Volume 79 - Issue 5

Blemish on the Crown: SGA Senate votes to unanimously censor Miss Junior

Ti’Ja Taylor THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

On last Thursday, a senate meeting was called to order at 6:31 p.m. Students entered promptly, desirous to know the accusations of a Student Government Association member. The voting for or against censorship of Miss Junior, Sydney LaFleur.

Senate President Armani Pink moderated the meeting, with 10 senators present. After committee reports concluded, the leading subject matter of the meeting was introduced. LaFleur was asked by Senate President Pink to present her statement. LaFleur explained her faults in the circumstances of her and another member of SGA. Compelling the senators to vote against censorship, LaFleur currently has “pending harassment claims of a fellow SGA member that has led to outside charges that do not constitutionally reflect the university,” stated President Pink of the senate.

LaFleur explained several

occasions where her and two other females were in opposition. Controversy arose notably when she was accused of saying, “what you did to my friend wasn’t right, so I have the right to beat your a—.” She later tried to mend the friendship, but tension would

always intervene.

“I wanted my friends to talk it out I was never the aggressor as noted by Cullier. I accept full

BLEMISH

Survival: Balancing Student Life

Ti’Ja Taylor THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

Living an adequate student life is established by finding an equal balance in all aspects of your life. Encompassing school, work, health, and your emotional well-being, learning how to achieve balance in all of your responsibilities will give you the capability to be happy and content.

On your path to having a balanced student life, learn how to make schedules and invest in a planner. “You can’t do fifty things and think you’re going to remember them all. But it is important to be involved socially so you’ll learn and grow … as well as taking time to stay physically fit instead of driving to class walk,” said Dr. ValaRay J. Irvin, the Executive Director and licensed psychologist at Southern University Counseling Center.

The Digest interviewed two active students at S.U. that juggle many roles and manage to live balanced lifestyles. Robyn Hughes

The Dream That became Reality: Southern University Laboratory Celebrates Centennial year

Nodea Sewell THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

What started as a dream for Dr. Joseph S. Clark who served as president of Southern University A&M College from 1913-1938 became the institution now known as Southern University Laboratory School. Southern Lab has created many opportunities and exposure to their students over the centennial.

Southern Lab. was founded in 1922 by Dr. Joseph S. Clark. Dr.Clark dreamed that a strong training school should be established to provide a training ground for Southern University students to enroll in the teacher preparation program.

After interviewing Southern Lab director Dr. Herman Brister, we learned about Southern University Laboratory rich history and the potential this institution carries. Dr. Brister answered questions about the future of Southern Lab and the next 100 years. Brister responded, “It’s important for us to make sure that the

foundations in the core beliefs are still vibrant for the next 100 years. This institution is important for the North Federal community and the Baton Rouge community. Southern University Laboratory School is a microcosm of what the HBCU experience is like for college students,” Brister continued.

“At Southern Lab you don’t have to hide who you are, you don’t have to hide your blackness. It’s a safe haven for students. For the next 100 years we want to make sure we continue that legacy. We want to make sure that A: the school is still here. B: that the legacy and tradition is stronger than ever for the next 100 years from now,” Brister concluded.

Upon graduation, Brister provided a percentage of Southern Lab graduates that would go on to Southern University and A&M College. Brister stated, “A good 60-75% attend Southern if not, more.” Brister described how Southern University Laboratory

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Staff Writers: Shyonna Turner Aaliyah Bennett Ashley Lovelace Kenikka Wafer Khalani Lloyd Taylor Haywood Taylor St. Vilus Te’yanah Owens Isaiah Clay Jalexis Edwards Jaidyn Nix Ti’Ja Taylor Nodea Sewell

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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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National

School’s alumni are known to leave a legacy on Southern Laboratory students today. Brister responded, “The legacy is stronger than ever, I just ran across a few season alumni from the 60’s. It’s amazing.”

After interviewing Dr.Brister we located and interviewed former Southern Lab and Southern University SGA president Nickolas Harris. Harris was SGA president of Southern Lab in 2009 and 2015 for Southern University.

Harris answered questions surrounding his time as SGA president at Southern Lab and Southern University. “I went to Southern lab from 5th to 12th grade. Southern Lab is all kinds of connected, it started with me going to Southern University with my parents and my family used to tailgate at the games since I was a little kid. So going to Southern Lab

in the 5th grade made me culture to the university. When it was time for me to run for SGA president at Southern Lab it was a good exspearce. It put me out of my comfort zone from being a quiet kid throughout middle and high school. I wanted to get involved and had other class positions at Southern Lab. With being the SGA president I got better at public speaking, something I was not well at.”

