Vol. 11 (Feb. 22, 2018) by University News

Vol. XCVII No. 9

A student voice of Saint Louis University since 1921

February 22, 2018

News

February 22, 2018

INSIDE SCOOP:

Photo courtesey of Wikimedia Commons

ARTS Black Panther: A New Era of Marvel Films Page 6

Nish Gorczyca / The University News

VETOED: A proposed SGA bill to introduce a program coordinator for LGBTQIA+ students was met with opposition.

SPORTS Men’s Basketball Swats Away Old Record Page 15

Photo courtesey of Wikimedia Commons

OPINION Gun Violence: What Needs To Change Page 20

SGA President vetoes LGBTQ+ bill By SAVANAH SEYER Staff Writer

Earlier this month, in a Student Government Association Senate meeting, a senator introduced a bill that would have pushed university administration to create a program coordinator position for LGBTQIA+ students. While the bill seemed popular with senators and passed through the assembly, it was ultimately vetoed by SGA President Dan Carter, which might confuse some students. The written purpose of the bill was to create a paid position within the University that would cater to the needs of LGBTQIA+ students. The coordinator would plan campus-wide programming, work with groups and individual students to create presentations and programs for students, maintain contact with the University by distributing newsletters and other types of publications, and be an overall resource for LGBTQIA+ students, among many other job requirements. The initiative was co-sponsored by nine other SGA senators in addition to the pri-

“When that bill came up through CPR, mary author and had quite a bit of support within the senate; however, it was vetoed I assumed that all the boxes had been by Carter for logistical reasons. The bill checked. It made it sound like the bill was had supposedly not been run by any mem- good to go,” said Varner. “We are always bers of the administration or discussed supportive of being able to meet students needs, so we were all with those who would supportive of the idea, be responsible for hirbut as we began to ing and finding the talk to administrators, funds for a new posiwe realized that there tion. was more work to be SGA Vice President done on the bill first.” of Internal Aﬀairs After the bill was Emily Varner said that Tre Waterson, Vice President introduced, members the members of the of Diversity and Inclusion of SGA began to speak senate had assumed to administrators who that the background would be aﬀected by work on this bill had been checked, as is the usual process when the bill, including Vice President for Stua bill is introduced. Any student can write dent Development Dr. Kent Porterfield a bill, and have a senator introduce it. All and Vice President for Diversity and Combills must be submitted on the Sunday munity Engagement Dr. Jonathan Smith, before a senate meeting, said Varner, and and found that none of the administration then they are sent to the Constitutional involved had been notified about this bill. SGA Vice President of Diversity and Policy Review committee, which checks them for errors before they are introduced Inclusion Tre Watterson originally discovto the Senate. ered that no administrators were informed

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They were just caught off guard.

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News about the bill when he met with the cabinet of administrators for Diversity and Inclusion the day after the bill was introduced. “They were just caught oﬀ guard,” said Watterson. According to Watterson, the administrators were not averse to the idea, but were unaware that this is what students were currently seeking. “It put me in a tough spot,” said Carter. “My administration has been strong on shared governance. It’s unfair for us to demand formally that Dr. Smith creates this position without talking to him first, besides the fact that no money exists for this project right now. [Also] no one had done the homework to figure out how [to] best support our LGBTQIA+ students. Maybe it’s this position, [or] maybe it’s something else.” Carter said that the motivation behind the bill was not at all what made him veto the bill. “I told the Senate after the veto [that] the idea of the resolution is not what’s at issue. The issue with the resolution was the process,” said Carter. “We find that we have success when we follow the process, because when we follow it and have all our ducks in a row, then things happen.” According to Senator for the College of Arts and Sciences Grant Mayfield, a cosponsor of the vetoed bill, a group of senators had been working on initiatives to support LGBTQIA+ students for around a year. The bill was just one idea from a senator involved in these initiatives. Even though this bill did not pass, SGA is committed to supporting all students, especially ones who feel that they do not have enough support and representation, says Carter. “My immediate response is that if our LGBTQIA+ community feels like they need more resources, I want to figure out what those resources are and try my best to advocate for them,” said Carter. “[In addition] there is a working group working with Dr. Smith and Dr. Porterfield and others to figure out if a resource center for LGBTQIA+ students was going to be feasible, or if a coordinator was necessary. Those kinds of working groups are where you get the best work done. And I have been talking to those senators to see if they would be getting back together to find a good solution to these issues.” Watterson agreed, saying, “I think a LGBTQIA+ resource center is very important and is something that SLU is lacking. We need to keep fighting for this. It matters to students, so therefore it matters to SGA.” Watterson also wanted to encourage any students that had any questions about this issue or any issue of SGA to contact him at his email diversity.sga@slu.edu.

February 22, 2018

To be a voice for all SLU students

By MEREDYTH STAUNCH Managing Editor

Feb. 15 marked the first of two 2018 SGA debates as prospective student voters gathered in Anheuser-Busch Auditorium in Cook Hall at 7 p.m. Twelve candidates running for VP of either Academic Affairs, Diversity and Inclusion, Finance, Internal Affairs, International Affairs and Student Organizations held the floor and stressed the importance of communication, transparency and chiseling barriers separating students from other students or students from their professors. Running for VP of Student Organizations, Maleah Fallahi and Alana Janssen were first on the floor and emphasized a need to better support established and upcoming organizations. “I’ve been able to talk to a few different student organizations on campus, and the main things that I have seen that they need are more areas of communication,” Janssen said. By improving her own contact and those of others within SGA, Janssen added that the student organizations will be at ease with knowing they are listened to. Fallehi, who is studying abroad, Skyped into the debate. Her platform consisted of reforming Leaders of the Pack by remodeling the information on SLU Groups and the SGA website, reforming leadership transitions to better accommodate groups that change in the fall and furthering outreach through increased presence at student organizational events. Amanda Buechele, also abroad, and Puja Patel are running for VP of Finance. Buechele’s goals included aiding the financial process for student groups by streamlining how they can best utilize their money and promoting collaboration between SGA and the organizations. Specifically focusing on social justice during the debate, Buechele also elaborated on her role of creating opportunities to improve knowledge and promote outreach in relation to economic justice in St. Louis. Patel prioritized a need for increased communication between Chartered Student Organizations, also known as CSOs, and the committees. “Currently, we just fund students based on a 10- to 15-minute funding hearing,” Patel said. “That’s not the most effective way to hear about what a student organization does so we can best support them.” Her solution is to use the finance committee and finance cabinets to help student groups receive proper funding and make

