The Maroon Tiger 88.3

SAVE the music

Benefit Concert

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September 5,2013 $5 pre-sale ticket donation • $10 DAY-OF BOX OFFICE PROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT THE VH1 SAVE THE MUSIC FOUNDATION

Calling all singers, dancers and instrumenalists

for more information:

THE ORGAN OF STUDENT EXPRESSION SINCE 1925 MOREHOUSE COLLEGE 9/11/13 - 9/18/13

ATLANTA, GA VoL.88, No. 3

AUC RANKS IN TOP 10 HBCUs:

ACCORDING TO THE 2014 U.S. NEWS RANKINGS OF COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES, SPELMAN COLLEGE AND MOREHOUSE COLLEGE ARE ATOP THE LIST OF HBCUS AT NO. 1 AND NO.2, RESPECTIVELY. CAU WAS RANKED AT NO. 9.

HISTORIC UNVEILING:

RAY CHARLES PERFORMING ARTS CENTER TO HOST THE US POSTAGE STAMP UNVEILING OF RAY CHARLES LATER IN THE MONTH.

CENSORING MUSIC ON CAMPUS:

COLLEGE ADMINISTRATORS, OVER THE LAST WEEK, HAVE BEEN URGING STUDENTS TO DRAW THE LINE ON INAPPROPRIATE MUSIC IN PUBLIC SPACES.

ENGAGING SYRIA:

PRESIDENT OBAMA ADDRESSED THE NATION TUESDAY NIGHT URGING DIPLOMATIC SOLUTIONS REGARDING SYRIA IN THE WAKE OF A PROPOSAL BROKERED BY RUSSIA.

REMEMBERING 9/11:

TODAY MARKS THE 12TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SEPTEMBER 11TH ATTACKS THAT KILLED THOUSANDS. VIGILS AND COMMEMORATIONS HAVE BEEN PLANNED AROUND THE CITY.

THE MIGHTY MAROON TIGERS:

THE MAROON TIGER’S WILL TRAVEL TO JACKSON, TN OVER THE WEEKEND TO FACE OFF AGAINST LANE COLLEGE.

Darren Martin EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DARRENMARTIN884@GMAIL.COM

Hip-hop, for decades, has stirred debate across the country over its role in misogyny, homophobia, racism and sexism. This debate has come again to the Atlanta University Center with the emergence of a “Please Don’t Stop the Music” petition sponsored by Morehouse SGA and CASA to counter a move by the administration to censor lyrics that are offensive to women.

At last week’s town hall meeting, Morehouse President John Wilson said that he believes all misogynistic music should be banned from public spaces on campus because it misrepresents Morehouse’s institutional values and sends the wrong message to potential donors.

“If people are degraded by the music that is played on campus, then that is institutional complicity,” Wilson said. “I’m not for that.”

However, rather than impose his opinion, he urged students to draw a line on what is acceptable music on campus.

“We have to have intelligent debate and conversation around this issue,” Wilson said. “And frankly, it has not happened yet. We have to draw a line here on what is acceptable.”

The question among students, during and in the aftermath of the town hall, has centered on where, if any, a line should be drawn. When polled by Wilson during the meeting on how many students opposed a ban on music, most students affirmed a sentiment that echoed across social media through a Maroon Tiger live tweet session: no ban.

In addition, The Maroon Tiger asked students to express their opinions on this topic through text messages. Their responses follow.

Junior English major Jebar King does not support a ban and says, like many students at Morehouse and Spelman colleges, it is an infringement on black cultural expression.

“It shouldn’t be banned at all because hip-hop is a part of Black culture and expression – no matter how ignorant it can be at times – and we are at an HBCU and need to embrace our culture instead of attempt to get rid of it.”

Other students disagree with a complete ban but believe a line should be drawn somewhere regarding the issue.

Sophomore English major Aaron Jones believes censorship would allow students to reflect on Morehouse’s mission.

“I don’t believe it should be banned altogether but I do believe that we can’t be an HBCU uplifting black men and women if the image we’re projecting signifies men sagging pants, rapping about nothing more than money, designer clothes, and women or disrespecting women by portraying them provocatively in every video,” Jones said. “I believe there is a need for a censor, maybe a clean version [of a song] at the least, although I think a complete ban is overdoing it.”

Still, many students fear that a

Dear administration,

ATHLETICS AT THE 'HOUSE: STRENGTH. SPEED. PERSEVERANCE. POSTED BY @TEM1TAY0

162 LIKES

2 Days AGO

This letter is a notice of petition to have continued the public play of all desired types of music (rap, hip hop, R&B, etc.) on the Morehouse College Campus. This would include, but would not be limited to, Hump Wednesday and concerts held on the Morehouse College campus endorsed by the institution explicitly or via student organizations. Additionally, this petition is in support of the continuation and free governance of all studentsponsored homecoming festivities including but not limited to Hump Wednesday and the hip hop concert.

It has been stated that the playing of hiphop music demonstrates that a portion of Morehouse College’s culture has become overwhelmingly object-centered. This is not the case. Choosing to listen to certain artists does not express our support of derogatory terms like “nigga,” “bitch,” “hoe,” “gangster,” “pimp,” “stripper,” nor “drug dealer.”

This does not define who we are as a college or a people. With this petition we are choosing to operate with the understanding that it is up to the individual to determine what is acceptable and what is not. Music is simply a form of artistic expression. Though it may contain elements of misogyny, we are able to discern what is acceptable behavior.

College is a place where the meeting of the minds occurs, and though we may have opposing ideals regarding politics, sexual orientation, religious ideologies, and even music, we posses the innate ability to function within the same community and thus coexist. Hence, it is in our best interest that

ban may set a precedent regarding how much power a president can exercise.

Amid the discussion, some believe that censorship in any form would undercut the artistic expression that a liberal arts institution promotes.

Sophomore Business Accounting major Justin McKnight believes that the music is already censored at public events and the lyrics do not determine students’ conduct.

“I feel that there is a place and time for everything and events like Hump Wednesday and Homecoming where the music is played is a chance for students to come together and enjoy themselves,” McKnight wrote. “The music that we play today is what our generation enjoys listening to.”

Spelman junior Adeerya Johnson firmly believes that there should be ban.

“Yes, because the type of music Morehouse plays will represent how Morehouse is. Meaning, the whole school’s persona in general will be looked at as a contradiction. If you are a school focusing on black male excellence, you, as an institution, need to find a style of music or artist that represents your mission.”

The debate began nearly a year ago when students in a black psychology class at Spelman drafted a petition urging students and administrators to be conscious of the degradation of women in certain lyrics played during Market Friday.

Last October, Spelman President Beverly Daniel Tatum responded to student backlash to the petition in a letter that echoed college policy that bans misogynistic music on Spelman’s campus. The letter garnered mixed reactions from students.

“…Spelman College is a community where the educational empowerment of women is central, and the expectation is that everyone will be treated as worthy of dignity and respect,” Tatum wrote.

“Our policies are designed to support and preserve those values. When you see a situation where those community values are being jeopardized, you can reasonably assume that College policy is being violated, and it is time to report it to someone.”

In January, a group of Morehouse students drafted their own petition standing in solidarity with the Spelman students who drafted the original petition against misogynistic music.

The Morehouse petition aimed “to have disallowed, through the implementation/enforcement of school-wide policy, the public play of all misogynistic music on the Morehouse College Campus. This would include, but not be limited to, Hump Wednesday and concerts held on the Morehouse College campus endorsed by the institution or via student organization[s].”

The petition was sent to the SGA presidents and administrations of both schools. Current SGA President A.J. Simonton echoed his support last week for not banning music, citing self-expression and a progressive student culture.

