November 10, 2020 . Volume 75 . Issue 9
A Night of Grace and Poise: Coronation 2020
Ryann Jordan The Southern DIGEST
mentions the manner in which learned the value of prayer and to always put God first was instilled The role of Miss Southern is in her at a young age. Her role as a standing Southern University Miss Southern is something she tradition in which the University said has been manifested since crowns a young lady that exudes her freshman year. Even when a level of grace, poise, kindness, she doubted herself, the endless and selflessness. Ms. Kennedie E. love and support from family and Batiste possesses these defining friends kept her going and got characteristics in such a way her to this moment. Kennedie that led to her victory as the took time within the program University's 90th Miss Southern. to extend her sincere gratitude From an early age, Kennedie toward her family, friends, and
faculty for molding her into the upstanding young lady she is and growing into today. From start to finish, the program for the coronation ceremony presented a cultural feel with noteworthy aesthetics. Kennedie’s campaign was a Cinderella-style affair and according to many on the scene, it presented regal black elegance at its finest. Before Ms. Batiste made her grand entrance however, the program started
Jonathan Lemire, Zeke Miller, Will Weissert Associated Press
not vote for him, telling Trump voters that he understood their disappointment but adding, “Let’s give each other a chance.” “It’s time to put away the harsh rhetoric, to lower the temperature, to see each other again, to listen to each other again, to make progress, we must stop treating our opponents as our enemy," he said. “We are not enemies. We are Americans.” Biden, 77, staked his candidacy less on any distinctive political ideology than on galvanizing a
with the introductions of her royal court, which included Miss Freshman Jasmine Brown, Miss Sophomore Briana Hall, Miss Junior Talaya Johnson, and Miss Senior Nicole Moore. After her royal court is introduced, Little Miss Southern Sariyah Caldwell and Mr. Southern Mason Batiste makes their debut across the coronation floor and took their seats next to Kennedie on stage. Following Little Miss Southern and Mr.
Biden defeats Trump for White House, says "time to heal" not far from his Delaware home, “and to make America respected around the world again and to unite us here at home." WASHINGTON (AP) — Biden crossed the winning Democrat Joe Biden defeated threshold of 270 Electoral College President Donald Trump to votes with a win in Pennsylvania. become the 46th president of the His victory came after more United States on Saturday and than three days of uncertainty as offered himself to the nation as election officials sorted through a a leader who “seeks not to divide, surge of mail-in votes that delayed but to unify" a country gripped processing. by a historic pandemic and a Trump refused to concede, confluence of economic and social threatening further legal action turmoil. on ballot counting. But Biden “I sought this office to restore used his acceptance speech as an the soul of America,” Biden said olive branch to those who did in a prime-time victory speech
Southern, members of faculty along with Kennedie’s parents and grandparents are introduced. Once introductions were out the way, Kennedie makes her grand entrance on a white carriage surrounded by blue and white balloons. At that moment, the audience in room seemed to be in awe of Ms. Batiste and how poised and beautiful she looked. Once Miss See CORONATION page 3
See BIDEN page 3
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CAMPUS BRIEFS COVID-19 TESTING Geaux Get Tested! Southern University is still offering free testing at the F.G. Clark Activity Center. It is not needed but encouraged to pre-register for testing at www. DoINeedACOVID19test.com FREE FLU SHOTS Currently enrolled students may receive free flu shots at no costs. To schedule an appointment at the Southern University Student Health Center, call 225-771-4770. BLOOD DRIVE The Army Senior ROTC is hosting a blood drive on November 12, 2020 from 11 AM till 4 PM. Appointments can be made online. HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE From now till November 18, the Southern University Agricultural Research & Extension Center and the College of Agricultural, Family, and Consumer Sciences, is hosting a holiday food drive. Non-perishable food items can be dropped at Fisher Hall, T.T. Allain Hall, Pinkie Thrift Hall, and the Agricultural Finance Building.
CLASS REGISTRATION Class registration for the spring 2021 school year started yesterday! Meet with your advisor to stay on track to graduate in four years. HANDSHAKE INFORMATIONAL SESSIONS Career Services has posted several different informational sessions for various companies on Handshake occurring this week. VIRTUAL BIBLE STUDY Virtual bible study occurs every Wednesday at 6 PM. The link is emailed by Dr. Johnson. REVISED GRADING POLICY Students can now request a P/F grade for their classes for the Fall 2020 semester. The campus grading policy was sent through school email addresses to all faculty, staff, and students. BETA ALPHA OPEN HOUSE On November 12, 2020, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Beta Alpha Chapter is hosting a virtual open house through Zoom.
