September 22, 2020 . Volume 75 . Issue 3
More Surprises in 2020:
Students forced to evacuate after bomb threats to residence halls Dante Davis/ Debrandin Brown The Southern Digest
Cops, dogs, administrators, and groups of wandering students were on the scene in front of Ulysses Jones and S.V. Totty Hall on Friday, September 18. A bomb threat against the dorms had been made by an unknown caller around 3:00 pm. Students in Totty and Jones Halls were required to evacuate immediately. What occurred next was two hours of waiting while officers and a K-9 unit searched the two dormitories. Meanwhile, students were instructed to remain a 150 feet away from the Baton Rouge Police Department’s K9 unit searches for possible threats inside the residence halls on Friday, building and were encouraged to September 18. ( Dante Davis/DIGEST) leave if possible. was handled very well. that they had been outside for from university staff,” but by then The initial thirty minutes could In the university’s haste, however, almost an hour before they knew students had been waiting for be described as very frantic the threat and the reason for about the bomb threat, “I feel an hour, and had already started and confusing as the resident the evacuation was not properly very confused and I don’t feel getting nervous and anxious. hall assistants went from door communicated to students. Many safe. What if the building had “Administration needs to do a to door, clearing rooms and of the students were unaware blown up while we were all in better job notifying students. We had to find out about the threat making sure everyone was out as to why they were being there,” said one student. of the buildings. Meanwhile, the instructed to leave, as there was The university sent out an official from other students and they police were handling traffic and no official communication from evacuation order at 4:00pm didn’t even say up until recently stopping anyone from coming the university. When asked about instructing students to “leave that it was a bomb,” said a group too close to either building. As a their feelings on the situation, a [the two dorms] immediately purely precautionary measure, it group of students commented and cooperate with instructions See THREAT page 3 was a quick, efficient process that
It all falls down: Iconic Jones Hall being demolished after 52 years on the bluff Whitney Thomas The Southern Digest
Career Fair Informational Spencer Williams The Southern Digest
With the Virtual Career Fair quickly approaching, students and recruiters alike are gearing up for the new virtual format of the annual event. Despite different circumstances due to COVID-19, the office of Career Services is more than ready for students to take on this virtual journey with them.
“Traditionally, the Career Fair would be held in the F. G. Clark Activity Center” said Ms. Tamara Montgomery, Director of Career Services. Montgomery noted that though this career fair may be virtual, they have prepared to give students the best experience possible by using Handshake, a new platform chosen by Career Services to help students find job and internship opportunities. Ms. Montgomery discussed the positives of Handshake, referencing some of the tools that it makes available to students. “[Handshake is] the number one online platform used by colleges and universities for students to secure cooperative education opportunities and internships for jobs,” she said.
According to Montgomery, Career Services implemented this system for students because they felt it was the best platform available, and they wanted to invest in technological tools that benefited students’ futures.
The historic Jones Hall has been standing since 1968, housing many male students during the university’s hayday. Now with the renovations currently taking place in the building, all that will be left behind are memories. Despite this, new students can look forward to creating more new ones once renovations are done.
See SUCCESS page 3
“It was time for renovations to take place on campus. I’m just happy they made Jones Hall a starting point,” said Mykia Mitchell, a second-year student majoring in political science.
Jones Hall is now in the beginning stages of being torn down and rebuilt after being closed for over 10 years. Although staff from residential life are all ecstatic about the changes being made, this decision was made by the Capital Outlay Program. The Capital Outlay Program, also known as the “Bond Program,” provides a source of funding for public improvement. The funds are used for acquiring lands, buildings, equipment, and other properties.
Keys to Virtual Success:
Jones Hall being demolished as part of campus renovations. The building has been a mainstay on the campus for over half a century. ( Jalyn Garner/DIGEST).
Though renovations have now begun, the time that it will take to complete this project is “still unknown,” according to the Capital Outlay Program.
News about the demolition spread fast, as several male alumni took to social media sharing memories and stories of what Jones Hall used to be. Many
described this experience as “humble beginnings,” reminiscing over their single room experiences with their roommates.