Rebecca LiVigni / The University News

VP MATERIAL: Candidates at the debate wait to give their speeches. adjustments as needed for future budgets. She also looks to improve knowledge about wellness funding and how to receive it. Running for VP of Internal Affairs as the only candidate, Chandler Beck spoke next and explained himself as “the guy who sends out your mailers and spams your inboxes.” Currently, Beck sends emails to the student body regarding SGA events, and he sees communication as the primary goal of this position. “We have been refining our SGA brand as well,” Beck said. “Our new motto that we wrote out this year is ‘a resource and a voice for all SLU students.’” He elaborated that if communication is not clear, it will not be effective. Therefore, through concise language, he promises he will easily convey information to students. VP of Diversity and Inclusion candidates, Nina Oforji and George Tharp, took their platforms and opening statements in different directions: If elected, Oforji explained she will monitor the progress of the Clock Tower Accords and develop a mentorship program to instill a comfortable transition for students within their first year at SLU; Tharp’s opening statement addressed the need for honesty in a campaign and diversity taking the form of love, even when adversity is looking love in the face. The third VP of Diversity and Inclusion candidate, Jemar Perry, was not present. Next in the debate, international students Angela Gomez and Sergio Bernabeu explained their own struggles as non-native American students on SLU’s campus. Both running for VP of International Affairs, Gomez and Bernabeu have experienced difficulties transitioning to the United States, finding employment and receiving a generous scholarship fund. Speaking on behalf of all international

students, Gomez said, “We don’t have a lot of scholarship opportunities because we don’t have FAFSA, so I want to create a new scholarship that will involve incoming students because there are a lot of students from other countries who want to study in the U.S.” Similar to Gomez, Bernabeu wants to make scholarships available for international students as they are supplied with limited financial aid. One frustration he has encountered is that not all of the classes taken abroad have their credits transferred to the main campus, so Bernabeu’s goal is to create true cohesion between all the SLU campuses and partnering universities. The last speakers of the night included Jordan Glassman and Antonia Simpson, both candidates running for VP of Academic Affairs. Highlighting the “gaps” they see within the SLU community among professors and students, Glassman and Simpson addressed the fear students have to speak out against professors who use racist and homophobic dialogue. When asked about goals of their campaigns, Simpson addressed that there are not enough resources for incoming students to succeed. She promises to improve this problem and foster safe spaces for students. Glassman is currently working to develop a platform with the Title IX office to address situations in which students do not feel comfortable in the classroom. Under the platform, students can report the situation safely and anonymously. “We want student voices,” Simpson said. To support student voice, she and all other candidates mentioned, though in some cases briefly, that SGA should listen and respond. It is “a resource and a voice for all SLU students.”

February 22, 2018

News

Tweets

of the week @CNN

Florida school shooting survivor Emma Gonzalez on politicians who take money from the NRA: “If they accept this blood money, they are against the children… you’re either funding the killers, or you’re standing with the children…”

@ABC

@NBCNews

After Hurricane Maria left the entire island without power, the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, or PREPA, needed at least about 53,000 poles, a little over 17 million conductors and 184,750 insulators.

@The_Billiken

Students: need a study break? Get out of the res hall and give back to your community - and don’t forget to log those #service hours in the #SLU200 app.

@KamalaHarris

From business to the arts, to science, sports and everything in between, the achievements and contributions made by AfricanAmericans should not only be celebrated this month but every month because Black history is American history. #BlackHistoryMonth

Michelle Peltier / The University News

NAME GAME: Facilities staﬀ Dan Neibert (on ladder) and Irvin Love hang a new banner on the business school facade.

The Name Game

SLU renames the John Cook Business School By Em Miller and Tannock Blair News Editor and Associate News Editor

It was during SLU’s 200th birthday celebration that John Cook and Dean Mark Higgins discussed making the naming rights of the business school available in the event that an exceptional fundraising gesture be made. On Feb. 20, such a gesture was made. Saint Louis University oﬃcially announced that the John Cook School of Business would be oﬃcially renamed the Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business. In addition, Saint Louis University’s Center for Entrepreneurship will be named the Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship. The John and Lucy Cook Hall building, however, will not change. The couple contributed $5 million toward the building’s construction in 1999, and will therefore continue to retain the namesake. These naming changes come after a $15 million contribution to Saint Louis University’s business education from Dr. Richard A. Chaifetz and his wife, Jill Chaifetz. This donation raises the total amount of money the Chaifetz family has donated to Saint Louis University to $27 million, as they also contributed a $12 million gift to SLU in 2007. The 2007 donation was the lead gift that was used in the construction of Chaifetz Arena.

The business school was named the John to the change. Some, like senior marketing Cook School of Business in fall 2000, when and international studies student Chrisalumnus John Cook earned the naming tina Mertz, have reservations. rights in recognition of his many contribu“I’m just concerned as a graduating setions to the business school and university. nior that the name won’t carry any weight Earlier this month, it was announced that on my resume since it is such a recent SLU had surpassed its fundraising goals. change. I feel the reputations of Cook From July 1 through to the end of 2017, School of Business won’t transfer quickly,” it was reported that SLU had raised $57.6 said Mertz. million. This figure was only $8.5 million While others, like Kevin Ganahl, a jushort of SLU’s 2006 nior entrepreneurfundraising record ship studies student, for the entire fiscal are excited by the year. In regards to change. the fundraising suc“Personally, I cess, President Pesfeel amazing about tello said “There’s it,” Ganahl said. “I no way we’re not think it’s great that going to have our we have such a great best year ever.” donor that continPresident Fred Pestello Dr. Chaifetz ues to provide ingraduated SLU with credibly generous a degree in psycholdonations time and ogy in 1975. Since then, he has gone on time again. To me, it shows the love that to become an incredibly successful entre- Saint Louis University gives and gets from preneur and businessman as founder of the community around it.” the ComPsych Corporation, the world’s Students, faculty and staﬀ and commulargest provider of employee assistance. nity business leaders, have been invited to He was Saint Louis University’s Alumni of celebrate the gift at a reception on Thursthe Year in 2007, as well as an inductee of day, Feb. 22, from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m., while a the Entrepreneurial Hall of Fame that very formal naming dedication for the Richard same year. A. Chaifetz School of Business will be held SLU students have had mixed reactions later this year.

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There’s no way we’re not going to have our best year ever.

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Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School student David Hogg speaks at a rally asking to improve firearm safety legislation in the wake of the deadly shooting at his school: “Thank you for your prayers and condolences but that is not enough.”

News

February 22, 2018

Let Us Introduce You:

Hoonah By EM MILLER News Editor

Hoonah, the resident star of the University Counseling Center as well as the first animal-assisted therapy dog employed at SLU, is as good natured and comforting as he is big. A dedicated employee, Hoonah is present in the University Counseling Center on Thursdays and is often booked with appointments. Like clockwork, every Thursday at four in the afternoon, Hoonah is accompanied by his favorite human, Jennifer Scott, to Yappy Hour. Yappy Hour is one of the many ways that the duo interacts with students across SLU. Because the location changes each week, a wide variety of students get the chance to say hello and shower Hoonah with attention. Scott, who also works within the Counseling Center, comments that Yappy Hour is important because it “helps relieve stress and also provides an opening to counseling for people who might be less willing to come in,” as well as “it provides two faces of the counseling center.”

When he’s not at Yappy Hour, Hoonah performs his job with singleminded determination, participating in therapy sessions and outreach events across campus. These events range from visiting sororities and fraternities, stopping by University 101 classes, and attending speaking events on campus. During therapy sessions, Hoonah relaxes in the room while being present for students in whatever way they need him to be. In a number of cases, Hoonah does this by choosing to lay across student’s feet and relax. Hoonah is the model employee — flexible, positive and so excited to come to campus. In fact, Hoonah enjoys SLU so much that as Scott pointed out, “he doesn’t want to leave half the time.” Like all SLU employees, Hoonah possesses his own ID card and is featured under the staﬀ section on the University Counseling Center’s page. His staﬀ portfolio isn’t Hoonah’s only foray into the internet — he is also the star of his very own Instagram (@hoonahatslunah). Hoonah’s Instagram page captures his day-to-

day life, both at work and at home. Pictures range from Hoonah hanging out with students, enjoying the holidays in a festive hats, spending time with Scott, and his most comfortable nap spots across campus. Despite only being roughly two years old, Hoonah’s favorite thing to do in his free time is sleep. Scott often lets him on the couch, where he will happily doze until disturbed. When he’s not sleeping, Hoonah enjoys chewing on blankets and pillows, going on walks, meeting other dogs, and of course, going to work. Hoonah’s favorite snacks are apples, pumpkins and donuts; with his sensitive nose, he can tell when anyone in the Counseling Center has food that he is interested in. “He will smell it [apples] in my bag,” Scott said with a laugh, “and he will just stare at it. It’s hilarious.” When asked the most important question of all — if Hoonah was, in fact, a good boy, Scott immediately responded with — “Oh, he’s a good boy. He’s the best boy.” If you or your organization are inTrenton Almgren-Davis / The University News terested in meeting Hoonah, contact THE BEST BOY: Hoonah poses patiently for a treat. jenniferscott@slu.edu.

