be a writer or desktop publisher of our independent newspaper, or captain a membership canvass to join together low-income workers in organization.
EASTERN SERVICE WORKERS ASSOCIATION (ESWA) needs you as a full-time or part-time volunteer organizer. On-the-job training is provided in all basic organizing skills. No prior experience is necessary – just willingness to learn and daring to care!
PUT YOUR BELIEFS INTO ACTION! EASTERN SERVICE WORKERS ASSOCIATION l 92 Bayard St. New Brunswick, NJ 08901 l (732) 247-4779
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THE FUTURE PROJECT CONTINUED... our complacent high school guidance counselors, or even by our family and friends. As a country, America has progressed to an era of technological advancement and with that, a boost in creative and entrepreneurial opportunities for our young people! For so long, a university degree has measured equally to a promising and successful future. With only 27% of our population currently employed in fields corresponding to their degrees and areas of study, one can’t help but question, “Is the average $29,400 student debt burdening our once aspirational, optimistic college students worth it?” There has to be another way. I am in no way, suggesting that a college education shouldn’t be considered when exploring the potential of the future of our young people; however, there are endless opportunities and alternative routes that will guarantee a success-
WORKERS CONTINUED... “This left the residents of New Brunswick disillusioned, angry, and without any help. That was a problem,” said Clark. Clark also said the issue was mitigated as well because a lot of the higher paying production jobs were beginning to leave the area. The issue gained public attention when Rutgers students and professors were affected by the issue, and thus,
ful and more importantly, a happy future for our future leaders. Our young people need The Future Project and they need Dream Directors so that they can be reminded that all those late night epiphanies about their potential to create change, to start their own businesses, to initiate a movement, to invent and modify- those are real! Dreams are what have shaped our country and our culture. Malcolm X, Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Kanye West along with several other brilliant minds who have made a significant impact on the way we live our daily lives, all without a college degree! All these superhumans have three things in common: a passion, a dream, and a vision. That is what The Future Project challenges others to find it in themselves. Let’s change our world. Let’s make our dreams a reality. Let’s dream with our eyes open. The time is now. Let’s start with Rutgers. If you’d like to know more, inspiration is available at TheFutureProject.org and Dream.org! ESWA was born. ESWA is more than just a labor organization, it is a movement, a support group. It is an extended network, an extended family within the community. ESWA also provides classes in basic grassroots organizing skills and classes in how to be an effective volunteer. They also provide volunteers with the opportunity to learn how to build medical and dental clinics as well as lead door to door membership canvases. As Clark phrased it, “There’s always something anybody can do. Old, young, shy or outgoing. We just need people.”
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A paradoxical condition
we place ourselves in, Black Americans brand each other with a poisoned word that should not escape their lips. As a result of this paradoxical condition, the birth of “nigger” has not culminated in its final death.
EDITORIALS Every
year the players move in to Judson suites on Busch Campus. Players pick which side of the bedroom they’d like, drop their things, say goodbye to friends and family, and report to the equipment room 20 - BVCL MAGAINE | September 2014
The Fight Against Myself, For Me, For You CHANTELLE CURTIS
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s of September, Rutgers will have an immense influx of freshmen, an invasion of 7,000 new personalities on a very large campus. Between that and the rest of the upperclassmen, it is easy to get lost. You want to tell yourself that you are just like everyone else, sitting quietly in a lecture hall of 400 as the professor awaits on someone to answer his question. You debate raising your hand, afraid to show your ideas, in fear of being sneered at because you are fighting against the grain. But why? It is important to stand out, to be different and innovative with your thoughts and who you are but be comfortable all the while doing it. That, of course, is key right? Comfort? Confidence? Throughout college many times others will question some things about you and tell you their unneeded viewpoints on such. Your clothes, your hair, the way you carry yourself, your thoughts, your opinions, your entire entity. Sometimes some of those probed words slide in one ear and cut deep into your brain, and you really begin to question yourself. Are they right? Am I wrong? But you shouldn’t speculate too much on the matter. As an Afro-Latina on campus I’ve ran into a few instances where I questioned myself because I carried myself differently from the people I surrounded myself with. One of the things was my hair. The few times I wore my curls I got hit with “Oh. What happened to your straight hair?” I would go through lengths to straighten my curly hair so I wouldn’t have to hear comments from others that may have swayed me the wrong way. But that would only happen if I allowed it to, if I too, believe it myself. You may say “I believe in this,” and try to stand your ground but it isn’t hard to go against your own thoughts when thousands of people are yelling back at you “NO.” As the natural hair movement began to rise, I became more and more comfortable with my curls to the point where the sight of
a flat iron deterred me. Now I rock my natural hair everyday, with a group of friends who do so right alongside me. Do I wish I had done so from the beginning? Yes. Do I look back and regret the journey? No. because it shaped how I see myself today. But what about things more important, like your major? And who you are? At a top research university you might find yourself questioning, “What do I believe in” when there’s an array of opinions from so many students from different walks of life. Especially if you are majoring in something that could be controversial such as women and gender studies for example, which usually has the few feminists who are constantly being challenged. You want your voice to be heard but you’re unsure because with every comment and outlook, there’s a group of 10 people to tell you that you are wrong. You must have confidence in your message, and enough belief in yourself that people will feel it too and become inspired by who you are, your message, your journey and who you aspire to become. Then you won’t only stand out but you’ll become a leader, and you’ll have people following right after you, making you wonder why you ever doubted yourself in the first place. Through your understanding of self you have inspired others to dig deep and articulate their own voice, formulate who they are. Although it might seem tricky and scary there are a few ways you can help prepare yourself mentally for what is to come your way this year. The best way to avoid feeling lost or insecure is to have confidence in the way you carry yourself and true love for what you are trying to bring to the people. Be that first person to raise their hand on the first class, dare to be wrong and learn from it. It’s all part of the process, embrace it all. Learn to fully love yourself so no one can tell you anything otherwise, you never know who you’ll touch on the way.