Harris continued, “Being SGA president at Southern Lab I was able to go meet the royal court and the SGA at Southern University. That just increased my excitement for Southern University even more. I was able to be at the coronation with Miss Southern and her court. Just being in these situations ignited me to want to go to Southern even more. Being SGA president I was able to represent Southern Lab on a bigger scale.”

LAB from page 1

After Harris talked about his time as SGA president at Southern Lab, he told us his time as SGA president at Southern University. He said “Being SGA president at SouthernUniversity was a full circle moment for me. I was asked to come back to Southern Lab to speak to the SGA president there the same way the SGA president of Southern has done for me.”

One tradition remains in effect is every year on Founders Day Southern Lab honors our founders by matching to their gravesites and memorial. With ambition and aspiration Southern Lab embarks onto their students, the future has a lot to fulfill. Southern Lab. has influenced generations of students, faculty and staff, and the community over the centennial.

responsibility for my actions.” LaFleur wished for action to be taken after homecoming. “I don’t want to ruin it for Miss Southern or the Royal Court ... a distraction for one the senate has the power to avoid. I feel ashamed to represent the class of 2024 this entire situation has been a moment of truth for me,” stated LaFleur.

After Miss Junior presented her statement of the occurrences, Senator Bonier moved that the senate go into executive session. It was seconded and everyone in the audience was asked to depart.

The audience returned and the senators present voted for or against censorship on LaFleur Miss Junior position. The “yays” won in favor of 14 business days of censorship passed, beginning on Oct 14, 2022.

The censorship bans LaFleur from the privileges or benefits of her position for the duration set forth by the senate which is 14 business days. LaFleur still holds the title, but the privileges of the position are eliminated temporally.

“I felt like it was the right choice, the Royal Court has an image to uphold, and they cannot let their feelings for certain queens allow them to get away with such actions that can shine a bad light upon them and the university. Sometimes Southern likes to sweep things under the rug so, seeing the senate put their foot down with this decision shows that there is a common understanding that we cannot let such people with titles get away with such actions,” stated Bailie Boyd, a senior mass communications major from Antioch, California.

Miss Junior later walked out after the decision was announced. The student senate is responsible for resolving issues affecting the student body and SGA and they executed.

We will keep you all updated on the latest news with Miss Junior and her reign.

is an extremely active student at S.U., holding titles such as, NAACP Vice President, Planned Parenthood Generation Action V.P., Association for Women’s Students Finance Director, and Chief of Staff for Jaguar Ambassadors to just name a few of the organizations she’s actively a part of.

“I find my balance in prioritizing where I am most needed! Balance was something that was very hard for me to find because with the expectations high, I know there is little to no room for failure. I’ve learned how to use all 24 hours in a day through effective planning. Also, I’ve had to learn how to lean on my village,” explained Hughes.

Balance is a priority that students must obtain to progress in college and daily life. Something

that motivates Hughes is her drive to be better. “

Every day I strive to be better than I was before.”

Hughes discloses. This is something that all students should strive for in surviving all the stresses of college life.

Jazmon DeRousselle is also an extremely active student on campus. DeRousselle is a junior mass communications major from Houston, Texas. DeRouselle is Head Host at OnthisBluff for “Let’s Rawr”, Lead University College Ambassador, Third Coast Member, a part of Geaux Team, Social Media Manager for SU-NABJ, Royal Court Media Team, on the Union Programming Board, and the Pre-Vet Club.

“My planner is my best friend literally! I write down everything I need to know, from dates to

times to even planning out my day so I can stay on track,” said DeRousselle.

DeRousselle explained how she takes mental health days to re-center her focus on everything. Mental health is vital in learning how to have a balanced life. Never forget why you started, stay focused and stay strong. You got this,” shared DeRousselle.

Always keep in mind that you are a student first. Being a part of organizations and working can become a good deal of pressure. It’s important to prioritize your responsibilities and avoid outstretching yourself. There will always be a party or an event to attend so remember your studies are always your first priority. Balancing student life can be strenuous but it’s all a part of your development into adulthood.

KyNNedi JacKSoN THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

All eyes were on the Bluff as Southern would take on Alcorn State. The game had a lot on the line because the winner would essentially control their own destiny in the SWAC West Division. From start to finish the atmosphere was electric. The game was definitely one to remember with so much at stake. The Jags had no choice, but for this end goal—to win.

Alcorn won the coin toss and chose to kick off. Nevertheless, the Jags came out the gate swinging, nothing was stopping them, scoring with just 3 plays, 72 yards, and 52 seconds in the game, putting the score at 7-0. The chemistry between BeSean McCray and August Pitre seemed to be unstoppable. The first quarter ended at 7-0 Jags on top.

