A&C
Sports
Welcome week recap: Q&A
Eagle of the week: Kelly Horan
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Opinion Allyship and Pride •pg.10
theJohnsonian
Serving Winthrop and Rock Hill Since 1923
Winthrop University
Wednesday, August 29, 2018
From provost back to professor
Zuri Anderson Staff Writer
After more than seven years as Winthrop University’s provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, Debra Boyd, who has a Ph.D in English, will be stepping away from her administrative positions on Jun. 30, 2019 and returning to teaching English the following year. “I simply decided it was time for me to do something else. We have a great administrative team in place, and I felt comfortable in saying ‘it’s time to go back to doing what I got into higher education in the first place, and that is to teach’” Boyd said. Boyd said that university administrative jobs do not allow one to teach often and she was unable to see the effects of her day-to-day job on the students and faculty she was working with. She said that she missed being able to see the direct link between teachers and
was elected in July 2015. Boyd’s current responsibility is in academic affairs which includes offering programs, facilities and the necessary systems to provide education. This also includes reaching out and working in multiple divisions across campus, including finance and business, student affairs, athletics and human resources. “There’s hardly any initiative that happens at the university that doesn’t touch the academic side. That’s why the provost brings people together to work on strategic initiatives. Working in academic affairs, you get I’ve missed an opportunity to shape it tremendously. That the learning experiences is why we are all here-- students have in programs to teach and to learn. and classes, but it’s not Debra Boyd, Provost the same as being in the classroom yourself,” Boyd said. Boyd said she will take a like, ‘Sure, If I can help year-long sabbatical to get in some way, I’m happy to prepared for the classroom help,’” Boyd said about her again, including training, many different positions preparing courses and since starting at Winthrop. continuing scholarship. She Boyd went on to become will begin teaching on Aug. the director of composition 16, 2020 in the Department for the English department of English, with an interest in for eight years. She was then teaching a Critical Reading, the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences for another Thinking and Writing course. There is currently a national eight years before her current role as provost and executive search for a new provost and executive vice-president vice-president of Academic of academic affairs, led by Affairs. She was also the acting President Mahony and his president as well as provost office. There is a committee during the 2014-2015 school composed of faculty, staff and year before the current student representatives that president, Daniel Mahony, will aid in this search.
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Photo courtesy of Winthrop University
students and the connections made in those classes. “I’ve missed it tremendously. That is why we are all here — to teach and learn. I’m just ready to do it again,” Boyd said. Boyd called herself the “accidental administrator,” accepting and fulfilling multiple administrative roles during her 34 years at Winthrop. She said that becoming the chair of the English department was her “administrative goal,” taking up the position in her fourth year at Winthrop. “The other roles were simply people asking me if I was willing to help, and I was
Stealing the spotlight
The theatre and dance departments held auditions for their upcoming fall productions.
Fair trade is in fashion
“upcycled.” “It [fair trade] really talks about the human element of the manufacturing of clothes. A lot of clothes are made in sweatshops and they use child labor, making 20 cents an hour. Women are given birth control so they won’t Mikayla Mangle manglem@mytjnow.com get pregnant because if they don’t get pregnant they can With fast fashion plastered work ...so basically fair trade on every corner and in every are clothes that are not made shopping mall, Lori Benson in a sweatshop. The clothes went against the status are manufactured in an quo when she created her environment where people boutique, Style Recycled. are getting paid fair, working Style Recycled is a boutique wages,” said Benson. located in downtown Rock Benson’s passion for Hill that practices fair trade, sustainable fashion also making all the clothes sold known as eco-fashion there sustainable as they are formed after she viewed the either made from 100 percent documentary, “The True cotton, second hand or Cost.”
From upcycling to fair trade sustainable boutique owner Lori Benson discusses the importance of ethical, sustainable fashion.
Caleb Hinkley hinkleyc@mytjnow.com
“God, I hope I get it.” The iconic lyric from “A Chorus Line” may have been in the heads of many hopeful students this week, as the Theatre and Dance Department began auditioning students for its 2018 to 2019 season. The auditions were open to all students, regardless of their major. Auditioning is the only way to earn a spot in this season’s mainstage productions. On the night of Tuesday, Aug. 21, auditions for “Dog Sees God” began. Those auditioning were informed
Rock Hill, SC
Cheyenne Walsh// The Johnsonian The audition process for dance department productions is an open call, meaning they learn and perform on the spot.
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Index: News 3 | Science & Tech 5 | Sports 6 | Arts & Culture 8 | Opinion 10
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Welcome week in pictures August 29, 2018
Cheyenne Walsh/ The Johnsonian
Sam Ross/ The Johnsonian
Welcome week started with First Night Winthrop.
The first DSU run event was Imagine Cirucs.
Cheyenne Walsh/The Johnsonian
ACAD classes competed in ‘minute to win it’ competitions.
Sam Ross/ The Johnsonian
Winthrop student Joseph Calamia was one of the ‘victims’ at Imagine Circus.
Téa Franco/ The Johnsonian
Hypnotist David Hall read the minds and hypnotised students.
Téa Franco/ The Johnsonian
Hypnotised students were conviced they met Beyoncé.
Cheyenne Walsh/The Johnsonian
Cheyenne Walsh/The Johnsonian
Students cheered for singer Leroy Sanchez.
The ampitheatre was filled to the brim with cheering fans to watch Leroy Sanchez perform.
College students need their coffee Kamrie Owens owensk@mytjnow.com
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Be our guest
August 29, 2018
Margaret Nance and Phelps have both instituted new policies for their residents this school year. Katelyn Miller Staff Writer
The visitation policies at Margaret Nance and Phelps have been updated for the newest residents. They both have changed their hours and requirements for signing in visitors. Both Phelps and Margaret Nance have switched to selfregulated hours meaning residents no longer have limited hours of visitation. Margaret Nance has also updated their policy on visitors of the opposite sex to where they are now allowed to stay the night more frequently. Visitors can still spend the night for up to four consecutive nights and can have visits of up to seven times a month. If the guest stays after eight p.m. then the resident is still required to sign them in. Students must continue to adhere to the statements put forward in the roommate agreements, signed by
all residents before the school year begins, where the permission of their roommates is required before a guest can stay the night, just like every other hall’s agreement states. “The new policy is better because if you wanted to hang out with someone of the opposite sex, you can hang out in your dorm instead of outside,” said freshman Jahche Whitfield. While many students have said that the new policy contains many more liberties and they are thrilled with the prospect of this newfound freedom, there are still some students who have said that they think there could be an even larger change for the better. “I would change the fact that you would have to stay with your visitor 24/7, because if it were a weekday and
Jordan Farrell/ The Johnsonian
you had class they couldn’t just chill in your dorm room,” said freshman Jessica Riffle. There are a few rules that have remained the same for this upcoming year, just like in every other residence hall. For example, you still have to be with your visitor all the time and he or she cannot be left alone in your dorm. There is still a fine of 25 dollars to the host that does not sign in their guest after eight, and you cannot give your visitor a key to the room or your ID to get into the building.
