March 13, 2019
Est. 1948
Volume 71 | Issue 2
the pace press
thepacepress.org
AWARD WINNER FOR BEST IN SHOW 2019 @thepacepress
NEWS
ARTS
FEATURES
NASA announces all-woman space walk pg. 2
Problematic TV shows for female characters pg. 7
Faculty speaks on Women’s History Month pg. 10
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NEWS
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March 13, 2019
NASA announces all-woman led spacewalk ALEXANDRA PUGA News Intern On March 29, the International Space Station will see its first all-female spacewalk originally scheduled to take place in the fall… in addition to the two female spacewalkers, on Expedition 59. The spacewalk will last approximately seven hours. the Lead Flight Director is Mary Lawrence, and Jackie Kagey (also a woman), is the lead Anne McClain and Christina Koch, both of the 2013 astronaut graduating class, will EVA (spacewalk) flight controller.” be making NASA history by ascending into space. They will be reinforced by Canadian “I am happy and excited about this upcoming mission!” said University student Space Agency flight controller Kristen Facciol and controller Mary Lawrence from Julia Rourke. “The only thing to taint the excitement is the disappointment that this NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston. important milestone has taken this long to reach. I’m glad that young girls are being The news broke on March encouraged to enter STEM careers, 1 when Facciol tweeted, “I just but I’m disappointed in the slow found out that I’ll be on console course this progress has taken.” providing support for the FIRST Rourke continued, “I’m ALL FEMALE SPACEWALK hoping that the success of this crew with @AstroAnnimal and @Astro_ will set a precedent for all young Christina and I cannot contain my girls who dream of achieving excitement!!!! #WomenInSTEM something similar one day.” # Wo m e n I n E n g i n e e r i n g The first-ever spacewalk was #WomenInSpace.” The expedition conducted in March 1965, while was later confirmed by NASA. July 25, 1984, was the first time a This will be McClain’s first woman took part in a spacewalk. time in space, and Koch’s first During the 1984 spacewalk, spaceflight. It is unclear what the Russian astronaut Svetlana task is officially for, but the reasons Savitskaya performed experiments behind the sudden expedition could outside the Salyut 7 space station. range experiments in space or In 1978, NASA selected the testing new equipment to repairing first six women to be a part of the satellites and spacecraft. program, making up nearly 10 A spokeswoman for NASA, percent of the active astronauts. Stephania Schierholz told CNN, According to Gizmodo “Of the “It is the second in a series of three roughly 500 people who have been planned spacewalks.” to space, less than 11 percent have She then added to the fact that been women.” the expedition was announced on You are able to watch this the first day of Women’s History historic moment broadcasted on Astronauts Nicole Aunapu Mann, Anne McClain, Jessica Meir, and Christina Koch March 29 on NASA TV at nasa. Month. “It was not orchestrated to be this way; these spacewalks were Twitter/@NASA gov.
Nike’s women in sports ad ALEXANDRA PUGA News Intern For Women’s History Month, Nike partnered with Serena Williams and other female athletes to produce an ad campaign that highlighted achievements by women in sports. The ad aired during the 90th Academy Awards on Feb. 25. The “Dream Crazier” ad features monumental women such as Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, Olympic runner Caster Semenya, Olympic fencer Ibithaj Muhammad, the US Women’s National Soccer Team, former WNBA player Lisa Leslie, snowboarder Chloe Kim, and San Antonio Spurs assistant coach Becky Hammon. “If we show emotions, we’re called dramatic. If we want to play against men, we’re nuts. If we dream of equal opportunity, delusional…,” said Williams in a voice-over at the beginning of the ad. She has previously spoken out against sexism but has done so more openly in recent months after being penalized for getting into a
If we show emotions, we’re called dramatic. If we want to play against men, we’re nuts. If we dream of equal opportunity, delusional… -Serena Williams
confrontation with a referee, despite male players having done the same without punishment. University sophomore Julia Rourke shared, “It is my hope that, eventually, women will be able to be purely proud of the skills and assets they have to offer as individuals, without worrying about the potential negative reactions others will have to their talents.” Rourke continued, “I don’t know if we are there yet, but I think that simply by talking more about how women are reluctant to share and refine their skills because of the stigma they face for doing so is a productive way to try and combat this problem, and make women prouder of themselves overall.” Nike has been known for Nike“Dream Crazier” ad Nike Youtube Channel its social and political statements in the past. This ad follows the settings, is the first step, but we still have a long way to “Dream Crazy” campaign that featured Colin Kaepernick go.” and made headlines, helping Nike stock soar in 2018. For The video, garnering over eight million views on many, however, a simple commercial or ad campaign is Youtube, ends with Williams’ inspirational message, “So not enough to change the issue of sexism in workplace if they want to call you crazy? Fine. Show them what culture or the sports/entertainment industry. crazy can do. “ University sophomore Jessica Holt said, “Nike’s ad, At a time where women’s actions seem to be hyperthough an accurate depiction of the way female athletes analyzed by the media, it is refreshing for some to see are viewed in the public eye, has not made any real change powerful and successful women overcoming adversities. to this issue. However, I do believe that this is something However, for those who remain doubtful that large-name that can facilitate the long journey for change. Opening corporations could inspire real change, it might take some people’s minds to the belittlement that women experience more persuasion to shift the aversion to companies taking not only in sports, but in all professional and social political stances through their products or campaigns.
NEWS
March 13, 2019
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University petitions to get name on subway stations SAM UNGER News Editor
For the second time in six years, the University is asking the MTA to include its name to the Fulton Street (2/3/4/5/A/C/J/Z) or Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall (4/5/6/J/Z) stations. As of right now, six New York City schools have their name added to subway stops, including Columbia University, NYU, CCNY, and Hunter College, Lehman College, and Brooklyn College. According to the University’s website, “Pace plans to ask the MTA to revisit their ‘Legacy Policy’ and ask for the school’s name to be included on signage and in announcements…” The request inspired a petition that currently has over 2,600 signatures of the 5,000 goal. The hashtag, #NextStopPace, was shared on Twitter and Instagram, as well as posted on flyers around campus. Although the signatures have been growing, there are still some students that are unaware of the University’s plan. “I didn’t even know Pace was trying to do this,” said University junior Mikayla Drab. “It would make more sense to put our name on Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall, as
the entrance to the station right next to One Pace Plaza.” University junior Natalie Bevilacqua shared, “I don’t really care about getting our name included on the subway stops. I’d rather have nice bathrooms.” Vanessa Herman, the University’s assistant vice president of government and community relations, told the New York Post, “Pace has grown. We were established in 1906 and we are a longtime, upstanding member of the community.” On campus, the possibility of adding the University’s name “Pace University has been a member of the downtown community for over 100 years, and remains one of the few constants since. Our students, faculty, staff, administrators, and alumni have earned the recognition of our presence, and the work we’ve contributed as partners in this community,” said Joseph Colella, president of the Student Government Association, in the petition’s comment section. According to the New York Post, “an MTA spokesman said the agency would be ‘happy to review’ the proposal.”