SUBMISSIONS POLICY
The Southern DIGEST welcomes letters from readers commenting on current issues and other matters of general interest to the SU family and public. We set aside this space to publish these letters for others to enjoy. This newspaper is not responsible for individual opinions expressed on its editorials, commentaries, ans speakouts. The Southern DIGEST reserves the right to edit any contributions and or reject them without notification. Authors are encouraged to limit the length of submissions to 300 words. Letters should not include libelous statements. Offensive and personal attacks will not be permitted. The DIGEST will not print “open letters” addressed to someone else. All contributions must be type written, signed and must include the author’s address and phone number. Unsigned letters will not be printed. Southern University students should include their majors, hometowns and year in school. When referring to specific DIGEST articles, please include the date and title. All materials should be directed to the editor in chief of The Southern DIGEST, P.O. Box 10180, Baton Rouge, La. 70813. Materials may be delivered by hand to the DIGEST office located in Suite 1064 Harris Hall or can be e-mailed to digest@subr.edu.
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Getting Ready to Register for Spring Whitney Thomas The Southern DIGEST
University sophomore and Agricultural Science major says “This is my first-semester doing Early registration for classes early registration and the advisors began on October 26th, with have been moving at a good speed the actual registration date being and they're making this process November 9th, for students with easy for students on and off0-30 credit hours. Students have campus.” the choice to register to meet As a Southern University with advisors online or in person. student, if you have not met with Concerns regarding COVID-19 your academic or faculty advisor, complications came up, but they you can select the classes you need were quickly shut down. Dr. Jovan through the Banner system using Thomas, Director of Academic your U# number and pin. Once Advising stated that “There will you login to your student Banner, be no complications. Students you would go to registration, who come to meet in person must which is located under the wear masks. Students who stayed ‘Student’ tab. You would then off-campus this semester, have select ‘Look Up Classes,’ and then the choice to meet on Zoom.” find the corresponding term, 2021 Southern University students Spring. After that, you would go who chose to do early registration through the subject list and find had the opportunity to have first the courses you are planning to picks on all classes for the Spring take. To be considered a full-time 2021 semester. They were also college student, you need between given the chance to be able to 15 to 18 credit hours. discuss a plan of action moving Something students should forward in the semester if failing remember throughout this a class. process and even after, is to Corey Lewis, a Southern constantly check their emails. It University junior student and ensures that you are in constant Mechanical Engineering major communication with your faculty says “…that early registration advisor and that you have the is one of the smartest things latest information from the students can do.” He continues academic advisors. Advisors are saying that “Some students like to always sending out information, just wait for regular registration, along with important dates and but I like to get things done deadlines. Just a friendly reminder, ahead of time. I've also had the early registration starts today, so advantage of getting into classes it is best to get those classes now early before they get too full.” before they are all gone. Tia White, a Southern
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NEWS
CORONATION from page 1 Southern has been introduced, she is crowned before her family, friends, and faculty of the University and presented with the scepter and bouquet of royal flowers. Following the crowning, Ms. Batiste shares a dance with the Southern University PresidentChancellor, Ray L. Belton, and her grandfather before a special dance was performed by her former Gold N Bluez teammates. Ms. Batiste's former teammates created a special tribute dance to commemorate her new role as Queen, which turned emotional when Kennedie began to cry. At this point in the program, Kennedie crowned her royal court and follows up with a speech simply thanking everyone for coming to support her on this journey and expresses her sincere gratitude for her family, friends, and faculty, always pushing her to be better and strive for the best. Throughout her speech Kennedie continuously credits God for getting her to this point, stating “Without God, none of this would be possible. Sometimes I still ask him what I did to deserve this.” According to Kennedie, she had
one great support system and that was highlighted last night for her special day. “I told her, baby you can’t satisfy everybody, don’t try to satisfy because you can’t.” said Batiste’s grandmother. She continued by saying “Whatever you do, do your best and give it all you have, and you can’t ask for more.” Kennedie has kept these same values and has continued to make God and her family proud through her journey of being crowned Miss Southern. Former Miss Southerns surprised Kennedie and even had some encouraging words for her during her time as Miss Southern. “The most beneficial advice I can give Kennedie is to simply stay true to herself throughout the entire process. There’s so many things people are going to expect out of her and I believe in that journey she has to stay grounded.” said Shanice Sam, former 2014-2015 Miss Southern.