Student protest briefly interupts President’s Welcome Reception

THE SLU SCOOP All Information Provided by Department of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Thursday, Feb 15 2:18 p.m AUTO ACCIDENT SLU Shuttle Bus #44 was driving eastbound on Chouteau in the right turning lane when another car was attempting to make a right turn into the Casa De Salud parking lot. The front passenger side bumper impacted with the front driver’s side of the shuttle bus. No injuries were reported, and students were transferred to shuttle #46. Trenton Almgren-Davis / The University News

By GRANT MAYFIELD Identity Editor

Last Friday, Feb. 16, the welcome reception for prospective students interviewing for SLU’s Presidential Scholarship was interupted by a student protest. The demonstration that included four students and lasted a few minutes called attention to issues

of race associated with the full tuition scholarship as well as the Martin Luter King Jr. Scholarship, which is specifically designed to “develop students as agents of positive social change.” Jay Goﬀ, Vice President of Enrollment and Retention Management, stressed that his oﬃce is open to hearing student concerns and engaging in dialogue about issues of equity.

Friday, Feb 16 2:23 p.m. TRESPASSING

A subject was arrested at St. Francis Xavier College Church after previously been [sic] warned against trespassing at the church. The subject was escorted to the Wool Center and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department was requested to respond. Be a Responsible Billiken STOP. CALL. REPORT. 314-977-3000 witness.slu.edu dps.slu.edu

Arts&Entertainment UNews

February 22, 2018 arts@unewsonline.com Natalie Riopelle, Arts Editor Chandana Kamaraj, Assoc. Arts Editor

Oscar previews By MADISYN SIEBERT Staff Writer

The Oscars are right around the corner, with them being just over a week away. The event always awards the best of the best, and everyone hopes they can finally have their name engraved on one of the golden statues. Especially this year as they celebrate their 90th anniversary. This year, the competition is stiff with many films going above and beyond in the film world. The most esteemed awards could go to any of the nominees because they are all dynamic and unique. Here are my predictions for the show and what I hope to see. First off, we have Jimmy Kimmel hosting. I mean, Kimmel is nice— but let’s be honest— whose favorite late night talk show host is Jimmy Kimmel? No one. So, it’s already off to a rocky start in my opinion, but Kimmel may have a few good jokes, and I hope he brings enthusiasm to the show like he has be-

fore in the past. Onto the awards, there is the Best Director award. I would personally love to see Christopher Nolan win the award for his work on “Dunkirk.” This film was presented in such a visual and immersive way, where little dialogue and pure emotion dragged you into World War II. But, I think the two people who will actually win the award will be Guillermo del Toro or Jordan Peele. Guillermo del Toro directed “The Shape of Water” and Peele directed “Get Out.” Out of those two, I would prefer to see Peele win for his work on a revolutionary film, which got so much buzz by the public. However, all of the directors did amazing work, so I can’t see myself being disappointed by anyone who is awarded. The Best Actress nominees are also a little overwhelming just because all of them are so fantasSee “Oscars” on Page 7

Courtesy of Warner Bros.

Black Panther roars into theaters

Courtesy of Marvel Studios

LEFT TO RIGHT: Lupita Nyong’o, Chadwick Boseman and Letitia Wright are on set of “Black Panther.” By ALEXIS STOGNER Staff Writer

The Disney-Marvel film “Black Panther” hit theaters last Friday and immediately shattered box oﬃce records. Earning an estimated $404 million worldwide during its opening weekend, it became the most profitable February movie debut of all time, as well as the fifth-highest debut weekend gross ever. This was also a historic release for Marvel as it is their first black-directed film with a primarily black cast. Director Ryan Coogler stylishly sets the scene of Wakanda, the fictional African kingdom untouched by European colonialism where “Black Panther” is set. Wakanda is home to Vibranium, a powerful, widely undiscovered mineral that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The kingdom is guarded by the Black Panther, a half religious figure, half superhero passed through generations. The film tells the story of T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman), who

takes over as the Black Panther after his father’s death. His abilities are put to the test when a powerful enemy suddenly reappears and puts the fate of Wakanda at risk. In the face of danger, T’Challa must release the full power of

The film uses the mix of action and humor that audieces have come to expect in Marvel films, but “Black Panther” stands out for many reasons.

Black Panther to protect his people. The film uses the mix of action and humor that audiences have come to expect in Marvel films, but “Black Panther” stands out for many reasons. The film touches on a variety of topics, including colonialism, isolationism and social justice, making this Marvel’s most politically-

charged release yet. Since “Black Panther” covers so many serious topics that are relatable to real life, some might expect the film to be entirely solemn, but luckily this is not the case. The film balances seriousness with laugh-out-loud humor, making for an all-around entertaining experience. Another aspect of the film that stood out to me was its costumes, which were designed by Ruth E. Carter, and were based on actual dress wear from African tribes. The kingdom of Wakanda was shown in vibrant color, thanks to the work of Rachel Morrison, the first-ever woman to be nominated for an Academy Award for cinematography. “Black Panther” also features a groundbreaking cast of women, who played characters who are being praised for their portrayal of strong, complex women who are not competing with one another; See “Black Panther” on Page 8

Arts

February 22, 2018

New documentary brings awareness to tent city By MEGAN ANTHONY Editor-in-Chief

Paul Crane / Living In Tents

CRANE: Bonnie and David, residents of Tent City prepare food. Tucked away on the banks of the Mississippi River, in the shadows of the Edward Jones Dome, once sat Tent City. The little-known homeless community existed in St. Louis from 2010 to 2012. Now filmmaker Paul Crane has captured the day-to-day lives of residents and volunteers in his documentary Living in Tents, set to premiere next week at the Tivoli Theater. Like most people who live in St. Louis, Crane had never even heard of Tent

City until he came across it while driving around. “You had to know about it to get there,” says Crane of the camp. The Olivette native had been looking for places to capture for a photography class he was taking at St. Louis Community College; instead, he found a subject for his first feature film. In fact, Crane was so captivated by the camp’s stories that he actually moved in himself part-time in January 2011, hoping unfiltered access would

