VOLUME 77 ISSUE 8 by Southern Digest

NOVEMBER 2, 2021

Volume 77 . Issue 9

Two Test Minimum; STD Test Shortages at UHC Whitney Thomas The Southern Digest

Sexually transmitted diseases are dominant in Louisiana. Research shows that Baton Rouge isn’t just one of the top three cities in Louisiana with high STD rate, but also from the year 2016 to 2018 the numbers begin to increase tremendously. Doctors say younger people from ages 16-24 showed more cases than others. Testing and health check ups are commercialized and pushed regularly in the community. Additionally, about 1 in 4 college students has or have had sexually transmitted disease. The Univeristy Health Center (UHC) on campus schedules students daily, helping them stay up proactive with their bodies. One of The Digest journalists is a regular visitor at the on campus health center, and upon preparation to take a STD test,

Rembering our Fallen Jaguar: Students pay tribute Ryann Jordan The Southern Digest

It is never easy losing a loved one, there are days when it feels like your world is falling apart because you cannot be with them. Last week, stsudents honored a fallen Jag, Shayla James who was a sophomore at Southern University with a bright future ahead of her. A purple balloon release was held in Shayla’s honor, along with her mother and grandmother, many of her friends and classmates joined to commemorate her life. Also in attendance was founder and executive director of the butterfly society, Twahna Harris who spoke to the family and friends of Shayla James providing words of encouragement and extended a helping hand to anyone who has been affected by domestic violence. Shayla’s grandmother spoke about what helps her get See RELEASE page 3

the nurse practitioner stated to him that this would be his last test for the semester, and that students were only allowed to take two each semester. This raised plenty of concerns being that Baton Rouge is ranked number three in the state for high STD rates. Cameron Jhonson, a senior majoring in Agriculture says he prefers to use the off campus health center for this particular reason. “When I first started attending this university I would visit the health center frequently because I like to stay ahead of the game with health. I feel like we shouldn’t be limited to testing. Were college students living in Baton Rouge, that not fair or safe.” When hearing this news, an investigative reporter for the Digest immediately reached out to the health center for a comment. General information

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See TEST SHORTAGES page 3

Campus Dining: Experience or New Dining Food Options Ti’Ja Taylor The Southern Digest

Southern University campus dining has found ways to make the dining hall experience more diverting. This semester they celebrated vegetarian day, Hispanic heritage month, and implemented fit Fridays. Campus dining has formed several interactive ways for the students to enjoy the dining facilities. “We plan to get some students to vote on a few different themed dining pop-ups to see what type of events they might like to see this semester as well,” stated Brandon Lindsey Marketing Manager at Southern University. There are currently about 100 active employees for dining services. That are prepared to actively serve the students. The Covid-19 protocols for the dining facilities are aligned with university policies for all campus dining faculty and staff. On a normal day between Mayberry and Dunn Hall, the swipe transactions estimate to about 1200 students that visit daily. According to the Fall 2021 residential enrollment

Southern Univeristy students hanging out in Mayberry Dining Hall. (Ti’Ja Taylor/DIGEST)

report, there are roughly 350 fewer students living on campus, compared to the 2019 school year. Naturally, this

has caused a drop in student traffic. Student allergies are always taken into consideration. The South Region of Aramark

Higher Education has a Registered Dietitian, Jill See CAMPUS DINING page 3

CAMPUS NEWS

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Dr. Troy Allen: A legacy remembered Whitney Thomas The Southern Digest

If you ever wanted to experience a professor full of passion, love, and ambition, Dr. Troy Allen was the man to meet. Southern University’s John. B. Cade Library hosted a book collection ceremony for Dr. Allen Tuesday, October 26th at 3pm on the third floor of the library. Allen was put to rest in 2017, but his legacy still lives on. The book collection ceremony told the story of a man who was loved and honored on Southern University’s campus. Dr. Troy was very educated and loved studying African American culture. He was a professor of African American studies. Many students admired him because of his care and devotion towards his job. Allen had a genuine passion for reading, and educated those around him. The book ceremony reflected the everlasting love everyone has for Dr. Allen. Keffron Allen, Southern Alumni and Dr. Troys son says he always kept a book with him no matter the circumstance. “ He kept a book with him, and he brought them everywhere. From sporting events, to the bathroom, to the car, to the time he has to pick me and my sister up from events. If you let him call it he could read a book a day. This transformed my childhood in a positive way because there was always knowledge to be passed down. He was always informing his kids and the people around him about Black African American culture.”