Jared Loggins, Managing Editor at The Maroon Tiger also contributed to this piece.

we continue to embrace all forms of music within the Atlanta University Center community because eliminating any one type of music would restrict our freedom to exchange different ideas. More importantly, the College holds the responsibility to ensure that students, the biggest stakeholder’s of the college, are being provided with the best experience possible which is one that reflects the interests of the students while maintaining a safe environment.

It is through the education that Morehouse College has provided to us that we ask that steps be made toward enhancing the student experience. We, the undersigned, believe this can be achieved by developing a music policy at Morehouse College. We also believe it would be beneficial to encourage students to engage in constructive dialogue surrounding the issue. The Student Government Association is devoted to raise awareness on such topics related to sexual violence and other topics surrounding violence against women through the “No Means Hell No” campaign and creating dialogue around hip-hop music and its impact on society. Thus, we are committed to ensuring that a healthy environment is created and maintained among all three institutions and the surrounding community.

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. We look forward to your response, and hope to begin collaborative work surrounding this issue.

Respectfully, Morehouse College Student Body

THis PETITION WAS RELEASED ONLINE LAST WEDNESDAY BY SGA. NO OFFICIAL PETITION HAS BEEN SUBMITTED to ADMINISTRATION AS OF YET.

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CAMPUS NEWS

WEEK OF 9/11 - 9/18

DEAR OFFICE OF STUDENT LIFE AND ENGAGEMENT:

STAFF

“All I want for my birthday is a big-booty hoe.”

These are the type of lyrics we are surrounded by while perusing local vendors each Market Friday here at Spelman college. As Spelman women, agents of change, global citizens entrusted to bring about free-thinking dialogue wherever we may go, is it acceptable for us to be subject to demeaning, misogynistic, homophobic, and erotically explicit lyrics in spaces we occupy? Additionally, what about the visitors who enter our campus and encounter this music as their representation of Spelman?

As Market Friday is an arena for our own community and creative expression, having all-male DJ’s constantly reinforce the notion that we exist only in relationship to the male gaze directly contradicts the values of Spelman. (See earlier dress code letter.)

Rather than play the infectiously offensive synthetic reels of Rick Ross, Young Jock, Lil Wayne, Two Chainz, why don’t we introduce more women-friendly musical diversity into our soundtracks?

We, as socially aware Spelman women, propose to create our own misogyny-free playlists in order to make the musical selection more democratic and representative.

Like the Nelly protests in the past, Spelman women have historically been conscious of the standard for what we as students allow to permeate our campus.

We echo the sentiment that students should have a good time socializing and appreciate the efforts and activities the Office organizes.

However, it would be of great help if we may be able to determine what having a good time means.

MANAGEMENT Darren W. Martin Jr. Editor-in-Chief Jared Loggins Managing Editor Cabral Clements TigerTV Executive Producer Ahmad Barber Chief Layout Editor Will Shelton Chief Copy Editor Jamal Lewis New Media Director

Respectfully,

Michael Martin Assoc. New Media Director

Dr. Spence’s Violence Against Women Class, Fall 2012

COPY EDIT

MARKET FRIDAY MUSIC PROPOSAL

Reginald Hutchins Associate Copy Editor

We, the students of the Violence Against Women course at Spelman College, and other students in solidarity, hope that these suggestions will help to transform Market Friday to be an inclusive, conscious, and positive environment for all students, visitors, and faculty.

EDITORS James Parker Campus News Editor

GOALS:

Maya Whitfield Features Editor Nebiyu Fitta Features Assoc. Editor Moriba Cummings A&E Editor David Parker Opinions Editor Deaira Little Assoc. Opinions Editor Kadijah Ndoye World and Local Editor Deandre Williams World and Local Assoc. Editor Melvin Rhodes Sports Editor Jordan Lindsey Sports Assoc. Editor Cydney Fisher Photography Editor Jalen Law Photography Assoc. Editor

BUSINESS TEAM Maurice Goins PR Director Devario Reid Assoc. PR Director Jerrel Floyd Advertising Manager

--To diversify music selection --Prevent an atmosphere of predatorial behavior --Point out the inherent contradiction of Spelman as a women’s college in allowing for misogynistic music to compose the fabric of our school-sponsored social activities --Curtail the normalized linguistic violence embedded in our college culture

1. Open up song suggestions to the student body in order to incorporate student voice in musical selection

a. Ask that the Office of Student Life and Engagement send out to

the student body requests for a pool of appropriate musical

suggestions

b. Narrow down the lists through the Market Friday Music Selection: 2. Pre-approve the DJ playlist for Market Friday

a.Have the DJ submit a playlist on the Wednesday before

Market Friday

b. Implement a position under the SGA- Market Friday committee

to solely work with the music selection for Market Friday: Propose

a music screening committee or position as an adjunct to the

Market Friday committee with elected or appointed SGA

representatives in charge of upholding the standards of

misogyny-free, anti-homophobia lyrics, initially under the

guidance of an advisor who can clearly operationalize definitions

of misogyny as it relates to contemporary music.

3. Have a wide array of DJ’s participate in Market Friday throughout the year

a. Intentionally include female and socially-conscious DJ’s

b. Allowing student DJ’s as long as they comply with the Market

Friday music policies and practices

c. Asking that the Office of Student Life follows up and enforces

these regulations on-the-ground--Enforcing Vendor contract to

prevent the onset of predators on our campus (Have them sign a

contract explicitly making clear that they will lose their vending

privileges if they intimidate, stalk, or make sexually suggestive

comments to Spelman students) 4. Allowing students to organize a “Take Back Market Friday” to set a model for what the expectations are for Market Friday as Spelman’s socializing space

a. On the last Market Friday of November, allowing FMLA, the Toni

Cade Bambara Scholar Activist Collective, Dr. Spence’s Violence

Against Women Class, and other interested student organizations

to coordinate a “Take Back Market Friday”

b. Include social justice and women-oriented vendors

c. Include a female DJ

Jordan DeJesus JORDAN DEJESUS DUHJESUS@GMAIL.COM

The AUC is a collegiate community noted for its exemplary performance both inside and outside of the classroom. It is the only place where multiple schools have the ability to easily unite towards common goals and shared ideals, yielding spectacular results.

Students of the Atlanta University Center recently teamed up, yet again, with VH1 for the annual Save the Music benefit concert. Morehouse College’s chapter of the Phi Mu Alpha Fraternity organized the concert, held in the Ray Charles Performing Arts Center, on last Thursday. This studentdriven event has been an ongoing tradition to raise revenue for underfunded school music programs around the country and increase awareness of the importance of music education.

From the moment the lights dimmed, the band sounded off, and the dancers graced the stage with explosive presence and fluid choreography; the tone for the remainder of the evening was set. One artist after another presented their talent on stage in rapid succession with no introductions. This act of humble civility allowed the limelight to be temporarily redirected to what was truly most important - the music itself.

As the night continued many talented artists poured their souls into the mic, catering to the audience’s every need through expanse musical diversity with sounds ranging from classical, gospel jazz, soul, R&B, rap, to poetry. A notable act from the evening, Gold Shades,

consisted of three talented artists from Morehouse; Julian Booker, Marlon Booker and Gary “Stello” Clark. Clark spoke about his eclectic musical upbringings and beliefs.

“Music is all about fun, sincerity, personal fulfillment, and reflecting your own joy” Clark said. Marlon attributes his musical satisfaction to the groups stringent work ethic.

“What keeps me going is hard work, self perseverance, and understanding that there is no clear and straight path on the road to musical success,” Marlon remarked.

All group members agreed that a strong support system has helped them persevere amid challenges.