Tracie Abraham, Executive Director of Student Services and Residential Life University Apartments says that students can look forward to many things following this project. “We have plans to build a new facility
behind the Intramural sports complex which used to house the Old Triangle. We also plan on demolishing Washington Hall and getting some new facilities up front. We’re currently developing the plan for the new living facilities, and although nothing is finalized yet, we are definitely See JONES page 3
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NEWS
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VOTER REGISTRATION WEEK
The week of Sept. 21-25 has been designated Voter Registration Week. To register and vote in Louisiana individuals must: · be a U.S. citizen; · be at least 17 years old (16 years old if registering in person at the Registrar of Voters Office or at the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles) to register and 18 years old prior to the next election to vote;
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Director............................................. Jermaine Proshee Publications Mgr. .................................Devin Hadrick Business/Advertising Mgr. ................ Camelia Jackson
Student Media Newsroom.....................771.2231 Advertising Office.................................. 771.5833 Director’s Office ....................................771.5812 Editor-in-Chief............................................. James Eaglin, Jr. Copy Editor ................................................. Yamere Rashada
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· not be under a judgment of full interdiction for mental incompetence or partial interdiction with suspension of voting rights;
There are 42 days until the 2020 United States Presidential Election. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters of Southern University are encouraged to register to vote and make your voice heard on Tues., Nov. 3. The deadline to register to vote in person or by mail is Mon., Oct. 5.
MICROSOFT TEAMS STUDENT TRAINING
In case you missed it, visit www.sus.edu/ msteamstraining to watch the replay of of the Microsoft Teams Student Training on demand. Students will need to use their mySULogin to access the training session.
2020 FALL VIRTUAL CAREER FAIR
Save the date! The 2020 Fall Virtual Career Fair powered by Handshake is scheduled for Wed., Sept. 29, 2020. More details coming soon!
UNIVERSITY COUNSELING CENTER
Reaccredited by the International Accreditation of Counseling Services (IACS), the UCC offers individual, couples counseling, psychological evaluations, medication management, referrals, and consultation to the greater campus community. For more information, call them at 225-771-2480, or visit them at their office M-F from 8am - 5pm (located next to the Student Health Center)
CENTER FOR STUDENT SUCCESS
Fall 2020 Online Tutoring has begun! For more information, contact Lindsey Butler at lindsey_ butler@subr.edu or by calling 225-771-4312.
SGA SENATE MEETING
NOTICE TO STUDENTS FROM DIVISION OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Beginning Mon., Sept. 28, ALL CLASSES will follow the original instruction model as set in Banner. If there is any question regarding the mode of instruction, please refer to how the course was listed in Self Service Banner. Faculty cannot unilaterally change a class from hybrid to online. Training sessions for Moodle and Microsoft Teams can be viewed on demand through the Academic Tool Kit website at https:// www.subr.edu/toolkit. Please contact your instructor if you are having trouble with Microsoft Teams or Moodle.
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The SGA Senate will be meeting Tues., Sept. 15 at 6:00pm. Be sure to register for the SGA Senate Meeting by using the link: bit.ly/ SUBRSENATE1
SU GIVE DAY | SEPTEMBER 30
Staff Writer..................................................... Nolan Johnson Staff Writer................................................. Spencer Wiliams
Staff Writer................................................. Aurelashia Bowie Staff Writer................................................... Tyanaese Moore
Staff Writer...................................................... Evan Funchess Staff Writer......................................................... Kori Toliver
Staff Writer........................................................ Jaylnn Jacobs
SU GIVE DAY LINK:
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Staff Writer................................................... Diamond Butler Staff Writer.................................................. Kynnedi Jackson Staff Writer................................................. Whitney Thomas Staff Photographer.............................................Kyndall Jones
Staff Photographer....................................... Tiffany Williams Staff Photographer.........................................Teyanah Owens
Staff Photographer........................................ Issac Armstrong Staff Photographer............................................... Keith Lewis
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www.southerndigest.com The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Tuesday, September 22, 2020 | Page 3
NEWS THREAT from page 1
of Jones Hall residents.
The all clear was given at 5:10pm after an exhaustive search of the two buildings yielded no devices. No suspects have been named as of yet and no injuries were reported. “The whole situation has been really inconvenient because a lot of us were doing homework or sleeping before we had to come outside. As freshman, we haven’t had the best experience thus far with the pandemic so it’s just sad. We should feel safe on campus,” said Totty Hall resident, Sanaii Redd.
SUCCESS from page 1 When Career Services launched this platform in 2018, they wanted to ensure that it was user friendly for the students hoping to apply for new opportunities. “Students can create a profile, upload their resumes, schedule appointments with career counselors, attend informational sessions, and schedule appointments with Career Services to get tips,” said Montgomery in reference to how Handshake can contribute to students improving themselves in aspects such as interviews and correcting their resumes.
Computer Science major, Jarriel Jackson grabs some professional attire during the JCPenny’s event hosted by SU Career Services. (Kynnedi Jackson/DIGEST)
When asked how students can prepare themselves for this year’s Career Fair, Montgomery put an emphasis on the importance for students to create a profile into the Handshake system and claim their account. Students can claim their Handshake account by accessing their “sus.edu” email address. According to Montgomery, the email was sent to all students ahead of time for students to prepare and familiarize themselves with the platform. Students must register into the system to upload their resumes and other additional information about themselves.