Throughout college many times others will question some things about you and tell you their unneeded viewpoints on such. Your clothes, your hair, the way you carry yourself, your thoughts, your opinions, your entire entity. Sometimes some of those probed words slide in one ear and cut deep into your brain, and you really begin to question yourself. Are they right? Am I wrong?
September 2014 | BVCL MAGAINE - 21
On the Field: The Tales of a Rutgers Football Player Quentin Gause 8/15/14 12:19 am July 31st kicked off the first day of Rutgers football training camp. Athletes were required to report to the all famous Hale Center on Busch Campus by 2 pm for check-in. Fortunately for players, the first day consists of logistical tasks such as having their height, weight, and wingspan measured, and filling out medical forms. Once everything is complete, players are officially registered and are off to their dormitories. Every year the players move in to Judson suites on Busch Campus. Players pick which side of the bedroom they’d like, drop their things, say goodbye to friends and family, and report to the equipment room with Mike Kuzniak, the equipment manager, for a run through of the check-in papers received earlier. After all is completed, everyone retires for the evening to take in the last hours of easy living because it only gets harder from here on out. August 1st begins training camp is in full throttle. All of the players are excited to begin this historic season as Rutgers has entered the Big Ten. There is a full team of seniors looking to take their careers to the next level, returners looking to maintain and secure positions, and new coming freshmen getting acclimated to their new homes. Simply put, evPhotos courtesy of eryone has a lot to prove. With the Big Ten being the largest conference Rutgers has been a participant of in quite some time, positions are only guaranteed to the player with the highest level of skills and consistency. There are two major reasons why Rutgers has been invited to move into the Big Ten. Rutgers is a great academic institution that ranks high versus other schools in the country. The Big Ten conference take academics very seriously, naturally Rutgers fits their profile. The second reason is because Rutgers is right next to the number one media market in the world, New York City. The invitation was officially accepted in fall 2012 when President Barchi announced that Rutgers University will be entering the Big Ten in 2014. Barchi said, “The Big Ten is really where Rutgers belongs.” According to the Associated press, Rutgers has been competing in the Big East since 1991. The league has since been picked apart by conference realignment, and the Scarlet Knights were simply looking for a way out. Rutgers landed in the best possible spot, a spot that seemed unthinkable a decade ago when Rutgers football was a “Big East cellar-dweller.” Now the first season in the Big Ten is officially here and everyone is excited for what is to come.
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Editorials 8/4-8/9 From an outside perspective, it may seem as though practices become tedious and repetitive but sometimes there are a few pleasant surprises and events on the field. For example earlier during this week, the Big Ten Network tour came to one of the practices to view this year’s talent. They evaluated every position on the field and were impressed by what they saw. Big Ten reporter Tom Dienhart said, “Rutgers has an interesting squad as it enters the Big Ten. The schemes are more traditional, as the Scarlet Knights to a degree have the look of a Big Ten squad.” Our most recent events have included the Rutgers Fan Appreciation Day on Saturday August 9, 2014. This is a day filled with various family oriented activities. Fans were able to attend an open practice and see the football team in action. After practice, the football players went into the stands and signed autographs for fans. Fans were also able to purchase new scarlet knight Big Ten Gear and take a photo with the Big Ten back drop behind them. The Scarlet Knight mascot also was in attendance and revealed its new make-over. Aside from Fan Appreciation Day, Rutgers football had its first scrimmage on August 11th. The players were allowed to invite family and close friends to view the event. Seeing familiar faces not only boosts morale, but also confidence on the field. Even all of the coaches were excited to see all of those who could share the experience of the first scrimmage of the season. From the feedback that the team received, the heavy anticipation was well worth the wait. All of the players put in 100% effort which lead to a successful scrimmage that allowed the team to accurately assess its strengths and weaknesses. Camp is not quite over yet and there is still some work to do, but the team is growing more confident in their conjoined and individual capabilities every day. The first home game against Howard University is rapidly approaching, and Rutgers will be ready. This season will be one to remember, its game time and it’s on in Piscataway.