Two minutes into the second quarter and the Jags were on the board again with a 36-yard run from Karl Ligon, giving us a 14-point lead. Shortly after Malik Rodgers from the Braves answered our touchdown by catching a 26-yard pass from Aaron Allen. The Braves and the Jags began to have a small back-and-forth competition with both teams scoring again before the quarter was over. Going into the half, the Jags are still up 21-14.

Dog Day Defense holds off Alcorn: Southern takes #1 SWAC West

In the past quarter, it seemed that Alcorn had gained a bit of their momentum back, but was this enough to overpower the Jags? The third quarter was pretty tough for both teams offensive-

Next

Legends come and go through professional sports all the time, but there is always one that seems to stand out from the rest. There was a time when Michael Jordan was the most iconic athlete ever.

Once he retired finally it became a race between Tom Brady and Lebron James both have equally accomplished as many accolades that are hard to count. Unfortunately, these legends will retire. However, there are many talented young athletes across these professional sports, and they have already begun to make a name for themselves. The question becomes who the next iconic athlete is and which sport will it belong to.

Let’s start with the NFL, Patrick Mahomes is a generational talent like no other. His quarterback play is undeniably phenomenal. His precision on his throw adding the fact he can make any throw necessary. His background in baseball has a lot to do with his arm, but the way how he makes it effective in the NFL and adds

the ability to make a throw in any position is like no other.

In addition, Patrick Mahomes is only 27 years old, has a Super Bowl, has been to the AFC Conference championship 4 straight times in 6 seasons, and

has 20,000 passing yards and 168 passing touchdowns. It is clear he is an all-time talent, and he has let the world know who he is.

Giannis Antetokounmpo plays for the Milwaukee Bucks

and is a great young player. One word for him is dominance because he is unstoppable inside the paint. His ability to finish consistently through contact, whether a dunk or layup and carry a team on his back hasn’t

been seen since Shaq. Giannis is also 27 and he has already done so much. In 656 games he has scored 14, 321 points, became an NBA Champion and Finals MVP, 2x MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and is a 6x All-Star and has been selected as on an All-NBA team 6 times.

Luka Doncic plays for the Dallas Mavericks, and he is exceptionally young being that he is 23 years old. Luka is a young talent but has made incredible plays. In 5 years, he has won Rookie of the Year and has been in the running for MVP multiple times. Furthermore, he has averaged 26.4 points per game. At 6’7, he has an advantage in scoring but is effective. At any moment, Luka could take over and become the next icon.

Finally, Shohei Ohtani plays for the Los Angeles Angels. He is a dual-threat baseball player with the ability to pitch and hit. Ohtani lit the baseball world on fire last year by hitting 34 home runs as a pitcher. In addition, he has hit 127 home runs, and 161 strikeouts, and has won Rookie of the Year and won AL MVP. He will be a force to reckon with at 28 years old.

wise. However, where the offense fell short defense stepped up, “Dog Day Defense” to be exact. Alcorn is known

eric whiTe THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

(DIGEST ART)

Sophomore, lineback, Derrick Wiliams comes out of the pile of a defensive stop during the game against Alcorn on Saturday, October 15. (Briana Fields/DIGEST)

Junior, running back, Jerod Sims looks on as Sophomore, wide receiver Cornelius Dyson and Senior wide receiver, August Pitre, III celebrate a Jaguar Touchdown in the first half of the game against Alcorn. (Briana Fields/DIGEST)

Bowling Bounces Back on the Final Day of the Colonial Lanes Classic

KeviN albarez ASSISTANT SID

HARAHAN, LA. –Southern University (1312) found their stride in the bracket play of the Colonial Lanes Classic hosted by Tulane University at Colonial Lanes in Harahan, Louisiana Sunday morning. A week after dropping in the standings on the final day of the Rattler Classic, the Lady Jaguars did the opposite today.

Southern started the day in 11th place, with a chance to move up to ninth in a field that featured seven ranked teams.

First, the Lady Jaguars had to get past Florida A&M. That did not take long as they were able to win the first four games. The first game was not even close, the Lady Jaguars won 206155. The next was closer but, they were able to come away with another win with a 23-pin differential, 195-172. Southern won the third game by 17 but they had to work in the 164147 win. The match finale was another blowout, 233-165.

Another Southwestern Athletic Conference team in Prairie View A&M would be

the next hurdle for the team to get over. The Lady Jaguars would get another 4-0 win, but the first two games would be a battle. After an open for PVAMU in the 10th, Southern would just need just seven pins for the win and would get eight to take the first game 147-142.