Registering with his platform is important so they can participate in this upcoming career fair. Ms. Montgomery offered some more words of advice to students, saying that students need to “Prepare, do their research, reach out to the Career Services Center, and utilize all of the services that they provide in their office for them.”
In March where they were instructed to immediately work from home, Career Services staff members were already prepared to operate; their tools and services were already in place to work remotely, according to Montgomery. They felt comfortable and excited to still be able to operate and prepare students in this new virtual atmosphere.
With this Fall’s Career Fair being held on September 29, 2020, Career Services is more than ready for students to succeed during this new virtual experience. They have the tools, resources, and services in place for students to utilize from the comfort of their home. Career Services is definitely ready to help students, one click at a time.
While there has been yet to be any updates regarding the specifics of who made the call and the investigation is still ongoing, Executive Director of Student Services and Residential Life in University Apartments, Tracie Abraham had this to say about how all parties involved handled the suddenness of the situation. “The students cooperated with the evacuation [protocols] and I thank them [for that]. It was an actual emergency [instead of a drill] this time, so I think that they did a job of following the orders of the staff,” said Abraham’s in regards to her thoughts on the evacuation process amid the confusion of the afternoons events. JONES from page 1 close to finalizing the new drawings for the new facilities. Hopefully construction will start sometime in the very near future.” Jayla Parks, a third year returning student, says her dad tells many stories about Jones Hall during his time at Southern. “My dad is an alumnus so I really was excited to attend Southern, but everything didn’t hit until I was able to see Jones Hall with my own eyes. Just from hearing everything my dad said I know him and many more will carry that experience for a lifetime.” It’s often said that all good things must come to an end. As far as Jones Hall and the legacy that it’s left behind in the memories of countless Southern University alumni, however, this is an opportunity for new beginnings to start taking place.
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SPORTS
Page 4 | Tuesday, September 22, 2020
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Peyton Manning endows scholarships for 6 HBCUs: Scholarship will honor a Southern hall of famer Jalyn Garner The Southern Digest
Peyton Manning, a 2x Super Bowl Champion and New Orleans native, is investing into HBCUs through is “Manning’s Peyback Foundation.” Manning is endowing a half dozen scholarships at HBCUs in Louisiana and Tennessee. One of the scholarship’s are for Southern University’s own Harold Carmichael, a 2020 Pro Football Hall of Famer who was drafted in the 1971 NFL draft to the Philadelphia Eagles. A few others are in the names of some of the most influential people who attended HBCUs. Wilma Rudolph the first woman to ever win three gold medals in one Olympics, Grambling’s own Doug Williams the first black quarterback to win a SuperBowl, Dr. Reavis L. Mitchell of Fisk University, Xavier University named for their long-time President Dr. Norman Francis, and Dillard University named for Dr. Michael Lomax who’s President and CEO of the United Negro College Fund. Doug Williams who actually blew the whistle on it being Peyton Manning who
DIGEST ART
was behind the scholarship said “Peyton is a Louisiana boy. I know he’s given to a lot of wonderful causes without publicity, but this was a most pleasant surprise for me.” Southern University’s own Harold Carmichael also expressed his gratitude for Manning’s doing saying that “It’s really an honor to have my name on
that scholarship…… I know this is not necessarily an athletic scholarship, HBCUs are much more than that-but when I played at Southern all I got was $14 a month for laundry and there were times when even that money missed payments. An endowed scholarship with my name attached? I am really humbled and blessed.”
HBCUs have been garnering a lot of positive attention in the past few months. Since the likes of NBA star Chris Paul going on his “HBCU Tour” while in the NBA bubble, or college athletes understanding their power and transferring from PWI’s to an HBCU. There is more to where this is coming for HBCUs.