TEST SHORTAGE from page 1 was asked such as why students were only limited to two tests and if the university’s finances had anything to do with it. The response received from the nurse on duty stated that they could not release any information to the press. Teyanna Lee, a junior majoring in pre-law, says she hopes finances have nothing to do with it. “This university funds and sponsors way too much. I’m hoping student testing has nothing to do with finances because then it would be like students’ health isn’t prioritized the way it should be.” Students who don’t have transportation to travel off campus to alternative health centers are advised to partake in testing once at the beginning of the semester and once at the end. This way students can know where their health stands before and after the semester. Condoms are also advised and available to all students in the health center. RELEASE from page 1

A book collection in honor Dr. Troy Allen at John B. Cade Library. (Sydney Fairbanks/DIGEST)

Some people never get to live out their true passions and find their purpose in life, but Dr. Troy died being able to fulfill his passions. The essence of Dr. Troy can now be found on the third floor of the library, as his wife and family have now set up a mini library collection full of donated books with some from Allen. Leah Allen, Dr. Troys wife says he was passionate about what he did. “ He would fall asleep with a book in the bed,

or he’d fall asleep listening to Louis Faircon speeches. It was just a never ending search for knowledge. His death was absolutely devastating, we weren’t prepared, but he was an amazing father and present for everything.” Dr. Troy’s journey in the library begins with daily visits. He wanted to use a classroom with technology where he could freely teach his students. His goal was to reach beyond Southern Universities campus.

Dr. Dawn, Dean of the library says she met Dr. Troy through the library while he was using the technology room. “Our relationship developed even when we found out that our spouses work together. The only time I ever saw him get upset and angry was if a student did not read. They couldn’t receive the connection of what he was trying to give them through the knowledge that’s in books. I could feel his anger, he used it to push and motivate his students.” CAMPUS DINING from page 1

Hamilton, who leads training initiatives and is available to students. At the campuses Hamilton serves to help address allergy needs or concerns for students with allergies. “When I do eat at the dining halls or in the Union, the prices are sort of high for my food not to be good quality. We need more food options because I am willing to drive off campus if I know I will be fulfilled. As far as the dining halls are concerned, the food is a hit or miss and that’s unfair because we pay for expensive meal plans but the food is rarely of the same value. The food workers are sometimes nice but when it’s closer to closing they can be impolite. Also, the hours of operation should be extended, since most night classes get out late” stated student La Tavia Roberts senior AMTX major from Georgia. The goal for the dining halls is to have minimal waste at the end of each meal period. Therefore,

the amount of food is tracked producing and serving for each service. Utilization of technology to track this process enables accurate daily forecasting. However, student Justice Clark a junior nursing major from Chicago stated, “the inconsistency of the quality of my food frustrates me. I don’t like how they wait to cook good food for special occasions. I would appreciate it if I could be confident in the dining halls no matter what. For instance, during homecoming, they had a nacho bar, and I told the staff how much I enjoyed it and that I would like to see it more. However, they responded by saying that it was just for homecoming. I was very disappointed by the response seeing that I am a consumer who pays over 1500 dollars for a meal plan.” Dining services have implemented several safety and sanitation measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As well

as adding a cleanliness metric to customer feedback platform. This allows the customers to rate cleanliness levels on a scale of 1 – 10 at any dining location on campus. And faculty is sent alerts to notify any concerns or issues in real time. The dining halls have a nutrition strategy that continues to be, “driven by the belief that cultivating an environment filled with an abundance of wholesome, fresh, nutritious foods is the single most important thing they can do to create a culture of health and wellbeing, “stated Brandon Lindsey, Marketing Manager. The Plant Forward initiative is central to the healthy menu innovation. The initiative created more than 300 new plant-based recipes. Lindsey believes that the work in that area continues. Campus Dining has had handcrafted grain bowls, vegetarian option area, and plans on continuing to offer and promote more healthy

alternatives going forward as items become available. Subsequently campus dining now offers marketing internships. As positions are available, they’ll make an announcement via social media outlets, email blast to students, and post visual aids around campus to inform students of any openings available. Students can also visit Aramark.com/careers and search for our location where job postings are made available. According to Brandon Lindsey Marketing Manager, “we continuously have themed dining events and pop-ups being planned in both dining halls for the upcoming months and semester. For example, some exciting events we have in mind are a seafood boil dinner, a latenight breakfast, and a rib night just to name a few.” Campus dining has several events planned for the semester that the students can enjoy.

through this difficult time while she is grieving, “I know we will be able to take the message and influence other young ladies even young men because it is not just happening to young ladies. Anyone that is in a domestic violence situation whether it has escalated or not, know the red flags, and that will be my lifetime mission from now on. I have always been involved with helping people and this is just another mechanism for me to do it.” Shayla James was a shining light on Southern University’s campus and her story caught the attention of an organization called My Sister’s Keeper, the organization president, Nadia Andrews spoke about the My Sister’s Keepers advocacy for all young women going through domestic abuse, sexual reproductive health, black lives matter, and sexual reproductive justice. Miss Andrews states, “We heard about Shayla’s story and felt like we needed to do something personally. I hope people use this as a light to see that they are not alone and there is a big community behind domestic violence that stands with you not only as friends but a shoulder to lean on.” Shayla’s story has resonated with a lot of students on campus and today many of us were able to celebrate her life with her family. If you or someone you know has been affected by domestic violence and need help, call The Louisiana Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-888-411-1333.