“I dont think it’s a major deal to have males spend the night with females or females to spend the night with males, as long as you have permission from your roommate,” said junior Deaijha Bennett. Assuming students get permission from their roommates and suitemates, many residents have said that they believe it is okay to have members of any sex spend the night as long as both the students and their guests abide by the rules that are set in every residence hall.
A race blind school
Winthrop’s diversity is reflective of the state’s demographics despite having no affirmative action in place. Zuri Anderson Staff Writer
based on academic credentials and talents regardless of their background. Institutional scholarships are also distributed to students based on credentials. Prieto said that Winthrop’s student population is reflective of South Carolina’s demographics. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of July 1, 2017, 68.6 percent of the state’s population is white, while 27.3 percent is African American and 5.7 percent is Hispanic/Latino. Winthrop’s undergraduate population population is 60 percent white while 28 percent is African American, and 5.6 percent is Hispanic/Latino, according to its Fall 2017 Student Profile. The Fall 2018 Student Profile has yet to be released. “I think it’s safe to say that over the years that our ethnic population has increased without the use of Photo courtesy of Winthrop University affirmative action,” Prieto said, citing Winthrop is regarded as a very diverse campus, and it achieves this status without the use of affrimative action. “equal” recruitment
College of Charleston recently resumed affirmative action in its admissions after “quietly discontinuing” the policy for two years without notifying professors, students or parents, according to the Post and Courier. This news raised questions among Winthrop University students about their school’s policies. There are no affirmative action policies for admissions at Winthrop said Eduardo Prieto, the vice president for access and enrollment man-
agement. He described Winthrop’s admissions policies as “raceblind.” “We’re blessed with students of all backgrounds to applying to us, so we do not feel a need to implement a type of affirmative action policies. We’re far from perfect but for a regional, public school, we’re one of the most diverse schools in the country,” Prieto said. According to Winthrop’s admissions policy, students
Caroline Riggs | News Editor riggsc@mytjnow.com
and campus atmosphere as reasons for attracting “talented students from a variety of backgrounds.” Besides College of Charleston’s withdrawal and reinstatement of affirmative action, one of the most recent events involving affirmative action was the Supreme Court case of Fisher v. University of Texas on June 23 2016. The court ruled four to three that affirmative action has limited use in school and university policies. Justice Elena Kagan was not included in the consideration because she worked on the case, according to the New York Times. The inclusion of affirmative action is in place in policies focused on providing educational and employment opportunities for people who have been historically excluded, Prieto said. Introduced in 1961 by John F. Kennedy’s Executive Order 10925, it made racial discrimination in employment illegal. Lyndon B. Johnson’s Executive Order 11246 expanded affirmative action to include women, people of different nationalities and other minorities in 1965.
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theJohnsonian
August 29, 2018
Sallie Mae all day, everyday Many students are resorting to private loans as a way to finish their degree with less debt.
Julia Breitkreutz Staff Writer One of the most popular ways many students have said that they pay for college is through loans. Excluding tuition, many of these students must concern themselves with how to pay for room and board fees, book fees, school supplies and personal expenses. This means some of them must take on student loans to share the financial burden. Some students said that they have filled out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at one point or another. The FAFSA is an important and necessary starting point that many students have said they used to find out what federal aid they were eligible for. However the amount awarded through grants, federal loans or scholarships simply wasn’t enough for some students who said that when this happened, they had to turn to private student loans as a way to bridge the financial gap and finish their education. The Office of Financial Aid provides support in making sure students are getting the help and information they need to pay for their education. Winthrop’s assistant director of financial aid, Michelle Hare, shared her opinions on what exactly com-
prises a private loan and what to consider before applying for one. Hare emphasized the importance of filling out the FAFSA form before turning to private loans. She also discussed the many benefits to federal loans such as lower interest rates and subsidized loans in which the Jordan Farrel/ The Johnsonian government pays Many students use private loans as a way to pay for textbooks. the interest while Winthrop estimates that South Carolina residents and out-of-state the student is in students spend $1,200 on books and supplies every year. school. “My best adbefore payments are due to current college budgets. vice for students who need apply for a private loan. It Another thing to consider additional money after filling takes the Financial Aid Office when seeking private loans out the FAFSA is to compare two to three weeks to process is whether or not the parent lenders…pick the loan that is the private loans from outside or the student should be the best for you because they all lenders,” Hare said. borrower. have different options,” Hare One private loan that Private loans are just one said. has become a commonaliof many options for stuThe list of lenders Winthrop ty among many students at dents who are contemplathas worked with in the past Winthrop is the SC Teacher ing whether or not they can three years can be found on Loan. This loan was created finish their degree due to the the Winthrop website under for those planning to teach financial burden they carry the Financial Aid tab. in South Carolina, because throughout college. According to Hare compartwenty percent of the loan is Hare said that talking with ing lenders is essential beforgiven each year the graducause there are many different ate teachers in a critical needs a financial aid officer and a parent or guardian will help options for loan repayment. area. you to more easily explore the As Hare said, it depends on Once a student applies for different paths of financial what the student is seeking. a private loan the lender will aid offered at Winthrop. Hare Some private loan lenders look over the application and require monthly payments also said that students should send the approval of the loan which many students have never borrow more money to Winthrop. said would not fit into their “Don’t wait until the day than they need.
Man on the street: how do you feel about Starbucks being closed from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.? Emily Hayes Technical theatre major
“I feel like some people at home base their days around Starbucks runs and when they get here it disrupts their schedule even more so than moving to college does anyways. It’s a place that’s not too quiet like the commuter lounge or the library but it’s got just enough going on to still feel connected to the student body.”
Camryn Godbold Mass communication major
“I don’t like it. You’ve got breakfast which gets you through the morning, but you need something to get you through 2-5. I have two classes through there, so I need something.”
Anna Sharpe | Assistant News Editor sharpea@mytjnow.com
Jordan Farrell Graphic design major
“I understand that they’re closed early because they had an influx of freshmen who are not used to having a starbucks within walking distance but I still feel like they should be open even if they can’t serve drinks so that we can at least sit and do homework.”
Erin Hershelman Chemistry major
“[It] doesn’t really affect me very much. For other students who live on campus I can see it being not very effective for other people. I’m sure they want caffeine during that time for their classes.”