SPORTS COMMENTARY
Long Road: NFL players stand in solidarity Evan Funchess The Southern Digest
The black community has had to traverse through many injustices this year. From unnecessary shootings of black men to illegal no-knock warrant searches leading to death. For decades the fight against injustice against black people has raged on. In sports, many have used their platforms to advocate for change. Sports are commonly used as distractions from society’s many problems and inequalities. Today’s athlete, however, seeks to put an end to that. It started with Colin Kapernick’s courageous stand against police brutality during the 2016 season. It had sent shockwaves through sports and changed the league in its entirety. It led to mass questioning around the league ranging from how should they protest and whether or not they should protest at all. These issues lead to splits amongst the league’s players from an approach standpoint. This year with the breakout of the COVID-19 virus, in addition to more foul acts from police brought past ideologies to the light. Many players and media members alike looked back on Colin Kaepernick’s protest with fresh eyes. Some began to question themselves, while others began to question their teams themselves. Ten days after the murder of George Floyd the league’s top stars came together to call for action. Stars like Super Bowl Champion and MVP Patrick Mahomes and NFC Offensive Player of the Year Michael Thomas came together to take a stand against police brutality. In the months that followed more protests ensued and players only continued to push the
DIGEST Illustration
envelope. Players began leading charges for their teammates to be registered to vote. Jacoby Brissett led the charge for the Indianapolis Colts to get registered after the shooting of Jacob Blake at the hands of Kenosha, Wisconsin police. The actions of these players have changed so drastically since Colin first took a knee in 2016. Which led me to the question of “What changed?” The saying of “better late than never” comes to mind but, doesn’t truly do the movement any justice. I believe that black
men in the NFL have realized that this isn’t a passing fancy. They can no longer sit on the fence with these issues and just tweet non-partisan words. Actions must always speak louder than words because words can only get us so far. During a pandemic, black people could not feel any safety nor compassion from the police. Once players realized this, their push for change only became stronger. Denver Broncos running back Phillip Lindsay after seeing George Floyd’s death felt the need to take action
as well. The Denver Broncos came together to get police reform legislation put into law. NFL teams are now working with local government officials to make an incredible change. They are no longer waiting for a change instead, they are the ones creating it. With the movement now stronger than it’s ever been the question that remains is “where do we go from here?” To which I respond with a quote from Fred Hampton. “If you dare to struggle, you dare to win.”
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Tuesday, September 22, 2020 | Page 5
COVID
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FEATURE
Page 6 | Tuesday, September 22, 2020
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Student Affairs Feature; A New Normal Debrandin Brown The Southern Digest
In the past, the Office of Student Affairs has run point on reporting all student-oriented activity on campus, but a year such as this one has been filled with compromise for everyone on multiple fronts. Because of this, a new approach has been necessary in regards to how student life is handled amidst a global pandemic. Leading the department in its efforts to make student life on campus as safe and effective as possible is first year Vice Chair of Student Affairs, Frederick Walton. A graduate of Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia with a degree in political science, Dr. Walton has served administrative roles in the student affairs department at both Lincoln and Savannah State University. Additionally, Walton also gained experience as an assistant professor of political science at both Morris Brown College and the University of Georgia, prior to him taking up his first administrative role at Lincoln as the Vice President of Student Affairs from 2010 to 2014. “I was always engaged on the student affairs side of things. [In many ways] I was the go-to faculty member for student affairs. I was more or less the informal liaison between faculty and student affairs [during my time at Morris Brown],” said Walton when asked how he originally gained interest in working in student
affairs in an administrative role. After taking up a vice presidency role in Student Affairs at Savannah State, Walton regarded the history behind WALTON Southern University as an acclaimed HBCU as the main factor behind his interest in taking the role as Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs on the bluff. “Southern University is always one of the HBCUs that you hear about, and one of the more well known HBCUs in general. So when the opportunity presented itself, I was excited for the offer and an opportunity to be here,” said Walton in reference to what drew him to Southern. Walton holds his time as an educator in the classrooms in high regard, noting the many ways that being a professor has helped him in his current role in administration. “The more that you’ve seen, the better that you are. So because I’ve seen students from that perspective, it helps me [maintain the student perspective] in this role,” he explained. One of the most important skills that Walton has learned while in his role has
“Southern University is always one of the HBCUs that you hear about, and one of the more well known HBCUs in general. So when the opportunity presented itself, I was excited for the offer and an opportunity to be here.”
- Dr. Frederick Walton, Vice-Chancellor of Student Affairs
been how to maneuver in such a way that Student Affairs is able to effectively support and complement what is trying to be accomplished in the department of Academic Affairs. “I think it’s very much a learning experience. Even in the [limited] social activities that we have, there’s a learning aspect of things that we regard as the sort of soft skills that are going to make us successful,” said Walton, noting some of the gaps that he believes his department can fill in an effort to make the job of Academic Affairs easier. “These are certainly unprecedented times. We are facing challenges to be sure. All the activities with things like the band and traditional Homecoming aren’t going to exist this Fall,” said Walton about the reality that the university as a whole is facing this semester. Despite this, Walton says that he considers these circumstances as an opportunity to be more creative in providing platforms for students to continue to be engaged. While Dr. Walton noted his empathy
for students who want a more traditional slate of events and activities, especially first time freshmen, he also emphasized the importance of students and staff alike abiding by the mask mandates that have been set by the university in order to return to some sense of normalcy in the future. “Wear the masks and social distance. Most importantly, [make the effort] to avoid student interactions that don’t provide space for social distancing. On the one hand, I understand being in the college age and wanting to enjoy [the moment]. But this is a global pandemic and we have to be responsible,” said Walton when asked what his message would be for the student body. While this year has definitely been anything but normal, it’s more important now than ever to follow health protocols so that going forward, we can have campus activities in a safe and enjoyable environment for all parties concerned.