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ISSUE 9 . NOVEMBER 2, 2021

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Jaguars top Braves in last minute thriller: End six year losing streak Eric White, Jr. The Southern Digest

After a tough loss on homecoming against Prairie View A&M, the Jaguar football team came into this game looking for redemption. The Jag’s offense came alive in a shoot-out against the Alcorn State Braves. The Jaguars finished withed with 452 yards of total offense, with 258 passing and 194 yards on the ground. In the first quarter, the Alcorn State Braves were moving down the field until a strip fumble by Tyler Judson and a recovery by Ray Anderson. The Jaguar offense would take over and go right down the field, capping the drive off with a 1-yard rushing score from Jerrod Sims. The first quarter finished with nobody else scoring, with the Jags leading 7-0. The second quarter was competitive and had a lot of exciting plays from both teams. The Alcorn State Braves would score on a passing touchdown to even the score at seven apiece to start the second quarter. However, the Jaguar offense would come back later in the second quarter and finished off their drive with

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a 2-yard rushing touchdown from Jerrod Sims to make the score 14-7. The Braves closed out the first half with a last-second touchdown pass to make the score 14-14 at halftime. In the third quarter, the Jags offense would waste no time and would drive down the field to score on a 1-yard rushing touchdown by Ladarius Skelton

to make the score 21-14. The Braves come storming back with a passing touchdown in the third quarter to even the score at 21. Southern’s offense drove the ball down the field as the third quarter expired, with the score even at 21. The fourth quarter was nothing short of a classic, and both teams left it all out on the field. Southern would strike

first with a 3-yard rushing touchdown by Jerrod Sims to make the score 28-21. Alcorn State would come back down the field and score quickly on a rushing touchdown, but the Jags special team comes up huge by blocking the extra See BYE BYE BRAVES page 5

Jaguar Basketball Resurrected: The Woods Era Keymonte Avery The Southern Digest

With the Men’s Jaguar Basketball season about to start, the Jags are preparing themselves for the Road to South Western Athletic Conference Championship. Last season, the Jags weren’t able to fulfill a complete schedule due to the COVID-19 virus. The Jaguar’s record was 8-11 overall, and 8-6 SWAC for the 2020-2021 season before abruptly closing the statistics books. The average points per game were around 70 points, their shooting percentage sat at 43%, and they cleaned the glass with approximately 36 rebounds per game. Southern basketball was elected to finish fifth by the conclusion of preseason play. When speaking with Men’s Basketball Head Coach Sean Woods, he compares this upcoming season to the last. “This year, we were able to practice, have summer workouts, have summer practices, and also a preseason, so we are able to gel. From a personality standpoint, these new guys fit who we are more so than the guys we got last year. They all bought into what we’re doing, and it’s a

sense of normality. The new guys never knew what it was like to be at Southern University. Unlike last year, we just could never catch up and get to know each other because of COVID. Every other week we were in quarantine, so we just could never get in the groove.” Team chemistry is a big part of sports, and the jags can gel. Woods said, “The vibe and the flavor within our camp, it’s so positive,” when asked what the chemistry was like amongst the returning players and newcomers. “I know a lot more about than I did last year,” said Coach Woods. This year, the Jags newcomers line up contains 6-foot-9 forward transfer student J’Quan Ewing, a 6-foot-7 forward transfer Damien Sears, and returning center Kirk Parker to secure the frontcourt. At the same time, guards Brion Whitley and Jason Holliday secure the perimeter. Jayden Saddler, the senior guard, says, “I feel like this year we’re really going fast in the transition with new players.” Returning players include Delor Johnson, Terrell Williams, Isiah Rollins, See RESURRECTED page 5

Coach Sean Woods is entering his fourth year as Southern University’s Head Basketball Coach (DIGEST ART)

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Soccer ends Season: Ties with JSU

BYE BYE BRAVES from page 4 point maintaining a 28-27 lead. The passing offense of Southern came up big as the Jags would score on an 18yard passing touchdown from Glendon McDaniel to Marquis McClain, and the score is now 35-27. The Jags defense made a goal-line stand on 4&1, but the Braves would get the ball back and score on a passing touchdown with a successful two-point conversion to even the score at 35. The Jag’s offense would go down the field, and with the pressure on kicker Luke Jackson, he drills a careerlong 47-yard field goal and send the Braves home, and Jags win 38-35. McDaniel would finish with 258 yards passing and one passing touchdown, and Jerrod Sims finished with 74 yards and three rushing touchdowns. We caught up with Luke Jackson, and he was ecstatic as he said, “I was confident and ready, and it was a kicker’s dream.”

Ti’Ja Taylor The Southern Digest

On Friday, October 23, the Jaguars traveled to Jackson, Mississippi, to compete against the Tigers in their last regularseason game before the SWAC tournament. The 110-minute match ended in a tie game. Victoria Thomas #13 started the game with a shot that Tiger goalie Tionna Taylor saved. Southern’s own Aniya Clark battled to score for the Jaguars but fell short in the first quarter. After a JSU score at the 42:43-minute mark, the Tigers led the Jaguars in the first half with six shots and three saves. While the first half saw competitive play from both teams, the Tigers steered the second half behind the play of Annalise Brunson. Chioma Eriken served as the ultimate eraser for the Jaguars as she led the way for Southern defensively with nine second-half saves. Eriken blocked a shot from JSU’s Ravyn Basinger to send the game into overtime. The teams battled hard in overtime. By maintaining consistent defense during the first overtime, neither team scored. Eriken continued her oppressive play in the second overtime as she saved two shots in the second overtime, ending the OT-2 at 110:00 minutes. Aniya Clark played for 110 minutes and finished with five shots and three on goal. Chioma Eriken played a hard 110 minutes and ended the game with 13 saves. Victoria Thomas shot two shots and one goal for the Jaguars. The Jaguars played a vigorous game

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of steady defense. The Jag’s performance overall concocted a tie game for the Jaguars and Tigers. The season is not over for the Jaguars as they prepare for the upcoming SWAC soccer tournament. The Jaguars ended the regular season

with a 5-9-2 record, with this week’s results allowing Southern to enter the SWAC tournament as #7 seed. The Jaguars will play in Game 4 against Alabama A&M on Nov. 4 at 8 p.m. in Prairie View, Texas.