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S&T
theJohnsonian August 29, 2018
Fashion• from front This documentary talked about fair trade and gave examples of women and children working in sweatshops in places such as China and Bangladesh getting paid an amount that was not a livable wage. The film resonated with Benson to want to make a difference in the fashion industry. Benson believes eventually fair trade and sustainable fashion will become more well-known and more normal in society. “You think about organic food and where it was 10 years ago. You can get organic food at Walmart now. So it’s gone a little bit more mainstream then what it was and I think it will be the same way with clothing. It’s just going to be harder,” said Benson. Fair trade, sustainable clothes are also better for your skin. Not wearing polyester is better for a person’s health and skin because polyester is made of petroleum. Fast fashion not only harms people, but it is known seriously damage the
...I read that the average american throws away 68 pounds of clothing a year. Lori Benson Owner of Style Recycled
environment as well. As Benson said there are now about 24 seasons in the fashion industry, there used to just be two. Now clothes that are not being used are getting tossed out which creates more waste, leading to pollution. “Throwing out clothes goes towards the pollution in hurting the environment…I read that the average American throws
away 68 pounds of clothing a year,” said Benson. Although the world of fashion today is known to harm the environment and workers in developing countries there have been great strides to make change in the fashion industry and re-use fashion “waste” to be beneficial to society. “I just randomly got on the website for cotton and there’s a recycling program with them where they recycle denim and they turn it into insulation and then habitat for humanity can apply for a grant to get the insulation to put in their homes,” said Benson. Benson also does a lot of upcycling within her shop. Upcycling clothes is what is known as reusing second hand clothes -such as clothes from Photo courtesy of Lori Benson thrift stores - and creating them Benson has a selection of on trend as a higher quality or value. items that allows students to shop Benson said that it is all a part of the more sustainabliy. mind set when making the switch to buy strictly sustainable clothing. “It’s fun friends which includes trading unwanted [buying more fast fashion]…it’s cheap, clothes with friends as a form of like if you go to Forever 21 or H&M and get a shirt for $7 and the company has to recycling. Benson’s fair trade boutique is located make money…so if you’re paying $7 how much is the person making it getting in downtown Rock Hill at 201 East Main paid?” Street in the Getty’s building on the 2nd It is also possible for people on a Floor. Benson said she is hoping to get budget to buy sustainable clothing. A more Winthrop students not only as person doesn’t have to pay hundreds of customers in her shop but also to get dollars for sustainable 100% cotton to them involved in sustainable clothing be sustainable. Buying less and sticking and fair trade. to buying from thrift shops or second Although fast fashion runs the hand clothing stores is a cheap way to be beauty and fashion industry as of right sustainable. People can also participate now, ethical, sustainable clothing at a in clothes swaps with their reasonable price is just a few minutes down the road waiting to change the world of fashion.
Save money on your study breaks this year. College students can get Hulu and Spotify Premium as a bundle package for only $4.99 a month.
Science clubs recruit incoming freshmen Joseph Calamia Staff Writer For incoming science students, there are multiple student organizations that can help along their career path. Currently on campus there are four student organizations that cater for students in a science major to get involve around Rock Hill or to help kick-start students’ careers. The student organizations at Winthrop University are set to have their first meetings in the upcoming weeks on campus. Students with intrigue for biology or science are in luck when it comes to organizations. One example is the Student Environmental Action Coalition which focuses on teaching sustainability in the Winthrop Community. Tira Beckham, one of SEAC’s presidents, said that the
group was open to students outside the biology majors for new members. “We welcome anyone who is passionate about environmental stewardship and who wants to know more about current events in environmental issues,” said Beckham. Beckham hopes that the SEAC will be able to provide more events on campus in order to teach students the values of sustainability and how improving your everyday actions can help the environment. “Each year, SEAC hosts a number of events designed to educate students in the current issues facing the environment including documentary showings, tabling events and giveaways. We also partner with our faculty mentor Chris Johnson to enact the annual ‘Weigh the Waste’ event in Thomson cafeteria,” said Beckham. SEAC will have their first
meeting on Sept. 4 at 11 a.m. then will be meeting every other Tuesday in Owens G08. Another science organization for students with biology majors is TriBeta, a national organization that is recognized as an honors society for biology students. TriBeta President Anneke Van Eldik notes how she recruits students with interests in medicine, genetics and conservation this semester. “All Freshmen biology students have to take symposium classes, so I’ll go there to recruit [for TriBeta],” said Van Eldik. One of the events that TriBeta does with its members is bring older students and professors from scientific fields on campus to discuss preparing for graduate school and what career they would choose. Another event that TriBeta does on campus is doing collaborations with other
Mikayla Mangle | Science & Technology Editor manglem@mytjnow.com
student organizations. “TriBeta works with the SEAC to do environmental work around campus and the Rock Hill community,” said Van Eldik. TriBeta has a Facebook page to the Winthrop Organization and email at tribeta@mailbox.winthrop. edu for new students to learn more information. Another club on campus that freshmen can join is Serving Others and Reflecting which focuses on hosting events around the Rock Hill community that focus on environmental issues, hunger and special needs. SOAR has its first meeting on Aug. 28 at Thurmond 210 at 7 p.m. and meets every two weeks. For more information on the science student organization on campus, students can email the head of Student Organizations.
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SPORTS
theJohnsonian
August 29, 2018
EAGLE OF THE WEEK
Kelly Horan
Photo Courtesy of Winthrop University
Senior Captain Kelly Horan Leads Her Team Into The Season Dylan Patterson Special to the Johnsonian The Winthrop women’s soccer team opened up their regular season play on Aug. 19 with a draw against Coastal Carolina University. Senior goalkeeper, Kelly Horan, recorded nine saves against the Chanticleers with three of those saves in the second overtime. She earned the Hardee’s Star of the Game award for her outstanding performance. Horan is from St. James, New York and is majoring in business administration with a concentration in marketing. She is graduating in December of 2018. Horan first started playing soccer when she was three years old and has been perfecting her craft since. Head coach Spencer Smith noted that, “Kelly has improved her overall understanding of the goalkeeper position since being at Winthrop. She is realizing her strengths as a goalkeeper and playing to those strengths. She always trains hard, and the work she has put in has helped her develop into a better player.”