BIDEN from page 1 broad coalition of voters around the notion that Trump posed an existential threat to American democracy. The strategy, as well as an appeal to Americans fatigued by Trump's disruptions and wanting a return to a more traditional presidency, proved effective and resulted in pivotal victories in Michigan and Wisconsin as well as Pennsylvania, onetime Democratic bastions that had flipped to Trump in 2016. Biden's victory was a repudiation of Trump’s divisive leadership and the president-elect now inherits a deeply polarized nation grappling with foundational questions of racial justice and economic fairness while in the grips of a virus that has killed more than 236,000 Americans and reshaped the norms of everyday life. Kamala Harris made history as the first Black woman to become vice president, an achievement that comes as the U.S. faces a reckoning on racial justice. The California senator, who is also the first person of South Asian descent elected to the vice presidency, will become the highest-ranking woman ever to serve in government, four years after Trump defeated Hillary Clinton. Harris introduced Biden at their evening victory celebration as “a president for all Americans” who would look to bridge a nation riven with partisanship and she nodded to the historic nature of her ascension to the vice presidency. “Dream with ambition, lead with conviction and see yourselves in a way that others may not simply because they’ve never seen it before," Harris told
Americans. “You chose hope and unity, decency, science and, yes, truth ... you ushered in a new day for America.” After he spoke, the cars at the drive-in rally — a pandemic campaign invention — began to honk their horns and a fireworks display lit up the night sky. Biden was on track to win the national popular vote by more than 4 million, a margin that could grow as ballots continue to be counted. Nonetheless, Trump was not giving up. Departing from longstanding democratic tradition and signaling a potentially turbulent transfer of power, he issued a combative statement saying his campaign would take unspecified legal actions. And he followed up with a bombastic, allcaps tweet in which he falsely declared, “I WON THE ELECTION, GOT 71,000,000 LEGAL VOTES.” Twitter immediately flagged it as misleading. Trump has pointed to delays in processing the vote in some states to allege with no evidence that there was fraud and to argue that his rival was trying to seize power — an extraordinary charge by a sitting president trying to sow doubt about a bedrock democratic process. Trump is the first incumbent president to lose reelection since Republican George H.W. Bush in 1992.
Considering Living on Campus this Spring? Jalexis Edwards The Southern DIGEST
three to five percent increase in the number of residential students. With the hope of having an increase in students living on campus, the Housing With the coronavirus pandemic Department is considering revising the occurring, the Housing Department saw COVID-19 regulations for Spring. The a decrease in the number of residential new policies have yet to be approved by students. This raises the question of the housing department’s transition team, whether or not students who opted not to so Abraham could not say for certain if live on campus this fall will be here this there would be new regulations. However, spring? she does believe the new regulations will According to Tracie Abraham, the be approved and shared with students Executive Director of Student Services and Residential Life University Apartments, once they move out for the Fall semester. “…the number of residential students Abraham expressed that, “Overall, the is expected to increase next semester.” students did an excellent job following In a typical school year, the number of COVID-19 regulations for the Fall residential students decreases in the spring semester and should continue to do so for due to a decrease in student enrollment. the Spring semester.” Usually students who have moved out of Due to the decrease of residential students their dorms are expected to come back for this Fall however, Abraham is hoping for a
the second semester. However, the original information released to students stated “… all resident’s belongings should be removed from the room, bathroom, and common areas at the time of check-out.” When asked about the statement, Abraham shares that it is so each of the individual rooms in the dormitories can be properly sanitized to rid of COVID-19, and any other germs that may be lingering in the dormitory rooms. To ensure that any of the student’s property is damaged during sanitation, the Housing Department is requesting that all residential students move their personal belongings from their dormitory rooms, even though some students can expect to be living in the same dormitory rooms when they arrive back to campus in the Spring. Originally, students who could not move
their belongings out of their dormitory rooms could reach out to the housing department. They would be instructed to place all their belongings in crates and then place these crates on top of their beds. They were also instructed to strip their bed of all linen before placing the crates on top. On November 4, 2020, the Residential and Housing Department released updated information letting all residential students know that if necessary, they are permitted to leave items in their dormitory closets. However, they are expected to supply a lock to be placed on the closet. All items that cannot be stored in the closet are expected to be stored in bins that have a lid and can be placed on the bed. No linen is to be left on the bed, and no items can be on the floor.