From an outside perspective, it may seem as though practices become tedious and repetitive but sometimes there are a few pleasant surprises and events on the field.
September 2014 | BVCL MAGAINE - 23
The People Formerly Known As “Niggers"
OLUWATOBI A. RAJI ingly comfortable in our vulgarity and
profane identification. It is unfortunate that we use this word without repentance, without acknowledgement that ground we’re standing on was the same ground our ancestors laid upon as they were beaten to death. Under this eternal yellow sun, our great-great-grandmothers cried and looked towards the sky as they were raped for being a “nigger.” A verbal reason for exclusion and discrimination, “nigger” has historically been used and is currently being used to define and ridicule our Black brothers and sisters. In 1837, “nigger” was firmly established as a derogatory name when Hosea Easton wrote The Condition of Colored People of the United States: and the Prejudice Exercised Towards Them. Easton wrote that the term would be perfectly harmless in theory, but instead, it is used with the intent to deliberately make Black Americans feel inferior. Most of those Black Americans who use the word are conscious of its derogatory nature and negative connotation. Yet, although we are conscious, we are still comatose. A paradoxical condition we place ourselves in, Black Americans brand Artwork by Quincy Akaba each other with a poisoned word that should not escape their lips. As a result of this paradoxical condition, the birth of “nigger” has Over the recent years, the divisive word, “nigger,” has not culminated in its final death. Utterance has given it undergone a terminological metamorphosis. Switching immortality and immortality is exhausting our essence terminological habitats, “nigger” previously existed as a through oppression of each other. word that reminded the populace of the inhumane, callous We continue the oppressor‘s work by using words he pillars of America: slavery, abduction, genocide, segregacreated to subjugate our own; Black Americans have betion, and racism. Now, it exists as a synonym for friend or come the oppressor’s pets by subjugating their own. Racist acquaintance. In the past there was unambiguous, unaniAmerica created “nigger,” now, both Racist America and mous abhorrence over the usage of the word not only toBlack America feed and sustain it. With the use of “nigwards Black Americans but by Black Americans. ger,” there is latent internal oppression. As a result of its persistent usage and attempted re-apTo remove these oppressive shackles from our wrists propriation, we, Black Americans, have become exceed-
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Editorials
and ankles, we must forge ways to address the issues of this incapacitating word. Julian Curry, participating poet at Def Poety Slam, professed his resistance to the usage of “nigger” and his condemnation to those who did. His poem, “Niggers, Niggas, and Niggaz,” was written to carve out his dignity within a demoralized Black community. During the spoken word, Curry proclaims that culturally, the slur existed in two spheres: the derogatory sphere, then and the identification sphere, now. Imitating the white owners, Curry cries, “Where’s my niggers? There’s my niggers. Whose niggers are those?” Now, centuries after slavery was abolished, we insult our ancestors’ bravery and struggle by identifying ourselves with the same word, in the same phrasings. We cry, “Where’s my niggas? There’s my niggas? Whose niggas are those?” We’ve allowed a white man to liberate us from the fields; we’ve picketed the streets forcing the white man to liberate us from our segregated land; now we must symbolically remove our tongues, liberating ourselves from the oppression that masks itself in “nigger.” Do not to see this word as a prison and become trapped behind its steel bars of malice; destroy that prison, destroy the word. Let us revert to previous ways and stop expression of this irreverent slur. As the slaves freed themselves, let us liberate ourselves from the oppressive “nigger.” As the great-great-grandchildren of the enslaved continental Africans, as the great-grandchildren of the emancipated Africana people, as the grandchildren and children of activist Africana people, it is time we removed the third and final set of chains. It is time we become, “The People Formerly Known as ‘Nigger’.”
Do not to see this word as a prison and become trapped behind its steel bars of malice; destroy that prison, destroy the word. Let us revert to previous ways and stop expression of this irreverent slur. As the slaves freed themselves, let us liberate ourselves from the oppressive “nigger.”