Long Island Native Protects Winthrop’s Nest She is a player with lots of experience and is leader both on and off the field. Horan was voted by her teammates as one of the captains for the 2018 season. “Kelly provides excellent leadership through her work ethic every day and engaging attitude. She has always been a team player. With that being said, she cares more about the welfare of the team and teammates before her own accolades,” Smith said. While she had many colleges to choose from, Horan fell in love when she visited Winthrop. “I chose Winthrop because of the campus. I loved the size of the school and the athletic facilities are great,” Horan said. She decided on Winthrop to continue her athletic career, while being able to earn her degree. Horan says that she loves the team atmosphere and says she will miss her teammates the most when she departs Rock Hill. After graduation, she plans on moving back to New York and traveling around the world. You can typically find Horan on campus with a coffee in one hand and her boombox in the other. When she is not at soccer practice, she enjoys weight lifting and hanging out with her dogs. Come to Eagle Field to support Kelly Horan and the rest of the women’s soccer team this fall season. The Lady Eagles play home Sept. 7 vs Alabama A&M at 7 p.m.
Intramural sports bring students friendly competition Office of Recreational Services hosts over 30 different team and individual sports throughout the year Megan Loveland Special to the Johnsonian The intramural sports program at Winthrop serves as a way to allow all students to get involved in a fun and physical way. Offering over 30 different sports each year, the intramural leagues provide students with a variety of choices. The student-led program is dedicated to maintaining an environment with good sportsmanship, fair play, integrity and cooperation. In fact, to promote these values, teams are assigned a sportsmanship rating after each game that reflects the team’s overall conduct for that night. This department embraces the diverse community of Winthrop and promotes a balanced and active lifestyle. According to Assistant Director of Sports Programs Cameron Edwards, “Our biggest three sports are flag football, basketball and volleyball. They are three of the more traditional sports that have always been around that students have either played before or always wanted to try.” A common misconception among students is that experience is needed in order to participate in intramural sports. All students, regardless of any prior experience, are invited and encouraged to join a team. Cameron Edwards states “Intramural sports is a great way to get involved in a recreational way within a team sport on campus. Here are what I like to call the Top 10 Need-to-Know about intramural sports at Winthrop: · They are fun, and all skill sets are welcome · Students, faculty and staff can play.
Greta Conboy | Sports Editor conboyg@mytjnow.com
Jordan Farrell/the Johnsonian · There are no practices or tryouts. · We provide all required equipment · Your group forms its own team. Don’t have a team? Register as a free agent. · Sign up in IMLeagues. Remember your sport’s registration period. · You choose when your team plays. · Forfeit deposits are required. No forfeits = 100% refund. · Champs get free shirts and all kinds of social media love. · We are always hiring officials. We train you, no experience necessary.” Furthermore, she adds “Students really enjoy the program, especially once they get by the thought that you have to be an experienced player to participate. Anyone and everyone can play.” “I would recommend intramural sports to anyone and everyone,” sophomore Michael Smith said. “It is a fun way to get involved at Winthrop and an awesome way to get away from school stress and participate in activities with your friends.”
theJohnsonian
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August 29, 2018
Winthrop athletics rock the hill Over 1,000 First-Year Students Huddled Inside Winthrop Coliseum to learn how to cheer on Winthrop Greta Conboy conboyg@mytjnow.com ROCK HILL, SC— Winthrop University First Year Experience and the Winthrop Athletic Department joined together to welcomed the new class of 2022 with the annual Rock The Hill event. Rock The Hill is an event to engage firstyear students with Winthrop Athletics on just their second day on campus. Over a thousand freshmen headed on buses to the coliseum where student-athletes welcomed them in a tunnel to their new nest. Freshman were encouraged to participate in games, dancing and learn about what it means to be a true Winthrop Eagle. Last year, FYE added a new component to the event which they titled “Lights Up.” During this activity, first year students responded using the flashlights on their cell phones to a series of questions prompted through a video. The mission was to provide a really meaningful experience for the incoming freshmen. “This is a powerful experience to witness as it is such a tangible reflection of the students in the room,” said Jennie Montgomery, FYE Program Coordinator for Curriculum and Creative Development. “For example, one
Photo Courtesy of Jennie Montgomery
Class of 2022 participate in “Lights Up” interactive video of the questions asked was ‘Who is feeling nervous?’ As hundreds of cell phone lights were lifted, this activity indicates how many of the first-year students were feeling. It is powerful for students, in the midst of hundreds of lights, to look around and know they are not alone in this transition.” Further on in the event, Head Men’s Basketball Coach Pat Kelsey hosted the arena and showed his Winthrop spirit to the student body. He introduced all of the student athletes, facilitated the games and prize giveaways on the court, and taught
Athletes and ACAD How Peer Mentors Juggle Athletics and ACAD Beneshia Wadlington wadlingtonb@mytjnow. Imagine being a college student and taking a full course load. Of course, you’ll need time to attend class, study, eat, sleep, participate in clubs and organizations, and relax. Now imagine that Carmen Little/the Johnsonian you’re a student-athlete. In addition to the previous list, you now have to ensure that you are on time for practices and games, and you may even be following a strict diet. Finally, imagine that along with these two significant roles, you’re also a peer mentor. Winthrop University prides itself in providing the First Year Experience program for first year students. The program, directed by Leah Kendall in University College, ensures that first year students are making a smooth transition from high school to college life. It covers important topics, such as using your planner, meeting with your advisor, checking interim grades and much more. Before this process, academically strong, well-rounded upperclassmen are trained to teach the ACAD course as they prepare to be peer mentors and role models for the incoming students. They learn things like making and following lesson plans and how to connect with first year students, ensuring that they will have a smooth transition. In addition to being among the first year students’ first teachers, peer mentors are also described as students’ first friend on campus. Balancing being a student athlete, a peer mentor, and a full time student can be a challenge. Joey Jennings is a senior sociology major with a concentration in criminology, Spanish minor and pole vaulter for the track and field team. He said he has a plan on how to juggle his three significant roles. “This semester, we spend around 8-10 [hours practicing per week] because we’re in preseason and next semester we practice around 20 hours a week,” Jennings said. “I plan to balance them fifty-fifty. With that being said, I feel there needs to be a switch for both. In athletics, I understand that my mind needs to be there, and I need to give one hundred percent in both aspects of my life. That’s the type of person I am, and I’m dedicated to all my crafts.” Even with a busy schedule, it’s easy to give back, as Jennings remembers his own transition into college. “To me, FYE is pivotal for everyone at this university. It’s a special thing what the FYE department does for first year students, and how much they care about these students. I can say, without FYE, my personal transition would not have been as easy. In my opinion, FYE is a culture that helps Winthrop excel,” Jennings said.
first-year students the traditions of Winthrop Athletics. These included the Winthrop fight song and the alma mater. “I hoped they left feeling more confident in their decision to attend Winthrop and more pride in their school’s athletic program,” said Montgomery. “We want students to have left Rock the Hill feeling eager to make our athletic program a part of their college experience and to feel more connected to student-athletes, their peers, and Winthrop University as an institution.”
