The Student Voice of Howard University Since 1924 Volume 101, Issue 14
Thursday, January 12, 2017
Washington, D.C.
The People’s Inauguration To Bring “Stay Woke and Fight” Campaign to The Mecca
INSIDE
CAMPUS:
Howard Alumna Kamala Harris Is Second AfricanAmerican Woman In U.S. Senate Pg. 5/
CULTURE A Q&A Interview With ‘16-’17 Miss Howard University Pg. 10/
By Rebecca Johnson Contributing Writer The Howard University Student Association and the College and Youth Division of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) have partnered up to hold “The
People’s Inauguration” on the campus of Howard University on Saturday, Jan. 21. The People’s Inauguration will bring together youth, activists and influencers to organize and mobilize in response to President-elect Donald Trump’s
Photo courtesy: NAACP
administration. Scheduled guest speakers for the event include CNN political commentator Symone Sanders, NAACP National Director of the Youth and College Division Stephen Green, executive director of The Gathering for Justice Carmen Perez,
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SPORTS: Howard Bison Have A New Head Football Coach Pg. 12/
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BLACK ZORA NEALE HURSTON
(January 7, 1891-January 28, 1960)
Zora Neale Hurston was born on January 7, 1891, in Notasulga, Ala., to Reverend John and Lucy Hurston. She grew up in the all-black town of Eatonville, Fla., and went north as a young woman just as the Great Migration was starting during World War I. She attended what is now Morgan State University and then Howard University, where she got her first story published in the literary magazine, Stylus, and co-founded the student newspaper, The Hilltop, while working odd jobs as a maid and a manicurist. Hurston never actually wrote for the newspaper, but provided guidance for student journalists. She went to New York at the height of the Harlem Renaissance, and, in 1928, became the first black student known to graduate from Barnard College. There, she majored in English and studied anthropology but was not permitted to live in the dormitories. As was her way, she never complained. She once famously said: “Sometimes, I feel discriminated against, but it does not make me angry. It merely astonishes me. How can any deny themselves the pleasure
HISTORY
of my company? It’s beyond me.” She would become a renowned folklorist and novelist, acclaimed for her 1937 masterpiece, Their Eyes Were Watching God, which some see as drawn from parts of her own life. One of Janie Crawford’s husbands was mayor of an all-black Florida town as was Hurston’s father. Janie’s love life, with its multiple marriages and unsettledness, mirrors Hurston’s own nomadic experiences. Five years later, she published an autobiography, Dust Tracks on a Road, about her many journeys, but her star faded as she appeared removed from the changing politics of the day. In 1946, she supported the Republican who was opposing Congressman Adam Clayton Powell, the most famous black politician of the era. Powell won reelection by a landslide, and the election was but one window into the growing distance between her southern traditionalism and a growing push for equality in the North. She returned to Florida and, in January 1960, died in a welfare home in Fort Pierce, Fla., after suffering a stroke.
CONTINUED FROM COVER nationally recognized that takes office the day civil rights leader and before the rally.” founder of Mallory con“We are really exsulting Tamika Mallory, cited to have Chance pastor of Empowerment the Rapper, Tamika Temple Dr. Jamal BryMallory and so many ant, executive director others joining us for the of The Arab American People’s Inauguration Association of New at Howard,” said HUSA York Linda Sarsour Executive President and grammy nominated Allyson Carpenter. “We recording artist Chance are grateful that the the Rapper. The event NAACP Youth division is the launch of the recognized the imporNAACP’s “Stay Woke tance of this moment as and Fight” campaign, an opportunity to enaccording to the initiagage millennials.” tive’s website. The NAACP previAccording to the ously partnered up with Stay Woke and Fight Chance the Rapper to website, “The new initia- set up voter registration tive, called #StayWokeat his shows during the AndFight, will involve “Magnificent Coloring direct actions, protests World Tour” as part of and other activism to their “Stay Woke and oppose threats to civil Vote” campaign. rights, education invest“We are faced with a ment, criminal justice moral and ethical crisis reform and other areas during this critical time of concern posed by the in our nation’s hisincoming administration tory after the election of
Donald J. Trump,” said Stephen Green, director of the NAACP Youth & College Division and one of the speakers for the event. Jacquelyn Grant, president of the Howard University NAACP College Chapter, expressed that with the national chapter of the NAACP coming to Howard, the event will display much symbolism and one of the many purposes for HBCUs: To help and educate African-Americans. “A lot of people don’t know that the first, collegiate chapter of the NAACP started at Howard University. At the time, the United States wouldn’t recognize lynching as a national crime and as a result, both Howard students and NAACP members organized and held a
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Assistant Copy Chief demonstration that led to congress enacting the Federal Anti-lynching Bill,” said Grant. “With the national chapter coming back to Howard in this fashion, the connection shows that we are a voice.” The event will also be live-streamed so people across the country will be able to partake in the rally. Tickets will be distributed by HUSA and the Beta chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. “I am confident that Chance, Pastor Jamal Bryant, Tamika Mallory and Symone Sanders will set forth a vision that will inspire millennials and Howard students as we move forward during this confounding time with the new presidential administration,” said Carpenter.