The second game would be even closer, the Lady Jaguars would pull this one out 157-155.

Southern would find their grove

in the final two games with blowout victories, 199-136 and 210-148.

A rematch with No. 24 Lincoln Memorial University would determine if the Lady Jaguars would finish ninth or 10th. They would jump out to an early lead, taking game one 180-140. The next three games would go in favor of the Railsplitters, 170-128, 214-156 and 190-156. The Lady Jaguars

would take the fifth game to keep the match alive, 195-180. LMU would take game six and the match, 175-168.

UP NEXT Southern will take two weeks off before returning to action at the Track Kat Klash hosted by Sam Houston at Emerald Bowl in Houston on November 4th, starting at 9 a.m.

for their rushing attacks. The defense was able to put a lock on their rushing attack, causing the Braves to stumble a bit more than they had hoped.

Going into the fourth, it was Alcorn’s ball. However, Braves quarterback, Aaron Allen did not seem to be on the same page with his receivers. They could not score a touchdown, but they went for a field goal, putting the score at 21-17. As Southern moved the ball closer and closer, more and more holding penalties put a stop to their drive. Nevertheless, the Jags remained on top.

The game was built on the foundation of trust, according to several of the post-game conference players. Collectively after the TSU game, they decided that they could not go out like that again. Football is a game of trust and the Jags are definitely showing team improvement each week. Jason Dumas said it best, “Southern’s been the standard, We are the standard, and we’re going to continue to play like that.”

Every week the goal is to win and to go 1-0 the next time. The season isn’t over yet and the Jags aren’t stopping. The next game will be our Homecoming game against Virginia Lynchburg. Kickoff at 4 pm. Beat me there don’t meet me there! Geaux Jags!

Blurred Lines: Who Plays Who?

When we think about segregation, especially attending a Historically Black University or College (HBCU), it seems to be an extremely touchy subject. However taboo it may be, I would like to touch on the subject briefly, just not in the way you may think. This time it will be regarding the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and how our conferences are set up. Now just for background purposes, there are four conferences and 1 association that hosts all the HBCUs within the continental United States of America (USA) excluding Tennessee State University and Hampton University. These conferences are as follows: Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC), Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), and Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA).

Within those respective conferences/associations, they also hold classified divisions as well. Now the coveted schools that athletes tend to compete to attend are Division 1 schools

in hopes of furthering their athletic careers. For HBCUs, those conferences are only the MEAC and SWAC. The Division 2 Conference would be SIAC as well as the CIAA. Lastly, the GCAC is a Division 3 conference.

You’re probably wondering how the NCAA and segregation relate to one another, let me piece it together for you. Now the last time I checked; segregation ended in 1964 by way of the civil rights act courtesy of Lyndon B. Johnson. Meaning institutions should be integrated fully across

the US. Maybe the “bigwigs” that run the NCAA missed that memo. Essentially, HBCUs only play each other unless they are invited to play an out-ofconference game by another team. The most recent example that you may recall would be the invitation for Southern University and A&M College (SU) to play Louisiana State University (LSU) for the first ever in over one hundred years. Even though they are just a twenty-minute drive down I-10 in distance. Now LSU is a part of the Southeastern Conference

(SEC) within the NCAA. The SEC is home to some of our country’s heavy-hitting Division 1 athletic programs, LSU being one of them.

You might also say to me why does it matter if all the HBCUs reside in the same conferences? Well, athletic growth for our athletes is the biggest reason and it is also just insulting. No athlete can improve their skills over time by playing the same level of talent year after year. At some point, they will just plateau. Even though SU currently sits as the top seed in the West Division

of the SWAC for football, we were never projected to win against a power team like LSU. LSU is conditioned to play at a higher level of gameplay by being a part of the SEC because the competition is simply better. Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, LSU, Mississippi, Mississippi State, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, Arkansas, South Carolina, Missouri, and Texas A&M all span across the SWAC state lines however none of them play HBCUs without them inviting an HBCU to play. This looks deliberate, even blurry, and it paints a picture that HBCUs can’t match up. However, that has never stopped recruiters from coming to the very same cities African American Students reside in to play for their programs. That shows me that you once again, want Black talent to enhance your program however refuse to play against us unless it’s going to put money in your pockets. It’s all systematic and I for one think that the NCAA can and should do better. Politics exist in all areas however, no one would ever care if it affected your black studentathletes. Well, I see it and I am calling it out. NCAA get your act together.

courtesy (SU Athletics)

aShley lovelace THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

(DIGEST ART)

Junior, Middle Defender, Azaria Jackson out maneuvers a defender during the Jaguars game against Alabama State on Sunday, October 16 inside A.W. Mumford stadium.(Tiren Causey/DIGEST)