Softball gains new leadership
Winthrop head softball coach Windy Thees announced the hiring of Jamie Morgan as an assistant coach Lulu Jennings Special to the Johnsonian ROCK HILL, S.C.--- Winthrop’s softball team has a lot to look forward to with the addition of Jamie Morgan as the new assistant coach. Head Coach Windy Thees considers Morgan a perfect fit for the program. “I consider Jamie to be focused, smart, driven, and loyal. Jamie is unafraid to get in the trenches with the athletes to help them become their best selves. I look forward to having Jamie’s knowledge of all facets of the game in the office and on the field,” Thees said. Having played under Thees at Ole Miss in 2014, their dynamic coming into the season will strengthen the team’s comradery. Morgan has been both a player and a coach for this sport. Before playing two years at Ole Miss, she helped to lead Phoenix College to a championship title in 2011. Morgan was a batting instructor at Scottsdale Batting Cages while also coaching at Desert Mountain High School with the freshmen team and assisting with the varsity team. Seeing both sides of this sport helps her connect better with the players and offers versatile viewpoints for the coaching staff. This impressive resume at such a young age made Morgan as easy choice for this position. The team shares the same enthusiasm that Thees has for Morgan. Lady Eagle Brooke Ellison spoke highly of Morgan and this upcoming season. “I think I speak for myself and the entire team when I say Coach Jamie brings an intensity and young perspective that excites us for this upcoming season. I am excited for the future of Winthrop softball and I can not wait to play for her and Coach Thees.” Ellison was out last year due to injury but is expected to have a huge impact coming back this year with the help of her coaching staff. Head Coach Thees is also a new addition to the Women’s softball roster, having joined in July. This new coaching duo will bring a fresh mindset and determination to the Eagles as they try to improve their overall record from last year (17-32).
Photo Courtesy of Winthrop Athletics
Gabby Gardner | Assistant Sports Editor gardnerg@mytjnow.com
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A&C
theJohnsonian August 29, 2018
Artist Spotlight: Amery Miller
Actor Amery Miller finds his home in the Winthrop Theatre Department to it was during scholarship auditions at the South Carolina Theatre Association my senior year of high school. After the auditions, I checked the callback board and Winthrop had called me back. I spoke with Daniel Gordon about the program and was immediately interested and attracted to the specific community that Winthrop offered,” Miller said. One of the things that Miller was surprised by at Winthrop University was how welcome he felt when working with other students in the theatre department. “The friends I have made from being involved in the theatre program are incredibly supportive and are a major part of what I think makes Winthrop such a great school. The sense of community is really unlike any other group I have been a part of in terms of how kind and inclusive everyone is,” Miller said.
Joseph Calamia Staff Writer One of the rising stars in Winthrop University’s Theatre Department, Amery Miller, considers theatre as a way to continue doing what he has loved since high school. With a passion for musicals and theatre starting with “Rocky Horror” Miller strives to continue improving his acting through Winthrop University’s program. “I found a love for theatre in high school and wanted to continue to explore theatre at a more advanced level,” Miller said. A Rock Hill native, Miller heard about Winthrop’s theatre program during his senior year of high school, which attracted his interest and led him to earn scholarship auditions for Winthrop University. “I have lived in Rock Hill for ten years, so it was always close by and had a large presence in my area. As for the theatre program, my first exposure
Last year, Amery was an actor and stagehand in some productions at Winthrop University, including The Fall One Acts and “Ragtag Theatre’s Rapunzel” in spring 2018. “One of my fondest memories from a production at Winthrop was playing alongside my friend, Gordon Perkins, as the Cobbler’s wife in ‘Ragtag Theatre’s Rapunzel’ this past spring,” said Miller. Miller’s goal this year at Winthrop University is to explore more and branch out to test his acting and technical skills, which will help him gain an edge once he graduates. “I want to pursue a career as not only a performer but hopefully a creative in a broader sense. I want to forge a brand. One that not only produces original and relevant work but hopefully someone who may serve as an inspiration to anyone else who wants to create, regardless of the medium,” Miller said. Theatre productions usually require actors to not only perform the parts in a play, but also to convey the feelings of a character in order to attract audiences to see that play and enjoy the story by relating to the characters. “I believe that in order to truly capture an audience’s attention,” said Miller, “you have to create a story or characters that are relatable enough that people can identify with them and compare/contrast it with real life.” With the medium of theatre, it allows the audiences to be immersed by an actor’s performance on stage, despite the limited surroundings in the main theater or the black box studio. “It has a deeper sense of intimacy than a lot of other mediums. Theatre is to movies and television what concerts and festivals are to music. It has a certain extra bit of spectacle that I think separates it from mediums like film,” Miller said.
Review of The Night is Short, Walk on Girl The film “The Night is Short, Walk on Girl” was met with great critical success in Japan and as it enters the American film market, it is gearing up to have the same reception Joseph Calamia Staff Writer A college student sits down at a regal club and begins a drinking contest with an elderly loan shark. While they drink, the loan shark states how life is empty and hollow, and the student reflects how life is wonderful and how it brings her along many adventures in one night. That scene from “The Night is Short, Walk on Girl” is just the beginning for the protagonist’s night of dancing with philosophers, a book fair and a school festival, all of which lead to a surreal and raunchy evening in Kyoto, Japan. “The Night is Short, Walk on Girl” is an anime film directed by acclaimed Japanese director Masaaki Yuasa. It is adapted from the novel by author Tomihiko Morimi, who made the critically acclaimed anime “Tatami Galaxy.” The film was released back in April 2017 in Japan and was distributed to America in the last month by GKIDS Films, a distributor company that focuses on animated movies usually outside the United States. The film won the Japan Academy Award for Animation of the Year this March, with critics and fans praising the film’s quirky cast of characters, Yuasa’s use of animation and its messages of time and romance. One of the main characters that inhabits this world is Otome, or “The Girl with Black Hair”, an optimistic college student who makes it her goal to enjoy adult life through cocktails, fun and gravitating toward what interests her. The film uses the metaphor of a train for her life as whenever she goes from place to place, she heads out boldly with the sound of a train starting to move on the tracks. This evening also allows her to move along and meet a variety of raunchy and charming characters during her night on the town. Another central character is Senpai, or “Senior”a lovesick elder that almost obsessively attempts to court Otome during her lively night throughout town. He inserts himself in her life so that she thinks they’re
Dillon O’Neill | A&C Editor oneilld@mytjnow.com
meant for each other. We see visuals of him debating his true feelings among a UN council in his mind. At one point, he even enters in a challenge of eating spicy food just in order to win a picture book that Otome used to own as a child so he might win her heart. On the aspects of animation, “The Night is Short” is greatly distinct, using expressive colors and visuals that sometimes are reminiscent of old Fleischer cartoons. We see this in moments like the odd dance of sophists that move like eels or the way drinks go down through a person as they finish it with a big gulp. The visuals are also used creatively on locations and help frame the characters’ thoughts and actions. One instance is when Otome visits a used book open market, she refers to herself as a “deep sea fish” in an ocean of books. This is followed by the market being submerged with water, with books mimicking dolphin sounds and the clothes of the market’s customers moving like they’re underwater. Time is also a key theme in the film. There is a focus on how people perceive time and what happens during a night out. At the beginning of the film, Otome’s watch is shown to be going slow and normal, while the people around her have their watches going fast. As the film goes on, some of the characters believe it’s been a whole year and realize how being around Otome makes the night seem longer. Another question presented by the film is if love is either fated or a string of misunderstandings. That theme is explored with touching and hilarious moments throughout the film. Overall, “The Night is Short, Walk on Girl” uses its plain, yet quirky animation to tell a surrealistic take on night life in Japan. It utilizes fun characters, expressive
Official movie poster visuals and its themes to entertain audiences with laughs, fun and questions about how we perceive life through the eyes of a hopeful college student. It’s a cocktail of joy and humor that is sure to make the night a memorable one. “The Night is Short, Walk on Girl” is has no rating, but has instances of alcohol and tobacco use and references, adult situations, language and sexual themes. Both the novel and the movie will be coming to America online and bookstores soon.