“The support we have around us and the pursuit of a collective dream is what pushes us to continue” Julian Booker added.

Even musicians stemming far from the AUC’s campus were compelled to perform and contribute to the great cause. Singer and songwriter, Ajae Moore, a graduate from the University of Memphis attested to the importance of music education in schools.

“When growing up, music in school played a huge importance in my life,” Moore said. “It is where I gained my interest, strong foundation, and deeper understanding behind it.”

The Atlanta University Center truly did save the musi with the help of all those that performed: Keeyan Martain, Clinton, Felix, Terrance Samino, Khalado, Denzel, Jaylin, Maya,Bria, Gold Shades, 201, Je Ronelle, Ollie Barnes, Kaya Rand, Jonathan Middlebrooks, Ajae Moore, Brittany, Brandon, Rajane Brown, and Victor Perry.

A PHOTO REPLAY OF VH1 SAVE THE MUSIC| PHOTOGRAPHY BY:

MAROON TIGER PHOTOGRAPHY

WORLD AND LOCAL

WEEK OF 9/11 - 9/18 The Effect of Chemical Weapons in Syria and Beyond Dru Spiller STAFF WRITER DSPILLER@SCMAIL.SPELMAN.EDU

Toxic chemical agents serve as an imaginary red line in time of war. The aftermath of chemical warfare during WWI brought about the 1925 Geneva protocol.

The protocol prohibited the use of poisonous gas as a weapon in war. Even during World War II, Hitler did not ‘technically’ break the law as he did not use chemical agents on the battlefield but rather in concentration camps.

The topic of chemical warfare came up again in the 1980’s when Saddam Hussein used poisonous gas against opposing forces in Iran and again on the Kurds. This in part led to the 1993 Chemical Weapons Convention outlawing the production, withholding, and transference of chemical weapons. This law was signed by more or less 170 countries (Syria, North Korea and Egypt excluded). How has Syria’s use of chemical weapons against opposing forces has warranted a US attack?

President Obama has requested authorization from Congress to launch a preventive attack on Assad’s regime in Syria. It seems too many people that the President who vowed to end the highly opposed Iraqi war is now bent on starting a new war with Syria and its rebel forces.

The attack claims not to launch a war; it claims to be a response to Syria’s use of toxic chemical agents against non-regime controlled areas (mainly the suburbs of

Damascus) resulting in over 1,400 fatalities. Some have said the use of chemicals gives unspoken permission for other counties to utilize weapons on their citizens.

Erin Ferguson, a freshman at Spelman College, says, “I think it’s good that [Obama] is making sure that congress approves before launching an attack so that they can be a united front. Also, invading Syria with Congress and Obama together helps with the public perception of the Syria conflict.”

While the US claims an assurance of possession of concrete evidence while other countries have claimed a possibility.

The main concern over a military attack on Syria is the possible escalation. There is no way to foretell the outcome of such a strike. Possible outcomes range from increased violence by the Assad regime; a new dictator takes over or retaliation against America and the fall of the Assad regime but the chemical weapons fall into the hands of Assad’s loyalists.

The popular view of the Obama administration is that the Syrian attacks on civilians will lead to another dictator years from now reasoning that the lack of response to Assad’s use of chemical weapons means that they can do the same thing possibly on a larger scale. An attack on Syria would then serve as a deterrent to any future leaders who wish to use chemical weapons. However this plays out it, the events will play a key role in how foreign nations view the US and each other.

A Timeline of Responses:

Chemical Weapons in Syria Sarah Brokenborough STAFF WRITER SBROKENB@SCMAIL.SPELMAN.EDU August 21, 2013

Air missiles disperse chemical weapons beginning at 2:40 am over rebel-held Damascus suburbs killing hundreds of men, women, and children, many while they slept

Videos begin to surface showing hundreds of Syrian civilians suffering from convulsions and other signs of mass poisoning Syrian activists from the Syrian Revolutionary Command Council report that Assad forces used chemical weapons near the capital of Damascus.

The Syrian government denies using chemical weapons, believes the rebel forces are responsible Source: Politico August 22, 2013

France urges retaliatory attack against Syria

Israel publicly agrees that chemical weapons were launched in Syria.

Israeli minister of strategic and intelligence affairs and international relations, Yuval Steinitz states, “According to our intelligence assessments [..] there was use of chemical weapons, and this of course was not for the first time

Russia Foreign Ministry spokesman Aleksandr Lukashevich suggests rebel forces are responsible for chemical weapon attacks Source: BBC News August 23, 2013

The US positions 4 US Navy warships into the Mediterranean Source: Politico August 24,2013

Doctors Without Borders press release states 3 hospitals near Damascus have treated approx. 355 of 3,600 victims showing signs of toxicological poisoning have died in a span of 3 hours after the reported attacks Source: Doctors Without Borders August 25, 2013

Syrian government allows UN inspection team (which includes Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and World Health Organization personnel) to visit the site of attacks to determine if chemical weapons were used Source: BBC News August 26, 2013

UN begins investigates allegations that Syrian President al-Assad used chemical weapons against civilians Source: UN August 27, 2013 Senior US official states that President Barack Obama is weighing a punitive military action against Syria for its use of chemical weapons Source: Washington Post

August 28, 2013

In an interview with PBS, President Obama declares that he has not made a decision regarding military action against Syria, but states “We want the Assad regime to understand that by using chemical weapons on a large scale against your own people...you are not only breaking international norms and standards of decency, but you’re also creating a situation where U.S. national interests are affected, and that needs to stop.”

August 29, 2013

Britain’s Joint Intelligence Organization concludes that it has a “growing body of intelligence which supports the judgment that the regime was responsible for the attacks and that they were conducted to help clear the Opposition from strategic parts of Damascus”.

British Parliament rejects a motion to engage in international intervention, 285 to 272

Syrian President al-Assad declares that Syria will “defend itself against any aggression”. Assad states, “Syria, with its steadfast people and brave army, will continue eliminating terrorism, which is utilized by Israel and Western countries to serve their interests in fragmenting the region.”

USA deploys fifth warship, the USS Stout, to the Mediterranean August 30, 2013

US deploys sixth warship, the USS Antonio, to the Mediterranean.

US Intelligence assessment concludes that it has “high confidence” that Syria’s government carried out the chemical weapons attack that killed 1,429 people, including 426 children, outside Damascus.

President Barack Obama decides to refrain from military action until authorization from Congress.

Italy and Germany refuse to participate in military action against Syria Source: Yahoo! News, Politico, Washington Post September 4, 2013

US Senate panel has voted to allow Obama to use limited military force against Syria as long as it doesn’t exceed 90 days and involves no American troops on Syrian grounds for combat operations Russian President Putin states that US military action would be violation of international law if not sanctioned by UN September 5, 2013

Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron states that British laboratory tests on clothes and soil from the attack site in Damascus have confirmed that the lethal sarin gas was used in the chemical attack in Syria on August 21 2013

Russia confirms that 3 Russian warships are en route to the eastern Mediterranean for possible evacuation of Russian citizens

At G-20 Summit dinner is scheduled to discuss Syrian crisis Source: GlobalPost, BBC News, AP, Reuters

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P ro j e c t H o u s e :

One Organization, One Community

Tiffany Pennamon CONTRIBUTING WRITER TPENNAMO@SCMAIL.SPELMAN.EDU

During New Student Orientation Week, Spelman and Morehouse students were able to attend the Registered Student Organization fair to join community service, school-sponsored, and majorrelated organizations. Some of the organizations on campus extend membership to all students throughout the AUC, such as A.C.T.S and Project House, two organizations based on commitment to community service.