Fulton Street Station entrance outside Pace Performing Arts Building.
Tsun-Chueh Huang
Students win national award for journalism KATRINA ALONSO Editor-In-Chief
On March 2, the staff of The Pace Press won fifth place in the Best in Show category at the Midwinter National College Journalism Convention. The conference was hosted by the Associated Collegiate Press and the College Media Business and Advertising Managers from Feb. 28 to March 2 in La Jolla, Calif. The Pace Press competed with the Black History Month
issue against Northeastern Illinois University, Fordham University, and California State University in the less-than-weekly category. The awards ceremony was one of the many that take place at the annual convention. Each day was scheduled to the brim with panels, networking opportunities, and workshops that catered to the many different aspects of participating in a student media
L to R: Sam Unger, Kelsey Nicholson, Katrina Alonso, Dylan Share, Mae Martinez, Brooke Sufrin
Nicolette Carbonetto
organization. Panels were categorized into five sections: career development, business leadership, writing/ reporting, and new student media. They were often led by former journalists, current advisers to student publications, and, in some cases, student journalists themselves. “This conference is a great place where student journalists can obtain theoretical as well as hands-on skills, and socialize and learn from each other,” said The Pace Press adviser Dr. SeongJae Min. “Our staff came back with a renewed commitment to The Pace Press, after discussing the most challenging issues in journalism today, including law, ethics, and digitalization.” The convention offered students a chance to network with editors from the San Diego Union-Tribune, the Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post, and more. Sponsored by companies like TownNews, Issuu, SNOsites, and Stats Digital, the convention offered guests swag bags filled with products like webcam covers and pens. There were also sponsored breakfasts and
poolside receptions that allowed guests to network. Also in attendance were Pace University’s chapter of HerCampus, led by co-presidents Nicolette Carbonetto and Carla Peragallo. “ACP was a wonderful opportunity for an unconventional publication to learn amazing things about recruiting, doing pitch meetings, dealing with
The Award
different personality types, social media and building yourself up!” said Carbonetto. Though the convention trained these students specifically about how to be responsible journalists, the knowledge that they gained about leadership, networking, and creating content in the modern era may prove to be valuable to their careers.
Kelsey Nicholson
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NEWS
March 13, 2019
Trump and Kim meet again in Hanoi JULES LUBRANO Contibutor Amid a backdrop of North Korean lot closer than it was a year ago and I think despite an agreement, still faces new Trump won’t have anything to do with and American flags, President Donald eventually we’ll get there,” Trump said. economic sanctions. Seeing that, they are North Korea for a while. That’s why Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong The North Korean leader is reluctant so reluctant in abandoning their nuclear South Korea, Japan, and China will have Un shook hands at their summit in Hanoi, in abandoning its nuclear program as program” said Professor Amy Freedman, to pick up more the lead in pushing for Vietnam. They last met on June 12, 2018, he spent billions of dollars to develop it Chair of the Political Science Department negotiations in order to reach North after months of surmounting tension that and it may serve as a guarantee against a at the University. Korean denuclearization,” continued escalated on social media. According to Trump, Kim had offered Freedman. potential conflict. “Sometimes you have to walk,” Diplomats from both countries “North Korean look at history, they to begin dismantling the Yongbyon nuclear said Trump after the meeting concluded look at Kadhafi in Lybia, thay look at Iran facility, a step that would have amounted are still negotiating in the shadow earlier than planned. It was evident from and all countries who have negotiated to a major concession. However, Trump making the process to find an agreement early on in the summit that the chances with the Americans and which have repeatedly said it wasn’t enough, alluding moving forward. As testimony of this of reaching an agreement were low, as stopped their nuclear program. And they to additional sites that comprise what is a new relationship, South Korea and U.S expectations were high on both sides; see what happened to those regimes; deeply secretive nuclear program. have already announced that they have Mr. Kim wanted the dismantlement of all Kadhafi was killed in Lybia, and Iran, “As the 2020 elections are coming, suspended military training. economics sanctions and the “Traditionally their Trump Administration sought economy has been 100% state the entire denuclearization of controlled. For a brief period in the North Korea. 1990, the government allowed The Hanoi meeting informally private markets aimed to outline a precise in very specific conditions. denuclearization process of However, the government North Korea and declare a feared that people had new course of action for both parties. intertest they could not control As for the summit’s so they devalued the currency content, two principles points and shut down the markets. were discussed. The first one However, for two years, thanks dealt with the pacification to government measures, of North Korean-American private markets are back. relations. They discussed the North Korea is now dealing prospect of opening a US office with its neighbors which has in Pyongyang and a North contributed in enriching the Korean office in the United country,” said Freedman. States. Moreover, the possibility Whether or not the summit of an official peace declaration will inspire concrete changes was also on the table. The soon is unclear as of now. That second point concerned North being said, it certainly is a step Korea denuclearization. Trump up from the threat of nuclear conceded that both leaders war increasing with each fiery remain at odds about the precise Twitter exchange between the definition of denuclearization. two leaders. “He has a certain vision and it’s not exactly our vision, but it’s a President Trump and Mr. Kim at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel in Hanoi. Shealah Craighead
President Krislov addresses the University ALEXANDRA PUGA News Intern President Marvin Krislov delivered his first State of the University address on Feb. 25 in the new Student Center, where he said, “the state of Pace University is strong and it is getting stronger.” Krislov acknowledged that, while he has met with students and faculty “formally and informally” over the course of three semesters, he hopes to improve communication within the University. He also discussed the renovations of One Pace Plaza and 41 Park Row, saying, “We have new state-of-the-art academic facilities, [and] beautiful student and family spaces, as well as tore down concrete walls and replaced them with glass. We opened up Pace to New York City…. There is much much more to come.” The renovations are just the beginning of what students can expect to see change around campus. He also mentioned how students from lower-income families have more opportunities to secure higher income earning careers, adding that the University is ranked the best private University in the nation for upward economic mobility. Krislov proposed a three-part plan. The plan includes stabilizing finances, prioritizing academic programs, and building a culture of student success. University sophomore Owen McGonigle said, “I feel that this threepart plan would be very important and influential at Pace. The financial stability of our university should always be a
priority, therefore the thought of it gaining more attention, and being put at the forefront of our issues seems vital to me.” McGonigle continued, “The prioritization of academic programs is also extremely important, as these programs are the ones that make Pace stand out, and draw students in to pursue their education here. Both of these directly lead into a culture of student success, which should be the main goal and priority of every higher education institution. Therefore, I thoroughly believe that this plan by Krislov is a wise choice in the right direction.” “The fact that only about 46 percent of students graduate in four years shows that the University doesn’t do enough to help its students meet their goals,” University sophomore Julia Rourke said. “It is indicative of the fact that the University’s academic advisement needs to be stronger, above anything else.” Though Krislov has expressed his ambitions to improve the educational environment for students soon, many are still anxious for change. Rourke continued, “Many students—myself included—have felt trapped and without resources because of poor academic advice. It feels as if there is nowhere else to turn if the professional who is meant to be mentoring and advising you either gives bad advice or is not accessible for advisement. It can be easy for students to not even realize when they don’t have enough credits to graduate and end up being ineligible to graduate without even knowing it. I definitely think this is something that
needs to change.” Krislov’s speech also included the new additions to each school within the University. Dyson College of Arts and Sciences has experienced rapid growth within the creative arts program, as well as new performance spaces that will be added on Greenwich Street. Dyson has also added an online master’s program, aimed at K-12 teachers, in American History. The College of Health Professions is adding Nutrition and Diabetics and a Master’s program in Public Health. Seidenberg School of CSIS has experienced exponential growth within the last five years. The Lubin School of Business, the oldest school within the University, has plans to revise its MBA program to be faster and more flexible as the market place demands. Lubin will also be including a masters in Arts and Entertainment management due to the major’s growing popularity. The School of Education outlined plans to train teachers in other countries and add education as a minor to be more accessible for other majors, while Pace Law is becoming more accessible for part-time students. The address acknowledged the fact that the world is changing, and the University should prepare for a flexible, integrated world. He ended by emphasizing, “We are at our best when we are one Pace and we will succeed when we are one strong Pace,” and that we as a community must work together to move the University forward. A recording of the address can be accessed at www. pace.edu/SOTU.