Dishonor on Disney, Dishonor on Mulan Diamond Butler The Southern Digest
On September 4th, Disney had released a live-action version of its 1998 animated movie, Mulan, to its Disney+ streaming service. This movie was to give a retelling of the legend of Hua Mulan and allegedly have more context to the source material, The Ballad of Mulan. Being that the animated version went well with audiences, the live-action version was once of the most anticipated films of 2020. However, after the movie was released there have been mixed criticisms about the movie. Some viewers and critics loved the imagery and action scenes of the movie, but others found that the movie was not anywhere close to the original and portrayed some unwanted ideologies. A few days after the release from Twitter a boycott with the hashtag #BoycottMulan spread throughout the internet. This boycott centers around two issues that came from the credit sequence of the movie and the location of filming. One of the outrages comes from at the end of the film there is a thank you to the Hong Kong Police. The campaign was started mainly due to the controversial comment made by the lead actress, Yifei Liu who plays Mulan in the movie. According to several news articles, the filming of Mulan began last year during the protest of a bill that allows criminal suspects from Hong Kong to be sent to mainland China. This protest led to police brutality against its citizens which led to more protests being
source: Twitter
formed. During that time of protest, Liu took to Weibo, a Chinese social media site, and commented on supporting the Hong Kong police. In the post she states that “I support Hong Kong’s police, you can beat me up now. What a shame for Hong Kong.” On the day of the film’s release, Hong Kong activist, Joshua Wong, took to Twitter and wrote the following, “The film is released today. But because Disney kowtows to Beijing, and because Liu Yifei openly and proudly endorses police
brutality in Hong Kong, I urge everyone who believes in human rights to #Boycott Mulan.” Since releasing that comment this tweet has received over twenty-seven thousand retweets. Along with that issue, other outrages came from the movie itself. During filming there has been reported poor treatment of Uyghur Muslims in China’s Xinjiang region, where some of the movie was shot. According to an article from the New York Times while filming
Uyghur Muslims were detained into mass internment camps, adding on to the increased surveillance and repression this group has been receiving for years. Claims have risen to state that within these camps Muslims are subjected to cheap labor under the disguise “re-education,” and are forced to learn Mandarin, under the orders of the Chinese Communist Party, for offenses like praying to their religion or growing a beard. As well that, according to those who viewed the movie, the film itself promotes Han supremacism, an idea that all parts of China should be governed by ethnic Han Chinese, the majority group of China’s population. For a while, Disney did not make any comments regarding Liu’s comment or for the issues from the ending credits and filming. Though in February of this year the Disney Studio’s chairman, Alan Horn spoke in an interview about Liu’s comment and said regarding the studio itself it tends to be “non-political, apolitical when it comes to all this stuff.” Recently the Disney head of finance, Christine McCarthy, responded saying that all the criticisms of filming were blown out of proportion. Reportedly in a virtual Bank of America conference, she states that “The real facts are that Mulan was primarily shot – almost in entirety – in New Zealand. In an effort to accurately depict some of the unique landscape and geography of the country of China for this period drama, we filmed scenery in See MULAN page 7
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Tuesday, September 22, 2020 | Page 7
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Diversity in Agriculture
MULAN from page 6
Debrandin Brown The Southern Digest
Historically speaking, the agricultural industry in the United States is a majority white field with caucasians making up just around 95% of farmers throughout the country, according to the 2017 Census of Agriculture. On a virtual Zoom call this past Wednesday, September 16, Southern University’s College of Agricultural, Family, and Consumer Sciences held a forum to discuss this very topic and the strides that have been taken to diversify the field. “Most of the time in an agricultural setting, the African American is in an environment where they are the only one, and if I hadn’t had the right teachers telling me to be mindful, I would be [in my current position,” said Dr. Rene Brown, a pastor at Mt. Zion First Baptist Church in regards to the type of environment the agriculture industry presents for black people. Dr. Brown also put a strong emphasis on the importance of having black mentors and peers to learn the intricacies of the field. Throughout the discussion,
Source: Twitter
one of the things that all of the panelists touched on in some respect was the need for black professionals in the agriculture field, specifically members of the agricultural departments here at Southern University, to educate prospective agriculture scientists on the realities of what the agricultural field in graduate school as well as in the field of study. “[My mentors] helped me to navigate the system; that’s what the Agriculture Department has to be able to do. Don’t just send those students out, but educate them that where they’re going, they aren’t only representing themselves, but the Southern University A&M college as
FEATURE
well.” said Dr. Brown. Similar sentiments were shared by Beattra Wilson, M.P.A. as she spoke about her experiences as a Black woman in the urban forestry field. Making up only around 5% of her agency at the U.S Forest Service, Wilson notes a certain shock factor that still exists in her even after nineteen years of experience when she walks into a room with a majority of white peers. “It doesn’t matter the setting; you still have to be deeply rooted and maintain your professionalism, and know who you are,” said Wilson when noting her experience working in the field with all