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SPORTS
Page 4 | Tuesday, November 10, 2020
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Lights, Cameras, Action; Basketball returns to the bluff in Spring 2020 Te’yanah Owens Digest Sports Writer
The Southwestern Athletic Conference hosted the annual Cricket Wireless SWAC Men and Women’s Basketball Media Day on November 2 and 3rd. Because of COVID-19, it was the first time in history that it was held virtually via YouTube. Broadcast analyst James Verrett talked to the head coach of the men’s team, Sean Woods. With COVID enforcing the new norm, Coach had to communicate with his players differently. They didn’t have a summer and a lot of the athletes couldn’t work out. Not only are they trying to be safe from getting COVID, but they are trying to be safe from injuries until the season starts. Although Coach Woods isn’t able to go full blast with his team, he is trying to get their skill back up. “We’re counting on the weight room to get their body hard enough to go through the rigorous practices that we have planned.” Coach is making sure to stay on the new transfers and train them harder where they came from. Luckily he doesn’t have too many this semester and the older players know what to expect from the last season of basketball. “It took us a while to learn how to win. We were playing hard enough and winning most of the games at half but we didn’t know how to close them because we had very inexperienced guys,” said Woods.
With his son currently playing for the team, Woods noted that he is not worried about where his team is ranked or dethroning PVAMU. “I think that I got the best team in the league. I’m feeling confident about what I got and what is in my locker room.” Coach is just hoping to get through the year and give his guys a chance to finish what they couldnt last Spring. Student athlete, Ashante Rivers, a redshirt senior, spoke on how tragic it was for the men’s team not to finish what they were so close to accomplishing. “I think that situation gives us who are returning more hunger.” Sports reporter James Verrett also
caught up with the head coach of SU’s Women’s basketball team, Carlos Funchess. Through dealing with COVID, the coach’s main goal has been to keep his girls in form. “We’ve learned a lot and we’re just trying to stay prepared for anything at any time.” His assistant coaches are helping him to make sure the Lady Jaguars stay safe and follow protocols as far as wearing masks and social distancing. Coach Funchess’ players are tested once a week. “So far we have not had any positive tests.” Although losing some players last season, he has gained some newcomers to replace them. “I think we did a great job filling
Around the SWAC: Weekly Update Jalyn Garner DIGEST Sports Editor
This week in the SWAC, players were garnered with preseason honors. Additionally, the SWAC releases its preseason prediction poll for men’s basketball. Jackson State’s Tristan Jarrett and Jayveous McKinnin were awarded top honors on media day last week. Jarrett average 16.8 points per game, which ranked second in conference. McKinnis averaged 9.5 points per game and led the league in blocks at 1.9 per outing in 32 total games played. McKinnis served as a key factor for a JSU defense that ranked second in the league in points allowed per game (67.4 ppg). Both Jarrett and McKinnis were also stamped Preseason All-SWAC First Team selections, at guard and forward respectively. Joining them on the first team is Alcorn State senior guard Troymain Crosby, Texas Southern junior forward Yahuza Rasas, and Texas Southern graduate forward Justin Hopkins. For women’s basketball, Alabama A&M came out on top in women’s college basketball preseason rankings. Alabama A&M garnered the most
in the pieces that we lost last year.” Student athlete Taneara Moore talked about how scary it’s been with testing a lot for COVID and most classes being moved to remotely online. During her time off she was able to stay in shape through conditioning like running outside since the gym was closed. “While I was in BR, I would run over the hump 10 times and at home I would run until I was dog tired.” The athlete believes that if the team works together and does their best, they can call themselves champions. Hopefully, SU’s men and women’s basketball teams can both be winners and gain victory this upcoming season.