ACTIVITIES
March 13, 2019 BROOKE SALAMONE Features Intern
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March Horoscopes
ARIES: March is going to be a time of rest for you, Aries, since Mercury is in retrograde and a new moon is in Pisces. April is looking to be far more active, so take this time to replenish yourself and develop career goals!
TAURUS: Uranus enters your sign until April 2026, so it’s time to make that big change you’ve been thinking about. Look inward to make this decision! Many different aspects of your life will be fighting for attention this month, so you may have to make some compromises.
WHM Crossword ACROSS 2. Coined by Kimberly Crenshaw, this word explores the intersection of racism, sexism, homophobia, etc within identity and systematic forms of opression. 5. The month in which we celebrate Women’s History. 6. The advocacy of equal rights and agency for all genders. 7. In 1920, women were granted the right to do this. 8. The number of the amendment that gave women the right to vote. 9. This woman was an American abolitionist, women’s right activist, and former slave. She is well known for her speech “Ain’t I a Woman.” 10. The representation of people from different varieties of experience. This word essencially means difference, but it is within this difference that we create inclusivity. 12. In 1997, this woman came out on her ABC sitcom, the first lead character to do so on television. 13. This woman was a pioneer of the Women’s Suffrage movement. She aided in paving the way for women’s voting rights.
14. The human right that ensures justice for all people. DOWN 1. The determination to reach a goal despite difficulty in achieving success. A noun. Practiced by many strong women throughout history. 3. The face of a campaign aimed at recruiting female workers during World War II. A true female image of strength, hard work, and determination that is still seen today. 4. Who you are, the way you present yourself, and the result of characteristics and experiences that have defined you. 5. A movement founded in 2006 used to give a platform for survivors of sexual violence. The movement has built a community for women to have a voice, and start conversation and sexual assault. 11. Following civil rights activist Claudette Colvin, this woman refused to give up her bus seat to a white man. She also was deeply active in the NAACP, and sparked a one-day boycott after getting detained for refusing her seat.
GEMINI: Set your sights on your career, Gemini! Acquire new goals and consciously uproot your fears of failure; you have the skills, you just need to use them! Beware of advice from third parties this month, as they may not have your best interests at heart. CANCER: This is a time of upheaval when it comes to your social circle; your horizons will be widening! Avoid comparing yourself to others and trying to compete with them; focus on yourself and clarify what you want. Be fearless! LEO: Some big changes are coming, Leo. You may feel vulnerable this month; avoid clinging to anything/anyone and flow with the changes. Have faith that things will work out, and do your part by reevaluating your personal commitments. VIRGO: You’re feeling liberated from a certain situation; use this new freedom to explore unfamiliar ideas and situations! Take care that you don’t lose sight of a long-term vision, as forgetfulness will follow you this month. LIBRA: There may be sudden developments when it comes to your friends this month, Libra. Reevaluate your lifestyle and remember what truly matters. You’ll reach a turning point in a rocky situation; restart your mental system and take a deep breath! SCORPIO: It’s a month of romance for you! Look for second chances when it comes to love. Move beyond fantasies and a need for validation; what you really need is closer to home and more personal that you think. SAGITTARIUS: Life is pushing you to your limit right now. Let go of what isn’t working for you and heal. Look for what brings you security and stability and chase it. Be inventive and positive and you’ll make it through. CAPRICORN: New information you’ve learned is going to make you question your beliefs; don’t doubt yourself, even when this new knowledge brings you out of your comfort zone. Go willingly! Focus on emotional stability, and be careful of oversharing. AQUARIUS: Family and your home life will be the most important thing this month, Aquarius! Take care of building relationships with those you go home to, and solve any disputes as diplomatically as possible. Be patient with people, even if it exhausts you. PISCES: This month, set your mind on goals! Be sure to experiment with new ideas, as this will be a strong time for innovation. However, be sure to test things before going all in on them because Mercury is in retrograde, which can create obstacles.
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March 13, 2019
THE PACE PRESS
OPINION AND EDITORIALS
EDITORIAL BOARD Katrina Alonso Editor-in-Chief Kelsey Nicholson Executive Editor Sam Unger News Editor Brooke Sufrin Arts Editor Mae Martinez Features Editor Dylan Share Graphic Design Duke Huang Photo Editor Brianna Adkins Social Media Jake Cameron Business Manager Dr. Seong-Jae Min Faculty Consultant
AWARD WINNER FOR BEST IN SHOW 2019
The Pace Press is the student newspaper of Pace University’s New York City Campus. It is managed and operated entirely by members of the student body as it appears above. The Pace Press welcomes guest editorials and letters from students, faculty, administration and staff.