Southern University gospel choir kicks off the homecoming week off with a song on October 16th in the Smith Brown Union Ballroom. (Sydney Fairbanks/DIGEST)

Panelist speak during the “Know Your Boundaries” event held inside the Royal Cotillion Ballroom on Monday, October 17. (Jakavion Ashley/DIGEST)

Miss Southern Laboratory Kelsie Tillage receives her crown along side Miss Freshman Dyllan Robertson, Miss Sophomore Hannah Smith, Miss Junior Ariel Leatherwood and Miss Senior Madison Spears. (Nodea Sewell DIGEST)

Jo’Marion Tate smiles as he sports his new crown during the Mr. AWS Pageant held on Wednesday, October 13 inside the Event Center. (Austin Powe/DIGEST)

Pastor Eric A. Williams, pastor of Beacon Light Baptist Church giving a quick sermon at the ecumenical worship service in the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union on October 16. (Sydney Fairbanks/DIGEST)

SU homecoming parade grand marshall Julie Bradford waves to the crown during the 2022 SU LAB Homecoming parade held on Friday, October 7. (DIGEST)

Coffee Lovers, Rejoice! Cafe 1880 now Open For Business

Last Monday, the opening of Cafe 1880 took place in the John B. Cade Library. Cafe 1880 is the university’s newest addition to the dining services on campus and is a fully functional cafe that proudly serves Starbucks coffee. The opening came just in time for midterms week, while students were fueling up to ace their exams.

Cafe 1880 is located on the first floor in the student center and finds its home right next to Shake Smart and Bento Sushi, two new businesses that opened in the beginning of the fall semester. With an extensive menu of over 30 different coffee drinks and teas to choose from, students can now look no further than their campus library for a quick caffeine fix.

Monae Harris, a senior mass communications major and Cleveland native, expressed, “Having a coffee spot is something that’s needed for college students. A lot of other campuses get it and it’s something that’s ordinary for them. Students used to compare us to other schools and say that a lot of the stuff that they have, we have to wait years for them to bring to our school. Now that we have it we don’t have to worry much about it.”

Cafe 1880 allows its customers to pay with Jag Cash, or another form of payment if you do not have a meal plan or are not enrolled at the university. Harris says, “a lot of these students are counting on their jag cash because they don’t have jobs or a consistent source of income.”

With this opening came an influx of students to the library to try out the new business and all it has to offer. “The first time I came the line was to the door, and I left.”, says Harris. Vanessa Brown, a graduating senior majoring in sociology from Oakland, California had a similar experience. “The first day it opened I waited over thirty minutes for my drink, but it was well worth the wait. I believe the anticipation for its opening definitely created a big turnout of students.”

The hours of business for Cafe 1880 are Monday through Thursday, 8 A.M To 10:00 P.M and Friday 8 A.M to 3 P.M. These extended hours are great for those who study late such as Southern University Law Center students, as well as graduating seniors like Vanessa Brown who need a space where they can study at any time of the day. Brown expressed “Graduation is right around the corner for me and a coffee spot on campus that stays open late like this is perfect. I need all the studying I can get before I walk across the big stage in December!”

He’s His Own Boss: Organic Diego

What comes to mind when you hear the word “entrepreneur?”

Do you think of CEOs of fast food or retail chains? Well, an entrepreneur is anyone that creates a name for their business or brand and works for themselves. Southern University is full of entrepreneurs in various industries such as hairstylists, fashion designers, and chefs. One of the most well-known and hardworking entrepreneurs on the bluff is graduating senior Michael Walker, also known as “Organic Diego.”

Diego is an animal science major from Lafayette, LA “I’m a professional dibbler and dabbler, meaning I am a serial entrepreneur”, said Diego. His first business was fixing phones, then he began making daquiris.

The daquiris were a hit so then he began making desserts and coldpress fruit and vegetable juices. According to Diego, those were his businesses to get him through college. Diego grew up doing farm-like chores and realized that there is money to be made in the agriculture business. As of right now he is a farmer and has

They recently helped create a technology summer camp for kids that was funded by the city. Diego is also the co-manager of a record label and he helps artists get studio time and helps create music videos. He also has four wheelers and dirt-bikes available

Diego says he has a natural and organic thought process. When he first wakes up, he has me-time in which he is not answering his phone for thirty minutes. When asked what makes him an entrepreneur he said “I tell myself I’m an entrepreneur and I’m really like that. I’m unemployable.” He is not to fond of working a “regular” job and getting taxes taken away from his check. Rather than working for a supervisor, he can create a product that will put money in his pocket. Diego is also very open sharing his knowledge and helping fellow Jaguars become their own boss.