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Zora Neale Hurston (18911960), co-founder of The Hilltop Newspaper, is considered one of the preeminent writers of 20th century AfricanAmerican literature.
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CAMPUS S U P K M ! A ! A ! E C T P U O S
1. If you could talk to President Frederick, what would you tell him is the most pressing problem facing students? 2. How do you feel about the spirit on Howard’s campus?
Name: Destiny Dallas Classification: Sophomore Major: Biology
Name: Ayinde Turner Classification: Senior Major: Finance Hometown: Chicago, Ill.
1.“Our most pressing issue goes Name: Emerald Jones Classification: 1st Year PhD Home State: North Carolina
1.
“The most pressing issue facing students at Howard would be funding, especially for doctoral students. The stress of paying for school and living daily is overwhelming. There are limited funds and assistance for graduate students.”
toward money. We pay $50,000 a year and don’t see the benefits. We need better buildings, dorms are falling apart, our classrooms could use better resources, we need better teachers. Our campus could look better. There is money, but it isn’t reflected in what we see every day.
Interviews Conducted By Contributors: Arella Johnson Jordan Donalds Breanna Bell Guy Sharp Annchloe Chery
1.“I feel that the fiscal priorities
at Howard are out of order. For example, why would we pour new concrete outside Cramton Auditorium when windows, bathrooms, HVAC, and water fountains in Douglass Hall have been broken/inoperable for years? It seems that a lot of money is going into the image of HU, but not so much to the education and classroom experiences of the students.”
2.
“The spirit on Howard’s campus is very interesting. I love seeing students wearing Howard’s clothing and walking proudly. It makes me feel good to be a part of Howard University.”
Name: Jesse Card Classification: 1st Year Graduate Home State: Utah
Name: Darren Felton Classification: Sophomore Major: Sports Medicine Home State: New Jersey
1.“Food! You see what they
serve us for Soul Food Thursday? There were feathers on the fried chicken. That should be illegal! In comparison to other schools, our food is trash and we pay way too much tuition for that. Once they fix the problems in the cafe, I’ll feel better about where my money is going.”
1.
“One of the most pressing situations facing students is who the university hires. Students learn more about finessing than actually learning because professors expect them to regurgitate information instead of teaching them how to apply it in the real world. After graduation, a lot of Howard students realize that they cannot compete with their colleagues.”
2.“I feel that though Howard
remains a space for challenging structural inequalities and certain social constructs, it seems that it has largely lost its revolutionary spirit. I feel that this loss of spirit is directly related to the focus of this administration: Encouraging conciliatory and accommodating messages rather than challenging the system and the status quo. Walking these grounds now, it is hard to imagine Stokely Carmichael on The Yard.”
Name: Shannell Thomas Classification: 1st Year PhD Home State: California
1.
“For me, the most pressing concern is the inability of campus systems to function interactively and seamlessly. It seems that not all offices and departments have access to relevant information or necessary resources. As such, tasks that could take hours/days to complete often take weeks/ months, and the academic experience becomes a source of frustration and struggle for students.”
2.“I think that, regarding social Name: Erielle McCloud Classification: Freshman Major: Philosophy Hometown: Bay Area, Calif.
1.
“The unorganized administration and lack of financial aid to students who need it. It’s a struggle that everyone shares, to the point where it’s a joke.”
and scholastic engagement with other students, school spirit at Howard University is quite high. The only dampening of this spirit, from what I have observed and heard, has been due to the structures and bureaucracies that impact student’s capacity to get their academic-related needs met.”