Dear Pace Community, Thank you, as always, for picking up our latest issue. March is Women’s History Month, and as a staff made up primarily of women, we felt it was important to emphasize these stories this month. The Pace Press staff recently returned from a trip to La Jolla, Calif., where we won fifth Best in Show at the Associated Collegiate Press’s Midwinter National College Journalism Convention (covered on page 3), and during the convention, we learned so much about running a student media organization and practicing ethical journalism. This issue, we’re excited to bring you a more interactive newspaper filled with the stories you want to read. On page 5, you will find an activities page that aligns with this month’s theme and features a crossword puzzle, sudoku, and horoscopes. If you have suggestions about how to make the print issues of The Pace Press more interactive, please feel free to email them to us! As always, we are committed to bringing you the diverse stories that Pace University has to offer, and are always receptive to tips, which can be sent to me at editor@thepacepress.org. Happy Women’s History Month, Pace U! All the best, Katrina Alonso Editor-in-Chief
The Pace Press reserves the right to not publish any submitted material, both solicited and unsolicited. All submissions must include the author’s full name and contact information. The Pace Press 41 Park Row, Rm. 906 New York, NY 10038 www.thepacepress.org editor@thepacepress.org Copyright 2019
Crossword Puzzle Answer Key Down: 1. Perserverance 3. Rosie the Riveter 4. Identity 5. #Metoo 11. Rosa Parks Across: 2. Intersectionality 5. March 6. Feminism 7. Vote 8. Nineteen 9. Sojourner Truth 10. Diversity 12. Ellen 13. Susan B. Anthony 14. Equality DISCLAIMER: These opinions are expressed by contributors (students, faculty, administration and staff) to The Pace Press. These opinions are solely those of the individual writers and do not reflect the opinions of The Pace Press, the members of The Pace Press staff or Pace University. The Pace Press is not responsible and expressly disclaims all liability for damages of any kind of arising out of use or relevance to any information contained in this section.
ARTS
March 13, 2019
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Problematic TV shows for female characters GRACE VESPA Arts Intern In television, complex female characters and their issues are on the rise, but there are still many shows that fail to represent women’s struggles accurately. In an article from Medium, Rachael Wayne stated that one problem with strong female characters is that “they often have masculine traits.” While female characters with male characteristics are not inherently bad, Wayne believes that the strength of those female characters is associated with physical strength rather than the values they believe in. In “Buffy and the Vampire Slayer,” created by Joss Whedon, Buffy is loyal to her friends and family, strong-willed, and physically strong, as well as arrogant and headstrong. However, she suffers from three problematic relationships, including one toxic and codependent relationship with ex-boyfriend Riley. Buffy’s lack of stable romantic interests highlights one downfall of the strong female character trope, where lead female characters often do not participate in “feminine” traits or have steady romantic prospects in favor of physical strength. One major pitfall of female characters on television is the prevalence of sexual violence that they experience. According to The Guardian, in shows like “Game of Thrones,” female suffering is criticized because it is “positioned as entertainment” rather than an examination of female oppression. These kinds of television shows have a consistent problem of balancing the line between “torture porn” and examining realistic misogynistic practices. The popular Hulu drama “The Handmaid’s Tale,” although praised for its ability to highlight misogyny, is not immune to the criticism of their second season that the amplified violence against women is used for shock value. The Guardian suggests that the bleak outlook for females in Gilead is meant to “achieve a kind of catharsis that will spur us onwards to greater action,” but the continuous graphic violence against women turns viewers off of the show. In an article for The Atlantic, Sophie Gilbert
Sex Education
states that the allegations of “abusive men in the entertainment industry… have felt wearying in their range and detail,” so much so that Gilbert would rather have a women-centric show that underscores “some sense that the women have the capacity to enact change.” The second season of “The Handmaid’s Tale” makes women viewers wonder if this feminist show is beginning to follow the troublesome troupe of using sexual violence to target strong female characters. On the one hand, the violence that the Handmaid’s experience is inherently sexual due to the childbearing position they hold in Gilead’s society. However, in an article for The Cut, Lisa Miller states that television shows like “The Handmaid’s Tale” follow the stereotype where “the bravery of the heroine is intensified by her victimhood.” In this case, the Handmaids are ‘brave’ because they keep going despite the graphic sexual, physical, and emotional abuse the women experience in every episode. Contrary to the high-drama shows like “Game of Thrones” or “The Handmaid’s Tale,” the Syfy fantasy drama, “The Magicians,” tackles sexual assault, trauma, and mental health among females with depth. The main thesis of “The Magicians” is that magic “doesn’t come from talent. It comes from pain,” said in the very beginning of season one. While every character on the television series uses magic in order to escape from their past trauma, the overall tone of the show is hopeful. The central premise of “The Magicians” is never more clear when it discusses the rape that protagonist Julia Wicker experiences. The assault by a trickster god is never used as a plot device or a motivating factor for the male main character, Quentin Coldwater. In fact, Wicker’s growth across four seasons, from soulless villain to goddess using her newfound powers to heal others, projects back to the assault she experienced. Wicker’s essential personality and characteristics are not altered due to the assault, but neither is the rape trivialized and ignored by her or the other characters. In the current season, Wicker is able to explore her sexuality and the prospect of romantic love, leading her
Netflix
to live a full life that is not defined by the assault. Unlike the majority of television shows and movies, Wicker chooses to help others rather than enact revenge, and in a closing declaration, she states, “I’m not a flower or a delicate piece of glass. I’m a person. And people heal.” Similarly, Netflix’s high school dramedy “Sex Education” has taken the leap to write about sex, consent, romantic love, and platonic relationships among adolescents with refreshing honesty. High school student Otis Milburn is an awkward teenager who starts running a sex counseling service for students to discuss their fears and anxieties, with consent being a major theme in the clinic. Although Otis is the protagonist, Maeve Wiley and the other female characters are the real stars of the show. When Wiley is asked by her crush what she’s ‘into,’ Wiley answers with a smile, “Complex female characters.” This statement is the focal point of the show, as each individual female character is never bogged down by stereotypes. Even Ruby, the resident ‘mean girl,’ gets her own arc when an exposing photo of her is anonymously sent out to the entire school. When Ruby faces the threat of reveal, the girls band together and do not victim-blame or slut-shame her for taking and sending the photos. Television programs like “Degrassi” and “Skins” regularly depict the issues of high school females with some accuracy, but the majority of television shows do not successfully depict the real experience of living with an eating disorder. In “Full House,” an episode titled “Shape Up” dealt with the pitfalls of crash dieting. DJ Tanner overworks her body with intense exercise, which causes her to feel sick. She later comes to the conclusion that she doesn’t need peer-pressure dieting to feel beautiful. Although this brief view of eating disorders was commendable in the early ‘90s, DJ’s one-episode problem oversimplifies the serious problem of eating disorders in young females. Modern-day shows like “Degrassi” or “Skins” often depicted the realistic and long-lasting psychological effects of eating disorders through main characters Emma and Cassie, respectively. “Thirteen Reasons Why,” a Netflix drama series based on the book by Jay
Asher, has tackled sexual assault and mental health issues in adolescents. However, the critically acclaimed show has been slammed for using sexual violence for shock value. In season one, Jessica Davis and Hannah Baker are two main characters that experience rape and sexual assault. Then again, in season two, Tyler Down is sexually assaulted by Monty de la Cruz, who abuses Tyler as an outlet for his anger. All three assaults are shown graphically on screen, and some critics suggest that those scenes were too violent and not necessary, regardless of the fact that they highlighted male sexual assault. In an article for Vox, Constance Grady has stated that the scene of Hannah Baker killing herself borders on voyeurism, but that the point of those scenes is to demonstrate that “this is happening to a human body, and it is unpleasant, and it hurts.” This perspective makes the scene uncomfortable to watch in order to highlight the seriousness of suicide and sexual assault, but in doing so, they are complicit in the harmful tropes against female characters. In terms of accurate character portrayal from novels to screen, television shows and movies change the personality of their female characters, to the detriment of fans. According to University freshman Nora Shala, the Ginny Weasley of the “Harry Potter” books did not compare to the flat version of her character in the movies. Shala stated that, in the books, “she was so badass and was constantly sharing her opinions… but in the movies, she was so quiet and didn’t talk to anyone.” Ginny Weasley’s character is in direct contrast to Hermione Granger’s character, whom the screenwriters gave more problem-solving and witty lines that were originally Ron Weasley’s in the books. Ultimately, television shows like “The Handmaid’s Tale” have good intentions, but their intention can fall flat when graphic scenes that are meant to shine a light on misogyny goes too far. Luckily, there has been an increase in television shows like “The Magicians” and “Sex Education” that do not follow those tropes.