was named Swac Preseason Player of the Year, and Preseason Defensive Player of the Year. Southern University’s guards red-shirt senior Ahsante Shivers and graduate senior Micah Bradford both garnered Pre-season All-SWAC Second Team honors. Texas-Southern was named the top team in this year’s SWAC predicted order finish, with Southern predicted to come in second place. Needless to say, Southern is expected to have another successful season come Spring 2021. 2020-21 SWAC Predicted Order of Finish 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
preseason team selections (3), followed by Alabama State (2), Jackson State (2),
Texas Southern (124) Southern (117) Prairie View A&M (115) Jackson State (88) Alcorn State (75) Grambling State (71) Alabama State (59) Alabama A&M (50) Mississippi Valley State (33) Arkansas-Pine Bluff (28)
Texas Southern (2), and Grambling State (1). Jackson State’s Ameshya Williams
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In Command: Students react to 2020 Presidential Election Jarriel Jackson The Southern Digest
If you were to ask any media pundit from CNN to Fox News, they’d tell you that this year's 2020 presidential election was honestly one for the books. There was a widespread opinion on all issues, especially racial. Different people from all over the world had much to say about the two candidates throughout the course of the election. Then, there is the other group of people who don't seem to care at all about the election. Students around Southern University had a lot to say about the election. Most of the remarks were cheerful and relieved comments, while for
FEATURE
others, they were apathetic. To begin with, it’s important to note the high number of Trump supporters in polling areas around the country who made numerous attempts to malign Joe Biden’s name in the aftermath of the election. In turn, Biden’s supporters did the same thing to Trump. It’s been noted by many who have observed the American landscape during the Trump presidency that after the election this movement of hate will still exist between the differing political spectrums in America. The question was posed to many politically aware Southern University students See ELECTION page 6
Healthcare Homerun: Former SU Baseball standout Perot promoted to Director Kynnedi S. Jackson The Southern Digest
A f t e r g r a du at i n g from college, there are different def in it ions of what one could do that would deem them s uc c e s sf u l . Corey Poret, a former Jaguar student athlete states, “Success is not about how much money you make or a title you have, it is about the impact you have made on people’s lives.” In 2004, Corey Poret graduated from Southern University with a Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation. Fourteen years later in 2018, he started his journey to his current position as the Director of Environmental Science at Women’s Hospital on 9050 Airline Highway in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The hospital is open to all women but is geared to those who are pregnant with child. The ultimate goal of Poret hoevever, was to make an
impact on people in all different arenas. He knew that at the hospital in the medical field, he would be able have a genuine impact on the lives of numerous individuals, which was the main reason he transitioned into this field. Poret was introduced to his current career field by a customer from his previous job, during which time he also grew a close relationship with the past director of the women’s hospital. This past month, Poret was officially named Director after serving as Interim Director for the past two and a half years. Under the direction of Mr. Poret, the hospital has already adapted a handful of new policies. With the pandemic being the main concern, the hospital has put in place a COVID-19 cleaning process to ensure that the rooms are cared for with extra attention before and after dealing with a patient with the coronavirus. Mr. Poret has also purchased a new computer database to enhance research practices among the employees. According to Poret, his main focus during this time is the well being of all employees
and patients amidst the global pandemic. This is only the beginning for Poret however as he shared how the hospital has already started a program for different educational platforms. The program can be used as a career ladder to help one gain insight in particular fields of study. Ric Keller, an American Politician, once said, “Historically Black Colleges and Universities have played an important role in enriching the lives of not just AfricanAmericans but our entire country.” Before attending Southern University, Mr. Corey attended Indiana University. This was a transition between two different worlds. An HBCU provided a different culture that couldn’t be felt at a white institution. However, this experience gave him a more diverse outlook on life in the real world. “You have to be able to talk to everyone, including doctors, nurses, cafeteria employees, and more. You can’t speak the same language to everyone,” said See HOMERUN page 6
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Page 6 | Tuesday, November 10, 2020
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Higher Heights: SU Alumna climbing the ranks within USDA Forest Service
Kynnedi S. Jackson The Southern Digest
From February 1, 1905, the United States Forest Service was established as an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture that administers the nation’s 154 national forests and 20 national grasslands. Hailing from Oakland, Louisiana, Southern University Alumna Beattra Wilson now currently serves as the Assistant Director of Cooperative Forestry in its efforts to administer the numerous national forests and grasslands throughout the country. As a young black woman going into a field where only 5% of women were employed, Wilson described her emotions at the start of her career as “frightened.” According to Wilson, she credits the stable foundation provided by her parents and instructors in helping her retain her confidence in who she was and what her purpose could ultimately be. During the summer of 1998, Ms. Beattra was given an opportunity that would ultimately change her life for the better as she attended Southern’s “Bayou” Camp for Agriculture, her first step towards the agricultural field of study. This particular year, there was a presentation given on the forestry degree path, where it was instilled in her how that for