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WELCOME LETTER FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT OF STUDENT AFFAIRS Happy New Year from the Office of Student Affairs! Whether you are a first time student or returning home, we’re happy you are here and we look forward to supporting you. As you embark on a new academic semester, we would like to offer a few tips that could assist in your success. 1. Learn from last semester! Whether you’ve had a great semester or the fall provided a challenge, there is always something to learn from your experience. Take a look at your entire semester or break it down into categories, you will find areas to improve. The previous semester is always an excellent indicator of where you may have shortcomings, use it to know what you can do to become a better student. 2. Be Proactive! Familiarize yourself with the university calendar and handle any necessary business before the deadline. If you will be returning in Summer/Fall 2017, stay abreast of the respective deadlines for housing, registration, finances, etc. If you plan on living off-campus next year, stop by the Office of Off-Campus Housing and Community Engagement for resources and possible listings. Howard University prepares global change agents to be proactive! 3. Protect your brand! As a Howard University student, you are making a full-time commitment to the journey of defining yourself as a leader and the manner in which you will serve others in the global community. Your brand is your work and commitment to truth, excellence and service. It is an asset that sets you apart and must be managed with the intention of helping others benefit from the 150 year history and legacy of Howard University. Being a Bison means that you protect both your individual image as well as our collective image as the Mecca, in both the community and on social media. 4. Self-care is important! Plan time every day to take care of yourself. Set aside time in your schedule for you to give yourself the gift of exercise, quiet time, or to do something you enjoy. If you like sports, stop by an athletic game or event this semester. Find an organization that aligns with your interests and passions. 5. Ask for help! If you are stressed, feel overwhelmed or have personal problems that are distracting and interfering with your academic success, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Visit the Office of Student Services as soon as you need academic accommodations or have an unforeseen emergency that could affect your academics. Remember, University Counseling Services or Student Services is always available if needed. 6. Manage your time! Work towards finding an appropriate school-life balance. Keep in mind that you are a student first when prioritizing your time. I suggest maintaining an active calendar and planner to optimize your time and stay organized. Be proactive in planning your schedule, know your deadlines as this could be the difference between procrastinating and checking things off your to-do list. 7. Find an accountability partner! Accountability partners are great; they encourage and support us as we work toward achieving our goals. Maybe you’ve always wanted to write a book, exercise regularly, or start a home-based business. Tell someone who will help keep you accountable and check in with you weekly to review your progress. It works great to have an accountability partner who has some similar goals. Our goal is to see your learning be transformed into practical experiences. I challenge you this semester to actively chase your dreams and to be tenacious in your pursuit. Continue to use your voice for good, in truth and service, helping others rise as you climb. Many blessing to you in all your endeavors this semester and see you on the Yard!
With Bison Pride,
Kenneth Holmes, Vice President of Student Affairs
Photo Courtesy: Justin Knight, Howard’s Office of University Communications
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Kamala Harris Sworn In As 2nd Black Woman in U.S. Senate
By Jacinth Jones Staff Writer In the midst of the controversial presidential election in early morning on Nov. 9, 2016, a glimmer of hope came as President-elect Donald Trump was not the only person headlined on Election Day. Howard alumna and previously California’s 32nd State Attorney General, Kamala Harris, was elected as California’s new United States Senator. Harris is the first Indian-American to serve in Congress and The Golden State’s first black female senator. She was officially sworn in on Jan. 3 by Vice President Joseph Biden. According to the Los Angeles Times, Harris won 40.1 percent of the votes with former representative and runner up, Loretta Sanchez trailing behind at 16.6 percent. This was
the first time the state sent two Democrats into a general election and not a Republican candidate since 1914. Harris is preceded by Senator Barbara Boxer who intends to retire after 23 years as a California Senator. During her victory speech and twitter posts, Harris mentioned her various tasks she aimed to accomplish throughout her time as senator. The 1986 Howard graduate’s platform delved into, immigration reform, criminal justice issues, and college affordability. “I intend to fight for Black Lives Matter,” Harris said. “I intend to fight for truth and transparency and trust. I intend to fight for women’s access to healthcare and reproductive health rights….I intend to fight for the civil rights of all people includ-
ing those we always fought for in terms of allowing them to marry the person they love. I intend to fight for our students and invest in them and understand this is not about cost. This is about investment. We cannot let them graduate with debt.” “Our ideals are at stake right now, and we all have to fight for who we are,” she said in her acceptance speech. “I believe this is that moment in time for our country, where we are collectively being required to look in the mirror, and with furrowed brow, we are asking a question: Who are we? In California, I believe the answer is a good one: We are a great country.” Prior to being California’s State Attorney General, her first political experience began at Howard as a political science/ economics major. Harris
U.S. Senator Kamala Harris (Source: twitter.com/kamalaharris)
was also on the debate team and is a member of the Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Harris recalled her first time running for anything with Donna Owens for NBC News. “My first run for office was at Howard University, where I was elected freshman class representative of the liberal arts student council,” Harris said. “Running a campaign at Howard was tough. I remember walking up to strangers asking them to vote for me,” she recalled. From there, Harris earned
her juris doctorate at University of California, Hastings College of Law. From a tweet from Harris’ Twitter account, her first official act as senator is “co-sponsoring legislation protecting the 744K DREAMers from being deported,” which is her first step towards immigration reforms bringing a probable intense upcoming battle against the Trump administration to prevent the deportation of at least 744,000 undocumented immigrants in the United States.
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN CHAPEL? Want to invite the Howard Community to your next event or program? All colleges, schools, organizations, alumni, and community groups are welcome to have a “Call to Chapel.” All “Calls to Chapel” must be submitted no later than 10:00 A.M. Monday morning to be included in the Chapel service.