Oscars Continued from Page 6

tic. Again, my personal pull would be to see Margot Robbie win for her role in “I, Tonya.” She always seems to get snubbed for the awards, but her work in this film is the one that made me the most excited and fall in love with her character. Who do I think will personally win, though? That has to be Frances McDormand, who completely made you feel every emotion by her work in “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.” She captured audiences across the world as a determined mother trying to figure out who murdered her daughter. I think the other nominees are also amazing, but Meryl Streep has had her time; I think it is time to let some new actresses get the recognition they deserve. Best Actor nominees fell a bit short for me personally. The only person I personally would love to see win is Daniel Kaluuya, who starred as Chris in “Get Out.” Kaluuya made the movie

such the success it was. He carried the role, and brought you along on his journey as Chris Washington. I think the main competitor against him is Gary Oldman, who plays Winston Churchill in “Darkest Hour.” I have not seen this movie yet, but Oldman did win the Golden Globes for his performance as Churchill in this movie, which is a good indicator that he is a strong competitor. The last category that is held in the highest esteem at the Oscars is Best Picture. This year there are nine nominees and honestly it is hard to choose which one will win. My personal favorite to win would be “Dunkirk,” because the camera work really immerses the viewers into the battle of Dunkirk. It has a clear picture and beautiful visuals. However, what I think will win is a diﬀerent story. I can see either “The Shape of Water” or “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” taking home the Oscar. There is just so much hype around the two, and for just cause, as both have clear and beauti-

help him capture the lives of its residents. Having just started out in filming, Crane says he was a little naive when the project began. “I was eager to have the experience, but I wouldn’t do it again,” he says. Still, he credits the experience for opening his eyes to issues surrounding mental health and the programs the city has to help homeless individuals — even as it made him question the idea of homelessness in general. Living in Tents follows five residents and two volunteers of Tent City, which was founded after its residents were kicked out of a diﬀerent encampment in a railroad tunnel. The homeless community in the camp was very much that — a community. “The community aspect is really what made it desirable,” says Crane, who is now 34. For him, the camp was filled with “good vibes,” and for the most part, people were friendly. During its two-year existence, Tent City was an experiment in self-governing and alternative lifestyles. Three smaller, separate camps made up the city, each with a person seen as its leader while others pitched in with various tasks to help keep their camp running. Crane spent most of his time in the

various tasks to help keep their camp running. Crane spent most of his time in the camp known as Sparta, and found See “Tent city” on Page 8

Paul Crane / Living In Tents

CRANE: Sign welcoming people to Hopeville, one of the three camps in Tent City.

ful pictures, and the footage is edited seamlessly. Any of the nine nominees could take home this prize and I would be satisfied. It would also be great to just see the underdogs win as well. The 2018 Academy Awards are

definitely not something to miss, especially this year with all of the incredible films that were released. But, let’s be real. Will any Oscars be as great as the year Leonardo DiCaprio finally won?

Courtesy of Universal Pictures

BEST PICTURE: Daniel Kaluuya stars in Jordan Peele’s critically-acclaimed film, “Get Out.”

8 February 22, 2018

Arts

To do in STL Goulash Vs. Gumbo Fest ‘18 Sun. Mar. 3 American Czech Center

“Rhinoceros” by Eugene Ionesco Thurs. Mar. 1 - Sun. Mar. 4 Xavier Hall

Black Panther Continued from Page 6

the types of characters I would like to see more of in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Lupita Nyong’o, who plays Nikia, said of the roles of women in the film, “What I love about the way this film represents women is that each and every one of us is an individual, [and] unique.” This, along with the aspect of a primarily African American cast, also stresses the importance of representation in Hollywood. “We all have our own sense of power

and our own agency and we hold our own space without being pitted against each other,” said Nyong’o. Audiences interested in the typical action-packed superhero movie will enjoy Black Panther, but the film’s deeper messages about race, social justice, and more will speak to viewers everywhere, and has the potential to spark important and necessary conversations in the film industry.

“Annihilation”

Release: Fri. Feb. 22

Morpho Mardi Gras

Thurs. Mar. 1-Sat. Mar. 31 The Butterfly House at Faust Park

Lorde

Fri. Mar. 2 Chaifetz Arena

Tent city

Continued from Page 7

that many who lived there preferred this style of living to being on the streets or in homeless shelters. In fact, many did not just prefer it, but had chosen it. Crane met one resident who had moved into an apartment, but not too soon after was back on the streets. The film raises a surprising question: Does society need to rethink the idea of homelessness as a problem? And are there other ways to help those who choose to live diﬀerently than we do? As for the volunteers helping the camp, they not only brought supplies, but also provided companionship that connected the residents to the rest of society. In the trailer for the film, a resident named Blake describes two of the volunteers as mother and father figures. “People are not surviving on their own,” says Crane of Tent City’s denizens — something that became more evident as the years passed. While things started oﬀ well enough, Tent City was plagued with

issues. Crane describes it as selfimploding, saying that crime and violence began to occur more often. When the city shut down the camp in 2012, it was easy to assume that was the reason, although Crane claims city leaders were always intent on putting a stop to it. However, the city did not simply kick out the residents. Instead they raised enough private money to put everyone up in an apartment for a year. Although intentions were good, Crane says he is aware of very little, if any, job training. Crane kept up with a few of the residents after the encampment was closed and says it’s interesting to see who went back to streets. He wonders how much good moving them out of their chosen lifestyle accomplished. Living in Tents depicts an in-depth look at homelessness in St. Louis, letting viewers get to know people they might rather look past. The film will premiere at the Tivoli Theater on February 22. It is a free event, but donations of socks, shoes, hand warmers and other necessities are appreciated.

Courtesy of Marvel Studios

MARVEL: Chadwick Boseman stars as T’Challa in the groundbreaking superhero film, “Black Panther.”

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February 22, 2018

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Games

February 22, 2018

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February 22, 2018

Photography

Contrasting opinions take stage in VP debates By Rebecca LiVigni and Trenton Almgren-Davis Co-Photo Editors

“

Upper Left: Chandler Beck explains his qualifications to become Vice President of Internal Aﬀairs. Bottom Left: Sergio Bernabeu, candidate for VP of International Aﬀairs, listens to the concerns of the audience about international integration on campus. Upper Right: SLU-TV broadcasts the vice presidential debates to the online SLU community. Bottom Right: Nina Oforji expresses her Nina Oforji, Candidate for Vice policy for promoting inclusion of all stu- President of Diversity and Inclusion dents as an opposing candidate listens.

We shouldn’t be afraid to go out to other people... and experience different cultures, different identities.

“

Photography

Februay 22, 2018

Perspective of an education student: School shootings By Trenton Almgren Davis Photo Co-Editor

Michael Guavian, Class of 2021

Trenton Almgren-Davis / The University News

To symbolize a state of mourning after the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, the flags around the nation a re lowered to half-staﬀ.

Michael Guavian is a freshman pursuing a degree in education. His first response to the Parkland massacre of 14 students and three teachers in Parkland, Florida was a question of frequency. Marjory Stoneman Douglas now tops a long list of tragedies including Sandy Hook, Virginia Tech and Columbine. “Wow,” Guavian proclaimed. “Why does this keep happening?” Two topics are often brought up in conversation with the school shootings: Gun control and mental health. However, the future teacher believes fundamental changes in society through education are needed. He says, “It starts at a much more simple level: Teachers paying more attention to their classroom.”

Bullying and isolation are harmful factors to young students. Teachers can be guiding hands to those in need and can control the environment of the classroom. Furthermore, Guavain advocated for more conversation about the topic of gun violence in the classroom. An informed youth is important to fixing societal problems. When asked about the proposed legislation in Alabama of arming teachers, Guavain disapproved. He emphasized “prevention” rather than normalizing the violence and relying on “protection.” In other words, Guavain wants to live in a society in which mass shootings are outliers rather than commonplace events. Arming teachers acknowledges mass shootings as ordinary and does not reduce future instances.

Photography

February 22, 2018

“It’s important for people to have compassion and concern for one another. We can get so busy in our own worlds, but for better or worse you really never what it’s like to go through something like this until you do.”