The Handmaid’s Tale
Netflix
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Greta Van Fleet: Channeling Zeppelin in 2019 BART CARMODY Staff Writer Since its debut duel EPs in 2016 and 2017, Michigan rock band Greta Van Fleet has made a notable impact on the modern rock genre, both in terms of quality and popularity. The band more recently received four nominations at the 2019 Grammy Awards; their debut album “From the Fires” snagged the award for Rock Album of the year. Their seamless blend of hard rock and blues rock is specifically popular amongst fans of classic rock bands such as Led Zeppelin, Rush, and Aerosmith. This particular audience is full of advocates looking to “bring classic rock back”— which Greta Van Fleet is successfully doing. Their more upbeat tracks burst with the same energy as some of the biggest rock anthems that were hits in the 1960s and 1970s. Their sultrier, mellow, and melodic songs are reminiscent of classic rock conceptual ballads that grew popular with Queen’s release of “A Night at the Opera.” Greta Van Fleet allows listeners to return to a time when their favorite music was more abundant in the mainstream, and before their favorite bands were past their prime. Even younger listeners are common among Greta Van Fleet’s fanbase, as their “vintage sound” is distinctively separate amongst modern-day teenagers and young adults. However, their music raises the question of at which point a band is ripping off influencers rather than borrowing inspiration from them. Greta Van Fleet is often compared to the English rock band Led Zeppelin—a band that was successful in the 1970s. The band dominated both radio and fanbases with a combination of hard rock, blues rock, folk rock, and full-on heavy metal. Sonically and aesthetically, it seems that the two bands do mirror each other in many ways. Josh Kiszka, Greta Van Fleet’s lead vocalist and guitarist, seems to have perfected the vocal range of Zeppelin’s Robert Plant. The up and coming rock band also borrows a similar instrumental style, with guitar riffs and drum patterns sounding very similar to a Led Zeppelin B-Side. Whether a fan or not, the comparison between the two bands is indisputable. Many music-lovers are opposed to the band’s sharp spike in popularity because they believe they sound far too much like Led Zeppelin. In a scathing review on Pitchfork, Jeremy Larson called Greta Van Fleet “more of an algorithmic fever dream
than an actual rock band,” and said that they “make music that sounds exactly like Led Zeppelin and demand very little.” Underlying lyrical and compositional aspects from another band or artist’s works can blend well with originality, but artists wearing their inspirations on their sleeves can sometimes get in the way of their own unique concepts. Their similar sounds do not exactly prove that Greta Van Fleet is a blatant knock-off. In fact, it puts a unique group of musicians into an interesting situation of “rock revival,” bringing back the dominance of classic rock. For the most part, Greta Van Fleet’s mission has been successful thus far, and they have received mostly positive feedback in their endeavors. A poll conducted on Instagram by The Pace Press showed that the majority of people were in favor of the band’s victories at the Grammy Awards. That being said, it is impossible to know how long the band’s current artistic direction can last if they continue to, without so much as a “spin” or “twist,” ride the coattails of past hard-rock legends. Greta Van Fleet and the influence of Led Zeppelin on their music is a double-edged sword. According to Rolling Stone, guitarist Jake Kiszka stated that rock is “a minority…[and] an endangered species,” which may be why fans of the band yearn to return to a decade when their sound was more prevalent on the radio and in the mainstream media. In an article for Thrillist, Dan Jackson used this as his reason for his dislike for the band, claiming “the music of Greta Van Fleet sounds not just inessential but lazy,” as they adopt another band’s sound. Greta Van Fleet’s career is only getting started. They show great potential to further expand the rock genre that is lacking substance and diversity in today’s music industry, but there is a fine line between well-implemented inspiration and mirroring their influencer. It is hard to mistake an Ariana Grande song for a Whitney Houston song, just as it is hard to mistake a Kendrick Lamar song for a Lil Wayne song. The influential impact is there within the artist’s work, but only up to a certain point. Greta Van Fleet has captured lightning in a bottle over these past couple years, but to really cement their name into the genre of classic rock, they should abandon emulating the sound of Led Zeppelin. Instead, in the coming years of their career, they should attempt to find a more unique artistic direction to move towards.
Greta Van Fleet onstage at the Red River Valley Fair, North Dakota in 2017.