Email: Chapel@howard.edu
Rev. Dr. Susan Smith shares a moment with members of Witnesses Against Torture and “the future generation of Howard students”.
Interested in Alternative Spring Break? For information on deadlines and all Join us… things ASB, visit: Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright Tribute Sunday http://www.huasb.com Cramton Auditorium – 11:00 A.M. Rev. Dr. Frederick Haynes, III, Senior Pastor Friendship-West Baptist Church
Deeper in Faith – Wider in Community!
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Howard University Student Association 5th General Senate Assembly Hello Bison Family,
Welcome back and Happy New Year! I hope you have all had a safe holiday break and are refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to begin the Spring semester. In Spring 2017, there is a lot to look forward to: The State of the University Address, an exciting elections season, the 150th Anniversary of our illustrious institution, and the commencement for all graduating seniors. A new semester is a new beginning. It’s an opportunity to turn bad habits into good and to have new adventures and experiences on campus. With this, we implore you to take a new, active interest in student government. The State of the University Address will be held Wednesday, January 18th, 2017 beginning promptly at 7:00pm held in the Blackburn University Center Ballroom. Now as ever, the HUSA Senate is committed to our schools and colleges, the students within those schools and colleges, and the university as a whole. We are committed to doing the work to make the necessary changes to the documents that govern our life and activities. With the great work being done in all branches of student government and with your help, we can continue to thrive as we stride into our 150th year of Leadership, Excellence, Truth and Service. In Truth and Service,
Anna Chambliss, Chairwoman
DeJoiry McKenzie-Simmons, Vice-Chairman
Filmmaker Julie Dash Joins Howard’s Cathy Hughes School of
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By Jacinth Jones Staff Writer Film director, producer, screenwriter, and Long Island City native Julie Dash becomes TimeWarner’s new visiting professor in the Department of Media, Journalism, and Film at Howard University’s Cathy Hughes School of Communication. Prior to Howard University, Dash was heavily involved in the entertainment industry. With the debut of Dash’s first feature film, Daughters of the Dust in 1991, she became the first African American woman to have a general theatrical release in the United States and the only African American woman with a feature film to be inducted in the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress. The
indie film told the story of three generations of Gullah women on an island off the coast of South Carolina and their quest to migrate North. Following Daughters of the Dust, Dash wrote a sequel Daughters of the Dust: A Novel (1997). As an alternative to Hollywood theatrical pieces, Dash has produced music videos and television movies including Tony! Toni! Toné!’s “Thinking of You”, Adriana Evans’ “Love is All Around” and her biopic The Rosa Parks Story. Dash was nominated for Outstanding Directorial Achievement during the 55th Annual Directors Guild Award. The movie was also named Best Television Movie in the NAACP Image Awards and Dash became the first African American woman nominated
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in the category of “Primetime Movies Made for Television.” Office Location: Blackburn Suite ~ 109 Dash will be honored by the Queens World Film Festival with the 2017 Spirit of Queens Award at the Museum of Moving Image on opening night on March 14. Daughters of the Dust will be screened the Julie Dash (Source: Cathy Hughes School of Communications’s website) following day accompanied with was surprised and excited at the recent celebration of the 45th a Q&A with Dash. The Long presence of Time Warner’s new anniversary of the School of Island City native’s 1982 short visiting professor. Communications, Dash’s presfilm “Illusions” which delves into “I think it’s great that ence is perfect timing. Earning racial identity, the power of perHoward film students have her Master of Fine Arts (MFA) ception and misconceptions crethe opportunity to learn from in Film & Television Production ated by Hollywood. The critically acclaimed black filmmakers,” at University of California, Los acclaimed film won numerous Whiting said. “With the addiAngeles and a bachelor’s in Film awards including ‘Best Film of tion of an undergraduate class, Production at The City College the Decade’ by The Black FilmI hope to one day take one of her of New York, Dash is teaching makers Foundation and was classes. I would have a lot to MFA in the Film Program this nominated in 1988 for a Cable learn in regards to business and fall and will eventually add an ACE Award in Art Direction. filmmaking in general.” undergraduate course in the Kaitlyn Whiting, a sophoWith Howard’s upcoming spring. more, television and film major, 150th anniversary and the
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Over 70 Howard students visit South Africa as YAALI fellows in December 2016. (Photo Courtesy: Sylvester Johnson III, Copy Chief/The Hilltop)
PERSPECTIVE: My YAALI’s Pilgrimage to South Africa By Sylvester Johnson III Copy Chief Statements such as “welcome back my brothers and sisters” and questions like “how did you elect Trump?” were not words that greeted us once we got off the airplane or plastered on a billboard in Johannesburg. This was how we were greeted throughout our time in South
Africa. On Dec. 6, 2016, over 70 Howard Bison left for South Africa as Young AfricanA Leadership Initiative (YAALI) fellows. For two weeks, we conducted research in the fields of education, women and children, health care, policy and media. Along with research, we were involved with service in communities in