To find out more about Diego and keep up with his business ventures, you can search him on all social media platforms under ‘Organic Diego.’ Another reason

Students ordering their morning lattes at the all new Cafe 1880. (Isaac Armstrong/DIGEST)

SydNey wilSoN

SOUTHERN DIGEST

Student Media writer, Lealer Sims chats with Micheal Walker aka Organic Diego inside the Student Media Office multimedia suite on Thursday, October 13. (Issac Armstrong/DIGEST)

Gliding the Night Away with AWS

Ti’Ja Taylor THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

The Association for Women Students (AWS) went Down in the Valley for their Pynk themed week. Ending things at the Pynk with a glow in the dark skate party.

Students had a fun night of rollerskating in the Event Center. AWS Activities Coordinator Faith Woods a sophomore agriculture business major from Baton Rouge, LA explained her inspiration for this event. “AWS had a skate party two years ago, but I wanted to give a chance for other students to experience it. I found a vendor worked the kinks out and the skate party came to life,” stated Woods. The portable skate floor undoubtedly made students feel as if they were at a skating rink.

Though it was an AWS event the men of SU were still able to come live their ‘Roll Bounce’ dreams. After students entered, waivers where signed, and pink wristbands were given out in exchange for glow in the dark skates. Students filled the roller rink for the night and rolled away. As music played students glowed in the dark skating laps trying not to fall. Even so, there were some pro skaters on the floor dancing as they glided pass the beginner skaters.

Tiannah Taylor, a sophomore nursing major from Mobile, Alabama has been skating for almost a year and half. Taylor

explained how the event could’ve been better. “I feel like it went well but it would’ve been better in the mini dome where more people could’ve been on the floor. I enjoyed seeing some of my skater friends from home and also meeting new ones.”

Though students had an allotted time

to actually skate on the rink students waited for their chance to hit the floor. AWS had a quantity of skates for students to use sanitizing them after each use. The skate party granted students the ability to interact with their peers in an entertaining way. Every now and then someone would fall with a huge grin

filling their face. Then quickly getting back up to try it again!

“I’ve been skating since I was really young but in the last year or two, I started skating more often to learn more tricks. I enjoyed how organized it was and how it allowed time for everyone to skate. I also really enjoyed that if you had

Students roll the night away during the skate party hosted by the Association for Women Students (AWS) on October 14 inside the University Event Center. (Austin Powe/DIGEST)

The

Org Spotlight: Planned Parenthood

Te’yaNah oweNS THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

Anyone in need of an organization to join? Joining an organization can come with a lot of great perks. You meet friends that eventually become family. You learn how to do business and conduct yourself. It is great being a student leader and paving the way for others. Southern University (SU) practically lets students start their own organizations of any kind as long as they are appropriate.

Kyndall Jones, a senior majoring in mass communications from Washington, D.,C is the founder and president of Southern University’s Chapter of Planned Parenthood Generation Action. The Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that provides sexual health care in the United States and globally. Jones started participating in Planned Parenthood rallies in her hometown. She was presented with the opportunity to start a chapter of Planned Parenthood at Southern University in Baton Rouge (SUBR) after interning with them.

Jones discussed what she is most proud of in her organization, “Everytime we have a successful event on campus, we usually have a great turnout. People come out and support us are always interested in joining the organization. By them showing up, it makes it obvious that we’re making an impact on campus. Seeing

that people genuinely support us makes my heart full, said Jones.”

There has been a wide variety of opportunities the president has been blessed to experience with Planned Parenthood. For instance, she was invited to moderate a panel at Essence Fest. She has traveled state to state. Earlier this year, Jones was flown out to Dallas, Texas for a national conference and to her hometown D.C for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 51st Annual Legislative Conference.

Legendary actress Lynn Whitfield was at the regional conference. She was awarded as the Reproductive Health Champion Artist and even shouted out her hometown of Baton Rouge. Turns out her grandmother went to Southern University. President Kyndall Jones and Vice President Robyn Hughes of Southern University Planned Parenthood Generation Action were awarded the 2022 Youth Champion of Reproductive Health.

Students if you are looking to join a welcoming organization, try out Planned Parenthood Generation Action at Southern University. Applications are currently open and in the bio of chapter members.You must have a 2.0 GPA to become a member. There is a $5 application fee and $5 member dues. “Showing up is required as a member. We do have a general contract. We want people that are going to actually put

in work because we are a service based organization.” There is no excuse to not get involved. If you feel like there is no

Mens Fed Week: Fireside Chat

Taylor ST. viluS THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

Fireside Chat was hosted during Men’s Federation Week in partnership with Mental Milestone Association and My Sisters Keeper to bring a safe space talk to the Jags on campus about mental health in regards to themselves and their friends. In keeping with the fireside theme, they opened up with introductions and fun icebreakers to create an intimate space. The focus of the chat was to allow students to voic their concerns and share anything that the felt was important to them. This event was about unity, honesty, and taking care of oneself before anything.