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August 29, 2018
Welcome week recap:
Q&A with performers
The most authentic In his show, “Cards Against Hypnosis”, David Hall stunned the audience as he was able to hypnotize a group of about 20 to do anything from dance backup for Beyoncé, to take a call on their shoe, to relax like they’re in the Bahamas. Emily Cromer Staff Writer Q: What is your hometown? Hall: Boston, Massachusetts.
Q: How did you get started in hypnosis? Hall: Growing up my whole life, I’ve been interested in it, so I think that’s what got me started. I studied at Suffolk University, and then I also went and got proper training in stage hypnosis after college out in Las Vegas. Q: What social media do you use most, and what is your handle on it? Hall: We have a website; it’s called ‘Cards Against Hypnosis’. Q: Do you have three words to describe how the show went? Hall: Really excited audience. Q: Did you have any thoughts or expectations about Winthrop itself? Hall: I could tell from talking to the Campus Activities Board that brought me in today [about] how excited they were for this show, so I was really looking forward to coming. That’s why Antonia also came, because we thought it was just going to be a really, really awesome crowd, which you clearly were. Q: Is there something you want the audience to take away from this show?
Photo provided by DSU
David Hall, featured hypnotist at Winthrop’s 2018 Welcome Week Hall: I think ultimately, this show for me is more about making the audience feel like they are the stars of the show … so my job is to really make the volunteers on stage look good. Q: Is there something you learned from working in hypnosis that you want to translate to the audience? Hall: When I’m doing the hypnosis, I ask the person to relax, and I think sometimes people get so overwhelmed with work and school and just running around with life, that for a minute they can sit and they can see their friends relax, and enjoy themselves. They can relax and forget about all the distractions out there, and that’s what hypnosis is. It’s just trying to let go of all the distractions so you can just focus and relax. Q: Are there any misconceptions about hypnosis? Hall: People think you can hypnotize to do something you wouldn’t want to do, which isn’t [what] you can do. So typically, you’ll see the suggestions I try to give throughout the show are ones that people would be excited about … They don’t have to, but most likely they’ll accept that suggestion … My job as a hypnotist is to make the right suggestions to get everyone to be excited about doing it.
Spanish born and self-taught guitarist, Leroy Sanchez became a viral sensation known for his melodic voice and infinite charm. In his acoustic performance at Winthrop’s amphitheatre, he won the hearts and soothed the ears of all in attendance. Dillon O’Neill oneilld@mytjnow.com
Photo provided by DSU
Leroy Sanchez, featured performer at Winthrop’s 2018 Welcome Week.
Q: Where’s your hometown? Sanchez: Abetxuko, Spain Q: What social media do you use too much? Sanchez: Oh, Instagram, 100 percent. I had to do a little cleansing, and I went about a month without posting. And I’m @iamleroysanchez. Q: What are three words to describe your show tonight? Sanchez: Fun, it was really fun. Like home, I guess homey, sorry my Spanish is coming out. And good vibes--oh no, that’s two words! Q: What should your audience take away from your show? Sanchez: I want them to be entertained. I want them to hopefully connect to the songs that I’ve written, because I wrote them to let something out and to feel better. Hopefully that can make someone else feel better who might be going through something, too. Q: What’s something you’ve learned from performing that is wisdom you can take in your everyday life? Sanchez: Just be bold. When you’re on stage you have to let go and forget that you’re performing and just have fun. That way you’re
more genuine and it’s more fun, and that definitely applies to everyday. Q: What instrument do you wish you could play? Sanchez: I was just looking for cello classes. There’s something about it, like as an artist I don’t think it’d be the most useful instrument, but I just want to be able to grab a cello and just play it. Q: What’s a misconception people have about you? Sanchez: Oh, that I’m American! Q: What’s something strange America does? Sanchez: It’s the overpopulation of fast food restaurants. I feel like it’s crazy that when you’re traveling across the highway all you is McDonald’s, Taco Bell and maybe if you’re lucky, you’ll find a Wendy’s. Q: What’s something you miss about Spain? Sanchez: My family.
For Q&A coverage of the welcome week comedians Morgan Jay and Chase Anthony, go to mytjnow. com.