Johannesburg and Cape Town. Every day I woke up in South Africa I was immersed in unique and unparalleled culture and learning experiences. Whether we were visiting an elementary school in the Alexandra township, walking through Soweto to Mandela’s house, voyaging to the Moruleng Village, “climbing” Table Mountain or touring Robben Island, each day overflowed with invaluable bonding experiences. Brothers who were imprisoned during the Soweto uprising, children who mirrored future football stars, children who mirrored future leaders and our Winnie Mandela-esque bus driver all made lasting impressions. The diversity of the people of South Africa oozes out of every aspect of the culture. The music, dance, dress, and cuisine all came from the multiple nationalities that are concentrated in South Africa, especially Cape Town. The open arms from our South African brethren and the mere fact that we were back in the Motherland made us feel as if we were prodigal sons and daughters and not tourist. However, the two charter buses we lugged around and our impulsive need to take pictures of the scenic backdrop that is South
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Africa begged to differ. South Africa’s breathtaking beauty is undeniable and is coupled by the beauty of the South African people. The beautiful post-apartheid South Africa is only 22 years young. We saw firsthand how the people of South Africa are working to build a future that is economically, educationally and socially equal for all South Africans. One thing that resonated with me personally, was the collective optimism for a better tomorrow by the South African people. Though the apartheid regime that terrorized and fragmented South Africa have been uprooted and replaced, the effects are still overwhelming present. Housing inequality, lack of educational opportunities and economic disparity are just a few reminders of the proximity of apartheid South Africa. Nonetheless, many South Africans look forward to a brighter horizon. To encompass the magnitude of our trip to South Africa would be hard to do without relaying multiple personal anecdotes and bombarding people with scores of photographs. Two things can be said about our trip. First: that none of it would have been possible without the hard work of Dr. Amy Yeboah, Kaila Holloway, Brittany Scott, Money-Man Mr. Max, and everyone else on the YAALI team who worked behind the scenes. Second: I will be coming back.
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NEWS COLUMN My President Used to Be Black, But At Least My Congress is Blacker By David DePriest Columnist For more than 65 million people across America, Nov. 9, 2016 is a day that lives in infamy. To many, it marked the day that hatred won over sensibility and acceptance. Despite the quantifiable protestations of the majority of Americans, Donald Trump won the electoral college votes necessary to seize the White House. While that disaster rightfully garnered attention, it wasn’t the only election happening. That day, hundreds of statewide, local, and national elections took place. Many of them could be considered more consequential than the presidency itself—seats in the Senate, House of Representatives, and state legislatures were all up for grabs, with bills ranging from voter ID laws to new policing statutes to legalization of marijuana on the ballot. Although the GOP managed to hold on to the majority of state legislatures and Congress, there are still a bunch of silver linings. The biggest positive is that the 115th Congress will be a big step toward a truly diverse Congress. A record number of minority representatives entered the Congress on Jan. 3, most of them being progressive Democrats. A record 38 Latin Americans will serve in both the House and Senate, including Catherine Cortez Masto, the first Latina to ever serve in the Senate. Black representation also increased, with 49 seats being occupied by Black lawmakers. This includes people like Lisa Blunt Rochester, the first Black person and first woman to represent Delaware in any capacity within Congress, and Kamala Harris, a Howard alumna who is now the second-ever Black woman and first ever Indian-American to serve in the Senate. In addition to Senator Harris, Pramila Jayapal became the first Indian-American woman
to serve in the House of Representatives; part of a veritable wave of skyrocketing Asian-American representation. In addition to a record number of minorities, the 115th Congress also marks the second consecutive Congress to break records with regards to the participation of women, LGBTQIA people, and non-Christian faiths. Nearly 20 percent of all congress people are women, and many of them occupy leadership roles: such as Rep. Nancy Pelosi of California, the minority leader in the House, and Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, the second highest ranking person in the Senate. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) is the first and only openly gay Senator, and she’s now joined by openly gay members in the House, including Reps. Jared Polis (D-Colo.), David Cicilline (D-R.I.), and Mark Takano (D-Calif.). Lastly, the number of Hindu members of Congress will triple, with Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI) being joined by three other Hindus, including Jayapal. Beyond the tallies and history making, there’s cause for optimism. The increased presence of people of color, women, and non-Christians in Congress, even as the racist Trump descended on the presidency, showcases a trend in American politics that is unlikely abate. For years, Congress was dominated by old, rich white men and as we enter the era of Trump, this remains to be the case. However, we’re increasingly seeing a shift towards black and brown people as well as women and members of the LGBTQIA community. They make up the majority of general election voters and now reflect voter diversity as new representation in Congress. With these milestones, ideas of politics as an exclusively white endeavor are quickly falling apart, with a beautiful rainbow of ideals, ideologies, and individuals rising in its wake.