Who Dat, Who Dat, What Does The Future Hold in NOLA?

Desean Woods, and Brendon Brooks. When Woods was asked about the team’s preparation for the first upcoming game, he replied, “We’re getting there. We had our first scrimmage (October 27) and we did really good. I’m very excited where we are right now.” The Jaguars are scheduled to play against the University of Louisville on November 9, 2021, to begin their thirteengame pre-conference schedule in Louisville, Kentucky.

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Eric White, Jr. The Southern Digest

The New Orleans Saints currently sit at 4-2 and are second in the NFC South division. In the post-Drew Brees era, the Saints have faired well. However, it has been the defense stepping up and helping the Saints secure wins. Personally, the Saints have not looked polished in any game they have played outside of the Green Bay Packers game. The Saints have been lacking on the offensive side of the ball, which I am confused by because Sean Payton is a great offensiveminded head coach. I have no complaints as far as the defensive side of the ball goes. The saints rank 29th in total offense, which is the lowest in the Sean Payton era. Jameis Winston only has 1,114 passing yards and 13 passing touchdowns with a 59

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percent completion rate. Also, the Saints are ranked 17th in rushing yards, with Alvin Kamara having 419 yards on the season. I will say that Jameis’s decision-making has gotten way better since being with the Saints, but the training wheels must come off. The play calling is too predictable, and the passing game has got to open; it is too easy to key on Kamara. However, Mark Ingram will be coming back, and the duo of Kamara and Ingram was the key to the Saints explosive offense in 2018 when Drew Brees and the Saints offense had a phenomenal season. The Saints will run into a tough stretch of games with the Buccaneers, Cowboys, Falcons, Titans, Bills, and Panthers coming up. The Buccaneers are first in total offense,

Cowboys are sixth, Titans are ninth, fourteenth are the Bills, and the Panthers are twenty-first. The offense will need to step up. For the Saints to make a run and even think about winning the division for a fifth straight time, they must score points in these upcoming games. The Saints must find a balance of pass and run, but most importantly, find consistency. The Saints cannot rely on defense to help win against Tom Brady, Dak Prescott, and Derrick Henry. However, I believe the Saints will get on track, and it starts with a win against the Buccaneers.

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In Bloom: New Works Art Exhibition Ti’Ja Taylor The Southern Digest

The In Bloom art exhibition is new artwork created by Kristen Downing which is currently being displayed at Frank Hayden Hall. Downing is a visual artist that is a native of Kenner, LA and has been creating art for eight years. The art exhibition was curated by Randell Henry, a professor and artist, here at Southern University. Downing started her art career as a tattoo artist, but decided to start painting and working with charcoal of the black and gray variety. She was selected into Art Basel, a major art gallery in Miami where two pieces from her Protesting in America series were accepted in the gallery. According to Downing, this was a major achievement for a selfindependent artist, investing in her own work. The exhibition opened in February 2020, but because of COVID-19, the exhibition was closed early. As campus has found its balance again;

Photos of the new Exhibit “In Bloom” by artist Kristen Downing (Ti’ja Talyor/DIGEST)

however, the display is now open on a limited basis until the end of the semester. “The title In Bloom is centered around the blooming

of a flower. Except, it means that a person is in full swing. When a person blooms and hits its highest creative point, you’re in bloom now” stated Randell

Henry. In one piece titled Queen Bailey, or the Black Mona Lisa, Downing used acrylic as paint, with house paint on canvas.

The painting is of Downing’s friend that she grew up with in See IN BLOOM page 10

A Review: Dave Chappelles’ “The Closer” Douglas Taylor/Keenon Glover The Southern Digest

Dave Chappelle has been labeled as one of the most critically acclaimed comedians of the century with his impartial commentary on modern society. The Washington D.C. native offers an open discussion with his audiences to overview the sensitive topics that are often unspoken of at every show he hosts. As always, he never seems to stop the conversation on how these things play a part in his life, vigorously voicing his opinions through his art. In previous specials, Chappelle has been known to discuss taboos throughout his career by targeting Netflix, HBO, as well as Comedy Central. As shown in his latest special The Closer, he invokes a warning statement before each punchline: “I’m going all the way.” Chappelle addresses questions on his previous comments made towards various ethnicities, as well as his remarks based around women, though his comments involving the LGBTQ community have sparked recent conversation. Within the special, Chappelle goes on to discuss how, in his experiences, certain members of the Caucasian race have weaponized being LGBTQ+ against heterosexual individuals in recent times. He addresses the audience, “Gay people are minorities until they need to be white again.” Within these vulgar punchlines, he explains his problem over the course of his career was with the Caucasian community, and not the LGBTQ