“We wanted this to be a general conversation that allows students to voice their concerns and any thoughts they have. Mens Fed wanted to give these students a space today to have a conversation about what they go through not just in school

but in general.” Tristen Gorrell, a senior criminal justice major and the chief of staff for the Men’s Federation spoke about the event.

Friendships and depression became a major topic of discussion as everyone sat and talked about witnessing those closest to them go through it. Everyone in the room sat and spoke about how they themselves recognize when their friends are going through depression and how college can majorly affect their mental health. That conversation led to how can one recognize when they themselves are entering into a depressive episode. Personal testimonies were shared and soon everyone found out that their experience isn’t a monolith one.

“We want to be able to give students a new confidence in regards to mental health and that they should take theirs very seriously. We’re giving the opportunity for Jags on campus to know that it’s okay to be vulnerable.” Jasmine Brown, a junior ag

club that you can fit in to, start your own! Stand out in a crowd and build your own legacy.

business major and the founder of Mental Milestones Association shared. Overall the event was a success allowing students to let go of their grievances and learn to not let the stigmas within their own communities prevent them from getting the help they might need. Oftentimes as students of color, the pressure to deal with things on their own can become very overwhelming and overbearing. Recognizing the signs and listening to your body is very essential. Talking to friends, family, or even a stranger can be very helpful to making sure that one’s mental health does not overtake their life and thoughts. College can make acknowledging one’s feelings extremely hard, especially during times like these where there is national turmoil and many stressful events going on. It is okay to ask for help and the fireside chat helped allow for that to be learned.

your own skates, you were able to skate as long as you wanted. I feel the event went well,” shared Asjia Brock-Johnson a junior nursing major from Atlanta, Georgia.

AWS ended Pynk Week gliding the night away. The skate party was an exciting way to finish off the week. Leaving students anxious to know what they’ll plan next.

why Diego has been successful is because of the support from fellow students.

courtesy: Kyndall Jones

Domestic Violence: Pay Attention People

Domestic abuse has many cases that go unspoken because the victim fears not being heard.

Depression, anxiety, and other disorders can transpire from domestic abuse. These conditions are prominent within the black community in today’s time.

Because toxicity has been normalized and justified in relationships today, it is harder for people to realize the dangers of it.

For example, on September 3, 2022, twenty-one year old Alvin Allen, shot and killed twentyfive year old Keandre Williams in an act of domestic violence. Alvin reacted to seeing his exgirlfriend with someone else, which resulted in death.

Northwestern State student and psychology major, Ariyanna Nichols states, “In most cases they are not completely horrible people. They know it is wrong. They are usually super emotional people but just don’t know how to handle and express their emotions correctly.” The

psychology student goes on, “Most times, people attempt to normalize it by calling it toxic, and laughing it off, when in reality, it is dangerous. Although It is simply how the abuser shows love and exercises their emotions in most cases, it should not be taken lightly.

Even though it has been proven not easy for domestic violence victims to come forward, the world is working to change that. Victim Housing is an apartment complex made solely for domestic violence and abuse victims. The apartments

will be cheaper than most, and fully furnished.

There is also a hand sign associated with domestic violence. The hand sign is used to discreetly ask for help. The hand goes up, the palm out, thumb tucked, then fold fingers down. The sign has aided in helping many women across the world when involved with abuse.

Women have been known to ask hairdressers for an “Angel Cut With Layers,” which is another form of discreet notification of abuse or a cry for help. When the hairdresser is

asked for an “angel cut,” they are to immediately understand the coded message.

Another “angel” term is the “angel shot”, which is a coded message used at bars, and restaurants by those that feel unsafe.

As scary as it may be to ask someone outside of a domestic situation for help, Southern University’s Office of Student Media urges those in unsafe situations to use these different forms of messages to seek help and aid.

The Impact: ATL / Social Media affects Minorities

aaliyah beNNeTT THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

Social media plays an immense role in today’s generation. Most feel as though they have to dress a certain way, wear a certain designer, or even do the same things as others to feel accepted. In the world we live in today, everyone seeks validation whether they think they are or not. Now with the new show Impact: ATL, starring Jayda Cheaves, Ari Fletcher, Arrogant Tae, Dess

Dior and Lakeyah, we get an inside scoop of the actual life of a social media influencer. Impact ATL is an unscripted reality tv show. As you watch, you begin to realize that they all go through life trials just as those without materialistic items.