as long as she was able to keep up her grades, opportunities such as a full scholarship, internships, and a chance to compete for national jobs once out in the real world would all be possible. Ms. Wilson noted that ever since then, her path was already set for her. “This was my path to success: a degree, no student loans, and a job,” said Wilson on the expectations that she held for herself going into college at Southern University. According to Wilson, being able to be educated in a state where the majority
was the minority presented a different outlook on life as she matriculated through college and entered her field study. Being a first generation college student, Beattra noted how the experience as a whole provided her with a sense of belonging, patience, and support. Carrying the same mentality and values forward in life, Wilson has decided to pay it forward in more ways than one. Because she has savored the support that she received from her teachers and family growing up, Wilson mentioned that there
is never a moment when she is not willing to help or mentor someone who reaches out to her, especially in her field. Now an established figure in her field, she ensures that at least 20-40 students from the surrounding areas are sponsored to attend the annual Bayou Summer Camp. According to Ms. Beattra, coming from an HBCU and entering the work force was a “life-changing experience”. This experience has helped shape her life as a professional. In school, although from different places, everyone looked the same and had a common goal. The faculty and staff never had a problem lending a helping hand. Taking on this mindset, Wilson is now in charge of $32 million of congressional appropriated funds. Alongside a team of about twenty people and four national staff members, they make up the National Urban and Community Forestry Program for all 50 states and territories. C.J. Heck once said, “We are all products of our environment; every person we meet, every new experience or adventure, every book we read, touches and changes us, making us the unique being we are.” In this situation, Ms. Wilson did not let the community or obstacles stop her or hold her back; instead she took what was given and built from it. According to Wilson, the journey does not stop here; this is only the beginning.
A Guide to Moments in Black History
DeBrandin Brown The Southern Digest
As a whole, black history is composed of numerous different historical accounts and myths that have contributed to the overall black culture. Throughout the short-book series, “Black History for Beginners,” D. Tyler Davis composed many of these aforementioned myths and historical accounts of black people throughout history. Of these mythic accounts of black history, Davis recounts the integral parts of these story’s basis and adds comedic commentary on the events that are being described. When describing the myth of the black man in the book's opening chapter, Davis uses formerPresident Trump’s posthumous pardon of Jack Johnson, the first African American heavyweight Champion of the World as a means to educate the readers. While his feats inside the ring were chronicled at a moderate length during his reign as champion, what Johnson
represented outside of the ring is what white America established as one of the biggest stereotypes that surround AfricanAmericans: danger. Historically speaking, Johnson reigned during a pre-MLK time period where black people were vehemently discriminated against in all circles of life. This was due to the outward perception of black men and women as promiscuous and hypersexual. According to Davis’ opening chapter regarding the myth of black men, he questions the root cause of this still popular perception of black people. Throughout the book, similar stories are drawn from as references by the author in order to extenuate his own views on the race issues in America, as well as the black outlook on the continuous cycle of bloodshed at the expense of the black community. Back in the age of Jack Johnson, black men were looked at as threats to not only the safety of white people, but the virtue of white people.
Compared to today, the case is still made by many that African-Americans as a group are still looked at as potentially dangerous in the day to day operations of normal life. According to Davis, the shortcomings of this cycle have become more than evident in cases such as those of Trayvon Martin, Botham Jean, and Ahmaud Arbery, all of whom have lost their lives as a result of hate crimes from racists
ELECTION from page 5 as to what their opinion on the election was. According to Tiyan Southall, a freshmen mechanical engineering major from Thibedeux, Louisiana, “Something feels wrong about this election.” Southall elaborated by noting the unorthodox time period that this year's election spanned. “I think it took too long, but all in all it was a success because Biden won,” continued Southhall. After polling several different members of the student body, this was a shared sentiment. “I feel like a weight has been let off of my shoulders, and it’s great,” said Allen Kensey, a science major from New Iberia, Louisiana. Some students cared to point out that Biden is attempting to shut down the oil field, and that they believe that wouldn’t be the best idea. In polling the SGA’s reaction they responded with general happiness in the wake of Biden's victory. “I think that the United States will be taken better care of than when Trump was in office. I also am happy to hear about Kamala Harris making history in office!” stated one of the members. Armani Pink, an SGA class official stated that she is glad that Biden and Harris have won the elections, and that she is glad that it is over! Many around the country share those feelings as they put this years presidential election behind them. Congratulations to Joe Biden and Harris on their victory in this year's election! HOMERUN from page 5 Poret in regards to the cultural lessons that he picked up while at Southern. According to Poret, attending an HBCU taught him how to be more effective in communication and a well-rounded individual.
and bigots who make up large pockets of law enforcement throughout the country. If you are just being exposed to black culture and the history of oppression and bigotry that exists and has long since existed in the United States of America, this book series will serve as a suitable entryway to the history of blacks people.