Spotlight • from front that they would need to perform a one to two-minute monologue. Perhaps the most surprising thing about the audition was the number of people that signed up. Eighty-five hopefuls signed up, and auditions lasted until almost midnight. “I was very surprised that all these people showed up,” said Joseph Caleb Smith, a sophomore theatre performance major who also auditioned for the show. After the first night of auditions were the callbacks. Callbacks are for those who the director wishes to see after auditions. They usually consist of actors reading select scenes from the play pertaining to the character they are auditioning for. After callbacks, final casting decisions are made, and a cast list gets put up. Musical theatre major Caleb Moody was cast as Matt in the show. “I learned about the show last semester and was very excited to see what the director’s concept was for the play. I prepared to audition with a piece from The Glass Menagerie. At callbacks I could tell the director was heavily considering me for Matt because he kept having me read for him. At this part of the process, it’s all about energy and who works well with who,” Moody said. “The next day I found out I was cast as Matt, and I was thrilled.” Auditions began Wednesday night for Winthrop Dance Theatre and the Rockhettes. The Rockhettes are a special group that gets to represent
Winthrop University during Rock Hill’s annual Christmasville event in December. Dance students showed up ready to move and groove, hoping to score a spot in this season’s pieces. When it comes to audition, preparation is very important, and a few students shared how they prepare for auditions. Catelyn Artledge is a senior dance major. She prepares by “getting into the space before the audition and clearing her mind.” Artledge will also be participating in the Senior Choreography Showcase as a choreographer, where she will experience things from the other side of the casting call. She said she is looking for dancers who are willing to take risks, because her piece is about balance. Freshman theatre performance major KJ Adams says he prepares by “dressing out, being on time and having an open mind.” Shannon Bradley, a musical theatre major who auditioned, says she prepares by “praying and having the mindset to go in and do my best.” For those who auditioned and were not cast or have interest in auditioning for a Winthrop Theatre and Dance production in the future, this is only the beginning of auditions for this season. There will be many more chances for students to be cast in upcoming productions. For those who were cast, a long road of late night rehearsals and preparation for opening night awaits before they will get to steal the spotlight.
Caleb Hinkley | Assistant A&C Editor hinkleyc@mytjnow.com
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OPINION
theJohnsonian
August 29, 2018
Allyship and Pride: where is the line? Overwhelmingly, Winthrop students agree that allies should be allowed at Pride.
others appreciate the support at these events. Many Winthrop students who are part of the LGBTQ+ community have strong thoughts about this issue. Overwhelmingly, these students are appreciative of Emily Cromer & Victoria Howard allies and their efforts to Staff Writers make the LGBTQ+ community feel welcome. The LGBTQ+ community is Brooke Mims, presvast, with a broad spectrum that ident of Winthrop’s can make nearly anyone feel LGBTQ+ organization included. However heterosexual GLoBAL, said that when people question where they fit in. she sees allies at Pride she Supporters of the movement have feels supported. applied the term “ally” or “straight “It is really important ally.” Jenn T. Grace, a speaker, to have [their] support at author and businesswoman for the pride, because they can LGBTQ+ community, defines “ally” help us in other areas that and “straight ally” as “a heterosexu- we probably wouldn’t be al person who supports equal civil able to get to and access ourselves,” rights, gender equality, LGBT[Q+] Mims said. social movements and challenges However there is worry that a homophobia and transphobia.” line could be crossed. If allies at With the growing increase of ac- Pride show more pride for their ceptance of the community, events own efforts to be inclusive than known collectively as Pride Parades for the LGBTQ+ people who have or Pride Marches have become made this movement possible, commonplace. There has been a their voices could become louder growing debate about whether than those they should be liftstraight allies should be allowed at ing. MJ Foster, vice president of Pride events. Some ask that straight GLoBAL said he agrees with these allies don’t insert themselves into sentiments. LGBTQ+ spaces since the events “I do not believe heterosexual/ are held for the community itself cisgender people should speak and is a kind of sanctuary, while over the voices of LGBTQ+ people, because they lack the experience that we do and therefore cannot speak for us as a whole,” said Foster. Talking about the improvements allies could make with their participation in Pride, Mims agrees with Foster. “[Allies Caroline Riggs/ The Johnsonian should be] People of all ages attend pride to show there, but not their support.
Shealy Long Staff Writer
Caroline Riggs/ The Johnsonian
Many people attend pride in support of their loved ones. talking over LGBTQ voices. Just helped promote the community being in back and being there for in a positive way might dim the moral support and not just trying brightness of the celebration. In to take over and talk over them,” response to negative reactions from Mims said. some LGBTQ+ people, Cady said Another positive of allies partic- that while she does feel that she ipating in Pride that was pointed should be able to attend Pride. “It’s out by both Mims and Foster, is also not my place to say ‘I should that this inclusion gives closeted be allowed’, if my friends who are LGBTQ+ people a way to celebrate of a different sexuality said ‘I feel themselves and their community. uncomfortable with allies going’, “It’s also important for LGBTQ+ then of course I wouldn’t go, but people who are in the closet still. if some stranger on the Internet This gives them a way to enjoy tells me then, sorry.” Cady makes a pride without being outed, which good point, in that, from location could be dangerous,” Foster said. to location, the LGBTQ+ commuMany allies want to attend Pride nity may differ in opinion. Some as a way to support friends and individuals in the community may family who are a part of the comhave negative feelings toward allies munity. Going to a celebration of attending Pride for personal reatheir loved one’s community is a sons. These feelings should not be way to show solidarity and supinvalidated and should be respectport in a fun, exciting way. Reagan ed by the allies close to this person. Cady, a junior at Winthrop, recentOverwhelmingly, Winthrop ly attended her second Pride event students agree that allies should be in Charlotte. allowed to attend Pride and show “I like going with my friends their support to the community. As who are a part of the gay culture long as boundaries are not overand just watching them experience stepped and respect is given to the it and having fun with them,” Cady people of the LGBTQ+ communisaid. ty, they should be welcomed with Pride is a celebration of the open arms. Pride events are fun, progress within the LGBTQ+ com- joyful events, created to celebrate munity and to restrict this celebra- the community and all people tion away from the allies who have should be able to attend.
Two cents
“Most people don’t realize that Cracker Barrel is a nice place to eat and shop. They always have sales.” –Janie Howland, senior psychology major
Hi, I’m Shealy, and I like talking to people, hearing their opinions on pop culture, listening in about something minuscule that happened in their day and so much more! There is wisdom, humor, and much more in the few words that my fellow Winthrop students share with me. Kristen Haberkorn, a Winthrop alumnus, started this column. I thoroughly enjoyed it and wanted to continue it into this academic year. I hope you enjoy this column as much as I enjoy writing it and talking to people.
“Why is it necessary that I have to write a ten page paper after completing an internship that I submitted weekly reports on and paid for?” –Nicholas Oxendine, senior integrated marketing communications major “I think there should be more ice cream made with almond milk.” –Kathryn Dorcas, junior business administration “Girls need to support girls, I am tired of all the negative comments we make about each other.” Elssy Rosario, senior mass communication major
About The Johnsonian
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Letters and feedback can be sent to editors@ mytjnow.com or by mail at The Johnsonian, 104 Campus Center, Rock Hill, S.C. 29733. Comments submitted online at www. mytjnow.com may be printed as letters and may be shortened for space and edited for clarity. Please
include your name, major and year if you are a student; your name and title if you are a professor, or your name and profession if you are a member of the community. Letters, cartoons and columns reflect the opinion of the authors and are not necessarily the opinions of The Johnsonian Staff.