Troy Larson
March 13, 2019
University’s Oscars response and recap GRACE POTTER Staff Writer
This year’s Academy Awards ceremony was full of surprises, emotions, and laughs. With so many new films and stars, no one knew what to expect. People had their ballots filled out and ready to go in hopes that their favorites would win. Several aspects of the Oscars were confusing, even shocking, to the world. Normally, there are one or two hosts for a major awards show, but this year there was no host. Luckily, this didn’t prove to be an extreme detriment to the Oscars. The show began with a comedic introduction from Amy Poehler, Tina Fey, and Maya Rudolph. Later on, presenters Awkwafina and John Mulaney also brought laughter to the crowd. These sprinkles of light-hearted comedy and commentary throughout the show seemed to fill the void of not having a host. Kaileigh Roby, University freshman, thought the Oscars “flowed much better than in the past” and that “the announcers were great, and [she’d] rather they stay with this model in the future.” After the opening performance by Queen and Adam Lambert, the first presenters were announced and jumped right into the awards. A few highlights included “Black Panther” for Best Production Design and Best Costume Design as well as “Roma” for Best Cinematography. “Bohemian Rhapsody” won three awards almost back-to-back for Best Film Editing, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Sound Editing. Additionally, lead actor Rami Malek won Best Actor for his portrayal of Queen frontman Freddie Mercury. In the category for Best Documentary Short Subject, the film “Period. End of Sentence” took the award. The win was a surprise to the cast as the film broke boundaries by desensitizing talk about menstruation and starting a positive dialogue surrounding women and their natural bodies. The director, Rayka Zehtabchi, had quite the fitting start to her acceptance speech, saying “I’m not crying because I’m on my period or anything. I can’t believe a film about menstruation just won an Oscar!” About halfway through the show, the performance the world had been holding its breath for began: “Shallow,” nominated for Best Original Song. As international superstar Lady Gaga and award-winning actor Bradley Cooper walked up to the stage together, they brought characters Jackson and Ally Maine to life. University freshman Emily Dodaro said, “This particular awards season was very interesting, with there not being a clear cut film in the lead. My personal favorite from this season was ‘A Star is Born,’ because I am a huge fan of Bradley Cooper’s work and Lady Gaga’s music and presence in the entertainment industry.” Dodaro continued, “I would have liked to see this movie get more recognition over some of the others, especially [with] Cooper’s impeccable work as director and actor.” Soon after the captivating performance of the song, the nominees were announced. Gaga took home the win, marking the acceptance of her first Oscar. Director Spike Lee was also given his first Oscar for “BlacKKKlansman” in the category Best Adapted Screenplay. Actress Regina King won Best Supporting Actress for “If Beale Street Could Talk,” contributing to the diverse array of winners for the night, others being Rami Malek and Mahershala Ali for Best Supporting Actor in “Green Book.” Finally, the film “Green Book” won the Oscar for Best Picture, resulting in mixed reviews. According to Vulture, “Green Book” was a controversial film due to the misrepresentation of Ali’s character Don Shirley. Some University students think that it did not deserve the title of Best Picture. University junior Richmond Landicho said, “I just thought it was a very average movie. If anything it should have gone to ‘Black Panther’ or ‘A Star is Born.’” Although not everyone agreed with the winner of Best Picture, many of the other winners seemed to deserve their awards in the eyes of the University students, and the 2019 Oscars can be counted as a success.
March 13, 2019
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Top 10 book characters for Women’s History Month GRACE VESPA Arts Intern
As we celebrate Women’s History Month this March, it is good to look back on influential female leads from Katniss Everdeen to Offred, who show what it means to be independent and feminist women. To celebrate how far women have come in literature and in reality, here are the top 10 novels in literature that feature strong female leads from all walks of life. Depending on your taste, you might find some books more interesting than others, so here is a list from YA to classic novels. 1. Katniss Everdeen in “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins Katniss Everdeen is the protagonist of “The Hunger Games” trilogy, who becomes the leader of a revolution after competing in a televised fight to the death. In the dystopian country of Panem, the Capitol selects two children from the impoverished 12 districts to participate in a brutal death match called The Hunger Games. In all three novels, Katniss is shown to be a headstrong and intelligent young woman who is able to strategize attacks against the Capitol while also having immense compassion for her family and those in need. 2. Annabeth Chase in the “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” and “Heroes of Olympus” series by Rick Riordan As the daughter of Athena, the goddess of wisdom, Annabeth Chase is extremely analytical, clever, and intelligent. She and Percy Jackson, among other characters, fight against the Titans in the “Percy Jackson” novels in a series of quests. In the “Heroes of Olympus” series, Piper McLean, Hazel Levesque, and Reyna Ramírez-Arellano join Annabeth as headstrong demigods ready to take on any monster or challenge. 3. Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling Flickr Hermione Granger is part of the Golden Trio, made up of Harry The Hunger Games trilogy Potter, Ron Weasley, and herself. Harry may be “The Boy Who Lived,” issues and tackles the subjugation of women in a patriarchal society. Offred and the other but Hermione has saved his life multiple times throughout their time at Hogwarts, thanks handmaidens attempt to gain individualism and independence through various means. It to her loyalty, quick wit, and bravery. In the first novel, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s is her inner fight against gender and class divisions that brings her courage. Currently, Stone,” Hermione discovers who Nicholas Flamel was, which led to the trio defeating it is also a television show on Hulu, and the sequel “The Testaments” will be published Voldemort from getting the stone, as well as being the key to defeating a series of tasks in 2019. to get the Sorcerer’s Stone. 6. Jo March in “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott 4. Matilda Wormwood in “Matilda” by Roald Dahl Although the four March girls are all strong women in their right, main character Jo Six-year-old Matilda Wormwood is a young girl with extraordinary intelligence and March is adored by readers for her love of literature and strong wit. Jo, the second-oldest a high capacity for kindness. Although she is often neglected or ignored by her parents, sibling, is a misfit tomboy and a writer whose ambitions and rejection of societal roles at school she shows high intellectual capabilities. As the tyrannical principal Miss have transfixed readers since its initial publication in 1868. At times, she is quick to anger Trunchbull runs her school, she discovers her power of telekinesis and forms a close bond and impulsive, but she is loved for her desire to make a career for herself in a time of with her teacher Miss Honey. Beloved by readers, Matilda is a playful, compassionate, limited opportunities for women. and assertive children’s heroine. 7. Esperanza Cordero in “The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros 5. Offred in “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood Esperanza Cordero is the teenage Latina protagonist of this coming-of-age novel, This dystopian novel tells the story of Offred, a handmaid whose main purpose who struggles with identity and the suffocation of her neighborhood in Chicago. Her is to give birth to children for the upper-class politicians and government leaders in a cultural heritage is central to the story, and it connects her to her family and neighborhood totalitarian society. This story addresses female oppression in the context of modern-day as she grows into womanhood. Esperanza’s struggle with her feelings of isolation and desire to escape her neighborhood resonated with adolescents, leading this novel to be highly influential for young adults. 8. The Lumberjanes in “Lumberjanes” by Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, and Shannon Watters For graphic novel fans, the group of five girls in “Lumberjanes” are realistic and flawed characters who attempt to solve supernatural mysteries in a summer camp for Lumberjane Scouts. The leader, Jo, is a transgender girl who is very analytical and has the most badges in the cabin. April is dramatic and fun-loving but is always ready to find undiscovered places, while punk Mal cares deeply for her friends. Mal’s crush, Molly, has the second-most badges in the group and is a skilled archer. Lastly, Ripley is the youngest in the group, but she has no fear of danger. The comic is led by female writers and illustrators, and as of May 2015, 20th Century Fox is set to create a live-action adaptation of the series. 9. Aster Gray in “An Unkindness of Ghosts” by River Solomon The main protagonist, Aster, lives on the space vessel HSS Matilda, whose society has been organized much like the antebellum South for many generations. Although this novel may be difficult to read at times, this novel paints a vivid picture of what it is like to be nonbinary, autistic, and darkskinned sharecropper fighting against daily injustices from a ruthless overseer. She is an extremely intelligent and brave heroine who experiences a multitude of emotions, never giving up hope as she begins to plant the seeds of a civil war. 10. Emma Woodhouse in “Emma” by Jane Austen At the beginning of the novel, Emma Woodhouse is vain, childish, and spoiled, whose fantasies often lead her into danger. However, Emma is also a headstrong and altruistic young woman who swears she will never marry, defying societal expectations similar to Jo March in “Little Women.” Although she can be unlikeable for her misinterpreted matchmaking, she is a realistic character when she is shown caring deeply for her aging father. The reader sees primarily through Emma’s perspective, and as a result shares her delusions, making Emma a highly relatable character for anyone who has let their imagination run away into an impossible fantasy. Hermione Granger of Harry Potter Flickr
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March 13, 2019
Faculty speaks on Women’s History Month BARBARA RUCCI Features Intern
University students are fortunate enough to learn many remarkable women faculty members to learn from. The inspirational women who work at the University have dedicated themselves to our education, and we want to honor them this Women’s History Month. Featured in this article are a few University faculty members whom students know and love.