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First Time Voting Experience Kynnedi S. Jackson The Southern Digest
In the poem “Why Must You Only See Black” written by Barbara Walker it says “My Forefathers Slaved so that I MIGHT be free, others suffered and died for my equality”. Less than 100 years ago, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed. This marked the moment in time where racial discrimination in voting was prohibited. It is a new
age and a new time, but racial tensions are still high. Both the Black Lives Matter supporters, and white supremacists are on the rise awaiting a change. The year 2020 alone has made history in more ways than one. For several college students, we gained an experience that will last a lifetime. Not only is this one of the biggest presidential elections, but it is our first election where we can cast a ballot. For the first time I was able to feel like my voice really mattered. The 2020 Presidential Election has been the topic for weeks. Now that votes are in, the tension is especially high. This year has broken the record for the most votes, rather it be in person or mail in. As I continue
to watch the ongoing election, I am starting to see just how much every vote matters. The electoral college in a sense is easier to understand. Thirtyone out of the fifty states require their electors to vote alongside the popular vote. Meaning that even if the Senate for that state is Republican, if the majority vote is Democrat then their vote will also be democrat. This election should be motivation for the numbers to continue to grow at the polls in the future. Although Joe Biden has flaws, he is the best candidate for this election. Over the past four years with Donald Trump as President we have experienced the unthinkable. In my opinion this presidential election is a lot like the election that took
OPINION
place in Louisiana, over two decades ago when David Duke ran for governor against Edwin Edwards. The election was referred to as “the race of picking the lesser of two evils”. In the end Edwin Edwards won, however, he had bad things around his name just as much is David Duke. The difference was David Duke‘s name was surrounded with racism and hatred whereas Edwin’s name was surrounded with embezzling money, stealing, and womanizing. Although neither one what is the perfect candidate, they were the only two on the ballot, so it left the people of Louisiana with no other option. Even though there were other options in this election, it was clear that the
race would be between Biden and Trump. With high hopes of Joe Biden winning the presidential election, the African- American community should not rest. With Biden elected president, it is time for black people and all other minority races to stand up and speak out. Now is the time to make right where the wrongs have been done. Whomever we elect in any election must be held accountable. The nation has seen how every vote matters, so if we don’t take anything else from this we must learn that together we can galvanize enough strength to turn the wrongs into rights.
An Unconventional Presidential Election Year Jalexis Edwards The Southern Digest
With COVID-19 and a presidential election occurring at the same time, this year’s election resulted in numerous unusual events. The election cycle began with both presidential candidates, Joe Biden and Donald Trump, holding their perspective rallies.
Some of which followed the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions’ (CDC) guidelines while others did not. This included limiting the amount of people that were allowed to attend each rally, a decrease in rallies, virtual rallies, and a new discussion topic: COVID-19. COVID-19 also resulted in the presidential debates following the CDC’s guidelines. Each candidate, their families, and campaign teams were seated six feet or more apart. The only time they were in less distance was to greet each other. This year’s presidential debates were also unconventional in the fact that for the last debate between
Joe Biden and Donald Trump, the candidates’ microphones were muted during the first two-minutes of answering an initial question. This was done because of the increased amount of interruptions in the two candidates’ first debate by President Donald Trump.