Courtesy Photo
Florida Avenue Grill is one of America’s oldest soul food restaurants. (Photo Credit: Paul Holston, Editor-in-Chief)
Florida Avenue Grill to be Auctioned Off the Block?
By Justin Cohen Staff Writer Long considered a District landmark, the property of Florida Avenue Grill is tentatively scheduled to be auctioned off this month after supposedly defaulting on its mortgage. It is believed one of the longest running soul food restaurant in America. The restaurant was opened in 1944 by Lacy C. Wilson and Bertha Wilson, who hoped to create a space for Black people to escape from the racial tensions of the time. Their son, Lacy Wilson, Jr., took over in 1970 and ran the restaurant until it was eventually purchased by Imar Hutchins, the current owner, in 2005. The auction notice, posted by Alex Cooper Auctioneers, states that the property will be auctioned off along with “all buildings, structures, improvements or appurtenances now erected
on the above-described land, including, without limitation, all equipment, apparatus, machinery and fixtures of any kind or character.” Hutchins, however, denies assumptions that the Grill may not live to see another month. “The grill is not closing,” Hutchinson told the DCist. “There is nothing to worry about.” Originally scheduled for auction on Jan. 18, according to the Washington Post, Hutchins has sued his New York-based financier on Monday, alleging “predatory lending” and “deceptive practices,” and will ask a D.C. Superior Court judge this week to issue a temporary restraining order to stop a foreclosure auction. But the news of its consideration of foreclosure has come as a surprise to many Howard University students. “I didn’t even hear the
news,” said Steven Ward, a junior film major. “It’s such a historic part of the area, I definitely have to eat there soon.” Florida Ave Grill has been a staple among Howard students since its inception in 1944. Among those who have heard the news, there has been an outcry over its possible closing, along with a fear that the area will fall victim to gentrification even more than it already has. “I noticed that everything around it was getting gentrified but I thought maybe the owners will keep the place because it’s a popular attraction in D.C. and would keep this area a little soulful,” said Jared Wilson, a sophomore public relations major. Employees would not provide comments when reached out to by The Hilltop.
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D.C. Police Fatally Shoot Black Man on Christmas Day
By Jason Ajiake News Editor
Gerald Javon Hall was shot and killed by D.C. police on Dec. 25, 2016. (Courtesy Photo)
Javon Hall, 29, was shot and killed by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) on Dec. 25, 2016 at the 3200 block of Walnut Street NE. Officers arrived at the scene after reports of a domestic dispute between the man and his girlfriend, Chante Hill. According to the MPD, Hall stabbed Hill minutes before their arrival. Once officers had arrived at the scene, Hall had the knife in-hand and refused to drop it, according to a police report. Four shots later, Hall was on the ground, unconscious and bleeding from the chest. On Jan. 2, Black Lives Matter activists protested at the swearing-in ceremony for the 2017 D.C. council members, demanding that Mayor Bowser release the body camera footage. Two days later, the footage was released.
In the video, officers can be seen standing on the porch while Hall and Hill walk toward the door from inside the house, shouting at Hall to drop the knife. As the situation escalates, Hill repeatedly yells “he’s alright” and begins to sit down, positioning herself in between the police and her boyfriend. The officers instruct her to get up, and another woman can be heard saying “please don’t shoot his crazy ass.” After Hill gets up, officers fire four shots at Hall. Although he did have a knife, he did not appear to charge at the officers at any point. Hill was transported to MedStar Washington Hospital Center where he was later pronounced dead. “Far too many people of color across the country are victims of excessive use of force by law enforcement,” said Monica Hopkins-Maxwell, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of D.C. “We were once
again reminded this Christmas that the residents of the nation’s capital are not immune to that reality.” In December 30, 2016, family and friends gathered to remember Hall on what would have been his 30th birthday, desperate to know why police did not do more to deescalate the situation. “Whether he had a knife or not, I don’t think they had to shoot him,” Mack McCain, Hall’s uncle, said to NBC Washington. “They could have tased him, anything. He’s not a bad guy. He takes care of four kids, [he was] a navy veteran. He didn’t deserve it.” His mother, Angela McCain, wants to know why lethal force was necessary if the officer “wasn’t even close enough to say his life was in jeopardy.” The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia is currently conducting an investigation into Hall’s death.
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CULTURE Miss Howard U: [Q&A] Her Experience and Aspirations as a HBCU Campus Queen as an HBCU Campus Queen hopeful:
The Hilltop: Why did you want to become Miss Howard? Miss Howard U: I wanted to become Miss Howard because Miss Howard was the first person I noticed when I got to campus. I really looked up to her and I hope to one day reach the same level of grace as Tamekia-Terin Taylor.