ADITI PAUL Communications Studies Professor Aditi Paul is well-known among the Communications Department and has been teaching at the University since Fall 2015. When asked what Women’s History Month means to her, she said, “Keira Knightley’s character in the movie Claudine says, ‘The hand that holds the pen writes history.’ For a long, long time, that hand was not one of a woman. Hence it comes as no surprise that we rarely see women depicted in instrumental roles in historical records. They almost come as an afterthought to a male figure, or worse, completely erased. Thus, Women’s History Month is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of all those unsung women whose struggles and victories have finally given us the opportunity to not just be a part of history, but to write it, too.” Paul shares a few ways University students can not only recognize the contributions women have made, but also continue to empower the women surrounding us. “I am a big believer in the power of the compound effect. Taking little, tiny steps over a long period of time that have a positive impact on women is a great way to celebrate women! For example, biting our tongue when we feel the need to gossip/slut-shame/put down another woman could be a step toward ending girl-on-girl hate; saying something uplifting to a friend/leaving a positive
Eligibility
comment on her Instagram if she has stepped out of her fashion comfort zone could help erase body-image issues; heck- even asking a fellow woman gym-rat to correct your form when you are weight training could boost her confidence! Being kind, considerate, and a friend to another woman is the best way to celebrate her!”
MARIE GRYNBAL Women & Gender Studies Professor Marie Grynbal grew up in Caracas, Venezuela. “I was expected to come to the U.S. to school,” she told The Pace Press. Her father had attended high school and college as an international student and he had a love for the United States that stayed with him throughout his life. “Even though he graduated in the mid-‘50s, he brought back to Venezuela ideas about social and gender equality that he readily passed on to me.” Grynbal then attended high school in Connecticut and graduated from Skidmore College with a year of special studies at Wesleyan University. Afterward, she attended graduate school at New York University. “I made a different choice than my father’s,” Grynbal said. “I stayed here, compelled by the challenge that America posed for me: live here and be whoever you want to be. A choice not often open to so many women. And so, I have spent a life as a social worker, a nonprofit executive, and a gender studies adjunct at Pace.” Grynbal’s life story shows what Women’s History Month means to her: “Every month is women’s history month for me. I like to think that, from my work strengthening women impacted by poverty and oppression to my support of women nonprofit leaders in my consulting practice, all the way to the awareness I hope to raise in my teaching at Pace, I help to make women visible, present and strong. I know that I am. Every single month of the year.”
You must be a NYC undergraduate English Dept. or Film and Screen Studies (FSS) Dept. major or minor, or an undergraduate in any major who has taken (or is taking) a Pace LIT 205; any LIT 211 or 212; ENG 205, ENG 212, ENG 214, ENG 223, ENG 223C, or ENG 223E; any 300-level ENG or LIT course; or any FSS course. Also, you must be enrolled as a Pace NYC student during the current academic year, either in Fall 2018 or Spring 2019, or both.
MEGHANA NAYAK Political Science Professor Meghana Nayak grew up in Texas and attended Southwestern University where she pursued a double major in Women’s Studies and Psychology. She then went on to graduate school at the University of Minnesota and earned a Ph.D. in Political Science with a concentration in Human Rights and Advanced Feminist Studies. “Women’s history month is complex for me,” she said, “On the one hand, I attempt to discover secret and unknown histories about what women and femaleidentified folks have and continue to do to change the world. On the other hand, like with Black History Month, it’s only one moment in an entire year, when we must always be vigilant, every day to correct historical narratives and myths”. Her primary goal is to get educated on women who are marginalized. “Even if you know about Rosa Parks, you should know about Claudette Colvin. Even if you know about socialist feminists, you should learn about Claudia Jones. Look into how Black trans women paved the way for queer movements. Learn about how Nanye-hi negotiated with the U.S. government so that Cherokees could keep some of their lands.” In order to honor women this month, University students should not shy away from doing their research. “If we take Women’s History Month seriously, it would completely transform everything we thought we knew.” This month, remember the women who paved the way for you, and especially remember those who have poured their knowledge, wisdom, and power in order for you to empower others, sharpen your mind, and fearlessly lead. Women’s History Month is about all women, and we must not delay in honoring the ones who play such an influential role in our community.
Award Categories
$15,000 in awards from the Sarah Willis, Billie and Curtis Owens, Richard Gill, Gerard Cannon, and James Rose funds will be given in Fiction, Poetry, Nonfiction, Writing for Film and Television, Playwriting, Journalism, Writing on Film, Literary Criticism, and Linguistic and Rhetorical Analysis. The Academy of American Poets Prize, founded by John Ashbery and David Kermani, is also awarded in the Poetry category.
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March 13, 2019
BARBARA RUCCI Features Intern
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Can #Metoo transcend time?