male teams, and sometimes all white male teams throughout her career. Wilson commented that this dynamic doesn’t change significantly in board room settings either as the vast majority of her contemporaries are white men. “When I entered the Forest Service five days after graduation, [the reality of that situation] was a game changer. But at the same time, I was prepared [due to the diversity and experience of my mentors] in the Southern University Ag Center.” said Wilson. Featuring experiences from a multitude of different panelists including Dr. Deacue Fields, Agricultural Dean at the University of Arkansas and Irene Lewis, Spring 2020 Chief Marshall at Southern University, last Wednesday’s conference featured numerous stories being told and experiences being shared by professionals in the field of agriculture. Despite the realities that the agricultural field presents for black people, all of the aforementioned people are examples of success coming to fruition if you stay committed and firmly rooted to your professionalism and overall goals.
20 different locations in China.” She continues by stating that “It’s common knowledge that, in order to film in China, you have to be granted permission. That permission comes from the central government. So, in our credits, it recognized both Chine and locations in New Zealand. I would just leave it at that, but it has generated a lot of issues for us.” Regardless of what Disney representatives say and what those who enjoyed the film say, this live-action version of Mulan has sparked various outrages. It is shown that this boycott is affecting any revenue Disney may receive after having a $200 million budget on this film. Currently, Disney has not come forth stating whether they are removing the movie or not due to the controversy. Though it is clear that unlike its predecessors, this movie has gained the biggest reaction from the public. While this movie was intended to be a simple reproduction of an animated classic, it brought light to several issues being held with the Chinese population.
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Lovecraft Country: First Impressions
Keenon Glover The Southern Digest
The increase in representation for Black artists in cinema and television have brought significant growth in bringing fresh content and Black stories for viewers and admirers. A more recent leader in this change in direction is the horror drama television series that is Lovecraft Country. Executively produced by Jordan Peele, J.J. Abrams, and Misha Green, who can be credited for her antebellum series Underground, Lovecraft Country is an adaptation of the novel by Matt Ruff. The story chronicles the supernatural experience of African-Americans venturing through the morbid world of rural America during the 1950s. With a cast starring Jurnee Smollett, Jonathan Majors, Aunjanue Ellis and Courtney B. Vance, the series has been in the limelight since its debut on HBO Max. Lovecraft Country follows Atticus Freeman, a young Black veteran who journeys in search of his missing father, along with his Uncle George and childhood friend Letitia Lewis. They travel through land that is said to be the basis of the writings of cosmic horror novelist H.P. Lovecraft. The series depicts the travelers navigating the disturbingly racist communities in America, unaware of the otherworldly beings and monstrosities that their journey will soon revolve around. Originating from New England, H.P. Lovecraft is known as the ‘father of cosmic horror’, a genre which “looks
at the macrocosm of life,” as explained by Medium. “It focuses its gaze on the cosmos that surrounds us and looks at humans in relationship to that cosmos, hence the name ‘cosmic horror.’nIt considers the frightening fact that humans are small, fragile and unimportant.”As Jeremy Husserel of CBR explains, the genre’s complexity makes it difficult to replicate. “The strength of the genre lies in not knowing much, and this can be a problem with a film since connecting to the main character is essential to a portion of its success.” However, successful takes on this genre can be found in films such as The Thing, The Cabin in the Woods, and Annihilation. Although he is often acknowledged for his contributions to cosmic horror, it is often overlooked how H.P. Lovecraft also utilized his art as a platform of white supremacy. The confusingly and seemingly invincible threats that plague the worlds of the Lovecraftian genre can easily be interpreted as a metaphor for the global threats of racism, as shown by the work of Matt Ruffin and Misha Green on Lovecraft Country . The horrors of Atticus Freeman’s world not only presents itself through monstrosities beyond human imagination, but also in the monstrous actions and bigotry among humans that individuals like H.P. Lovecraft have supported. From the perspective of the viewer, this association couldn’t be clearer. Kayon Johnson, a senior from LaPlace, Louisiana, offered an in-depth explanation on the series’ significance to him. “Lovecraft
Country is a refreshing and much needed take on Black life within the realm of SciFi, a perspective not often represented in Hollywood. Not only do the main characters find themselves battling the cliche tropes of science fiction (mythical monsters, time travel, alternate realities, etc.) but their obstacles are compounded by the burden of being black in America during the 1950’s.” Johnson also points out the artistic visions of both renditions
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of the story: “Though the show has quite a few noticeable but relatively minute differences from the book, it does a great job of filling the void of Black presence in sci-fi, horror, and thriller. Lovecraft Country overall is a great story that leaves the viewer/reader wondering what’s scarier, the monsters we make up in our heads or the realities that we refuse to see?”