Rebecca LiVigni / The University News

A psychological perspective on the Parkland shooting r. Terri L. Weaver sits down with me to reflect on the recent tragic shooting that occurred last Wednesday afternoon, Feb. 14, at a high school in Parkland, Florida. Rebecca: Tell me a little about your background and what your research interests are. Weaver: So, I am a professor of psychology here in St. Louis. I am a clinical psychologist and my area of research and clinical interests are the psychological impacts of exposure to traumatic events with a particular interest in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and the associations between PTSD and diﬀerent emotional and physical health problems. R: From your research and experience, how do you think this traumatic event will impact the students and victims? W: Well, it’s hard to say exactly how they will be impacted, but we know based on looking at research of other mass shootings that people can be sig-

“

By Rebecca LiVigni Photo Editor nificantly impacted. If you think close in terms of a friend being about it, the shooting occurred severely injured or killed, or they in a place that is really supposed may have directly witnessed the to be a safe place. So, having life- violence. Then there’s the impact of the aftermath of threatening viothe violence, which lence and intentional violence The shooting occurred when it occurs in that occurs in in a place that is really a place of daily life that, it provides a safe space—a supposed to be a safe like these additional space that stuplace...a place that disruptions and redents go to every single day—can students go to every minders of the traumatic event that ocbe very scary single day. curred. Forever this and very diffiDr. Terri L. Weaver, SLU school will be assocult. Psychology Professor ciated with that, not R: Can you exonly for them, but plain some of the differences in reactions that for the whole community. would occur amongst the victims? R: What are some ways that vicW: There will be some gradations tims can heal moving forward? of how students are impacted, but W: During recovery, we encourage the people who may be the most people to practice good self-care, affected are those who were clos- and to try to get sleep, [and] to try est to the violence. There are those to allow your body and your mind who were injured, or who were to emotionally heal from an experi-

ence. But also allowing a person to talk about [it], [and] meeting them where they are. I think the students having the opportunity to speak out and express their concerns with policies is very healthy and empowering. When people make meaning out of their experience, it can be very helpful in terms of recovery. R: How do these kinds of events impact our greater society, even for the students at SLU? W: That’s a really good question. I really do think that safety comes from cohesive communities. When people look out for one another and are knowledgeable about risky situations and how to respond to them, then I feel that will lead to greater safety for all of us. What I would not want to see come out of this is increased stigmatizing of mental disorders, and for the most part, mental disorders do not make people more violent.

Photography

February 22, 2018

SLU students jumpstart their futures at career fair

Trenton Almgren-Davis / The University News

Potential employers enthusiastically receive SLU students and alums at Career Fair on Wednesday afternoon.

Rebecca LiVigni / The University News

Joe Zucchini of the Peace Corps describes the process of volunteering for the organization.

Rebecca LiVigni / The University News

Senior Victoria Martinez Banda hands her resume to representatives from the Social Security Administration.

Rebecca LiVigni / The University News

Junior Ian De Leon shakes hands and discusses opportunities for internships with a company recruiter.

Rebecca LiVigni / The University News

Senior Molly Meer and Sophomore Rebecca Fahy laugh with Peace Corps recruiter, learning about post-university volunteering.

Sports

Saint Louis University Athletics RUN: Senior forward Maddison Gits hunts down a loose ball at Mizzou. Gits scored in double digits at Rhode Island and against George Washington.

February 22, 2018 sports@unewsonline.com Bobby Stilwell, Sports Editor Monica Ryan, Assoc. Sports Editor

Saint Louis University Athletics BATTLE: Junior center Tara Dusharm dribbles around a Duquesene defender at Chaifetz Arena. Dusharm scored a career high 16 points in the game.

Women battle at home and on the road

By Sam Glass Staﬀ Writer

The Billikens continued their road trip with a Feb. 10 game against Rhode Island. The second consecutive road game brought the Bills a win before their return home. The game saw three Billikens finish in double digits with senior forward Maddy Gits scoring in the double digits for her seventh consecutive game. The first quarter had SLU chasing Rhode Island early on until the Bills were able to break through and take the lead after a three from junior guard Jordyn Frantz. Up 8-9, Rhode Island struck back with a three, retaking the lead. The first quarter ended with the Bills trailing 19-15. Rhode Island took their biggest lead of the game in the second quarter at 22-15, but the Bills were able to strike back and take the lead at the end of the half, bringing the halftime score to 31-29. The Bills put in a big third quarter performance and ended the third with a nine-point lead

at 49-40. SLU found their groove in the fourth quarter to come out with the win and a final score of 69-66. The Billikens returned home to Chaifetz Arena for a Valentine’s Day game against Duquesne. Junior center Tara Dusharm scored her career high of 16 points, contributing to the 38 points off the bench. The Bills ultimately fell to their A-10 foe 76-66. Unable to regain the early lead set in the first quarter, the Bills trailed behind Duquesne for the rest of the game. The Bills took to Chaifetz again Saturday, Feb. 17. The mid-Saturday game pit the Billikens up against George Washington. The first quarter saw the Bills down early on, but a 13-2 run put them in the lead at 15-8 with just 39 seconds in the quarter. The first quarter ended with the Bills holding off George Washington 15-10. George Washington saw a big bounce back in the second quarter, kicking it off with a 13-point run, overtaking the Billiken lead at 23-15. George Washington continued to push on, resulting in a half-

time score of 32-23 with the Bills trailing. SLU continued to fall in the third quarter as George Washington went up 40-27, but the Bills struck back and reduced the lead to just six points at 46-40 for the end of the third quarter. George Washington managed to sink 11 of 12 free throws in the final quarter, cementing them the win over SLU with a final score of 71-58. The defeat was a hard pill to swallow for the Bills. “It’s tough,” said Head Coach Lisa Stone. “We’re playing for home court in the A-10 tournament, and it’s disappointing to lose at home to protect home court.” The Bills stepped back into action after their flight to Richmond, taking on VCU in their penultimate game before the start of the A-10 tournament. The first quarter got oﬀ to a slow start with VCU taking an early lead, but the Bills kept the fight going and ended the quarter trailing at 20-19. VCU was able to push a lead and entered the halftime break with a six-point lead at 35-29.

The second half broke out and after some technical diﬃculties with the shot clock were fixed, the game was back underway. The third quarter saw VCU take an 11-point lead with five minutes in the quarter at 34-43. But the Bills kept at it, staying within 10 points to finish out the quarter, trailing 45-51. Down 60-70 with three minutes left in the fourth quarter, the Bills struck at VCU. A 10-point run, spearheaded by senior guard Jackie Kemph, who scored nine of the points, brought the game into overtime. The Bills fell in overtime in a close catand-mouse chase where VCU picked up the early lead and the Bills were left trailing. The game finished with a VCU win 84-88. The Billikens are back in action Saturday, Feb. 24, at Chaifetz Arena with a 2 p.m. start on Senior Day, as they take on Dayton.

Sports

February 22, 2018

Saint Louis University Athletics

STUFF: Freshman forward Hasahn French dunks the basketball. French was named A-10 Rookie of the Week prior to the game at Dayton.