community. Chappelle continues by summarizing scenarios that involve him and a Caucasian person who is a part of the LGBTQ , which registered to some as being obtuse and inaccurately representative of the community. Closing his special, Chappelle reiterates that what is said in his shows are a part of his craft, and are not made to offend anyone that felt targeted. Though his comments are directed towards the Caucasian community, he implements his punchlines in ways that have been viewed as condescending towards the LBGTQ+ community. From an outsider’s lense, this special may come as nothing more than brutal honesty wrapped in humor. While this perspective is understandable, it’s validity is still up for discussion, as various significant members of the LGBTQ+ have given their own commentary on this special. Here at the Southern Digest, we offer another of said perspectives to consider, courtesy of our writers. From a different perspective, The Closer isn’t necessarily hateful, nor is it something that registers as extremely dangerous. Some would, however, say that it honestly misses the mark. This is not necessarily a critique on how Chappelle delivers his dark humor, or even for him choosing to take on controversial topics. This is the natural purpose of comedy: to find the silver lining within the dark reality society often deals with. The particular issue with Dave

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Chappelle’s special for many is his insistent conflating of White queer people with the entire queer community. If this is an element that isn’t noticeable to you, then it’s possible you might be doing the exact same.

Chapelle’s commentary on White queer individuals being privileged is extremely valid, though that privileged is

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In the Cut: Decades of Service

Behind A Beat Of The Human Jukebox: Johnny Lopez

Keenon Glover The Southern Digest

On any given day here at Southern University, one will walk into or past a living piece of Jaguar history: the Southern University Barbershop. Started in 1958, the barbershop has served various generations of students and staff, withstanding the constant evolutions of the Smith-Brown Memorial Union. From the days when the union was a cafeteria, to the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, its services have stood the test of time. Now that the shop has been recently renovated and reopened during the previously mentioned pandemic, senior barber Robert Irvin Sr. offers words of advice for new students here at Southern University. Much like he does on an average day, he shared his experiences and the knowledge he’s picked up during his career and life. Robert Irvin Sr. is a constant figure within the daily operations of the barbershop, supplying the individuals who patronize it with consistent haircare and purposeful conversation. In conversation with the Southern Digest, Irvin detailed his own educational experience, and how he found his way to the Baton Rouge campus. “My home was out in Donaldsonville,” he explained, “and I graduated from Lowery High in Donaldsonville in 1962. From there I moved to New Orleans, and I went to Katie’s Beauty and Barber College. After working in New Orleans for a couple years, I decided to come to Southern University and get a degree in Business Management.” Irvin has had a unique position being an employee and alumni of Southern, especially with so much time as experience. His family

Aaliyah Bennett The Southern Digest

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LOPEZ Long time Barber Robert Irving, Sr. chats with a customer in the Southern University Barbershop. Irving has served the SU community for over four decades. (DIGEST FILE)

is a product of his eventful years here at Southern University, being a husband and father to fellow Jaguars. As he recollects,“I came here in 1964 and met a young lady that

was a freshman with me. We dated, courted, graduated, and eventually got married. We See IN THE CUT page 10

Southern University is affectionately known to have the best band in the nation. Including over 200 members, the band is historically a heritage driven band. Among the SWAC marching bands, Southern University Human JukeBox is ranked #4 in the nation, according to USA Today. While many focus on the band as a unit, the life of a member of the Human JukeBox can be a bit busy. “The biggest thing is time management. Having a planner and calendar is my biggest asset when balancing band, school, and personal life. Especially when managing your time by the hour,” said Johnny Lopez, Southern University tuba player. According to Lopez, balancing school and extracurricular activities can be a bit of a struggle. “The band members are the most hard working students on and off campus. Depending on the objective of the night, we do not leave practice until the assignment is understood,” said Lopez. The hard work and dedication that the band puts in is real, especially if practice doesn’t See JUKEBOX page 10

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Editor-in-Chief...........................................Debrandin Brown Managing Editor............................................ Kennon Glover Copy Editor ................................................. Yamere Rashada News Editor.................................................Whitney Thomas Multimedia Editor..............................................Jairus Moore Public Relations Editor....................................... Aliya Creecy Features Editor ............................................. Kynnedi Jackson Photo Editor.............................................. Adriana Trosclair Sports Editor....................................................Evan Funchess PR Editor............................................................ Aliya Creecy Web Content Editor ...........................................Dante Davis Staff Writer ....................................................Adrianne Allen Staff Writer ........................................................ Allisa Hatch Staff Writer .......................................................Alexis Easton Staff Writer ........................................................ Austin Powe Staff Writer .......................................................Jourdyn Redd Staff Writer ..........................................................Ti’Ja Taylor Staff Writer ...........................................................Jaddyn Nix Staff Writer .................................................. Kamryn Eugene Staff Writer ........................................................ Allisa Hatch Staff Writer ..................................................... Eric White, Jr. Staff Writer ............................................................. Ciara Lee Staff Photographer ......................................David Robichaux Staff Photographer ................................................Eric White Staff Photographer ....................................... Isaac Armstrong Staff Photographer ............................................Jadyen Harris Staff Photographer ..............................................Kalani Jones Staff Photographer ......................................... Kailen Bourne Staff Photographer ...............................................Keith Davis Staff Photographer ............................................ Macey Vessel Staff Photographer ..................................... Sydney Fairbanks Staff Photographer ............................................ Terrell Smith Staff Photographer ........................................Teyanah Owens Staff Photographer ...................................... Tiffany Williams