On Tuesday, Feb. 19, Sarasota Fl. police officers investigated vandalism on a World War II statue. The statue is modeled after the popular photograph of a sailor kissing a young woman in Times Square in 1945. According to The Associated Press, the photo was taken on Aug. 14, 1945, when “Japan surrendered to the United States” and “people spilled into the New York City streets to celebrate the news.” The leg of the woman displayed on “The Unconditional Surrender” statue read, “#MeToo” in red spray paint. The #MeToo movement began spreading on social media and created an explosion of testimonials from individuals who opened up about their experiences with sexual assault and harassment. From the women who were victims of director Harvey Weinstein’s assaults to those who stood up against Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, the #MeToo movement provided a platform for individuals everywhere to speak their truth. The two simple words, ‘me too,’ still carry unfathomable weight almost two years after the start of the movement. #MeToo is still seen on social media accounts such as Twitter and Facebook posts, but many have taken it to all kinds of audiences. In this case, those who have seen the bold spray-painted words on the leg of a statue. According to CNN, the sailor in the photograph, George Mendonsa, passed away at the age of 95 two days before the statue was vandalized. The woman, Greta Friedman, who was working as a dental assistant at the time, did not know the sailor when he embraced her. In an interview with CNN, Mendonsa stated, “I had a few a drinks, and it was just plain instinct, I guess. I just grabbed her.” This act could be considered an assault in today’s society. While this doesn’t make Mendonsa a criminal, it’s important to analyze the moments in the past we may romanticize. The vandalism on the statue can be seen as a form of protest against the societal approval of sexual assault in the endorsement and capitalism this kiss has created. The iconic picture can be seen on posters, mugs, keychains, movies, etc. Not until now has the consent of this kiss truly been discussed by the public. The incident caused a wide spectrum of reactions. Some individuals believe that this was to further the #MeToo movement while others are hurt that someone would do this only days after Mendonsa’s death. University sophomore Leila Zupsic says, “In the time period where the kiss happened, the act wasn’t brought
The Kiss
Alfred Eisenstaedt
to as much attention as it would be if it happened today.” In an interview conducted by the Veteran’s History Project in 2005, Greta Friedman described the moment by saying, “Suddenly, I was grabbed by a sailor. It wasn’t much of a kiss. It was more of a jubilant act that he didn’t have to go back.” This was a monumental time in history, and many were celebrating in the streets of New York. Friedman went on to say, “It wasn’t a romantic event. It was just an event of ‘thank God the war is over’ kind of thing.” Friedman also said that the reason why Mendonsa kissed her was because she was dressed like a nurse and “he just felt very grateful to nurses who took care of the wounded” throughout the war. When asked about how the movement has grown over
Unconditional Surrender Vandalism
Sarasota Police Department time, Zupsic also said, “I think #MeToo has progressed a lot in recent years. It has given women, and everyone else, a voice to speak out.” Celebrity icons and everyday people alike have opened up about sexual assault. Those who took part in the #MeToo statue spray painting are unknown, but authorities are still investigating the case. Regardless, the power of #MeToo is prevalent throughout this country and throughout history. Whether or not the vandal had serious motives and intentions, the impact of a movement that demands equality and fights for consent will always stand unwavering.
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March 13, 2019
Trans women transforming history MAE MARTINEZ Features Editor
r eT Th
Since 1987, Women’s History Month has been a time to celebrate the art, invention, activism, and existence of women everywhere. Yet at the time of its creation, an entire population of women was forced to hide in the shadows for their own safety. Despite the many contributions of trans women in the world, recognition for these accomplishments is often excluded from education. It’s critical to know important female leaders, but it’s even more important to know the people who are being excluded from the conversation. Transgender—or trans—describes people whose gender identity is different from the sex assigned at birth, whereas cisgender describes those whose gender identity and sex are the same. While the visibility of transgender people is increasing in popular culture and education, the community continues to face staggering forms of discrimination and systematic inequality. Allison Washington, in an interview with Medium, an describes what it was like to be a transgender woman in the sP 1980s, “There was certainly no such thing as ‘being out’ as rid eF trans in the 1980s. If you didn’t pass, you were in trouble; if you lag did, you were stealth.” Despite these challenges and forms of oppression, multitudes of trans women have revolutionized history—forging a new future for the LGBTQA+ community. It is important to acknowledge these amazing women during Women’s History Month and throughout the year. Louise Lawrence Lawrence worked as an artist and manager for an apartment building solely for women. Over the next decade, however, she decided to create one of the first and most accessible networks for trans people. This network expanded through America and Europe and created the framework for Virginia Prince’s Tranvestia magazine. Her work is still celebrated today through archives located in San Francisco that preserves the materials, such as photos and letters detailing her hard work. Tracy Norman In 1975, Tracy Norman was one of the first African American models to make it big in the industry, and the second Black woman to appear on the cover of Vogue. As a trans woman, Norman was making history, but she kept her identity a secret—fearful of what would happen if the industry knew she was transgender. After becoming the face of a famous hair dye brand, Clairol, Norman’s coworkers outed her on a shoot and her career was terminated almost instantly. After years of hiding her truth and years of discrimination, Norman, at 63, came back to Clairol as the face of the “Color As Real As You Are” campaign. Speaking openly about being a trans Black woman opened a platform for people of the community and affected necessary diversity and change within the beauty industry. Marsha P. Johnson Mostly known for her involvement in the Stonewall Riots, Marsha P. Johnson was an activist, drag queen, and change maker for the trans community. She co-founded STAR,
Tracy Norman
Jeff Eason
one of the first trans organizations that provided housing and support to homeless queer youth and sex workers. Her talent for performing was also used as a tool for social change. During her appearance in The Hot Peaches’ production The Heat, Marsha sang the song “Love,” while wearing an ACT UP (AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power) button. The trans community often honors her memory in forms of song and drag performance. Angela Ponce Ponce, 27, is the first openly transgender woman to compete in the Miss Universe competition. She was also the first trans woman to win the Miss Spain title in early 2018. Ponce uses her platform to create inclusive and inspiring content on her social media for transgender youth who may be struggling with their identity. She’s especially dedicated to effecting change regarding the staggering high suicide rate among transgender youth. ow According to an interview with today.com, Ponce hopes b in a that one day, the presence of a trans person in the competitions will R Rosy not be newsworthy and that education is the start of this acceptance. Leigh Ann van der Merwe Van der Merwe dedicates her time as an African trans feminist and founded S.H.E, a collective of trans women who work to build an African trans feminist movement through leadership development and close relationships between women’s and trans’ rights organizations in Africa. Van de Merwe’s goal is to increase the visibility of trans women and ensure their rights are protected in areas where the trans community is highly stigmatized and face violence in their community. Under her leadership, S.H.E developed the African Transformative Feminist Leadership Institute, which provides a space for trans women and activists to discuss the issues facing the trans community. This program hosts events, internship programs for trans feminists, and separate charters that focus on individual issues and problem-solving. Grace Dolan-Sandrino This 17-year-old teen is fighting for trans rights! After Donald Trump was elected President in 2016, Dolan-Sandrino established herself as a young activist fighting against the administration’s attempt to deplete the rights of trans people in the U.S. She started her efforts by organizing a walkout for her high school, a form of protest that thousands of young people participated in. She has furthered her outreach by writing op-eds describing her experience as a trans woman activist for The Washington Post and Teen Vogue, while also serving as a co-founder of her school’s Gender and Orientation Alliance. There are many women in the trans community who have changed and are changing history as we know it. Laverne Cox, actress and trans activist, says it best, “I’ve never been interested in being invisible and erased.” These women are a few examples of the many trans women who represent the exact opposite of invisibility.
Angela Ponce
Amorn Pitayanant