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OPINION
Page 8 | Tuesday, September 22, 2020
Silenced No More Kynnedi Jackson The Southern Digest
Civil Rights Activist John Lewis once said “I gave a little blood on that bridge in Selma, Alabama for the right to vote. I am not going to stand by and let the supreme court take the right to vote away from us.” The fight for African Americans to gain the right to vote was a long, hard and grueling process. The discipline, diligence, and determination these young men and women had were unmatched. The ridicule they went through just to be heard was unjust and unfair. The fight was not fought just so they can be heard; it was fought for our generation and generations to come. “Why vote, they’re not going
to listen anyway?” “Politics is a scam.” “Black votes don’t count nor do they matter. It’s just a waste of my time.” There is no doubt that these thoughts run through the minds of Black people everywhere. It doesn’t have to be said for one to think it. In past years data shows that the Black vote make up 20% of the democratic vote and the number is steadily increasing every year. We, as a race, need to stick together and relieve each other of this pessimistic mindset. We can make a change and that change can begin with us, one step at a time. Our race is a powerhouse and together we can accomplish anything. Instead we continue to allow negativity, fear, and the past to silence us. Truth be told, we are doing more harm than good.
Whose Call Is It Anyway? Roceyln Hamilton The Southern Digest
As everyone obviously knows, we are currently in the middle of a pandemic. And I think it’s safe to say that a lot of us are past being exhausted in all aspects. When you think all the way to the beginning of the year, 2020 has been absolutely draining and ghetto. Emotionally, mentally, and physically especially for those, who have been working this entire time with no breaks. But, we are still here, all by the grace of God. However, we are also still here. By here I
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Our silence is an action. It is an easy sign of hopelessness and defeat. We have the voice; we just need to use it. Every vote is a step towards change. Let’s break the chains of disparity, deprivation, and inferiority that were put on us. What is the importance of the Black vote? When president Obama was first elected president, he received over 90% of the Black vote which made it very difficult for anyone to defeat him. When he ran for reelection, those percentages dropped which made it very difficult for him to be reelected. African Americans have been given a platform such as sports, music, television, education, and, along with the help of the social media explosion, technology. These platforms allow us the opportunity to be heard, voice our opinions and influence others to vote.
mean at Southern University and on campus. I do, also think it is safe to say that as a collective though, everyone is tired and may or may not have checked out of school already. Before school started, and even now when school is in session, for now, there have been varying opinions about whether we should’ve come back to campus and how Southern has been handling things. Rightfully so, everyone in some way is concerned. Especially now with Louisiana being allowed to play outside in Phase 3, even though they’ve been doing that if we are being honest. Minus New Orleans because, Mayor Cantrell said New Orleans is not Louisiana. Thanks to the top tier blue app that is called Twitter, we have already seen the parties, the fights (which are concerning, but entertaining still, let’s not lie about it), the gatherings, everything. Of course this is not all from Southern, or even HBCUs in general. LSU and several other PWIs definitely have their parties,
Blacks have more power now, more than ever, to catapult our candidates into office. The Black vote is important; it’s necessary for many politicians to step into their office. For some, our votes are down played and insignificant. Yet again, we matter, we have a voice and we have the power to make a change, but with great power come great responsibility. We, African Americans, must understand the importance of voting. We must understand what our ancestors went through for us to vote. We must understand what Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. meant when he said, “Give us the ballot”. It is painfully obvious that we must exercise our right to vote. Everyone is given the same opportunity to register and to vote. If it’s not in your heart to vote make sure it’s not in your heart to complain. In the words
of course with no public condemnation from social media but that’s not my business. So what would happen if there was an outbreak? Who would make the call to close school? I’m going to be honest, I wouldn’t know, because I would not stay long enough to find out and I’m cancelling school myself. But let’s try to think about it for a second. Say there was an outbreak in a specific department. I would hope that the person who over that department would work with the President-Chancellor, Dr. Ray L. Belton, to take the precautions to keep students safe. But, I halfway only expect that to be them simply putting everyone on quarantine, but then allowing them to come back after two weeks and still continuing school. But what about the students who aren’t necessarily in that department but still have to take classes in the building wherever that department is? Granted,
of the United States of America 44th President, Barack Obama,” We are the hope of the father who goes to work before dawn and lies awake with doubt that tells him he cannot give his children the same opportunities that someone gave him. Yes, He Can. We are the hope of the woman who hears that her city will not be rebuilt, that she cannot somehow claim the life that was swept away in a terrible storm. Yes, She Can. We are the hope of the future, the answer to the cynics who tell us our house must stand divided, that we cannot remake this world as it should be. Yes, We Can! Yes, We Can! Yes, We Can!” From this point on, we, African Americans, have a voice. We will use our voice to make a change. We will not be defeated. We will not be silenced. I encourage you to take a stand and vote. Black votes matter.