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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not used exclusively against hetrosexual/ cisgendender individuals, which was what he attempted to portray. If you were to analyze any of the literary works or studies done by queer scholars of color, one of the most significant topics that they often analyze is racism within the LGBTQ+ community. For many, this is the conclusion: White queer people’s privilege isn’t related to their sexuality, but their race. They would experience the exact same privilege regardless of their sexual orientation, and already do. Is that not why we have the current Black Lives Matter movement? Being queer and non-White American, however, breeds the exact opposite effect. If any evidence for this disparity is desired, one could research the lengthy documentation on legal and cultural oppression/mistreatment of queer

individuals in areas such as Nigeria, Russia, or even in the United States. Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago reports how, LGBTQ young people have a 120% higher chance of experiencing homelessness than nonLGBTQ youth. This is only one piece of evidence to support this disprivilege, though much more is available through any scholarly resource. This makes Chappelle’s claims seem like a rather dramatic misrepresentation, and an unfair analysis of the LGBTQ+ community. If Chapelle’s only intention is comedy, then he delivered that relatively well. And I think his audience should enjoy his work rightfully. However, his work being cited as though it’s some form of an educational sermon is a reach, as it sacrifices its honesty in order to be entertaining. THE THE CUT from page 9

had 3 children - Lord, bless us - and all 3 of our children graduated from Southern University. We’re a Jaguar family.” Passionately, Irvin urges students to value their time at Southern, as he finds both the negative and positive moments to be life lessons. I’ve told all students - now and back then - be patient, set goals, and you have to keep your goals intact. If I can do it, you can do it.” He also spoke specifically on students who may have a less traditional academic career, affirming them not to compare their journeys to others’. “I worked in

this barbershop from the day I got on campus, while in school part-time. I saw what I could handle, then I just stayed in school while taking 9 to 15 credit hours every semester till I graduated. Be patient, I didn’t graduate in 4 years. But, I graduated.” For students and other patrons interested in Mr. Irvin’s service, the Southern University Barbershop is open from 8:00 AM until 7:00 PM during regular class days.

JUKEBOX from page 9 end until past midnight. Additionally, being a part of the band gives the students a chance to experience things they’ve never experienced. “Traveling with the band, experiencing the events, performances, crowds cheering you on. That is the best feeling ever,” said Lopez when asked about the impact that traveling with the band has left with him. Many members of the Human JukeBox are not from Louisiana, but according to Lopez, being a member provides many new students with the opportunity to gain new experiences. “Most students coming from different parts of the world don’t always get that experience. The band gave me an experience I would have never gained in Charlotte, North Carolina where I am originally from. Being a part of the Human JukeBox has been the biggest blessing of my life. It’s been able to provide me with better discipline structure and better at managing my time.” Being a part of the band gives you a once in a lifetime experience to be a part of campus life and experience it in a way that no other student can. Being a member of the Jukebox is a lifestyle, and for people like Johnny, it’s like living the dream. IN BLOOM from page 8

New Orleans. The portrait is a light green background with the black women in center glancing over the entire gallery. According to Downing, she wanted magnolia flowers and a rope around the painting to show that it’s protected like the real Mona Lisa is. Downing described how she has technically been an artist all her life. “I started off seeing my older cousins fool around with drawings and stuff but out of the bunch of us I was the one that took it seriously and from there it became home, part of my healing. I pretty much share our black stories, just keeping our stories alive.” Downing had two paintings at Southern University when Jade Myers curated a show a few years ago. Mr. Henry discovered her art and felt driven to offer her a solo show. “Kristen is a muralist. She did murals around the community and had some of her work in the art gallery before. She ran her own art gallery on Government Street and had extraordinary work there. That’s when I realized her work would look good altogether in a big one person show. So, in this exhibition she focused on all her newer work,” stated Randell Henry. In the center of the gallery there are paint cans with spray paint being a major part of her artwork. The paint cans produced work such as interpretations of Shirley Chisholm, Malcom X, Mary McLeod Bethune, all famous black trailblazers in their own ways. The exhibition contains drawings from Downing’s Blue Book series. Along with special intricate hand drawings of Fred Hampton, Jean Michael Basquiat, Ruby Bridges, Malcom X, the exhibition encompasses many art pieces: the Baby Dolls, Through the Lens, Brave Little Girl, Son of NOLA, Planting My Seed, Self Portrait, and Queen Bailey to name a few. The work titled Planting My Seed featured the use of paint and markers on canvas. It is showcased on a wall alone with a man dressed in all white with blue flowers blooming from his face. The canvas encourages people to plant your seed, water it, and watch it grow. The background is different color brush strokes and black hands aiming towards the body. According to Downing, the piece that she favors the