Photo Credit: Maya Peoples/The PEOPLES PHOTOGRAPHY
By Chantè Russell Staff Writer Senior legal communications major Victoria Gra, is currently serving as the 20162017 Miss Howard University. Before becoming Miss Howard, Gray was 2015-2016 Miss School of Communications as well as a Student Ambassador, Campus Pal and HUSA Senator. She is also a member of the Golden Key Honors Society and National Society of Leadership and
Success. Recently, Gray has joined Ebony Magazine’s HBCU Campus Queen competition where HBCU queens from across the country campaign for votes in order to win the title of an HBCU Campus Queen. The winning Campus Queens spend a weekend together for a photoshoot feature in an Ebony spread and have the opportunity to meet Ebony editorial staff. We sat down for a quick Q&A about her goals as Miss Howard and
The Hilltop: What is your platform as Miss Howard? Miss Howard U: Empire, which is in honor of Howard alumna, Taraji P Henson. Empire means empowering The Mecca to promote intelligence, while yet, representing excellence which inspires each to student to excel in both the classroom and in the community. The Hilltop: What have you done so for to strive towards the goal of your platform? Miss Howard U: I’ve held events around the community, mentored at local D.C. schools and I’ve also just tried to implement my platform everyday when I interact with people. The Hilltop: What do you enjoy most about being Miss Howard?
Miss Howard U: Having the opportunity to showcase my university, I’m very proud to be a Bison and I love showcasing my pride in our school.
The Hilltop: What have you learned so far from being Miss Howard? Miss Howard U: I have learned a lot that’s helped me grow as a person, mostly improvisation and how to think on my feet as well as how to focus on the positive at all times. The Hilltop: What can we look forward to as far as events this semester? Miss Howard U: I hope to have a second Women’s Tea which will be open to all women on-campus because the last one was just for freshmen. I also have a passion for hair and makeup and use them as personal tools of relaxation and I want to hold an event to give Howard women tips for makeup in casual and professional settings. The Hilltop: What comes along with EBONY’s HBCU Campus Queen Title? Miss Howard U: Of course bragging rights and just another chance to show off Howard. The contest is mainly about which HBCU can uplift and elevate their queen which
I would really appreciate from my fellow Bison. The Hilltop: What is your current place in the contest? Miss Howard U: The last time they updated us was three weeks ago and at that point I was in the top 20, but I have to be in the top 10 to be featured in EBONY. The Hilltop: If you were to become an HBCU Campus Queen, would you add any new priorities to your reign? If so, what would they be? Miss Howard U: I would encourage all students to pick up the issue featuring Howard which will either be the February or March issue and to continue to support EBONY and other Black publications and businesses. The Hilltop: When will the results be announced? Miss Howard U: Voting ends January 15 and winners will be announced January 30. You can vote for Victoria Gray by visiting on the HBCU Campus Queen tab on EBONY Magazine’s website or the link in her social media bios (Instagram & Twitter: @MissHowardU). You can vote three times within a 24 hour period, so be sure to get Miss Howard into the top 10!
THURSDAY, JANUARY 12, 2017
THE HILLTOP
PAGE 11
Music Artists to Watch in 2017
There’s no debating the fact that last year served as a fantastic period for music. It’s no doubt that 2016 will be a tough year to follow, but there is hope in young artists awaiting their breakout season. Since New Year’s Day, new music has been flying across our timelines and through our headphones constantly. With so much great music being produced at such a high rate, it’s easy to get new artists lost in the shuffle. Here’s the sonically innovative and culturally relevant artists you should stay tuned into this year:
By Jaylin Paschal Staff Writer (Photo Credit: Billboard)
ANDERSON .PAAK The year 2016 was dominated by Anderson .Paak. With the release of his Grammy-nominated Malibu and his collaboration album with Knxwledge, Yes Lawd!, .Paak seemed to be everywhere.
ARI LENNOX
These albums complimented by his many televised performances and the
(Photo Courtesy: Green Label)
conclusion of his Malibu tour serve as a
SIR
springboard for .Paak’s 2017. Just a few
(Photo Credit: Instyle Magazine)
SZA Top Dawg Entertainment’s soulful beauty SZA is scheduled to release her debut album, A, this
up, as rumors as a collaboration with Flying Lotus are circulating and he is Magic world tour.
year. Buzzing due to her viral collaboration with D.R.A.M. on Surf’s “Caretaker” and her feature on the
wanting more. With recent features
Washington, D.C. native. The song-
on the albums of Top Dawg Entertain-
stress is signed to J. Cole’s Dreamville,
ment’s Isaiah Rashad and Jay Rock,
and should be on the radars of those in
You should be keeping an eye on
it’s likely that more collaborations are
search of soulful, jazzy vibes.
the young, thoughtful Chicago
on the way, or perhaps even that Sir
rapper, Saba, whose 2016 album
himself has joined the TDE roster.