Project House’s co-founder, D’Boyja Abney, and vice president, Thomas Cox, recently sat down with us and gave us more insight into running the organization and what it means for them to make a positive impact in the community.

Project House is a homeless outreach community service organization at Morehouse College. Abney said, “We aim to raise awareness on homelessness and give back to the underserved community in the Atlanta area”. Since moving from Dallas, Texas to Atlanta to attend Morehouse, Abney felt that his passion for fighting homelessness started when he used to donate food to the homeless each Thanksgiving.

Cox said, “Just seeing how blessed we are and coming from Atlanta, poverty is a big thing here. I feel like we’re in a position to give back so why not use what we have to make an impact on the greater community.”

Serving to fight poverty and homelessness, Project House was responsible for the fall Canned Movie Drive and the Toiletry Drive held last year. To be admitted to the movie, students had to bring two canned goods before they were able to view Black

Classics like “Friday” and “School Daze.” Abney says, “We went out and donated the food to food pantries. We also did a Toiletry Drive where we took all of the donated proceeds to the Atlanta Children’s Center.” The spring term included the Project House Stroll Off where the stroll teams from Clark, Spelman, and Morehouse came and participated. Such events served to raise awareness of homelessness in our own community while also having fun.

Vice President Cox said, “I feel like we have a better impact on the community donating to an initiative as opposed to just walking around the West End and just giving out money.” That hasn’t stopped the leading members from seeking new groups and places that need the community’s help the most.

Project House lends its success to the hard work of the members that actively participate. As the vice president, Cox admits that running the organization is a job. Even so, Cox said, “at the end of the day, we see it as fun because you know you’ve made an impact.” Likewise, co-founder Abney says, “It’s a job, but we have a team that’s willing to do what we need to do. No one really slacks off. Everyone that says they’re going to do something, they do it. That’s pretty much how we’ve been successful so far and we plan to keep it that way. So I feel like we can make it work!”

Project House has now grown from just an idea to an active and leading campus organization. The founders are always open to people trying to make a difference in the community and the organization is open to all AUC students. To get involved with Project House, contact D’Boyja Abney, Jermaine Blakley, Thomas Cox, or Maura Washington. There will be another informational meeting in the spring for those that would like to be a part of Project House.

Anti-Hazing Policies Kadijah Ndoye WORLD AND LOCAL EDITOR KNDOYE@SCMAIL.SPELMAN.EDU

Robert Champion, a drum major, passed away after being beaten on a bus by teammates during an incident of hazing more than a year ago.

Because of the investigation into hazing practices, the band was suspended. The Florida A&M University marching band performed on Sunday September 1st for the first time in almost two years.

In May of this year, it was reported that five Virginia State University students endured the consequences of hazing rituals. According to Politic 365, the seven men wanted to take part in an off-campus club. As the final initiation, they were charged with traversing the river in the heavy rain.

Two of the seven men were taken by the currents on that rainy night while the other five made it safely ashore.

Hazing is any action or atmosphere causing embarrassment, bodily harm, or emotional harm to individuals for the sake of inclusion among a group.

People commonly associate acts of hazing with fraternities and sororities. Incidences of hazing can also be noted as potential occurrences in various clubs and student organizations.

“All acts of hazing by any group, member,

or alumni are specifically forbidden,” Morehouse’s official hazing policy says. Many academic institutions have stringent laws prohibiting hazing.

Michael Gary, Jr., Assistant Director of Student Life at Morehouse College said that punishment for hazing “mirrors the law [of the state].

At an HBCU heavily rooted in tradition, Gary finds that hazing has no place in the tradition.

He refers to the mission statement of Morehouse College. The mission says, “developed men with disciplined minds who will lead lives of leadership and service.” He insists that the practice of hazing does not fulfill any of the goals outlined by the mission statement of the school nor any chartered club or organization affiliated with the college.

In his four years as Associate Director of Student Life, there have been no reported incidents of hazing. He explained that student organizations and clubs of colleges and universities dedicate a week to covering the topic of hazing.

He proposes a different approach to ridding of hazing practices on campus. He said, the practice of having anti-hazing weeks creates “more of a monologue decision.”

“Students have good intentions with the practice…there are different ways that we can reach our goals,” Gary said. He suggests assessing people’s feelings about hazing before proceeding with “tradition”.

#TIGERPOLL YOU GOT A QUESTION THAT YOU WANT US TO ASK OUr AUDIENCE? TWEET US! @THEMAROONTIGER BE SURE TO INCLUdE #TUESDAYTOPICS IN YOUR TWEET.

SPELHOUSE CLASSIFIEDS THE ONE STOP TO STUDENT BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS

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THE NATION'S CLASSIC RECAP A PHOTO STORY BY CYDNEY FISHER

SIXTY (TWO)

QUESTIONS Joe Clark West End High HNIC@IWillFireYou.com 1. Appelez-moi MT! Are you glad we’re back?

2. Were you fortunate enough to make it back?

3. Or were you PURGED during the building of the cathedral?

4. Is this what we call a dream deferred?

5. Is this edifice being built upon red clay or quicksand?

6. Doesn’t administration know that this is Morehouse College and not Eastside High?

7. Or were they too scared to stand up against JOE CLARK? 8.O Where have all the faculty gone?

9. FRANKLI, None of us knew that they were replacing him with DONALD TRUMP, did we?

29. Will it be a COLD November?

30. Or will the temperature be LUKE-warm as it was in April?

31. Will he keep DRIVing the apEs cRazy?

32. Or will they finally fall in love with his MANLY DEEDS? 33. I wonder how many of their newbies exhibit LOVE for ALL MANkind?

34. Will the PUPPIES be let off the leash or will they have to stay in the CAGE? 35. Is that how they raise the ROO-f?

36. Aren’t you excited for the return of SCANDAL this fall?

37. Did you assume I was talking about the drama show on ABC? 38. Or are we talking about the soap opera on channel SGA? 39. I kid, but if SGA was a channel, what other programming would it showcase?

40. Cheaters or Iyanla, Rig My Election?

41. Wonder if 82.5 knows that he is throwing nails on a crum bling HOUSE? 42. Doesn’t he know that his FITZ won’t cover up the stench of DEFIANCE? 43. Was the MADNESS too much for him to handle?

10. Since when did this become The Apprentice?

44. Didn’t THEY get a little too COZY at the retreat?

11. Or is this just a bad episode of Diddy’s Making the Staff?

45. Aren’t enemies supposed to make strange BEDfellows?

12. Why did they keep him over our Cosmic Mother?

46. Is this why they are coming together to ensure the BANS will make them dance?

13. Or did the higher ups just decide to SKIP over his lack luster resume?

47. Are these the most qualified students to lead this CONCERTed effort?

14. Where, o where have the scholarships gone?

48. Speaking of petitions, did its author pass English 101?

15. Did Her Majesty take them when she was fired from her post?

49. Is it safe to assume that literacy isn’t a requirement into the GREEN HOUSE?

16. Or were they discarded in exchange for the gatekeeper’s new broach?

50. Was Homecoming a casualty in the most recent budget cuts?

17. How much money do we squander...I mean “give” the foot ball team?

18. Coward University sure knows how to kick our angle side side, huh?

19. Would any of their students understand that math joke?

20. If not, does that mean they really are our REJECTS? 21. Is that why they lost their foothold on second place?

22. Or were they tired of being compared to #2?

23. Did you hear about the PALACE shutting her doors?

24. Where will the DAUGHTERS go now?

25. Off to Do-Boys?

26. Speaking of Do-boys, have you see THEM running around to get on board the MOTHERSHIP? 27. Will they ever stop playing games w/their interests?