A materialistic lifestyle isn’t what it perceives to be. Growing up with social media we are granted to see the lives of others. Minorities in their 20’s can see other 20 year olds

Where Have You Been, Rihanna?

Taylor ST viluS THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

To the surprise and excitement of many fans around the world, Rihanna, the music star turned makeup mogul, announced that she will be performing at Super Bowl LVII in 2023. Many are wondering if she will be returning to the music scene to “Stay” with a bang or if this is her final “Take A Bow” moment. I personally believe Rihanna is coming out of a brief retirement to fulfill her fans’ wishes of seeing her back on the music scene.

On January 28th, 2016, Rihanna dropped her 8th studio album, ‘ANTI’, setting the music world of 2016 on fire. Little did her fans know, that would be the last music project of hers for a while. Since quietly disappearing from music, the beloved icon has done many other things to add to her resume. We soon learned that while Rihanna was great at music, her passions lie in fashion and makeup.

In 2017, a year after the album dropped, she launched

Fenty Beauty, an inclusive beauty line. The line was and continues to be a success within the makeup community, praised for its expansive shade range for people of all skin tones. Soon, 2018 also became her year when she was appointed as an ambassador for her home country, Barbados, and she launched her successful lingerie line, ‘SAVAGE’ by Fenty. Her many successes also included her personal life, giving birth to a healthy baby boy in May of 2022 with long-term boo, A$AP Rocky.

Like many, I too became antsy wondering when her next music project would drop. I believe that Rihanna is gonna continue to focus on her career and new family, but use the Superbowl performance as one last go in the music world. I am prepared for her to drop new music and to say farewell officially. We can expect an amazing performance, one that will have us talking for years to come. Knowingly, there is one question we all hope to have an answer to; When is the album coming out?

living a luxurious lifestyle and feel defeated.

I believe my generation should understand that it is okay to have a different journey than your peers.

Social media also creates false narratives with relationships.

The increase in divorce and decrease in marriage in this generation is a big deal. Everyone thinks dating multiple people at one time is safe mentaly and physically. It’s not even a religious belief, they

just think it’s cool because it’s “trendy” . It’s so hard to date in today’s society because you never know. People are getting better at living double lives and it’s actually getting scary.

The lack of authenticity in today’s society is real. Everybody follows what’s trending to stay noticed or to just always keep something in competition. No one knows how to truly be themselves and figure out what they like because they can’t stay off of social media.

Live in the Moment

They see what other people are wearing, buy it and slightly compete without even trying. Being a part of a trend is better than being authentic in today’s society. The people who follow trends mock those who believe it’s better to stay authentic and true to themselves. Social media has truly messed up today’s society.

“Cherish every moment, because for every breath you take, someone else is taking their last,” - Anonymous.

We all know that life is short, but I guess we never really realize it until it’s someone close to us that’s gone. Every day we see deaths of people younger and younger. Life is a precious thing that we tend to take for granted. No man knows the day or the time. It’s time we cherish life for what it is.

Our generation has a habit of comparing and competing. We are constantly looking at others’ lives from a social media point of view. We see what they want us to see, and we put ourselves down because we aren’t meeting the so-called “status quo.”

Everyone’s life and timeline is different. Sometimes we get so caught up in our future that we let the present pass us up. Before we know it, our whole life has flown by.

The recent loss of our peers should be a sign that anything can happen in the blink of an eye. Don’t let your life pass you up before you even get a chance to really live it because, at any moment, we can be stripped of that privilege.

Oftentimes, we don’t realize just how good we have it until it’s gone. I’ve learned that there are several ways to cherish your life, however, all of them start with choosing happiness. Being happy does not come with things or people, it starts within. To be happy with oneself is to be happy with life and all of its amenities. In life, we face many challenges.

SUBMISSIONS POLICY

Some are easy to tackle, and some take days to climb, yet we must learn to be successful with them all one by one. After all, we only get one life to live.

Oh, how heartbreaking it is to look at all the young souls gone too soon. The lives that had yet to be lived at maximum potential. Not a day goes by that we don’t think about someone dear to us, someone that is gone too soon. We think about what could have been or what should have been and instantly regret this. The memories never leave. The dreams left untouched.

As we continue to go through life with the weight of our loved ones on our shoulders, we should start to embrace every second we have. We need to truly live in the moment. After all, the greatest gift you can receive is another day of life. Don’t take it for granted.

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aShiriah williamS THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

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