most is “Brave Little Girl.” The artwork is pens and markers on paper and illustrated a rendition of Ruby Bridges being escorted into William France elementary school. “That piece reminds me of myself, “stated Kirsten Downing. A piece from the Black Dollar series is also in the exhibit with Madam C.J. Walker in the center of a white and purple ten-thousand-dollar bill. The series is based on how Harriet Tubman was supposed to be on a twentydollar bill still isn’t. Downing expressed,” I don’t wait on anything, I create my own lane; I’ll make them see me and they’ll want to work with me.” So, during the pandemic she did a painting of Harriet Tubman, Madam C. J Walker, and Fredrick Douglass on a twenty-dollar bill. She kept it going and thought of the Black Dollar as new money and new opportunities. Downing adores how her art becomes a history lesson that is educational and the idea that onlookers are leaving with something to think about. Her work is brimming with loud colors and is bold in your face. “My art isn’t afraid to tell our stories, my art will make you smile, cry, and feel uncomfortable,” stated Downing. She encourages aspiring artists to “speak out loud and let your voice be heard.” Downing opened the only black art gallery in Baton Rouge, the Kawd Art Gallery. She held a space for artists where they had no limitations. The gallery was closed due to the pandemic. Follow her Instagram @kawdartgallery to view visuals of the art mentioned and to view her new work. The exhibit is open to the public. Contact Randell Henry to reserve a time to view the art gallery. Randell_henry@ subr.edu or 225-771-4109 Moreover, in the spring semester studio classes are being brought back. Including courses on printmaking, graphic design, and oil painting to showcase student work in the art gallery. The student does not have to be a major or minor in Fine Arts. Any student can bring in their artwork and be considered. Additionally, Friday paint sessions are held in Hayden Hall from 11:00- 12:30 until the end of the semester.

T H E O F F I C I A L S T U D E N T N E W S PA P E R O F S O U T H E R N U N I V E R S I T Y A N D A & M C O L L E G E - B A T O N R O U G E , L A

ISSUE 9 . NOVEMBER 2, 2021

COMMENTARY

THE SENTINEL OF AN ENLIGHTENED STUDENT BODY SINCE 1926

And then Southern Said: Let There Be Light!

SOUTHERNDIGEST.COM

The Howard Protests: Unity Among the People Debrandin Brown Editor-in-Chief

Jenna Bernard Southern DIGEST

If you ever walked across the metal bridge to get to the dorms when it was nighttime, you have first handedly experienced the eeriness and chilling feeling. From the start of the bridge to the Student Health Center, there aren’t many street lights to be seen so you’re essentially playing Russian Roulette with your life. Mentally preparing yourself for anything that could possibly happen Fortunately, Southern University has recently (since the week of homecoming) fixed the necessary light by the bridge, so now it illuminates the pathway of the metal bridge as well as some parts of the sidewalk close to the Counseling Center. No more living in fear that someone will emerge from the shadows and harm you. Make no mistake, I am pleased that we finally have ample enough lighting in the night, but this should have been implemented years ago. I am not sure what Southern University was waiting on, whether it be grant money or the “green light” from a partnering light company, but having students walk to and from night classes without the proper safety measures in place is completely asinine. I can’t tell you the amount of times that my friends and I have walked from the dorms clutching our pepper spray and keys and huddled up into groups; alert and aware of anything. Considering the location of Southern University, safety of students should be the top priority, as if you do not have students then you will not receive money for your school in general. It is not always the topic and discussion of mone, but also the wellbeing of the student body. If students do not feel safe at all times on their campus, then it will trickle down to lower attendance to class and grades, which means the success of your student body will decrease as well. The motto for Southern University is to provide everyone with a safe learning environment as well as being the best you can be. The success of your student body starts at step one: the welfare of the ‘Jaguars’.

Twitter ran amok with photos and narratives from members of the student body at Howard University as they told the world about the less than acceptable living conditions at their university. Keep in mind, this is the same university who’s tuition can range from anywhere to thirty to forty thousand for an average student and sits at the top of the HBCU landscape as far as name recognition and prestige. Yet somehow, such a prestigious institution can’t properly house its charges? Not only is it negligence on part of Howard, but it’s disrespectful to the legacy left behind by anyone who’s ever fought for us to have black spaces in academia. We often speak about unity in the black community and in black spaces across the nation in a romanticized context, looking at our past and what those who came before us did in an almost legendary light. From King, to X, to Chairman Fred Hampton, we’ve been presented with the legacy of heroes who believed in their causes so much that they’d

be willing to die for them. And we loved them for it. We loved the idea that people who look like us could experience pain, hardship, hurt, and still rise above it to become something greater than the amalgamation of our shared pain. So I pose the question: have we learned nothing? In a world where our heroes and legends were meant to inspire the next generation to build worlds where we wouldn’t have to suffer lower treatment in any institution, yet alone our own, why are students at Howard University forced to hold demonstrations in their own student union due to a lack of proper living conditions for large swathes the university student population? Why are they forced to camp out in said union for nights on end while their administration gaslights their student experience? And where is the collective outrage of the people? It’s these questions and many like them that forces us to take a long look at the world we were born into, and question whether or not we are proactively contributing to its betterment.