28. Will they have to whac-a-MOLE in order to keep up their CHARADES?

51. Is it true that the ALLIANCE can’t even afford to buy GOLD SHADES? 52. BTW, aren’t they the greatest?

53. Haven’t you seen their Apollo performance? (Search “Gold Shades at the Apollo) 54. Will Homecoming be so dead they gotta check the PULSE? 55. Isn’t it Pageant season?

56. Will the lace-fronts be LAID or PLAYED? 57. Speaking of MMW, what have you done for me lately?

58. Or will we have to wait for a little PEACE AND LOVE? 59. While our future queen is abroad, are her minions currently at war?

60. Isn’t there another WAR coming in the Spring?

61. Or will it get DEHYDRATED like last time?

62. Maybe the Jerry Can was to water the DAWGS?

WEEK OF 9/11 - 9/18 8 OPINIONS “DEAR OLD WEST END, DEAR OLD WEST END…” Phillip Bigby CONTRIBUTING WRITER PHILLIPBIGBY@YAHOO.COM

Sometimes I would wish, as a young man growing up in the West End area, that we as a community had an alma mater as Morehouse does. I love this area so much. With its deep history and rich culture in urban city life, the West End has a brio that no other place I’ve visited can duplicate. From the beautiful one and one-half story Queen Anne cottages that date back to the post-Civil War era from the 1870s, to its highly recognized Afrocentric community that includes The Shrine of the Black Madonna, Soul Vegetarian South Restaurant, and the Hammonds House Museum (Wrens Nest), to the West End Mall on Ralph David Abernathy, the West End is a diverse and cultured community.

But for the students at the Atlanta University Consortium Center, the West End is a mysterious but frightening place filled with creepy people who may vandalize your possession, rob, or even kill you. No stories are told about the West End being Atlanta’s oldest historic district or how it was a major traveling connection to the city of Newnan (one of the only cities not burned down

by General Sherman in Georgia during the Civil War) by way of Newnan Roa. It also connected Decatur to Lawrenceville.

There are no mentions of Sandtown, which was a Native American town located in the area now known as Cascade. The only stories being told are of the poverty-stricken, drug abusing, and immoral people of the West End.

With this negative image being projected and passed along to the students in the AUC Center, I thought it would be a great idea to talk about how community service can impact one’s beliefs of a place. Hopefully, through integration of the AUC Center with the West End, we can rebuild the prestigious reputation of this magnificent megalopolis community.

So I started looking for groups, if there were any on campus, that want to become involved with the West End Community. I found The Morehouse NAACP chapter and spoke to Louis Dancer, a junior Business Marketing major and Spanish minor, who is also the Chief of Staff for this organization and asked him a few questions about their involvement. This is what we spoke about: PB: What is the name of your association and tell me its history and its role of service?

LD: The Morehouse NAACP chapter is a social action group. This year we are trying to change it up and gear it towards mentoring. In the past few years, mentoring has been an aspect we’ve neglected. So with that, Our president Stephen Green came up with this initiative called Project West End in partnership with The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Peace and Love AUC, and Psi

SPACE COLONISTS: A NEW FRONTIER David Parker OPINIONS EDITOR DAVID.TPARKERJR@GMAIL. COM

Looking back to the astrological feats of ancient civilizations, and contemporary advancements in astronomy, mankind has always taken a special interest in celestial bodies. Stargazing has been the avenue for amateur and professional astronomers to observe the outer limits, until now. In April 2013, Mars One, the not-for-profit foundation began its search for Astronauts.

The foundation promises to “establish a permanent human settlement on Mars in 2023”; inciting the application of 78,000 would be astronauts.

The applicants’ experience ranges from amateur astronomers to those with PHDs in related fields. While the application videos posted to Mars One’s website have been taken down at the end of the application period, some of the applicant’s videos are available on YouTube for your view pleasure.

The application ensures donators and supporters that each of the select applicants will undergo seven years of rigorous training to

prepare them for life on Mars.

The most interesting part of the training process to me is the psychological portion. Assuming that each candidate is whole-heartedly devoted to spending the rest of their lives on Mars, what type of training could possibly prepare one to leave everything behind and be the among the only humans for roughly 34 million miles (when Earth and Mars are the closest to each other in their perspective orbits).

While the idea of sending humans to Mars for permanent settlement is thrilling, I think I am more impressed with the technology and procedures it would take to live there than the actual implementation of the plan.

To me, this idea sounds like the introduction of a Sci-Fi horror film, where the mission begins with promise of prominence and human advancement, and ends with mutiny and bloodshed. I would be more comfortable with idea of temporary settle first because the astronauts would return and could undergo psychological evaluation, which would give more insight into living on a naturally uninhabitable planet.

According to Mars One, the total cost of the first expedition is six billion dollars,

making each ticket worth one and a half billion since they plan to send only four astronauts. What intrigues me most is their open application process, especially with it being such a high risk mission. If the first astronauts encounter an unforeseeable danger or engineer the danger themselves, then the consequences could extend to future endeavors.

Assuming that the first mission is a success, as well as subsequent missions, and humans develop a substantial population Mars, what role will religion and government have in the settlements development? Is the program meant to establish a scientific community or base on Mars, functioning similarly to the International Space Station, or will England’s empire truly have no bounds? And maybe the simpler questions, why Mars and not the moon?

I’m saddened by the fact that I’ll be thirty before I am any closer to finding any answers to my questions, but I am optimistic because of the potential answers and theories that will be derived from this mission’s success. But until then, I’ll be watching The Red Planet, remembering the days when a trip to mars was just imagination and a film script.

NATION BUILDING WITHOUT NATIONAL CRISIS CHRISTINE MARIE SLAUGHTER COLUMNIST CSLAUGHTER93@GMAIL.COM

Undoubtedly, the year 1963 resonates as the height of revolution within America. The states were engulfed with African Americans demanding promised rights and those who viciously opposed them. Black activists across the country buckled their bootstraps of justice defining what we understand as a pivotal year of the Civil Rights Movement.

Ironically, 2013 marks another year of social and cultural upheaval while Americans once again search for a restoration of justice in America – if that end was ever achieved. While there are a plethora of issues facing the black community – including intersectional – typically there is a one-dimensional rallying cry that’s worthy of national attention.

My experiences have led me to believe that our community is solely capable of uplifting narratives of heterosexual black men, while marginalizing those who do not identify with that experience. While rallying to end the criminalization of young black males, as a woman, there should be no obligation to sacrifice my gender in order to mesh with the “movement.”

Among the community, the consciousness must resonate that liberation doesn’t begin nor end with race. In a solidarity that

is rooted in racial justice, heterosexual black males never had to choose; racial solidarity has primarily worked towards their benefit. Our community has more vision than to uplift a singular narrative; we can do more. It’s 2013. I’m not here for male dominance, nor will I stand for it.

In an era of colorblindness, black solidarity will be worthless without intersectionality and inclusion.

As a feminist, I’m concerned. How can we espouse racial solidarity as a tool to deconstruct white supremacy in whatever form it manifests? We can restore hope without a “visible” crisis in the village. The ever evolving struggle for freedom cannot be dictated by the heterosexual black male experience – it must reach to the black queer, the black female, the black poor, the black transsexuals.

The ever-evolving struggle for freedom cannot be dictated by convenience.

The revolution is not visible; it doesn’t begin in the streets. Channeling the spirit of Toni Cade Bambara, “Revolution begins with the self, in the self.” Know that you don’t need anyone to tell you when it is acceptable to be upset or when it is appropriate to speak. Opportunity is only seized in the present moment.