(Photo Credit: The Fader)
SABA
which is indisputably one of 2016’s musical
Chicago stars like Chance the
“Consideration,” SZA is bound to
gems. With her easy voice, laidback at-
Rapper and Lupe Fiasco. While
take off in 2017. Her success is
titude and distinct flow, the Chicago rapper
there’s no word on whether or not
all-but-guaranteed, despite public
expanded her fan base by way of Chance
we can expect more music so soon,
disagreement with TDE president,
the Rapper collaborations (She performed
it’s worth keeping our ear to the
Terrence “Punch” Henderson re-
Finish Line with Chance in December on
ground listening for news regard-
garding the release of A.
(Photo Courtesy: Youtube)
NONAME Noname gifted us with Telefone last year,
Bucket List Project featured other
opening track of Rihanna’s ANTI,
early 2000’s neosoul, drawing com-
parisons to the likes of Erykah Badu. Sir’s October 2016 EP, Her, is composed Her most recent project PHO EP, left of melodic ballads that leave listeners listeners eager to hear more from the
days in, he shows no signs of slowing
set to open for Bruno Mars’ 24-Karat
Ari Lennox has a voice reminiscent of
Saturday Night Live) . Noname’s Telefone
ing tour dates and features.
(Photo Credit: Instyle Magazine)
tour begins on January 14.
PAGE 12
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SPORTS ‘It’s a New Era:’ Mike London Motivates Players After Introduction as Howard’s Head Football Coach
By Paul Holston Editor-in-Chief
Howard University President Wayne A.I. Frederick and Athletics Director Kery Davis formally introduced Mike London as the university’s new head football coach during a press conference on Monday, January 9 in College Hall South. In attendance were players of the Howard Bison football team, who were attentive while listening to their new head football coach speak. “I can tell the guys that are here, the players, that we are here to win championships,” London said. “We’re here to win on the field, to win off the field and we’re going to win in the community. The old days and old ways are now the new days and the new ways.” Prior to his remarks, Frederick expressed confidence in London to take charge of the Howard Bison as he said that college athletics is a competitive activity that requires excellence on the field, but it also requires studentathletes to make sure that they excel in the classroom. “Today, while we are here to talk about the future of the Howard University football program, I hope it’s clear to all involved that this is an investment in the athletics programs as well,” said Frederick. “The Board of Trustees and I believe that Mr. London brings outstanding leadership, experience and is sure to be a tremendous resource to the entire Howard community.” Davis said that when searching for a new head football coach, Howard wanted someone to be a leader of men. “We wanted the idea of a CEO of our football program…someone whose
Coach Mike London, right, dons his new Howard Bison cap as he is introduced as Howard University’s new head football coach by Howard Athletics Director Kery Davis, right, during a press conference, Monday, January 9, at College Hall South. (Photo Credit: Paul Holston, Editor-in-Chief)
integrity and character was beyond approachable. Someone who can take 18-year-old young men that we have come into this institution, nurture them and be a part of their success…not only on the field, not only in the class-
room, but also in life,” said Davis. In his remarks, London spent the majority of his time at the podium facing the Howard Bison football players and addressing what he expects to implement during his tenure.
“The first standard is to go to class because it’s in your best interest to become an educated man,” said London. “The second is to show class…to show class how you handle success, because we will have success, and how you handle
Howard Bison football players look on as Head Football Coach Mike London addresses the audience after being introduced during a press conference Monday, January 9, at College Hall South. (Photo Credit: Paul Holston, Editor-in-Chief)
adversity, as life is full of adversity. The last is to treat people with dignity and respect.” London comes to Howard after spending this past season as the University of Maryland’s associate head coach and defensive line coach. Prior to Maryland, he was the head coach at the University of Virginia from 2010 to 2015 and was head coach at his alma mater, the University of Richmond, where his team won the 2008 national FCS championship. He currently has a 52-50 record in eight seasons as a Division I head coach. After hearing London’s remarks, sophomore widereceiver Evan Brooks, a broadcast journalism major, said that he believes London is a great hire for Howard and looks forward to working with him in the upcoming season. “He’s going to hold us to a high standard off the field and make sure that we’re not just good players on the field, but also become well-trained, young men that can raise families on our own to go out into the world and make a difference,” said Brooks. As the new head football coach, all eyes will be on London as he will work to change up the entire football program, as the team struggled last season with a 2-9 record. “It’s an honor and a privilege to be standing here before you as the next head football coach of Howard University,” said London. “This is an opportunity to increase my family, to embrace another fan-base, to develop other young men that aspire to be doctors, lawyers, wherever you want to be because I stand here before you saying you can be whatever you want to be, whether it’s on the field or off the field.”