Whether it be from an academic or administrative standpoint, it seems to me that those who hold power within these systems have bought into the American way of doing things: profit and capitalize from all, even at the expense of their people. I don’t doubt that there are administrators at Howard University and HBCUs across the country who genuinely have the best interest of the students at heart, but just as we constantly sue for accountability from other people in power, we must demand the same from our own. This applies when they are in charge of our education, and even more so when they receive as much funding and tuition from that very same student body. The worst part of it is that we all know the stereotypes and stigmas associated with HBCUs; the idea of being less than and the narrative that we aren’t up to par with white academia. And while I’ve never subscribed to the idea that we as a people have to prove anything to anyone outside of our campuses, don’t we at least owe a higher standard or expectation to ourselves?

So as we scroll through our social media apps this week and see more of the pictures and stories of the students who were made to protest their own HBCU under hashtag #BlackBurnTakeover, remember the legacy that we are supposed to be upholding. The great demonstrators of our past such as X, King and Hampton may have fought against white supremacy first and foremost, they also fought for a better future for us, their ideological offspring to live life better than they had to. Students of Howard University, we see your plight, and until your administration gives you the transparency and results that are expected from an institution of their caliber, we’ll be right there with you all fighting the good fight in any way that we can. This HBCU community that we have is not perfect, but in times such as these when those in power would ignore our voices as students, it’s our prerogative as individuals to stand up and say: No, that’s not how we’re moving. Not anymore.

Dear White People: College Students facing Stop Trying to Erase Black Seasonal Depression History Isasiah Clay Southern DIGEST

Race theory has unfortunately been a controversial subject in America for nearly as long as our nation’s history stretches. The history of critical race theory extends past generations and demands intuitive thinking to truly dissect the motivations behind racial discrimination. However, this vast history of race is beginning to be swept under the rug by various state legislatures. For example, Texas has recently passed a bill to prohibit the teaching of critical race theory in schools, which has caused quite the uproar, and it is not difficult to see why. For centuries, minority groups, specifically black people, have suffered in America due to the color of their skin. It began 400 years ago when black people were chained, enslaved, and traded as if they were goods. Following slavery, there was the Jim Crow era when African Americans were mocked, ridiculed, and stereotyped in the media until, finally, a breakthrough arrived with the Civil Rights Movements in the late 1960s. Exploring these moments in history as a black child growing up was devastating, but it was reality.

Our people have faced these tragedies and triumphs first-hand. To attempt to erase these moments from history is a slap in the face to all they have suffered through. More importantly, learning these moments in history is a reminder of how far the black nation has come as a whole. The saddest part of it all, however, is that this history is very recent within scale. Many people that I know have great-grandparents that were born on plantations as a result of enslavement because their parents were slaves. Some try to make it seem as if slavery was such a long time ago, but the effects of slavery still impact society today. Systematic racism is fundamentally based on keeping African-Americans chained to poverty and labor, never being able to climb the socioeconomic hierarchy. Failing to condemn and criticize the immoral and racist institutions of the past is blatantly disrespectful on the part of state legislatures. If students today aren’t taught about the wrongdoings of the past, how will they know how to prevent these acts in the future? Instead of trying to rewrite and erase history, maybe legislatures and school officials should implement more constructive incentives in regards to handling the subject of race in schools.

Ti’Ja Taylor Southern DIGEST

With the holidays around the corner many students may feel early emotions about being alone for the holidays. Depression increases during fall and continues during the winter months. The weather is changing, and the days are shorter. Therefore, it leads to students feeling isolated. It’s vital that students stay in tune with their mental health. Along with practicing self-care routines, staying fit, eating properly, or even finding a hobby you enjoy. Maintain a daily routine and create a balance in your schedule to keep your day in order and to prevent anxiety. Students remember you are not alone. Try reaching out to friends or family that you could possibly spend the holidays with. Hence you wouldn’t have to dwell on being alone for the holidays. The holidays are a time to be spent with people you care about. I personally detected a change in my emotions over the last few weeks. I quickly began to redirect my attention to the positive things in my life. Reaching out to my family to hear some encouragement to propel me to continue to focus on my studies.

Feeling down at times is normal but on a regular basis is not. Depression can be triggered from family issues, medical conditions, childhood trauma, or misuse of drugs or alcohol. Attempt to be productive every day. The more active you are the more time you have to fully be your best self. Common symptoms of seasonal depression are low energy, hopelessness, sadness, change in weight, and appetite loss. Focus your energy on positive things rather than things that give you anxiety. Try to remove things that cause you agony and do things that bring you enlightenment. Celebrate your small victories by treating yourself. Never let a day go by where you don’t praise yourself for all that you’ve accomplished during the day. Have a friend hold you accountable to assure that you were productive or attempted to be. If you begin to feel impairment in your daily life, seek help. Seasonal depression is seasonal but it’s still a form of depression. Make an appointment with a campus counselor as soon as you begin to feel depression setting in.

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 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.

T H E O F F I C I A L S T U D E N T N E W S PA P E R O F S O U T H E R N U N I V E R S I T Y A N D A & M C O L L E G E - B A T O N R O U G E , L A

ISSUE 9 . NOVEMBER 2, 2021 THE SENTINEL OF AN ENLIGHTENED STUDENT BODY SINCE 1926

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