With this, don’t cause uproar in convenience; cause uproar when it is necessary. Now, it is necessary.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM AND TWITTER: @THEMAROONTIGER

Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. With Project West End, we’re able to help students in the West End community become academically, professionally, and socially ready for the outside world.

Because how can we change the world if we can’t fix what’s in our back yard first.

PB: Are you targeting an age group?

LD: It’s geared towards sixth through eighth-grade students because the goal would be for them to hopefully enter Morehouse, Spelman, Clark Atlanta University or any other institution of higher learning. We believe that the younger we start, the better.

PB: What are some of the future actions that your organization will implement around the AUC? LD: With Project West End, we are working on a college tour for the students to come see the campus, like a day in the life of. Additionally, as far as the students of the AUC Center, we would like to have mini career expos so they can be professionally fit for life after their college experience. We want to become the premier organization on campus, as we once were.

PB: Why do you think this organization is so important?

LD: This organization is important because people now do community service as a requirement or for selfish motives. It’s not done for the goodness of the community anymore. We believe that community service should be done as a service to repay your community by becoming role models to youth who may have experienced similar situations as some of us AUC Center students have. We want to prepare them to take over the world by starting their own business, clubs, and organizations.

PB: What are some of the changes you would like to see take place in the relationship between the West End community and the AUC Center?

LD: Definitely more events in conjunction with other organizations. Rallies at the West End Mall, events with the community churches, or youth hanging out on campus are just examples; but anything that will be a joint effort.

PB: What are some of the things that a student can do as an individual to make an impact in the community? LD: Go into a local food kitchen. There’s a new retirement home near Clark Atlanta University that may need assistance, or go into nursing homes in deeper areas of the West End. Little things will make a person’s day so much better. People rely on organizations to help, which is OK, but what if there weren’t organizations like the Morehouse NAACP? Take initiative and start your own service organization or group. Go out as an individual or with friends and do some mission work for the weekend. Small gestures of help have great impact.

For more information on the history of The West End of Atlanta visit: The City of Atlanta @ http:// www.atlantaga.gov/index.aspx?page=467 To become a member of The Morehouse NAACP Chapter, contact Louis Dancer

S P E L M A N - DA Z E DeAira Little ASSOCIATE OPINIONS EDITOR DLITTLE3@SCMAIL.SPELMAN.EDU

Morehouse and Spelman College are highly regarded as the “Black Ivy League,” mostly because of our strong academic programs and notable alumni. Inside the walls of the schools, the students at their respective institutions are bound together by certain rituals and traditions that are a part their experiences.

There have been many changes in tradition throughout the years, and while change is inevitable, at some times it is unacceptable.

New Student Orientation week is when new students are introduced to the legacy of our institutions and standards; however, these standards have been lowered because of the fear of hazing. Spelman freshmen were allowed to break many traditions that upperclassmen reflect upon fondly. They were not given the proper knowledge of respectable dress during traditional ceremonies, and quite frankly, they did not share the same experience as me, making it difficult to relate to my newest Spelman sisters.

Administration seems to share a huge fear of hazing and wants to avoid it at all costs.

This fear is causing new students to receive watered-down versions of the SpelHouse experience. Certain activities, if administered properly, promote unity among students, allowing them to learn discipline and the importance of uplift and community. Other activities are just fun.

Freshmen strolling and stepping seem to be things of the past now, because practicing to perfect moves and synchronization

is now deemed as hazing. The message that Spelman is sending its students is a contradictory one, at best.

On one hand, students are encouraged to spend countless hours studying for classes and performing hours of community service to be able to hold the distinction of being a Spelmanite, yet extracurricular activities are expected to be pursued with minimal effort and a nonchalant attitude. Every student should attempt any activity with purpose and diligence.

There is no room for inconsistencies in any aspect of a student’s college career. Discipline and perseverance encompass all things, and should not only be utilized for the classroom, or else we will fall victim to not growing to our full potential.

Honors students and scholarship recipients are expected to earn top grades so that the college can boast of its accomplishments, while they are forced to live in study lounges and basements. They are expected to work tirelessly in the classroom, yet they are not worthy of a centralized air system when they return to their rooms.

Before Spelman should be so quick to axe certain traditions that students hold near to their heart, administration should look inward and think about how students deserve better accommodations for the amount that they pay to attend class. Spelman students should be able to participate in activities that they are willing to work for.

It’s simple. Tradition maintains the brand that our institutions work so hard to portray. Do not fix things that are not broken. Just fix the air conditioning.

WEEK OF 9/11 - 9/18

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

WEEK OF 9/11 - 9/18

MICHAEL MARTIN ASSOCIATE NEW MEDIA DIRECTOR MIKE.A.MARTIN93@GMAIL.COM

It’s thought that the traditional genre of R&B is a lost art. “It just isn’t what it used to be” can often be heard when you bring up the genre in front of anyone who used to jam out to the early classics.

With new technology and a new audience who enjoys a much different sound comes a new wave of R&B.

Tamar Braxton released to iTunes her debut album Love & War which features the summer song “The One” and debut single “Love & War.” Upbeat tracks like “Hot Sugar” and “She Did That” seem lost and out of place within the album’s slower tracks like “Stay and Fight” and “White Candle.” “One on One Fun,” however, finds a happy medium and seems to be what the album was intended to sound like. Braxton has succeeded in reaching her target audience, but they may find the album a bit underwhelming after hearing her powerful vocals on the album’s lead singles. Overall, Love & War seems very scrambled, which takes away from the complete listening experience.

Broadway baby and Nickelodeon starlet Ariana Grande released her highly anticipated debut album Yours Truly to iTunes, which quickly shot to the No. 1 spot. While labeled as a pop album by many, the sound is more of a modern R&B, featuring live music, slower tempos, urban beats, and powerful vocals. Slow jams “Honeymoon Avenue” and “Almost Is Never Enough” work to showcase Grande’s range, while tracks like “Tattooed Heart” and “Daydreamin’” feature some 1950s doo-wop throwback elements. “The Way” and “Right There,” featuring Mac Miller Big Sean respectively, solidify Grande’s place in the world of urban music, while tracks like “Lovin’ It” and “Piano” feature Grande’s signature sound. Yours Truly has done its job in making Grande one to watch in the music industry throughout her inevitable rise to the top.

R&B Veteran John Legend also released an album this week, titled Love In The Future.

The album is classic Legend, littered with harmonies and pianos. Legend showcases his talent in every track, his voice traveling seamlessly up and down the scale as the songs run together to tell a love story to listeners. There isn’t much more to say about this album. Legend succeeds in delivering another timeless classic.

Janelle Monáe’s album The Electric Lady was recently leaked onto the Internet and features Prince, Solange, Miguel, and Erykah Badu, who all add their own flavor to the tracks while simultaneously fitting perfectly into the album. Monae doesn’t disappoint and it’s definitely unique to her sound, making this album a must-have for any music collection.

The Weeknd’s album Kiss Land was also leaked early, and fans will be delighted to know that Drake makes a feature on “Live For,” which possesses a somewhat different vibe than Drake-Weeknd collaborations in the past. The album as a whole features an evolved sound, where Tesfaye is able to grow as an artist while still maintaining the uniqueness that made him famous.

MORIBA CUMMINGS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR MORIBACUMMINGS@YAHOO.COM

Turnt up,” the latest phrase describing one’s state of freeness – and potential intoxication – can be heard being shouted at almost every social event in the Atlanta University Center. Coined by “Bands A Make Her Dance” emcee Juicy J and “Black and Yellow” rapper Wiz Khalifa, two spearheads of the current “ratchet” movement, “turn up” has arguably taken a life of its own, becoming a regular part of everyday AUC lingo. While it may be argued that it’s just a part of the HBCU and overall college experience, a problem then arises when this notion begins to engulf the minds of uncultured outsiders who often restrict the AUC’s musical intelligence into this one category.