Short-staffed Men see continued success By Bobby Stilwell Sports Editor

Despite Ty Graves withdrawing from SLU a few days prior, SLU Men’s Basketball prevailed over La Salle 70-62 at Chaifetz Arena on Saturday, Feb. 10. SLU scored twice in the first two minutes, with layups from redshirt junior guard Javon Bess and freshman forward Hasahn French. La Salle struck back with an early jumper and trey, holding a slim lead for five minutes. SLU rallied with a 10-0 run late in the first half to take a 19-12 lead at the 7:30 mark. La Salle got another slim lead in

CHEER

the closing two minutes of the first half, but freshman guard Jordan Goodwin swished a pair of free throws and blocked a La Salle jumper. SLU headed to the locker room, tied 26-26. The second half started off as a back-andforth battle, but SLU embarked on another 11-0 run late in the half (with eight of those points from Goodwin). SLU led 52-43 lead at the 8:35 mark and held on for the win. Goodwin set a new career high in points, scoring 28, while French tied the season record for blocks by a freshman (51). Graduate center Rashed Anthony doesn’t

WHO TO CHEER SADIE WISE The SLU Softball freshman was named A-10 Rookie of the Week. At the Petersen Hotels Invitational, she batted .412 and hit her first college homerun vs. Miami on Feb. 9.

always post big numbers on the stat sheets, but Goodwin credits Anthony with helping him keep his cool. “Rashed is the team god. Sometimes when I get frustrated, he’s the first one to talk to me.” Head Coach Travis Ford agreed with Goodwin. “[W]hen his name is called, [Anthony]’s going to give it the best he’s got… He gets in the game, and he’s a difference maker.” Over the course of the game, there were 50 personal fouls called between both teams. Ford remarked that the bulk of them were away from the ball, and “that game

JEER

must have [taken] four hours.” Before SLU traveled to Richmond on Saturday, Feb. 17, Goodwin was suspended for the remainder of the 2017-18 season, leaving the team with just seven scholarship players. Despite losing one of the team’s leading scorers and having limited depth on the bench, SLU pulled off a 72-66 win. Richmond got on the board early, scoring six points in the opening four minutes of the game. A layup from senior guard Davell Roby ignited a 11-0 SLU run, and the BilSee “SLU” on Page 18

FEAR WHO TO JEER

WHO TO FEAR

CORNHUSKERS’ BENCH In the game against Indiana, the Nebraska Men’s Basketball team celebrated after *every* basket, forming an improvised bobsled team for one of the celebrations. Celebrating is okay, but Nebraska may have gone a bit too far.

LEBRON JAMES Rumors have been flying in the NBA about LeBron heading for another team. Which team is up for debate depending on who you ask. With no hits from LeBron, NBA fans are wondering what he’ll do.

Sports

Thursday, Feb.22

Friday, Feb. 23

Baseball 3 p.m. vs. Notre Dame @ Alamo Irish Classic, San Antonio, Texas

Baseball 12 p.m. vs. Purdue @ Alamo Irish Classic, San Antonio, Texas Men’s Tennis 3:30 p.m. vs. IUPUI

This week in Sports

Saturday, Feb. 24

Sunday, Feb. 25

Tuesday, Feb. 27

Softball Women’s Basketball Women’s Basketball 11 a.m. vs. Missouri State 2 p.m. vs. Dayton SLU will host the A-10 @ Louisiana Tech InvitaMen’s Basketball Championship First 7 p.m. vs. George Wash- tional, Ruston, Louisiana Round. Men’s Tennis ington Opponent and time TBA. 4 p.m. at Indiana

February 22, 2018

Wednesday, Feb. 28

Friday, Mar. 1

Women’s Tennis 12 p.m. @ Rhode Island Men’s Basketball 6 p.m @ Duquesne

Men’s Tennis 4 p.m. @ Richmond

Saint Louis University Athletics POWER: Junior Isaiah Williams swims down the lane. Williams was on multiple record-breaking relay teams and set a few individual records at the A-10 Championships.

Swimming and Diving breaks records at A-10 meet By Erin McClelland Staﬀ Writer

The SLU Swimming and Diving teams traveled to the Spire Center in Geneva, Ohio for the Atlantic-10 Conference Championships the weekend of Feb. 1417. The Billikens came out of the big meet with four golds, one silver, five bronzes, a number of high-placing swims and four new school records. Senior Ryan McCoy led the team with three individual golds in the 500 Freestyle, 100 Butterfly and 100 Freestyle. The meet started very strong for SLU when the Women’s 800 Freestyle relay

team of Erica Morris, Mina Glenesk, Riley Kirby and Elaine Mahon broke the school record, followed by the Men’s 800 Freestyle relay team of McCoy, Collin O’Brien, Grant Streid and Isaiah Williams finishing first. The Men’s 200 Medley Relay consisting of TJ Halliburton, Justin Mars, McCoy and Williams also broke a school record to start the meet oﬀ on a very strong note. On day two, freshman Natalie Daniel set a new school record in the Women’s 50 Freestyle finishing in 15th, and O’Brien broke his own record in the Men’s 200 Individual Medley while finishing fifth. Glenesk took third in the 500 Freestyle

missing the top spot by less than a second. The Men’s 200 Freestyle relay of O’Brien, Mars, Christian L’Italien and Streid finished eighth. Day three saw the Billikens take first and third in the Men’s 100 Butterfly with McCoy and Williams, respectively. Mars snagged a bronze in the 100 Breaststroke and O’Brien wasn’t far behind to finish in fifth in the same event. The Men’s 400 Medley Relay team of Halliburton, Mars, Williams and McCoy found silver. There were a few more top eight finishes on day three, meaning the swimmers qualified for the championship final. Halliburton

and Kirby both finished eighth in the 100 Backstroke and Mars finished in eighth in the 400 Individual Medley. The final day of competition wrapped up with a gold by McCoy and three bronze finishes from O’Brien in the 200 Breaststroke, Streid in the 200 Butterfly, and the Men’s 400 Freestyle relay team of Stried, O’Brien, McCoy and Williams. Glenesk took fifth in the 1650 Freestyle, the longest event of the meet. At the conclusion of the meet, the Billiken Women finished eighth overall and the Men finished in fifth, just four points behind fourth.

18 February 22, 2018 SLU winning with limited depth

Sports

Continued from Page 16

likens headed to the locker room with a 3027 lead. Richmond came out shooting in the second half, scoring 11 unanswered points in the first five minutes. A pair of French layups and a tip-in from redshirt junior D.J. Foreman brought SLU back on top 40-39 with 13:15 left. A 7-0 SLU run midway through the half stopped the La Salle offense from retaking the lead, and the team hit seven critical free throws in the closing minute to clinch the victory. SLU’s next game was a quick turnaround, and the team stayed on the road, facing A-10 arch rival Dayton on Tuesday, Feb. 20. Despite spending the bulk of the game in the lead or close to it, the Billikens fell to the Flyers 53-50.

SLU fell behind early in the first half, trailing 6-2 at the 18:33 mark. With a dunk from Foreman as the igniter, SLU went on a 10-2 run throughout the later part of the first half. SLU led 23-14 at the 5:41 mark. SLU kept this nine-point margin at the half off a buzzer beater trey from redshirt senior guard Aaron Hines. SLU held on to the lead throughout the first part of the second half, but Dayton tied the game at the 10:39 mark, and the lead became another back-and-forth battle. SLU was unable to come back from a late 6-0 rally by the Flyers. SLU heads home on Saturday, Feb. 24, hosting A-10 foe George Washington for a 7 p.m. tip at Chaifetz Arena.

Saint Louis University Athletics ABOVE: Junior Manuel de Backer leads the pack during a race. De Backer took home the silver medal in two races at the Atlantic-10 Indoor Championships. BELOW: Junior Ann Harlos clears a hurdle. Harlos finished eighth in the 60-meter hurdles at the Atlantic-10 Indoor Championships.

Track sets personal records despite poor team performance

Saint Louis University Athletics DETERMINED: Senior Ryan Noonan races around the track. Noonan took home three medals at the Atlantic-10 Indoor Championships. By Monica Ryan Associate Sports Editor

This past weekend, Men’s and Women’s Track and Field competed at the Atlantic-10 Indoor Championships at Mackal Field House in Kingston, Rhode Island. As a collective, the men scored 51 points in the meet, giving them an eighth-place finish out of 10 teams. Junior long distance runner Manuel de Backer competed in the 5000 meter and 3000-meter races where he was seeded to win gold in the 5000 and bronze in the 3000, but ended both races with the silver.