These precursors to the actual election would not be the only unconventional part of the election. Once the election began, a large number of voters began to vote by mail, vote early, or participated in curbside voting. According to The Washington Examiner, over one hundred million
people voted prior to November 3rd. This resulted in Donald Trump and his campaign team requesting from certain states, such as Pennsylvania, specific information such as were ballots were being stored and how they were being transported. With some states not allowed to count ballots regardless of when they received them until election day, the results, especially in battle ground states, are taking a long time. This has resulted in many anxious voters. Lastly, numerous stores are boarding their windows and doors as it is closer to the election results being released and a winner being chosen. Each
Out of State Learning Experience Te’yanah Owens The Southern Digest
Going to a historically black college is one of the best decisions I could have ever possibly made. When I got accepted to Southern and ended up visiting the campus on my HBCU Tour, I just knew it could be my home away from home. Staying in California was not an option for me. My aunt went to Grambling, so I watched her journey of being away and
finding herself. I wanted to go to school out of state so bad, because I knew I would get a better experience and out of my comfort zone. As soon as I arrived at Southern, my point was proved and I was brought out of my shell. There were so many cultures that I discovered and had never seen. My eyes were wide opened and amazed at how much energy these young black students had in them. I love being an out of state student and seeing different things that I don’t see at home. Every semester I look forward to living on campus and being away from Cali. Last Spring, our semester was cut short because of the Coronavirus popping out and taking over the world. Although I love visiting home, I was devastated by the
fact that we had to stay longer than expected. From March to August, there was non stop boredom for me. All I was wishing for is to be back on campus in Louisiana away from California. I had spent more than enough quality time with each family member. It was time for me to get back to school. When I got the news that Southern would be allowing students to come back on campus for the Fall semester I was ecstatic. My whole family, especially my mom was praying on my downfall to not go back because they were scared of me being at risk to COVID. After struggling to cope with doing school online at home, I knew it would be better for me to be back on campus learning in
person. But boy, was I wrong. As soon as I got back to Southern I thought, “What did I just get myself into?” Usually campus life is the best, but this semester has not been so great. Nothing is the same anymore and campus just looks dead. It feels like so many things from my daily life are missing. The dining halls aren’t hitting like they used to. We have to depend on Dunn for dinner every single day instead of Mayberry also being open. Things are just weird. There’s no more Pretty Wednesdays and pageants to look forward to. We don’t get to hear the Human Jukebox play. All events are being held online which is just whack. Checkpoints are worse than they
political side believes stores are boarding up for different reasons. With many Republicans believing it is a result of the looting that occurred during the protest of the death of George Floyd, while Democrats believe it is a result of the increase fear of Donald Trump losing as he stated during a nationally aired debate that white supremacist group, “Proud Boys, stand back and stand by.” Overall, 2020 has proven to be a rather unconventional year, and the presidential election did not sway from the peculiar theme of the year.
already were, and don’t even get me started on these virtual classes, where some professors are not even teaching right. All of my classes that were in person were switched to online, so everything has been feeling confusing and pointless to me. Every day I think about giving up and being at home. Maybe when sports come back, my school spirit will be lifted. Things have not been too great for the freshmen on campus. This semester has been only giving them half the college experience. I appreciate Southern for trying to protect us students, but I really hope next Spring can get back somewhat normal like things used to be.
SUBMISSIONS & OPINION POLICY The Southern DIGEST welcomes letters from readers commenting on current issues and other matters of general interest to the SU family and public. We set aside this space to publish these letters for others to enjoy. This newspaper is not responsible for individual opinions expressed in submissions, editorials, opinions and commentary pieces, including sports commentaries. It is the sole opinion of the writer and does not reflect the views of any professional faculty, staff or administrator of the University. The Southern DIGEST reserves the right to edit any contributions and or reject them without notification. Authors are encouraged to limit the length of submissions to 300 words. Letters should not include libelous statements. Offensive and personal attacks will not be permitted. The DIGEST will not print “open letters” addressed to someone else. All contributions must be type written, signed and must include the author’s address and phone number. Unsigned letters will not be printed. Southern University students should include their majors, hometowns and year in school. When referring to specific DIGEST articles, please include the date and title. All materials should be directed to the editor in chief of The Southern DIGEST, P.O. Box 10180, Baton Rouge, La. 70813. Materials may be delivered by hand to the DIGEST office located in Suite 1064 Harris Hall or can be e-mailed to digest@subr.edu.
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VOTE
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The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Hey, Jags! Keep that SAME energy! EVERY ELECTION MATTERS Make sure you: ✔ Review the ballot. ✔ Study the candidates. ✔ Mask up and bring hand sanitizer. If you are not registered to vote in Louisiana, you have until SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 to register on geauxvote.com. EARLY VOTING: NOVEMBER 20-28 (Excluding 11/22, 11/26, 11/27) ELECTION DAY: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 If you requested a MAIL-IN BALLOT, be sure to check deadlines to have your ballot returned. Make YOUR voice count! Also, CONNECT with your family and friends to encourage them to make their voices count, too! For voter info, deadlines, amendment explanations and more, go to sus.edu/vote
#SUvotes THE OFFICIAL STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY AND A&M COLLEGE, BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA