UBSPECTRUM.COM
THURSDAY, MARCH 9, 2017
A DAY WITHOUT WOMEN P.3
Spectrum elects 2017-18 editor in chief
STUDENTS SOLVE PARKING PROBLEMS P.4
VOLUME 66 NO. 38
SWIMMING IN GOLD P.8
Unexpected counter protest causes tension at International Women’s Day rally
Editorial board unanimously elects Senior News Editor Hannah Stein TORI ROSEMAN MANAGING EDITOR
The Spectrum’s editorial board elected Hannah Stein, a sophomore English major, as the editor in chief for the 2017-18 school year. Stein ran unopposed. “I know I still have a lot to learn, but I started [at The Spectrum] my first week here and I’ve always had that interest in journalism,” Stein said. “I’m really excited about it – being voice for others on campus is one of the most important things, talking about issues that matter.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
UB Faculty Senate and Professional Staff Senate hold Day of Shared Governance THOMAS ZAFONTE ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR
UB Faculty Senate and Professional Staff Senate celebrated the second annual Day of Shared Governance like a holiday. The UB Offices of Shared Governance – Faculty Senate and Professional Staff Senate – met Tuesday afternoon in Center for Tomorrow. Along with the two Senates were 10 guest speakers – including Student Association President Matt Rivera and Graduate Student Association (GSA) President Tanja Aho – who participated in a Q&A panel. There were approximately 40 people in attendance. Shared governance is the practice of “consulting all those affected in a decision before making one so the decision considers all parties involved,” said Faculty Senate Chair Philip Glick. Last semester, shared governance was a big topic in the Faculty Senate. Glick and other faculty members said they had been “seeking transparency” from the UB Foundation – a private entity independent from UB that controls $1 billion of donations. The Senate questioned shared governance at UB when UB Foundation Chairman Francis M. Letro denied Glick’s request for a faculty member, professional staff member and a student to be added to the Foundation’s board.
‘Unite Against Patriarchy’ rally met with resistance HANNAH STEIN SENIOR NEWS EDITOR
The UB Sanctuary Movement gathered on Wednesday to “unite against patriarchy” and celebrate International Women’s Day. But an unexpected counter protest of male students wearing black suits caused tension. The students held signs that said “DISAGREE” and shouted derogatory terms.
The “Unite Against Patriarchy” rally was in solidarity with women across the globe and calls attention to trans’ rights, immigrants’ rights and refugees’ rights under President Donald Trump’s administration. Students and faculty participated in a daylong panel and more than 50 people attended the rally outside of the Student Union later in the afternoon. But there wasn’t much unity at the rally
ALLISON STAEBELL, THE SPECTRUM
UB students attending the “Unity Against Patriarchy” rally on Wednesday afternoon were met by counter protesters who held signs that said “Disagree.”
for long. Both parties were face to face yelling and calling each other “fascists.” Some of the male students shouted “tranny” and told transgender students they aren’t women. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
BSU members spray paint bull outside of Student Union ASHLEY INKUMSAH SENIOR NEWS EDITOR
The UB community woke up Wednesday morning to “Black Lives Matter” painted in red, black and green on the bull outside of the Student Union. Several members of Black Student Union (BSU) painted the bull in the pouring rain, slipping and falling into the mud on the ground on Tuesday night. They held towels and umbrellas over the bull. One group dried the bull while another group spray painted it. An unknown group spray-painted the bull with a message reading “Trump, Make America Great Again” on Tuesday. BSU painted over it because they felt the previous message threatened students’ safety and encouraged hate and division. Student Life set out specific guidelines that students must follow when painting the bull. Students can only paint on it between sunset and sunrise; only one group at a time can paint the bull and students must show respect to Buffalo and members of UB’s community. “The rules of painting on the bull say you have to respect everyone in the community, and I do feel like we all know the connotation towards Trump and towards ‘Make America Great Again,’” said Chynna Brown, a junior African American Studies and psychology major. “I feel like it definitely projects hate and it projects division but I feel
TROY WACHALA, THE SPECTRUM
Members of the Black Student Union painted “Black Lives Matter” on the bull outside of the Student Union on Tuesday night.
like Black Lives Matter is inclusive and it’s spotlighting one group who has never been included.” University Police Deputy Chief of Police Josh Sticht said Student Life placed the bull outside of the Student Union for students to paint on. While other universities have things like rocks or pillars for students to paint, the bull is the canvas for UB student groups, he said. All student groups are allowed to decorate
CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
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on the bull, as long as they don’t paint anything against UB’s policy on harassment or threats, according to Sticht. Brown was disappointed that Student Life didn’t want to get involved when “Make America Great Again” was painted on the bull. When students contacted them to complain, Student Life staff said the bull is for the students and students are the only ones who can go out and change it, Brown said. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
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NEWS
Thursday, March 9, 2017
THE SPECTRUM
Spectrum elects 2017-18 editor in chief CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Stein looks to improve the publication’s social media presence and to connect with more students outside of the newspaper. “If we use Snapchat or Facebook Live from games, protests or events, students will inevitably rely on us more,” Stein said. “It will inspire them to read our content.” Stein will be the first editor in chief since 2012 to be a junior, not a senior. She feels her experience at The Spectrum has prepared her for this position, despite her youth. “We are the future of the newspaper,” Stein said. “We are as strong as the work we put into it and I’m very optimistic about next year.”
Gabriela Julia, the current editor in chief, believes Stein is the right person for the job. “She’s one of the most hardworking people that I know,” Julia said. “The fact that she’s willing to be up late and stay in the office, to help me with editing – I know I can trust her to cover something important. In order to be an editor in chief, you have to be able to tell other people to cover events and to know how to cover stories yourself, so I think she’s qualified.” Stein’s other ideas for the upcoming year include: creating more polls and interactive media online, and to recruit more columnists to discuss more niche topics including fashion, technology and politics. Stein also looks to improve the staff ’s writing, editing and photography skills through regular workshops. Stein also looks to host fundraisers, since
The Spectrum is an independent publication and relies upon advertisements for funding. “This money could potentially go to more and better video equipment and conferences or other training for editors,” Stein said. “We can also use it towards regalia that we can give out when we table in the Student Union.” Ashley Inkumsah, a senior English major, served as the co-senior news editor alongside Stein this past school year. Inkumsah thinks Stein has a lot of heart, is very motivated and understanding. “I know The Spectrum will be her first priority and she will put her heart and soul into the paper,” Inkumsah said. “No one is more fit for the job than Hannah.” Marlee Tuskes, the senior news editor
from the 2015-16 school year, endorsed Stein in her candidacy. Tuskes worked alongside Stein on the news desk during Stein’s first semester as an editor. “Her dedication and passion made it easy to trust her with topics many seasoned journalists struggle with,” Tuskes said. “It was because of this that Hannah was promoted to assistant news editor without hesitation just months into her time at UB.” Stein hopes to continue to promote the strength of the paper and the closeness of the staff. When she addressed the editorial board, Stein earnestly offered her assistance and presence for her fellow editors. “I would like to sit down with each of you to hear your goals and hopes for our paper and our future,” Stein said. email: tori.roseman@ubspectrum.com
UB Faculty Senate and Professional Staff Senate hold Day of Shared Governance CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
President Satish Tripathi sits on the Foundation board and said the Foundation is transparent. “The board makes a decision as a board and the Foundation has determined they are transparent enough,” Tripathi said in November. “It’s not my decision, it’s the board’s decision.” The two Senates declared the first Tuesday of March to be UB Day of Shared Governance. This day is supposed to celebrate the five pillars: students, faculty, professional staff, administration and collection of boards and councils, according to Glick. “Shared Governance is the bedrock of higher education in the United States,” said Domenic J. Licata, chair of Professional Staff Senate. “Networking from all the different organizations across campus does not just benefit the employee, but their departments and then the university as a whole.” UB students also feel they can benefit from shared governance at UB. Aho, the GSA president, said shared governance could fix the lack of communication between student-run groups and administration.
SPECTRUM STOCK PHOTO
Faculty Senate Chair Philip Glick speaks at a past Faculty Senate meeting. Glick and other faculty gathered Tuesday for a Day of Shared Governance.
“Even though we have a number of ways to talk administration, it still is a challenge to get in touch with them,” Ajo said. “If the university opened more channels for communication, that would be key to make the effort more profound and sustainable.”
During Tuesday’s meeting, Glick also brought up whether or not UB will become a sanctuary campus. Last November, faculty members drafted a letter to Tripathi urging him to declare UB a sanctuary campus. A sanctuary campus does not enforce im-
migration law and protects students who are undocumented immigrants. “We have had hours of discussion on this, talking with the governor and the SUNY system,” Glick said. “It has become clear from SUNY Central that no campus has that individual right to do that and whatever we are going to do we are going to do as a system and I respect that.” As of now, UB is not labeled a sanctuary campus. Next month’s Senate meeting will discuss sanctuary campuses and other immigration issues students face, Glick said. Glick also announced the Senate’s plan to change UB’s smoking policy. Glick said the current policy is ineffective in keeping the campus clean and smoke free. He said the discussion about changing the smoking policy had only recently started. Licita also detailed plans for school groups to hold annual meetings that will “bring in more perspectives.” Inclusion and Diversity Committee will host its first biannual meeting this summer as an example. email: news@ubspectrum.com
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3 A day without women is a
OPINION THE SPECTRUM
Editorial Board EDITOR IN CHIEF
Gabriela Julia
MANAGING EDITOR
Tori Roseman COPY EDITORS
Thursday, March 9, 2017
day without progress
Saqib Hossain Emma Medina Margaret Wilhelm Grace Trimper NEWS EDITORS
Hannah Stein, Senior Ashley Inkumsah, Senior Maddy Fowler, Asst. FEATURES EDITORS
Sarah Crowley, Senior Lindsay Gilder, Asst. ARTS EDITORS
Max Kaltnitz, Senior David Tunis-Garcia Benjamin Blanchet, Asst. SPORTS EDITORS
Michael Akelson, Senior Daniel Petruccelli, Asst. Thomas Zafonte, Asst. PHOTO EDITORS
Kainan Guo, Senior Angela Barca Troy Wachala, Asst. CREATIVE DIRECTORS
Pierce Strudler Martina LaVallo, Asst.
Professional Staff OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
Helene Polley
ADVERTISING MANAGERS
Priyanshi Soni
CARTOON BY MICHAEL PERLMAN
ADVERTISING DESIGNERS
Alexa Capozzi Casey Ridings
THE SPECTRUM Thursday, March 9, 2017 Volume 66 Number 38 Circulation 4,000 The views expressed – both written and graphic – in the Feedback, Opinion and Perspectives sections of The Spectrum do not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial board. Submit contributions for these pages to The Spectrum office at Suite 132 Student Union or news@ubspectrum.com. The Spectrum reserves the right to edit these pieces for style and length. If a letter is not meant for publication, please mark it as such. All submissions must include the author’s name, daytime phone number, and email address. For information on adverstising with The Spectrum, visit www.ubspectrum.com/advertising or call us directly at 716-645-2152 The Spectrum offices are located in 132 Student Union, UB North Campus, Buffalo, NY 142602100
International Women’s Day celebrates the accomplishments of women all over the world and commemorates the movement for women’s rights. Some organizations chose to reflect the importance of women by not having women come into work on Wednesday. There are even publications, including college newspapers, who will be missing women on staff for the day. We at The Spectrum decided not to participate. We are journalists and have a job. It’s our duty to report on the International Women’s Day and not participate in protests or take the day off to take a stance. There are other ways to show our solidarity, such as wearing the color red and highlighting the event in our paper. We understand the value of our female staff. Our editor in chief and managing editor are women. The news and features desk
editors are all women. Should we choose to sit out and not participate in production, there would not be a newspaper. Being absent and deciding not to print an eight to 10 page printed paper is a waste of an issue. By removing the female staff, the paper would have less content; there would be less reporting and event coverage. Perhaps there wouldn’t be an editorial, or the design of the paper would be weak. The news cycle keeps moving and will not wait for us to make a point. There are events to be covered and important campus news to write about. UB’s basketball teams are heading to the MAC tournament and students are rallying outside the Student Union. Sure, we could leave the coverage to the arts and sports desks, but they would have a hard time picking up the slack left by our missing female staff.
Instead of recognizing women’s importance and progress through inaction, we choose to note our accomplishments and advancements. International Women’s Day is a celebration of how far we’ve come as a gender. Less than 100 years ago, women did not have the right to vote. We were still thought of as glorified housekeepers who raised children. Women like Ida B. Wells, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony fought for equality, for rights and for a voice in society. Today, women can enter whatever profession they wish and attend school for as long as they’d like. Women have a voice in government, in scientific research and in journalism. We are still not equal in many ways – the wage gap still exists, women often are still viewed as less valuable in the workplace and for whatever reason, we still don’t
A difference in degrees Why it’s important to respect the educational choices of others
TORI ROSEMAN
MANAGING EDITOR
Monday, I received my first acceptance letter to law school. Letter is a relative term – I actually received a text message while in one of my classes. I not so subtly ran out of class to call both of my parents, who were just as elated as I was. Law school has been my plan for the past six months, so receiving an acceptance validates my work and effort.
I did my research and yes, I’m aware that I’ll be in school for another three years. But I like school – believe it or not – and I do well in a scholarly environment. If I don’t mind school, I think I should continue my education. I’m excited to move to a new city and start learning all over again. This is my choice. Some of my other peers are also following the graduate school path. Many of my other friends are graduating and seeking out jobs. Others never went to college in the first place and have found success in other fields. No matter what, I’ve remained consistent in my support for those around me. More important than support is respect for others in their educational choices. Just because someone elected not to go to college, that doesn’t make them dumber, or worse off. Conversely, it doesn’t make you better than an-
other human being to have a college degree. The decision to spend an extra ~4 years in school was yours alone and what you may have gained in knowledge, you’ve lost in time and money. That technician who started working when you went to college just bought his first house and has a stable career. Nothing frustrates me more than people who look down on mechanics, makeup artists or other sorts of blue-collar work. How is that sociology degree going to help you when your engine breaks down? What’s four years of economics classes going to do for your broken air conditioning? Blue-collar jobs have value – in fact, all jobs have value, from cashiers to consultants. Because students are so engrossed in the school environment, it can be easy to overlook the value of other professions. We are in a bubble, surrounded
have autonomy over our own bodies. It is strange and uncomfortable to watch men receive a higher paycheck, or to make laws about women’s bodies, or to disregard an intelligent woman because of her gender. We are not quite equal yet, but that’s why we have feminism. We’re getting there, slowly but surely. On International Women’s Day, we choose to celebrate our female staff by acknowledging their work and continuing to do our job: reporting the news. We are fortunate to have progressed enough to be reporters, editors, photographers and designers. It would be a waste not to showcase our talents now. And quite frankly, the men on staff would struggle a bit too much. email: eic@ubspectrum.com
by other students and educators who are following the same path and place the same importance on continued education. But there are millions of other people who never get that college degree. It is so important to have basic respect for other people, especially in America’s political climate where immigrants struggle to call our country home and the partisan divide is noticeably large. I’m not saying kiss everyone’s feet or go out of your way to accommodate others – just don’t be rude to your waitress, or cashier, or hairdresser, or plumber. In order to continue as a progressive country, everyone must practice respect. We are the next generation to enter the workforce and impact workplace and everyday interactions. It can start with us, this change and continue with our children. Respect for other human beings, no matter their job, can improve the country we live in. email: tori.roseman@ubspectrum.com
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FEATURES
Thursday, March 9, 2017
THE SPECTRUM
Park by Karma
Students create app to solve parking problem
COURTESY OF PARK BY KARMA
Park by Karma is available for download for Android users. The authors aim to have an Apple version out by April.
SARAH CROWLEY SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR
Patrick Kearney’s lunch break was never long enough. He had one hour to drive from his fulltime sales representative job to his software engineering class and no time to play the “parking game.” That’s when he decided he needed to solve the parking problem. Kearney, a nontraditional student in computer science, teamed up with senior computer science majors Jaskirat Singh and Andrew Mingola last fall to create an app that
would allow students to park without having to “stalk” students to their car or circle parking lots. “Park by Karma” is now available to download for Android users, with an Apple version coming in the next several weeks. Kearney said he hated having to stalk students to their car every day. Like many of his fellow commuters, Kearney had a choice: miss part of class, risk a parking ticket, or hike across campus from the Special Events Parking Lot. Days of coming into class uncomfortably late, freezing cold, or with a ticket from parking in Hadley Village spots inspired Kearney to work toward a solution.
The app displays two lists of parking lots on North and South Campus along with Google Maps as the main display. The app has two main functions – leaving and parking. When parking, users select lots they want to park in. When leaving, users drop a pin on their parking space and wait for the spot to be claimed. When a match is made, both users receive a description of the other’s vehicle and view the location of the space on the map. The app’s name comes from its use of a “karma score” to motivate students who are leaving to remember to pass on the “good karma.”
Bottoms up: a guide to buying the perfect water bottle Reusable water bottles help students stay hydrated while being green and cost-effective
SARAH CROWLEY
SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR
If Anna Heintzman forgets to bring a water bottle to school, it’s going to be a bad day. Heintzman, a senior business major, carries a reusable water bottle throughout the day and is hard-pressed to buy plastic if she can avoid it. From the trendy S’well to the classic Nalgene, greener, cheaper alternatives to plastic bottles are gaining traction with students. Some students feel there is a heightened awareness about the health benefits to drinking water, encouraged by the refilling stations scattered throughout campus. Another reason for the water bottle boom is cost. Students say it’s much cheaper for them to buy one or two reusable bottles and refill them for free, rather than pay $2 every time they’re thirsty. One thing is clear: there is a reusable water bottle for every personality and lifestyle out there. Here’s a rundown of the different kinds and why students like them.
Glass Although a bit heavier, glass bottles are safe from BPA, PVC and other contaminants linked to plastic wear. Glass water bottles also offer a sleek look and many come with silicone or gel-like sleeves to protect them from breaking. Most brands, from Lululemon to Camelback, carry some version of glass bottles. Moumita Hore, a freshman physics major,
SARAH CROWLEY, THE SPECTRUM
Brian Johnson and Anna Heintzman are members of UB’s Outdoor Adventure Club. Johnson and Heintzman take pride in personalizing their reusable water bottles.
said she tries to avoid eating or drinking from plastic containers as much as possible to limit exposure to these contaminants. She carries a glass water bottle purchased from Wegmans to drink from each day. “Drinking enough water is actually very difficult, like in order to see the physical effects in your skin and body, you have to drink even when you’re not thirsty which can be hard,” Hore said. Hore strives to get in enough water a day without having to buy plastic bottles or drink from a water fountain by carrying her glass bottle.
Infusers Serina Janczen, a freshman business major,
said she can’t have her water without citrus fruit in it. She refills her purple plastic Camelback several times throughout the day in order to stay hydrated, something she feels is important to feel good and take care of herself. A special bottle isn’t necessary to flavor water with fruit or spices, but several brands do make infusers, a separate piece in the bottle that holds fruit or other enhancers. The Ad-n-Art glass bottle is available for $21 and comes with a fruit infuser to keep the water flavorful, but free from floating strawberry or cucumber.
S’trendy The S’well bottle is arguably becoming the most popular water bottle at the moment. The stainless steel bottles are triple-walled
The more times you participate as a “leaving” user, the higher your karma score will be. “Parkers” with higher karma scores get matched first. The longer a user waits for a spot, the higher his or her karma score will be in future use. Matches also operate on first-come, first-serve basis to keep a select few users with high karma scores from dominating the system. “It’s based on current commuter behavior,” Mingola said. “Right now, [commuters will] kind of stalk them to the parking space. I’m sure most commuters are familiar with this, it’s crude and sometimes they use crude forms of communication. So we figured we could just create an app that would allow commuters to do this but in an organized fashion.” The app is still in its prototype phase, which means it’s available for use, but the graphics are minimal and users should be aware of the potential for minor bugs. The creators urge users to be patient with the app and to offer feedback through the app’s email. While surveying students, the team found most students estimated they wait around 14 minutes for parking. The team estimates the app will save students approximately ten minutes in parking. UB issued approximately 16,700 parking permits in 2017, according to WIVB. For the app to function best, it requires at least several hundred regular users. So far, only 24 students have downloaded the app. Once the Apple version is launched, the team hopes to gain more users. Their goal is for the app to become the “parking standard” at UB and eventually go on to be used by other college campuses with similar parking problems. Kearney doesn’t think parking at UB will ever be “amazing,” but he hopes the app can at least improve the situation. “It would be cool to have an awesome way for UB students to park, it’s not like the app is going to make it amazing to park at UB, but if it’s just like less terrible, that would be great,” Kearney said. email: sarah.crowley@ubspectrum.com
and come in a variety of sizes and designs, from their distinct wood collection to the sleek marble-like elements collection. The bottles are narrow enough for easy transport and, in the spirit of International Women’s Day, buying from S’well supports the fastestgrowing woman-run company in the U.S. Pro tip: their largest size, the 24 oz. bottle, holds exactly one bottle of wine, according to their website.
Outdoorsy Brian Johnson, a senior communication major, thinks plastic water bottles are “dumb” and “incredibly wasteful.” “I’m too thirsty to deal with refilling one water bottle and there are so many [plastic water bottle] companies out there and they’re all selling the same thing, so I don’t get it, how do you decide which one,” Johnson said. Johnson prefers his vintage Nalgene for everyday use and hiking. The plastic, Patagonia sticker-laden bottle is a hand-me-down from his father. Heintzman brings her Nalgene for hikes and other outdoor activities. Because these bottles are relatively cheap, she doesn’t worry about them getting scuffed or dirty. For Johnson and Heintzman, stickers for their bottles are almost as important as the water itself. “You take stickers from national parks you go to and we [Outdoor Adventure Club] have stickers, it’s a very personal thing, it’s very cool,” Heintzman said. Conventional wisdom has always been to drink eight glasses of water a day, but newer research shows that was meant as more of a guideline than a medical rule, according to Kathleen M. Zelman, nutritional director of WebMD. Even if the proper amount is less than eight glasses, drinking water throughout the day is still healthful. It aids with digestion and functions almost like a “liquid nutrient.” email: sarah.crowley@ubspectrum.com
NEWS Unexpected counter protest causes tension at International Women’s Day rally CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
“There’s a reason they only show up at other people’s protest and never have their own. They don’t have a cause,” said Lyndsay Licata, a senior English major. “They want to disagree. They want tension and it’s a way to incite arguments and get people in a more vulnerable position where they don’t feel comfortable expressing their beliefs.” Licata said it was important for her to attend the rally to show that UB is a “safe space.” Poorvi Thigale, a junior economics major, doesn’t think the counter protestors came with a “real cause.” “If you saw their signs, they just say disagree, but they don’t really have a message except that they disagree,” Thigale said. Christian Andzel, a counter protester, adviser of UB Conservatives and UB alum, said the students participating in the “Unite Against Patriarchy” rally are “cultural fascists.” “They are part of the far extreme left and they want to control every part of their lives and as a liberty activist, we want to promote freedom,” Andzel said. “Unfortunately, they don’t. Whether it’s abortion, high taxes for everyone, we want to put forth a diametrically opposed agenda, low taxes, personal freedom and authentic Americanism, not the left-wing kooks over here.” Andzel said his group wants to stand for the “individual” and not the “collective,”
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Thursday, March 9, 2017
THE SPECTRUM
MARGO BURGIO, THE SPECTRUM
Xander Percy, a sophomore geological sciences major, holds a sign at the rally. Percy attended the rally to stand in solidarity with women.
which he said is what the opposing group stands for. He said he was there to “shut down the debate.” Thigale attended the rally to fight for the rights of women, immigrants, refugees and people who identify as transgender. “Everyone has the same rights that we do and it’s our job to fight for them. A lot of people feel like they are in danger right now and we’re here for them,” Thigale said. This is the first year UB has celebrated International Women’s Day, according to Hil-
Ashley Lynn MSA ’07 Assistant Director of Player Engagement New York Giants
ary Vandenbark, a Ph.D student in global gender studies. Vandenbark, who co-hosted the panel that took place all day long in the Student Union Theater with Gabriella Nassif, a global gender studies TA and Ph.D. student, said the purpose of the panel was to speak out against silence. “We felt it was really important to not stay silent anymore,” Vandenbark said. “I think all of these issues affect the UB community. We’re a huge community of international students... so I think it’s so important to rec-
ognize we’re not just white-middle class students. We’re a diverse body of racially, ethnically diverse in terms of origin and gender identity and we want to make sure everyone feels represented in the events on campus.” Stephanie Hare, a senior English major, feels women are becoming more threatened in society. “I’m here today because I believe that there are a lot of women’s voices being silenced in our country right now and on our campus we need refugees and immigrants and every type of women,” Hare said. “We have to stand up for the people who can’t stand up for themselves.” Ana Grujic is one of the founding members of Campus Sanctuary Initiative that started in November in response to “accusations and threats by the Trump administration.” “Our goal is to seek to guarantee and to seek from the university administration and city administration at large for protections for refugees and immigrants and other endangered population in Buffalo and ultimately we are trying to urge our campus to announce it as a sanctuary campus as other universities have done so far,” Grujic said. Grujic has experienced discrimination as an immigrant from Serbia, green card holder, and queer woman and she said it isn’t easy being an international student at UB. “Now is not the time to be silent. If there was ever a time to be silent, it’s over now,” Licata said. “If you’re going to continue to be silent, then you’re just an active participant in the oppression.” email: hannah.stein@ubspectrum.com
BSU members spray paint bull outside of Student Union CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
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“I feel like the university should stand for what they advocate for and that’s diversity and that’s inclusion and that’s making everybody feel safe and be able to have a learning environment and I feel that’s not what was displayed by them not taking a stance,” she said. Brown said she saw a Muslim woman crying after she saw the pro-Trump message that was previously on the bull. “When you hear Make America Great Again, you also hear ‘remember the old days. Remember how things used to be. Remember what used to happen.’ The connotation of that term is disrespectful to people of color,” Brown said. BSU Vice President Leslie Veloz said BSU decided to paint over the bull to “acknowledge everyone’s oppressions.” “That’s just the role we take on when we signed up for BSU is to make sure we were that voice and we were those defenders for people who can’t defend themselves,” Veloz said. “We aren’t afraid to be those changing agents.” BSU President Samirra Felix didn’t want “Make America Great Again” to be the first thing students saw when they came to school. “Though we know writing ‘Make America Great Again’ is not necessarily a hate crime,
there’s a lot that is behind putting that up. First and foremost there was never a point in time that I can say that America was truly great. A lot of people like to take slavery and categorize that as African American history. It is American history.” BSU members deliberately chose the colors red, black and green because they represent kanara of Kwanzaa, a black holiday. The colors stand for the seven days and seven principles of Kwanzaa. Brown said they purposely painted the bull in a messy fashion as a symbol. “It’s not neat, it’s not precise,” Brown said. “It’s the red dripping down into the green and the black dripping down. There’s gold beneath the letters to make the words jump out at you. This is the blood of our people. There’s a lot of symbolism with it.” Brown invites people who feel uncomfortable with the bull to attend BSU meetings to ask themselves why they’re offended. “If you’re comfortable everywhere you go, you’re going to remain stagnant and remain dormant. If somebody makes you feel uncomfortable, you feel as if you are obligated to make a decision. So I feel like whoever was uncomfortable seeing the bull... that was the goal,” Brown said. email: ashley.inkumsah@ubspectrum.com
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Thursday, March 9, 2017
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
THE SPECTRUM
Dystopian movie guide Films that question authority MOLLY DIETZ STAFF WRITER
Spring break is the perfect opportunity to ignore all of your responsibilities and binge watch movies that bring out your inner conspiracy theorist. From government cover-ups to genetic experiments, these films will make you question everything you thought you knew. “V for Vendetta” (2005) The film follows the experiences of a woman named Evey – Natalie Portman in one of her most memorable roles – as she becomes entangled in a masked vigilante’s plot to, you guessed it, carry out his vendetta. The vigilante goes by the name of V and never takes off his Guy Fawkes mask. Written for the silver screen by the Wachowskis (“The Matrix”) and directed by James McTeigue (“The Raven”), “V for Vendetta” is an adaptation of a 1988 comic book series of the same name about the United Kingdom of the not too distant future. The film explores themes of fascism versus anarchy and the dangers of a police state under constant surveillance through V’s character. “Brazil” (1985) “Brazil,” featuring Robert De Niro in a lesser-known role alongside Jonathan Pryce, highlights both the horrors and the ridiculousness that come with capitalism and bureaucracy. The film centers on Sam Lowry (Pryce), a government paper-pusher and daydreamer, who is tasked with covering up the fact that his totalitarian yet idiotic government acci-
COURTESY OF SUMMIT ENTERTAINMENT
“Divergent” has action, romance and a powerful dystopian government. It’s just one movie that will bring out your inner conspiracy theorist.
dentally killed the wrong man. When he tries to clean up the mess, he meets a woman who resembles the one from his frequent daydreams. This woman also happens to have ties to the man whose death Sam is trying to cover up. Absurdity ensues. This cult classic directed by Terry Gillman will leave you asking yourself, “What just happened?” “Divergent” (2014) In post-apocalyptic Chicago, people are sorted into “factions” based on their attributes. And if someone does not fit neatly into the established system, they are considered “divergent” and labeled enemies of the state. Tris (Shailene Woodley) is one such person. She meets a man who goes by the name of Four (Theo James) as she tries to hide her divergence. Four and Tris team up in the first installment of this action packed series in an attempt to overthrow their oppressive government and bring justice back to Chicago. Woodley and James had a chaotic few years
as the sequels “Insurgent” (2015) and “Allegiant” (2016) were shot back to back and released consecutively. “Divergent” has a little of everything: action, romance, an all-powerful dystopian government and suspense. “A Clockwork Orange” (1971) Please note that this film is not for the faint of heart. Director Stanley Kubrick, famous for directing other horror and psychological thrillers like “The Shining” (1980), wrote and produced this book adaptation for the big screen. Alex DeLarge, played by Malcolm McDowell, and his gang of “droogs” wreak havoc in their English town. DeLarge’s interest in classical music is matched only by his knack for ultra-violence and rape “A Clockwork Orange” raises questions on juvenile delinquency, free will, government sanctioned aversion therapy and political agendas.
“Gattaca” (1997) This classic just turned 20 years old but is still relevant, as it presents what could be a very near reality for the human race. “Gattaca” takes place in a sci-fi future when designer babies are not only a possibility, but are considered the norm. Ethan Hawke is Vincent Freeman, who was conceived without the help of genetic selection and as a result, is prone to health disorders. Freeman’s parents regret their decision to have a biologically weaker child, so they have another baby with the assistance of genetic engineering. The film, directed by Andrew Niccol, follows Freeman’s journey as he overcomes genetic discrimination and assumes the identity of a genetically superior man named Jerome Eugene Morrow (Jude Law), so that he can realize his dream of space travel. “Gattaca” will make you question society’s values and just how far science can – or should – go. “The Giver” (2014) In a world where all memories of the past are kept hidden, there exists one person who acts as “the receiver of memory.” This is the only person in the community who has access to its history. When 16-year-old Jonas (Brenton Thwaites) is chosen to be the next receiver, he begins his mission of bringing enlightenment to his community. “The Giver,” based on the novel of the same name by Lois Lowry, also stars Meryl Streep and Jeff Bridges. This adaptation is mostly in black and white to emphasize the emotional and intellectual suppression faced by this dystopian community. When everything is chosen for you, from who your family is to what career path you will take, this movie begs the question: should people have the right to choose for themselves? email: arts@ubspectrum.com
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Thursday, March 9, 2017
THE SPECTRUM
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SPORTS
Thursday, March 9, 2017
THE SPECTRUM
Khalil Mack's younger brother LeDarius Mack commits to UB football MICHAEL AKELSON
SWIMMING IN GOLD Swimmer Mason Miller reflects on successful season THOMAS ZAFONTE ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
Mason Miller and gold medals is like peanut butter and jelly – a perfect fit. Starting his freshman year, sophomore swimmer Mason Miller has racked up gold medals in multiple events. For the whole 2017 season, Miller did not leave a single meet without taking first in at least one event. Miller’s most recent campaign for gold came at the MAC tournament where he took first in six different events and was named Most Outstanding Swimmer at the meet – an accomplishment that isn’t lost on Miller. “The three individual and three relay golds are definitely career highlights,” Miller said. “I’m just happy to see what we can do next… I see room for improvement, building on that baseline and getting stronger. Definitely in the future there will be more accomplishments.” Miller’s goal for the season was to qualify for the NCAA national meet, which he
did not make this year. But Miller came closer this season with his top 50 times in the NCAA in both the 200-meter and 400-meter. These times are proof of his improvement from last season and how the program has helped him grow. “I attribute all of my success to the team,” Miller said. “Most people don’t think of swimming as a team sport but I can’t do it without the guys here backing me up.” That team mentality was infectious to Miller, who almost immediately adopted it. It has allowed him to leave a selfish part of himself behind in high school and really buy into the team. Head coach Andy Bashor has noted a change in Miller’s character. He said Miller is more mature and there is an understanding the two of them built upon in the pool. Bashor can sense when Miller is in “deep focus” and when his mind is somewhere else. “One of my favorite things about Mason is if I can tell that Mason is in a rut, I can just give him a tap on the shoulder… and he will be focused right back up,” Bashor said. Keeping Mason focused on the work is always a priority for Bashor. Even when Mason first arrived to UB, getting him focused was the goal. Once Miller had competed in
COURTESY OF UB ATHLETICS
Mason Miller performs in the pool as his accolades and accomplishments continue to grow.
SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR
Former UB football standout and current NFL linebacker Khalil Mack’s younger brother LeDarius Mack has committed to UB football, UB Athletics confirmed with The Spectrum on Wednesday. LeDarius is currently a sophomore at ASA College in Miami and plays linebacker. Last season, he totaled 24 tackles, 1.5 sacks and an interception for ASA. UB football will kick off its season on Aug. 31 at Minnesota. email: michael.akelson@ubspectrum.com
a few meets, it became a non-issue, which helps make Bashor’s job easier and alleviates the pressure on his swimmers. “If I put these ideas in his mind when he races, they are just going to slow him down,” Bashor said. “If I can get him to just clear his mind and only focus on the work, I know he can get it done.” Now with his expert focus, Miller is able to stay calm at meets and is never easily flustered by other teams. “At the MAC tournament and stuff like that, I am definitely pretty relaxed. I won’t let the other teams get to me but they will do their stuff to try and bring down our mood. I just look at it as fuel for the fire.,” Miller said. “They are out there being cocky and stuff, and I just think let me show them what Buffalo can do.” Senior swimmer Martin Leigh considers Miller’s consistency one of his best attributes. “You know no matter how he is feeling that he is going to show up and race,” Leigh
said. “It’s a quality I respect in my teammates. I find it hard to sometimes get ready for a race myself but there are some people like Mason who are just bred to race.” Leigh met Miller when he first met with the program. “He was a good kid, maybe slightly nerdy, but who isn’t on this team,” Leigh said. At practice, Leigh always sees Miller “carrying an air of cheerfulness” with him. No matter how difficult the practice, Leigh can always rely on Miller being in a joyful mood. Miller always helps to keep the mood lighter, but his swimming helps to drive the team as well. “Simply by the fact that he swims fast, it motivates the rest of the team to go faster,” Leigh said. Now Miller has started getting ready for a new season, but with the same goal: qualify for the NCAA. And with his rapid improvement, Miller’s goal is closer than ever. email: thomas.zafonte@ubspectrum.com
MAC Tournament breakdown Breaking down the Bulls’ competition in this year’s MAC Tournament THOMAS ZAFONTE ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
Thursday, the Bulls will play in the quarterfinals of the 2017 Mid American Conference Championship against Kent State. This guide is a breakdown of all the teams left in the tournament and who plays who first.
No. 1 Akron Zips (24-7, 14-4 MAC) Akron ruled over the MAC this season, finishing with the best overall record and beating the Bulls in two tightly contested games. Head coach Keith Dambrot earned the MAC coach of the year award and senior center Isaiah Johnson was named MAC player of the year. Akron is considered the early favorite to win the tournament. The Zips will be looking to win their first MAC championship since 2011, after losing in the finals last year to the Bulls. No. 2 Ohio Bobcats (19-10, 11-7 MAC) The Bobcats come into the tournament with one of the top offenses in the MAC. The team had 10 games this season where they scored 80 or more points while also having three All-MAC selections on the team, with junior guard Jaaron Simmons receiving a first team selection. The Bulls went 1-1 in games with them this season and both games were decided by single digit deficits. The Bobcats will be looking for their seventh MAC basketball championship this year. No. 4 Ball State Cardinals (2011, 11-7 MAC)
The Cardinals aren’t looking to repeat their performances of the past; they have not won a MAC championship game since 2011. This year, the Cardinals look much more improved, thanks to a breakout year from sophomore point guard Tayler Persons who was named to the All-MAC second team. Even with the improvement, the Bulls were able to beat them in their most recent game by double digits.
No. 5 Western Michigan Broncos (16-15, 11-7 MAC) At the start of the season, the Broncos looked like an underwhelming team, winning only three of their 10 games. But thanks to Head Coach Steve Hawkins, they were able to turn it around and put together a solid MAC record. The team has found success running plays through junior point guard Thomas Wilder, who received an AllMAC first team selection for his performance this season. The Broncos head to Cleveland on a nine-game win streak, with many feeling their seeding doesn’t reflect the current team. The Broncos only played the Bulls once this season and the Bulls got the win. The Broncos will be playing the Cardinals in the Quarterfinals. No. 6 Kent State Flashes (19-13, 10-8 MAC) The Flashes are the Bulls’ first opponent in the MAC championship and stack up quite well to the Bulls. Both teams suffer from consistency issues with their performances and have a sole win over each other this season. The Flashes are a tough offensive unit
KAINAN GUO, THE SPECTRUM
Senior Blake Hamilton dribbles the ball. The Bulls play Kent State on Thursday in the MAC quarterfinals.
who broke the MAC tournament scoring record in their play in game on Monday. Look out for star senior forward Jimmy Hall when they play the Bulls, as he will be a constant threat scoring and at the boards.
No. 7 Toledo Rockets (17-15, 9-9 MAC) Toledo is not a favorite to win the MAC, but they do have a dominant 86-54 win over the Bulls from early January. Toledo has remained a .500 team for the whole season, exchanging wins and losses with teams in the MAC. Toledo has wins over many top teams in the MAC including the Ohio Bobcats, but were never able to string wins together. Their top player, senior guard Jonathan Williams, received a second team AllMAC selection. They will play the Bobcats
in the quarterfinals.
No. 8 Eastern Michigan Chippewas (16-16, 7-11 MAC) After a solid start, the Chippewas had rough end to the season losing seven of their last 10 games. The team will be looking to return to winning form when they play Akron in the quarterfinals. Given Akron’s two season wins over the Chippewas, the expectations are quite low for the team. The biggest issue for the team is consistency in scoring. The Chippewas had three games this season where they scored over 100 points, yet have trouble getting things going in games. The Chippewas played one game against the Bulls this year where they lost 68-77. email: sports@ubspectrum.com