De Backer missed first place in the 5000 on Saturday by four thousandths of a second. On Sunday during the 3000, he crossed the finish line at a personal best time of 8:19.14. De Backer was disappointed in his performance during the 5000, saying “It looked like I was going to win, but in the last meter I got out-inched. I was mad at myself that I didn’t have that little bit left in me.” His performance in the 3000 surprised him, though. “It was a really fast race with a strong crew. I wasn’t expecting to PR. It came out of nowhere.” On Tuesday it was announced that freshman long distance runner, Ben Nae-

ger, earned a spot on the Indoor Track and Field All Rookie Team. Naeger ran in the 5000 meter and 3000 meter, where he was the only freshman competing amongst older and more experienced runners. In the 3000, Naeger earned ninth out of 13 and in the 5000, he earned tenth out of 20. Senior Ryan Noonan had an exciting road to the podium on Sunday. On Saturday, Noonan finished fifth in the 800 prelims, which was good enough to make it to the final race on Sunday. He then took home second place with a time of 1:53.40. Noonan continued to have a successful weekend with the Billiken men taking

Saint Louis University Athletics home the bronze in the men’s 4x800 meter relay. Junior Kevin Ganahl, Noonan, sophomore Jon Schaefer and junior Tannock Blair broke the school record with their bronze finish with an ending time of 7:50.32. The women had a disappointing weekend, while only scoring three points and placing twelfth out of 13. Junior Ann Harlos reached the finals of the 60-meter hurdles and ran to an eighthplace finish of 9.13. Freshman Katie Wissing finished eighth in the triple jump, hitting 11.37 meters.

Saint Louis University Athletics

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February 22, 2018

Opinions&Editorials

February 22, 2018

opinion@unewsonline.com

Fiona Clair, Opinion Editor

A statement on gun violence

Claire Cunningham Contributor

In 1999, the nation was stunned and devastated at the loss of 13 innocent lives in the Columbine massacre. Parents wept, a nation grieved and as a country, we swore it would never happen again. Today, the Columbine massacre is no longer in the top 10 deadliest shootings in the United States. And here we are again, 17 people killed in an act of senseless violence. Last spring, I watched a shooting from the window of my residence hall. A gun was fired outside of Humphrey’s, and I saw the flash, heard the shots and called the police. It was unnerving, but no one was hurt. I told myself that while the incident was definitely frightening, I was safe on Saint Louis University’s

campus. planned attack, we were goThat same week, we went ing to be in the line of fire. on lockdown for what Eventually, an all clear was turned out to be a toy gun. given. There never had been The moments of think- a real gun, and for that we ing there was a shooter can all be grateful. But unon campus fortunatewere some ly, today of the most“This is no longer aboutthis is the gut-wrenchreality that ing of mythe handgun that yours t u d e n t s life. I was in e v e r y Spring Hall,father keeps in his night-where face. the buildCollege ing wherestand; this is about AR-s t u d e n t s the shooter at Virginia was suppos-15s in the hands of mad-Tech, high edly inside. scho olers When we at Marjory men. ” evacuated, I Stoneman went to the D o u g library to try las High to find my roommate, Hal- School, and yes, even the ey. When I arrived at the li- six and seven-year-olds at brary, it went on shutdown. Sandy Hook Elementary No one was allowed in or school know far too well out. We received an alert the devastation that comes (later turning out to be a at the hands of a gunman. panicked false alarm) that The classic phrase “Guns shots had been fired on the don’t kill people, people kill opposite side of campus. To people,” is one that I have anyone familiar with SLU’s been seeing on social mecampus, this implied that dia the most. This phrase there were two gunmen. is over simplistic at best Images of Columbine came and ignorant at worst. Of to me, and I knew that if course people kill people, there were multiple shoot- but those people use guns ers, they had to be coming to kill people, and they have to the library. It was almost access to assault weapons finals, and the library was that our military use. This is full of students; if this was a no longer about the hand-

gun that your father keeps in his nightstand; this is about AR-15s in the hands of madmen. In Florida, there is no waiting period to purchase such a weapon. There are no permits to purchase, and no license is required. I have also seen people advocating for teachers to be trained and given guns to protect their students. I find this suggestion outrageous. Not only are schools underfunded, but our teachers should not be acting as an organized militia. And these issues aﬀect them as well. I know that any one of the teachers that I have had in my 20 years would jump in front of a bullet for students without hesitating; I do not want my teachers laying down their lives for me. It is not in their job descriptions to be willing to die on the job. While it is true that violent people will find ways to be violent even if we take away the guns, the carnage left after mass shootings would not exist if these attackers only had access to knives or other weapons. Attacks using alternative weapons do not create the staggering number of deaths that automatic weapons do. It

should be our responsibility as American citizens to attempt to save as many lives as possible. It makes sense to set up basic restrictrictions to firearms. It should not be so easy for these angry, hate-filled and violent perpetrators to take the lives of our loved ones. In Missouri, a person does not need a permit to openly carry a gun. There are no required permits to purchase, no registry of weapons and no required license for owners. And while SLU does not allow firearms on campus, there is nothing that could stop someone from coming on our campus to cause terror. Nothing. However, I am not afraid. I am energized. I believe in the power of the people and the power of organizing. Students are speaking out, because we refuse to live in fear any longer. I am asking SLU students, and all students across this nation, to register to vote and vote out the people who are putting their NRA donations above the lives of our peers. We won’t wait until it is our campus to speak out against this violence. We want real change, and we want it now.

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OPINIONS & EDITORIALS

The hardest part of vegetarianism â&#x20AC;&#x153;other people.â&#x20AC;? If I lived in a vacuum or in a world where I had little to no human contact, being a vegetarian would be a piece of cake. My family has even adapted in such a way that I did not fully realize the diďŹ&#x192;culties of vegetarianism until I got to college and began eating with other people often. I live my life in a way that accommodates my eating habitsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;I Madeline Burns enjoy restaurants that oďŹ&#x20AC;er dishes Contributor without meat and I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think twice about it. Other people, however, do not think in this way and it can make There are many reasons to become for awkward situations. a vegetarian; the two most common Imagine you are going over to a new are ethical issues and health reasons. friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house for the first time and We all know the vegetarian who is all their parents cooked dinner for you. too excited to tell you about the cruIf you are a picky eater this might alelties that occur on factory farms and ready be a stressful situation. What if make you highly aware that eating you do not like what they make? Then meat is murder. This person does not you can at least eat a bite and politely have a hard time saying no to meat. stop eating without drawing much atInstead, they have a hard time beHowever, what if ing around meat. We â&#x20AC;&#x153;If I lived in a tention. you are a vegetarian and also know the person who genuinely finds vacuum or in a they make lasagna? There is no polite way to get out the salad the most appealing item on the world where I had of that one. You will have three options: You can put menu. It almost seems as though they are fak- little to no human the food on your plate, not eat it and hope that no one ing, but I can promise you they are notâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;I am contact, being a notices; you can explain that you do not eat meat one of them. Similarly, this type of vegetarian would and make the hosts feel bad; or, you can break your person does not have a hard time saying no to be a piece of cake.â&#x20AC;? seven years of vegetarianism and eat the lasagna. meat, they simply do All three options are not like it. However, awkward and less than dewhen people askâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; sirable. I have picked the first and secwhich they frequently doâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x153;what ond often and have highly considered is the hardest part about not eating the third a number of times. All opmeat?â&#x20AC;? they expect the answer to be tions are hard to recover fromâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the something along the lines of, â&#x20AC;&#x153;saying topic of the dinner is now your prono to meat when I would actually like tein intake. This situation is a reguto be eating it,â&#x20AC;? but this is just not the lar occurrence for your vegetarian case. To most vegetarians, especially friends and can cause much stress. those who stay vegetarian, meat has So, the next time you find out your lost its appeal. So, saying no to meat new friend is a vegetarian, maybe inis not at all diďŹ&#x192;cult. In fact, it is prestead of asking them what the hardest ferred. part is, ask them what their favorite You may then ask, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Well, then what meal is. is the hardest part about not eating meat?â&#x20AC;? To which my answer is always