Erin Streetman | Opinion Editor streetmane@mytjnow.com
Layout Editor Carmen Little Graphic Designer Sports Editor Jordan Farrell Managing Editor Greta Conboy Illustrator Cheyenne Walsh Assistant Sports Kamrie Ownes walshc@mytjnow.com Gabby Gardner Photographers Ad Manager Sam Ross A&C Editor Mariah Houser Paige Denney houserm@mytjnow.com Dillon Oneill Camille Riddle Assitant A&C News Editor Copy Editors Caleb Hinkley Caroline Riggs Casey Smith Opinion Editor Matt Thrift Assistant News Erin Streetman Anna Sharpe Haleigh Altman Editor-in-Chief Téa Franco francot@mytjnow.com
S&T Editor Mikayla Mangle
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August 29, 2018
Keeping up with your boo from afar Advice on how to balance life as a college student with a long distance relationship Zuri Anderson Staff Writer
Jay, my boyfriend, spent some time with me for a weekend before I moved back to college. We perused around Northwoods Mall in North Charleston, laughed together at some Twitch streams and he tried Chickfil-A and Bojangles for the first time--he’s a Chicago resident. This was the second time we’ve met face-toface in the eight years we’ve been dating. I don’t know a lot of people who have long distance relationships, or LDRs, but I know I’m not the only Zuri Anderson / The Johnsonian student on Winthrop’s campus involved in one. Trust me, Zuri Anderson with her partner, Jay Reese, 22, when they first met it can get tough, so here’s my say on balancing your LDR face-to-face this July at the O’Hare International Airport. They have with college life! You’ve probably heard a million times that time been in a relationship since their middle school years management is the number one skill to succeed in college, of it, I did treat Jay as an afterthought. but it’s also one of the most important things to master in If you’re a multitasker and can speak on the phone or Skype while a long distance relationship. you’re studying, that’s great! If you’re like me and struggle with that, Chances are that you and your beloved are in different time zones. just make sure to stick with your schedule as closely as possible It’s a minor thing to keep in mind, but it makes all the difference so that you don’t cut into your time with them later on. Whatever when you actually communicate. Luckily, Jay is only an hour the situation, make sure you communicate to your partner about behind me. However, when I was studying abroad in Australia, it meetings, study time, events, etc. and plan around that. was a struggle. He would stay up until 5 a.m. to speak to me while Planning when to communicate is important, but make sure it I was settling into the evening around 6 or 7 p.m. If you’re in an doesn’t turn into an obligation. It’s okay if you don’t get to speak international relationship, this becomes more prominent. with them that night. Depending on the relationship, some couples Realistically, you’ll struggle with time management a fair amount may prefer to speak everyday, even if it’s for only two hours or of times, especially when things come up, such as if one of you so, but missing a day or two out of the week won’t kill you both! starts a new job or it’s midterms or finals week. Winthrop students Everyone gets busy; it doesn’t mean you don’t care. tend to be involved in campus activities, so be conscious of your Relationships in general are difficult to manage, and each one extracurricular activities and time commitments, as well. During comes with its own challenges. However, if you can keep up with my freshman year, I got involved in many extracurricular activities, including volunteering for seven hours a week, working at a job from yourself and your partner’s schedule and keep the conversations organic, then the distance will never matter! 6 to 9 p.m. and attending cultural events often. Unfortunately, my relationship suffered because of it, and even though I was not aware
Is Trump inciting and protecting racism? President Donald Trump’s actions regarding the treatment of minorities in America are allowing racism to run rampant in America.
Carmen Little The Johnsonian Oriana Gilmore Staff Writer
There is no doubt that racial tensions in America have been on the rise within the past few years. Three years ago President Donald Trump released his controversial campaign slogan, “Make America Great Again.” Soon after, Trump’s storm of derogatory, offensive comments about minorities came flooding in. Trump launched his campaign with vulgar remarks about Mexican immigrants saying that they were rapists and criminals. “When Mexico sends its people, they’re not sending their best...They’re bringing drugs, they’re bringing crime, they’re rapists and some I assume are good people,” Trump said at his campaign launch in June 2015. Fast forward to about a year ago when Trump made upsetting comments about the protesters in Charlottesville, VA. Protesters wanted the statue of Confederate general Robert E. Lee removed from their community. However they were interrupted and threatened by aggressive white supremacy and Neo-Nazi groups. Rather than acknowledging the heightened racial tensions in the conflict, Trump said that “there is blame on both sides.” He then continued to defend the aggressors and condemned the protesters as “very violent.” In situations like these, our country needs someone who is willing to make solutions that are in the best interest of the people. Deflecting serious issues and making insensitive remarks only causes
greater division. Sophomore Theater Education major Colby Bloomer said “I feel like Trump is promoting racism and promoting division in the country.” This is rampant on social media and with peers. Politics has always been a topic with division based on the political party that you identify with. However conversations have become more intense with Trump as president. Living in a “red state” really adds to the tension surrounding the topic of Trump and his administration. Controversial symbols such as the confederate flag are often linked to Trump supporters and those who do support Trump are linked to supporting racism. Dorothy Huther, a senior social work student, agreed that the president’s discriminatory words are contributing to racism. “He is racist. He is a bigot in every sense of the word. The way that he speaks towards every minority makes it clear that he doesn’t really like minorities,” Huther said. Everyone who supports Trump may not consider themselves racist, but by supporting him they are supporting his offensive comments and vulgarity towards minorities; therefore supporting racism in America. According to CNN, when discussing the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, Trump allegedly referred to African countries, Haiti and El Salvador as “s-hole countries” in January. “Why would we want all these people from s-hole countries,” Trump allegedly said. Comments like these should not be supported because they oppose what America is supposed to represent. It is comments like these that enforce racism as a norm in 2018 and also create intolerance of other ethnicities and cultures. “Honestly, I think that he is inducing [racism] a little bit. Just for some of the actions that he’s put out there...and comments that he’s made,” said sophomore business major Macklin Ohs. Last April, Dyne Suh, an Asian American woman had her Airbnb reservation cancelled by the host because of her race. The Airbnb host texted Suh that she “wouldn’t rent to u if u were the last person on earth.” The host defended herself with the statement, “It’s why we have Trump.” This proves that Americans are watching Trump and using him as approval to proudly showcase their bigotry. “I personally believe that he’s protecting racism with all the incorrect and harmful comments that he’s making with no remorse,” said sophomore mathematics student Alberto Palomo-Sanchez. As a leader, Trump does not demonstrate the qualities of a leader. He exclaims demeaning comments and speaks of nonwhites as inferior. Trump is unquestionably inducing racism in this country and it is causing a divergence between progression and modern America.
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August 29, 2018