I know a lot of classes are utilizing the hybrid class method where students have the option, but there are still the ones who do choose to come to class. As well as those whose classes are still traditional. What if it continues to spread? At that point, I would absolutely expect Dr. Belton to go the extra step and shut down school and send everyone home. Not us getting an email saying they are ‘monitoring’ it, like they do with everything else. Not them waiting for LSU to have an outbreak and close school so they can follow. I expect him to fully take into consideration the safety of the students, being that we are essentially the backbone of this business that is Southern University. You can’t have a college without students. But one can only hope that it does not get to that point, and we all make it out of here safely.
College Danger: COVID Edition Diamond Butler The Southern Digest
For the longest time, there has been a constant argument of what form of college was the best: an HBCU, or a PWI. Every time you hear this conversation it gets deep into whether one type of college is better or worse than the other, the standards that come with attending these schools, and so much more. Regardless of what type of college you attend, both institutions are being affected by the same pandemic of COVID-19. Though from recent news articles and broadcastings, it is obvious that both types of schools are dealing with students who are disregarding that COVID as an ongoing issue. If you are following the news, then you are aware that many college students around the ages of 18 to 29 are testing positive for COVID. This is due to many of them not socially distancing themselves, going outside without wearing a mask, and knowingly going out to large gatherings when they have COVID, which
are the main factors for massive spreading of the virus on college campuses. An article from WAFB covered the topic of these high college infection rates, stating that “Nearly 60% of students also do not disclose positivity rates, a key measure used to determine how widespread the virus is on campus.” The article continues, stating that “Louisiana State University is one of the schools that secrets this. Just this week, its football coach announced that most of the team has had COVID.” For many concerned parents and community members, this is the obvious reason why some colleges have high COVID numbers. However, not everyone agrees with that being the cause. There is also the fact that many college students are choosing to go out in public without taking the necessary measures to remain safe. Miriam Bowie, a Mass Communication senior, agrees with WAFB, saying “For me, I think that a lot of students are not taking it seriously as far as social distancing and wearing masks, and that is why I think that the rates are increasing.”
While there are students who do not use masks or keep a six feet distance from one another, in reported cases, there have been students who test positive and still hold or go to gatherings. At the Miami University in Ohio, there have been reports of having more than 1,100 students testing positive for COVID since mid-August. Recently it was discovered by an Oxford office that a group of students who tested positive held a party within their home. Also, their neighbors from across the street also tested positive and no one was doing any quarantining. All these students have faced disciplinary actions by the school, but this is merely one of many colleges across the country who are dealing with these COVID parties. Terronesha Lubom, a Mass Communication junior, says “I think that if you go to a party on campus that it should be a small group of people that whoever is the host knows. COVID is not a joke. I have known close family and friends that had it and were able to recover, but there are others that
did not recover and died.” So many fail to realize that COVID is not something that is going away overnight. There are still people all over the world fighting the virus and trying to survive, which is why many college students need to step up and do their part in lowering the numbers. Now students who are caught not following the quarantine and safety guidelines are punished according to that school’s Code of Conduct. In some cases, it is a fine and a warning, but in extreme cases it is a suspension or expulsion from the campus. COVID-19 is still out there, so for those who are still not following proper procedure, please start wearing your masks and social distance yourself, even if you are with family or friends. Be sure that you are washing your hands and using disinfection on the areas you touch. Remember these actions are not to control you, but it is to help to save yours and another life.
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