February 22, 2018

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Opinions & Editorials

February 22, 2018

A response to gun violence in America

Jakob Benedetti Staff Writer

Last Wednesday, Feb. 14, at least 17 people were brutally murdered and several more gravely injured. Nikolas Cruz, 19, took an Uber that morning to the high school he had been expelled from for disciplinary reasons, armed with an AR-15 assault rifle and several smoke grenades, according to authorities. Not long after arriving, he brandished his weapon and began firing into classrooms and hallways, ditching his gun and blending into the crowd of fleeing students once he’d ran out of ammunition. Cruz was arrested not long after, and has since pleaded guilty. Events like what took place in Florida, while terrible, oftentimes barely seem to register in the grand scheme of our national discourse. This time, however, may be diﬀerent. There is some indication that the Florida shooting has registered in a way that other shootings have not; Google searches for terms related to “gun control” have skyrocketed since the attack, and have not substantially subsided as of Feb. 19 when I wrote this. This is likely due in large part to the victims of this attack — the

students of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Since 17 of their peers were killed last week before their very eyes, the students who survived have been extremely vocal and active by going on every cable news station that will broadcast them, organizing vigils and rallies, and passionately arguing in favor of increased gun control. They have also been outspoken in their desire for politicians who accept NRA money to be punished electorally for doing so, and have stated that they hope the attack on their school will be a “turning point” in the national gun control debate. It is my sincere hope that their desires come to fruition. This is by no means the first such event to occur in the United States in this century, or even this year. Since Jan. 1, 2018, there have been nine instances of guns being intentionally discharged on school campuses that led to the death of someone besides the attacker, and 17 total instances of guns being discharged on campuses. Since Columbine (April 20, 1999), there have been 270 shootings at schools leading to 141 deaths, according to FBI statistics. According to the Human Development Index, the U.S. has

the worst rate of gun deaths of any other modernized nation, with an annual rate of 29.7 gun deaths per million people. For context, Canada has 5.1, and Australia has 1.4, the lowest rate of gun deaths in the world. Of all the epidemics confronting the United States today — and this is a uniquely American problem — this should be the one that we are most eager to address. Of all the inherent problems within our society, this should be the easiest to remedy. The obstacles to preventing these sorts of events from occurring are not practical—they are political. Despite 60 percent of Americans generally supporting stricter gun laws and as much as 80 percent supporting specific gun control measures, the only action that has been taken in Congress has been to decrease the ability of the government to regulate the sale of firearms. In fact, one of the first things President Trump did after being elected was to repeal a rule enacted by Obama that barred the sale of firearms to mentally ill persons; so, when any politician tells you the issue is mental health, ask them how they feel about that rule—but I digress. The reality is that a minority of the country—gun manufacturers and their lobbyists— have subverted institutions such as the NRA, and have used their vast wealth to influence public

“There is some indication that theFlorida shooting has registered in a way that other shootings have not.”

policy to the point of nullifying the opinions of over 60 percent of Americans. Indeed, in 2016 alone, the NRA and other “gun rights” groups gave over $50 million in bribes to Republican politicians. A miniscule fraction of that money also went to so-called “Blue Dog” Democrats who oppose gun control. I mentioned earlier that the obstacles to reducing gun violence were political, not practical. That’s because the very same policy solutions that are being discussed by proponents of gun control have been enacted in many, if not most, other modern nations—and even in some of our country’s states. According to the New York Times, there are 19 separate gun control measures that are favored by a majority of the American people and rated as “eﬀective” by industry experts. These include universal background checks, an assault weapons ban, a gun purchase limit, a ban on high capacity magazines, expanded funding for mental health research and treatment, and barring the sale of firearms to mentally ill people, suspected terrorists and convicted violent criminals.None of these have even been debated in Congress since Trump’s election. Any politician who does not support increased gun control will not be getting my vote this year or any year, and hopefully they won’t get yours, either.

Opinions & Editorials

February 22, 2018

Editorial: Gun reform, it’s simple The University News Editorial Board

There is nothing simple about 14 high schoolers and three faculty members being gunned down at the end of a school day. Just like there is nothing simple about 20 elementary school children and six faculty members being gunned down. Or 59 concert goers, nine black individuals in a historic African American church, 49 LGBTQ+ individuals in a nightclub, or 26 parishioners sitting in pews in a church in Texas. None of it is simple. The United States has more mass shootings —and more people killed in mass shootings — than Australia, Canada, China, England, Finland, France, Germany, Mexico, Norway and Switzerland combined, according to Politifact. Politifact also reports that in the United States, there are between 6 million and 10 million AR-15 semi-automatic rifles in circulation. In 1994, a ban was placed on the manufacturing of the AR-15, but that ended in 2004. Now, there is no federal law regulating the semi-automatic rifle and laws regarding it are up to states. Two of the deadliest mass shootings have taken place in Florida: the Pulse nightclub shooting in 2016 and at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School just last week. Laws regarding guns in Florida are essentially non-existent. One is not required to have a gun permit to purchase a firearm. The legal age to buy a gun is 18, but minors may do so

with parental permission. It is easier to buy an AR-15 in Florida than a handgun. In some states, an AR-15 is against hunting laws. There is nothing simple about the number of mass shootings that plague American cities. But it seems that there is nothing complicated either. It is the opinion of the University News Editorial Board that things cannot carry on as they are, and that gun reform and small actions such as voting are all it takes to keep each other safe. Whether the arguments span to mental health, broken families, education or culture, it still revolves around the availability of military-grade weapons to the public. Yes, people kill people. However, it physically takes a human being to pull the trigger in order for a gun to be fired and imminently kill or maim another living being. But the gun is still the agent that brings death. How many lives could have been saved if a law made it harder for the killer to get a gun? These questions seem impossible to answer but fair to ask. Resident advisors at SLU received training on what to do in a school shooting and paid for it on their own dime. One editor on the board shared that her mom, a preschool teacher, had to have a conversation about school shootings with her students. This seems ridiculous, yet totally and completely necessary. The reality of the world we live in is that not even preschool students can

be afforded the innocence their small knowledge of the world requires when one day they could be at the wrong end of a barrel. Morality is a fickle thing. It can be debated and twisted by politicians and media personalities in order to force an agenda. But in this case, it seems to be clear as can be. People are dying. It’s a different time, so we need to do something different. Educate yourself on signs of a distressed person. Educate yourself on guns and what to do if you’re ever faced with one. Get out and vote. As this editorial was being written, Florida lawmakers voted to make pornography a public health care concern, but blocked a ban on assault rifles.

Vote for politicians who did not receive money from the NRA. Get out and vote for legislation that supports mental health resources for schools, affordable childcare so parents can continue to work and provide a stable household, and that does not cut money from medicaid and medicare. If there is anything we should have learned in the last 20 years since Columbine rocked our cozy suburban lives, it is that a large power resides in the hands of human beings. Whether that power is transmitted through an AR-15, a voting ballot, or in extending it to another person who feels lost, it is up to us. It’s simple.

Nish GORCZYCA/The University News

February 22, 2018