JOIN BVCL TODAY! Interested in writing, editing, design, or photography? Submit your work to bvclrutgers@gmail.com and come to our first meeting September 15th at 8 pm in the Paul Robeson Cultural Center on Busch Campus! September 2014 | BVCL MAGAINE - 25
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BVCLrutgers
Artist spotlight JASANNAH Arts, Culture & EntertaiNment Taylor
and the film’s screenwriter, Steven Baigelman, make the unusual decision to tell the story in a nonlinear narrative. Like a greatest hits album, the film moves through all the major events in Brown’s life. September 2014 | BVCL MAGAINE - 27
Review of
Get on up The impact that James Brown left on the music industry is almost impossible to put into words, let alone capture on film. Unfortunately, Tate Taylor’s Get On Up fails to truly encompass the significance of Brown’s career, while also struggling to make a name for itself in the rather tired subgenre of biographical dramas. Still, like Brown’s classic songs, the film has an infectious quality to it. Even with its fair share of flaws, the film is an entertaining look at Brown’s life and career. Taylor and the film’s screenwriter, Steven Baigelman, make the unusual decision to tell the story in a nonlinear narrative. Like a greatest hits album, the film moves through all the major events in Brown’s life. But this album is on shuffle, and the events are sewn together without rhyme or reason. There is no clear story being told, and no central thesis declared on what the audience should walk away from the film thinking about. It becomes especially frustrating when sequences are drawn out for too long or brushed over quickly. Take, for example, Brown’s relationship with his mother, which is given a considerable amount of attention during the film’s first hour, only to be largely forgotten about until the last twenty minutes. The overall choices made by the filmmakers as to what they devote screen time to are all relatively unorthodox. The film spends a lot of time focusing on the impact that many different women had on Brown’s
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MATTHEW TAYLOR
life, yet only two of his three wives are given screen time and neither are particularly well developed. The film also only alludes to Brown’s struggles with drug addiction in passing one-liners, and simplifies his involvement in the Civil Rights movement to one brief, albeit well directed, sequence. The film is focused solely on Brown’s rise to superstardom, which isn’t a necessarily bad decision, but one that makes for a rather simple-minded drama. Luckily, the film’s one constant is the electric performance given by Chadwick Boseman. After his stoic but strong turn in another biopic, last year’s hugely entertaining 42, Boseman explodes on-screen in one of the best performances of the year thus far. While Boseman (wisely) only lip syncs along to Brown’s classic tracks, those are his real feet dancing along to the music, and his movements are not only realistic but a pleasure to watch. He’s also terrific in his dramatic moments, convincingly portraying Brown’s energy while channeling the tortured soul behind the legendary godfather of soul. After directing a stellar ensemble in The Help, it should be no surprise that Taylor has an equally impressive cast with his sophomore feature. Nelsan Ellis, best known as True Blood’s Lafayette, gives a charismatic performance as Brown’s longtime partner and best friend, Bobby Byrd.
Arts, Culture & Entertainment
The film also reunites Taylor with the stars of his previous feature, Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer, both of whom play women that had a significant impact on Brown’s life. Davis somehow manages to make Brown’s mother, who abandoned her son at a young age, a sympathetic character. Even with only two or three scenes, she once again proves that she’s amongst the best actresses working today. Spencer, who portrays Brown’s “Aunt Honey,” a brothel madam and his impromptu maternal influence. While her character could have used more development, Spencer exudes charm and steals her scenes. Musical biographies tend to fall into the same pattern, and many suffer as a result. Taylor and his crew deserve credit for trying to shake up the formula, even if the nonlinear storytelling does occasionally work against it. Still, it’s hard to make James Brown boring, and the film offers audiences plenty of chances to enjoy the wonderful music, while also highlighting the immense impact he had on the music industry. Taylor’s talent for directing ensembles also comes into handy, as every member of the ensemble turns in a strong performance. While he’s still relatively new to Hollywood, his work here is exciting and offers a glimpse into a career filled with promise. If anything, Get On Up is worth watching for him.
After his stoic but strong turn in another biopic, last year’s hugely entertaining 42, Boseman explodes on-screen in one of the best performances of the year thus far.
HAVE AN IDEA FROR A MOVIE REVIEW? SUBMIT IT TO BVCLRUTGERS@ GMAIL.COM September 2014 | BVCL MAGAINE - 29
Sept Spot
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tember's Artist tlight ArtwOrk by JasanNAh
To have your artwork featured submit to bvclrutgers@gmail.com September 2014 | BVCL MAGAINE - 31