Yes, the AUC is proudly a fostering grounds for African-American celebration and development, but what is often overlooked is the beauty that lies within the thin walls of AUC’s larger infrastructure. In a musical vein, the AUC boasts one of the most heterogeneous aesthetics that many may ever encounter. While those earbuds are in, the assumptions may begin to run rampant, but the reality of what is emanating from them may completely blow your mind.

Theodore Davis, a Morehouse College senior chemistry and biology double major from Nassau, Bahamas, proves just that. The Caribbean native’s musical library ranges from hard rock to reggae, but what stands out most, however, is the music of his homeland: rake ‘n’ scrape.

“Rake ‘n’ scrape is like soca. It has that island feel to it,” Davis said. “It’s usually music created from lawn tools.”

Taking the use of unconventional materials to further heights, rake ‘n’ scrape even incorporates the use of disposed animal skin.

“They take the skin of a goat, dry it out, and stretch it tightly over the drum and heat it so that it becomes even tighter,” he said. “When you hit on it, you get this hollow drum sound.”

From island vibes to classical com-

positions, the musical tastes of the AUC continue to prove to be unequivocally diverse.

Michael English, a Morehouse College senior mathematics major from Omaha, Neb., enjoys the latter, using it as a calming agent as he gets through the infamous dealings of AUC-living.

“I listen to music from the Baroque Era a lot,” English said. “The sounds and themes of Baroque music really stick out to me ... Cheerful, dark, [then] cheerful again.

The darkness is what really gets me because of technical stuff that is taught in theory.”

Furthermore, while the notion that most of the AUC population bumps the sounds of hip hop and R&B on heavy rotation is definitely an assumption, there is a large sector of the community that avidly treasures these music forms. Ain Ealey, a senior english major from Denver, Colo., often enjoys old school hip hop and R&B mixed with more contemporary indulgences.

“The genres change. [I listen to] mostly R&B, real hip hop, and sometimes rap for those ‘turn up’ days,” Ealey said.

While basking in the glory of the countless “turn up” releases has its perks, Ealey lamented that it often becomes fatiguing when the ignorant lyrics and misogynistic content come into play.

“We are the same people to boo Kendrick Lamar before he got famous, but now everybody’s talking about ‘trick don’t kill my vibe,’” she said. “We associate ‘turning up’ with ‘just having fun’ with vulgar, disrespectful, woman and homosexual hating music. So if you want to go to an AUC function, it’s at the cost of being called a ‘bitch with a booty.’”

As indicated in the views and musical profiles of Davis, English, and Ealey, the musical diaspora within the AUC is more diverse than common perception may allow. With a population ranging from Brazil to South Africa, the AUC houses a highly discerning and intellectually aware bracket that is defined by more than just one form of secular music that is so easily and oftentimes involuntarily pinned upon the wider Black community. So, by all means, turn up, but with a cultured mind.

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L G B T A C C E P T A N C E I N B L A C K H O L LY W O O D MORIBA CUMMINGS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR MORIBACUMMINGS@YAHOO.COM

For years, the Black community has chosen to repeatedly turn the other cheek to the growing acceptance of LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) identifying individuals within communities of other racial linkages. However, with laws for marriage equality being passed in several states throughout the country, and with several high profile Black figures including President Barack Obama, rapper Jay Z, and Rev. Jesse Jackson publicly advocating for same love, this once guarded collective is beginning to tear down a wall of ignorance. As a result of this, several celebrities and celebrity associates have come out of the closet, proudly telling the world, “I’m gay, and proud!”

player, Earvin Johnson III, son of Magic and Cookie Johnson, has been the butt of much scrutiny for some time. Johnson, who goes by E.J., was spotted on the Sunset Strip in April walking hand-in-hand with his boyfriend. While many have naively criticized him for his flamboyant personality and exuberant fashion sense, E.J.’s parents could not have been happier.

“Cookie and I love E.J. and support him in every way,” Magic Johnson said of his son. “We’re very proud of him.”

20-year-old E.J. is currently a junior at New York University studying event management and design with a focus in fashion, journalism, and media.

RAVEN SYMONÉ

The Cosby Show and That So Raven star Raven Symoné gave a subtle hint that she was LGBT-identifying back in August after she tweeted, “I can finally get married! Yay government!

So proud of you” following the striking down of the Defense of Marriage Act by the Supreme Court. Coming weeks after she was spotted cuddling and kissing girlfriend and former America’s Next Top Model contestant AzMarie Livingston, the announcement took many by surprise. Days after her tweet caught the attention of the world, Raven did an interview with CNN, confirming that she was indeed an LGBT-identifying woman.

“I was excited to hear today that more states legalized gay marriage,” she said. “I, however, am not currently getting married but it is great to know I can now, should I wish to.”

The 90s childhood icon was recently seen in Atlanta, participating in the LudaDay weekend with Livingston. Atlanta Gay Pride was simultaneously going on during Symoné stay.

JASMINE JORDAN From one basketball luminary to another, Michael Jordan’s daughter, Jasmine, has recently come out of the closet after posting a series of photos of her with girlfriend Carmet TysonThomas.

Below one of the pictures she posted of her and TysonThomas to her Instagram account, Jasmine wrote the following caption:

“This Little Closet Is Holding Me Back.”

After noticing the intimate photos, one particular media site unnecessarily sensationalized Jasmine’s story, resulting in her expressing her disgust for the situation and also further confirming her security as an LGBT-identifying woman.

“Until Love, Trust, Honesty, Repost, Loyalty, Commitment, Genuine, Happiness and other characteristics or aspects I want in a relationship is defined by one gender than and only then will I discuss my sexual preference,” she posted on Instagram.

Jasmine Jordan is a 20-year-old junior at Syracuse University in New York.

E.J. JOHNSON

Being the openly gay son of a legendary basketball

JASON COLLINS

Coming out in style, NBA center Jason Collins covered

MELANIE FIONA VENTURES INTO ACTING IN ‘DA KINK IN MY HAIR’ MORIBA CUMMINGS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR MORIBACUMMINGS@YAHOO.COM

Since bursting onto the music scene as a solo force in 2007, Melanie Fiona has gradually become one of the most well known faces of modern R&B. With two well received albums under her belt, the Caribbean-Canadian belle took a brief hiatus, leaving fans wondering, “What’s next?” Keeping her supporters waiting no longer, the musician is adding “actress” to her résumé, as she is currently starring in the four-time NAACP Award-winning stage play ’da Kink in My Hair.

Produced by Canadian comedian and playwright Trey Anthony, ’da Kink in My Hair, set in a Caribbean hair salon in Toronto, Canada, represents a visual lamentation of love, survival, faith and self-fulfillment.

Expressed through the voices and stories of eight Black women, the play digs deep into the trenches of selfworth and public opinion.

Handpicked by Anthony to portray the role of Shannon, a character that both Anthony and Fiona collaboratively created, the singer took this opportunity to address the many misconceptions and obstacles that she was forced to face as a woman of color in an infamously superficial industry.

“I spoke about being Canadian, being Caribbean, and being mixed, coming to America, and feeling the pressure of checking whatever box you are,” Fiona told The Maroon Tiger. “We spoke a lot about relationships and misconceptions and judgments based off of physical appearance, and the things that I’ve gone through as a woman and as an artist. That’s the role of Shannon.”

Tackling the prejudices of being considered “not Black enough” or “not White enough” by the general public based on her multi-cultural background, Shannon, like Fiona, shines light on the struggles of being a multiracial female in today’s label-hungry society.

While Fiona is undoubtedly one of the standout performances of the production, the rest of the cast consists of R&B Divas: Atlanta star Angie Stone and actress Terry J. Vaughn.

“Angie’s like a big sister [and] mother figure,” she said. “She has so much experience. She’s like ‘I’m [going to] say it like it is. She’s nurturing to everybody, and Terry J. Vaughn is so funny. Her face just looks happy all the time!”

While the “4 AM” crooner can now join the ranks of other successful singers-turned-actresses, she adamantly confirms that music will forever be her first love.

“I would never consider myself an actress first because it’s a sensitive issue,” she said. “There are people who dedicate their whole lives to being actresses or actors, so I’m very new to this.”

Though she expressed that she has not been offered a role that has spoken to her on a level of ultimate commitment, the two-time Grammy Award-winning singer is open to performing on Broadway as it blends her God-given gift with her newly fostered venture, giving her a chance to shine by showcasing her incredible chops while becoming familiar with the ins and outs of acting.

Aside from taking the stage by storm, Melanie is on track to returning to the music scene. Just recently, she released the emotionally charged “Cold Piece,” which sees her lament the pain experienced through a tough breakup. After an overwhelmingly positive response from listeners, the vocalist was inspired to delve into a new musical project, spearheaded by the song.

“‘Cold Piece’ is now going to be a part of something I’m calling Free Love,” she said. “I don’t really know what it’s going to encompass yet because it’s free. Who doesn’t love ‘free?’”

With a budding acting career, new music on the horizon, and headlining a marathon sponsored by Nike, Melanie Fiona is far from complacent. ’da Kink in My Hair was brought to Atlanta’s Cobb Energy Performance Arts Centre on the weekend of Sept. 6 to rave reviews.

the May issue of Sports Illustrated being dubbed “The Gay Athlete” by the illustrious sports publication. Inside the issue, Collins penned an emotional open letter where he officially announced himself as “...the first openly gay athlete.”

“I’m a 34-year-old NBA center. I’m black. And I’m gay,” the article opened.

Following his courageous stand, the athlete has received immense amounts of support from his basketball contemporaries and fans alike.

“Proud of @jasoncollins34. Don’t suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others #courage #support #mambaarmystandup #BYOU,” tweeted NBA champion Kobe Bryant.

DON LEMON

Acknowledging the fact that coming out, especially in the Black community, is not an easy task, a now 47-year-old Don Lemon came out to the world in 2011. The weekend primetime CNN anchor highlighted in an interview with the New York Times that, while other famous television personalities and news anchors have come out in the past, it is a much different experience for Black men.

“It’s quite different for an African-American male,” he said. “It’s about the worst thing you can be in Black culture.

You’re taught you have to be a man; you have to be masculine.

In the Black community they think you can pray the gay away.”

Coming out in his memoir titled Transparent, Lemon was aware of the repercussions of his announcement but stood firm by his decision.

“I’m scared,” he told the New York Times of his revelation. “I’m talking about something that people might shun me for ... ostracize me for.”

The notoriously outspoken CNN anchor ended his interview stating that he would have possibly come out sooner if he had more gay mentors in his life:

“I think if I had seen more people like me who are out and proud, it wouldn’t have taken me 45 years to say it.”

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SPORTS

WEEK OF 9/11 - 9/18

Ryan Rhodes SPORTS EDITOR mr-rhodes@hotmail.com

There are a lot of prominent sports teams at Morehouse College. The track team won their eighth straight SIAC championship this past season, and the basketball team was a game away from reaching the Division II NCAA men’s basketball championship. But there is one team at Morehouse with a storied past that was recently revived that doesn’t get the attention it deserves, and that is the Tiger Sharks, Morehouse’s swimming team.

After a 32-year hiatus, the Morehouse College swim team was revived back in 2011 due to the efforts of several students at the college. The swim team was chartered as a club sport in May 2012, and now the club is looking to get the team back to the way things once were.

The former Tiger Sharks were widely considered a dynasty by many media outlets, such as Sports Illustrated and Black Sports magazine. Over 18 years, the Tiger Sharks were able to win 255 matches with only 25 losses, and accumulate over 15 SIAC Championships.

Although the team experienced an abundance of success during this period, they were forced to disband in 1976 due to a lack of funding.

The current team is trying to get back to the powerhouse that they once were and are looking for new members every day, whether they are experienced or not. Sophomore Jared Ross, who is a member of the Tiger Sharks, considers their team very helpful with aspiring members. Ross said that, “There’s always a meeting before our first practice, and the team allows free swim for about a week so the new members can get back in shape.”

Despite that, there is no way to really be prepared for the team’s training regimen. According to Ross, the team’s workout varies from day to day but it is always intense, and challenging.

“Some days we have dry practice, which is strictly an hour and a half of outdoor exercise which includes running, push-ups and many other drills,” he said. “When we get in the water, we try to get at least 4,000 meters in.”

The Tiger Sharks definitely have high hopes for the future, and although the funding for their team is limiting some of the things they are trying to accomplish, they are doing a good job of raising money in different ways. The team has raised over $3,000 in the past few years to help them compete, and they plan on raising another $3,000 by reaching out to the student body and the advertising community for support.

Last semester, the team hosted a pool party in Archer Hall and charged admission.

The event was very successful and it raised a lot of money. The team’s goal is to become an official team through the NCAA in the next three to five years. This would make Morehouse the third HBCU to have an accredited NCAA swimming team. Hopefully, the team can make this happen soon so Men of Morehouse can see their Tiger Sharks back in action!

Anthony Davis SPORTS STAFF WRITER the.ajsystem.1524@gmail.com

This past week may have solidified a legit battle for the state of New York between the Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks. The Nets, now in their second year in Brooklyn, feel as though they have made the necessary moves this offseason to compete with the Knicks to take over New York.

Former Boston Celtics star Paul Pierce, who will be in his first year with the Nets this season, stated in a radio interview earlier this month that he “think[s] it’s time for the Nets to start running this city.” It came as no surprise that J.R. Smith was one of the Knicks who decided to respond to these comments.

Smith was quoted this past weekend as calling Pierce “bitter” as well as questioning his knowledge about the pressure of playing in New York: “I just look at him as a bitter person just getting out of Boston. He doesn’t really know what New York is all about. He’s been playing in Boston his whole career…”

Smith has been notorious for outlandish comments in the media and on Twitter, and his playing style has always been questioned by NBA analysts. However, his comments are completely appropriate here because he is defending his team and their accomplishments, finishing second in the East last season. The Knicks are ready to make another run toward the Eastern Conference regular season title again this year, so it’s expected that Knicks’ players would be offended by Pierce’s comments.

However, the Nets have assembled a team that could dethrone the Knicks as the kings of New York. The Nets’ starting five this year all have been selected to at least one All-Star Game and they have a combination of 35 All-Star appearances among the five of them. While they do have a number of aging stars – Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Jason Terry – they have a young core of stars that are now ready to make a push for an NBA championship. Combine them with first-year coach Jason Kidd, an 18-year NBA veteran who just wrapped up his great career last season.

Their team is full of knowledge, and as a collective unit they are completely capable of making a run toward an NBA championship if they can create on-court chemistry.

Regardless of the moves the Nets have made this offseason, in regards to this New York rivalry, Pierce’s comments were completely out of line and disrespectful to the Knicks and their accomplishments last year. Yes, it is good to be confident in your team’s abilities, but as a newcomer to a team and city, he has yet to really experience the atmosphere and pressure of playing in a major market city like New York, so he has no idea what comes with that. The Knicks will run New York until the Nets dethrone them, no conversation necessary.