The Villanovan | Volume 111, Issue 7: September 2, 2020

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 2, 2020 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan VOLUME 111 | ISSUE 7

COVID-19 Tracker p. 2 Local Universities Approach Fall Semester Differently p. 2

STUDENT-RUN SINCE 1916

Justice for Black Lives Virtual Vigil Calls on University Community to Take Action

The Changing Landscape of Intramural Sports p. 3 The Impact of Hong Kong’s National Security Law p. 5 Letter from the Editors: Stay Home p. 5 Club Spotlight: CAT p. 6 Short Shorts are Back p. 7 Villanovans Turn to TikTok p. 7 New Music Corner: The Beths and “Jump Rope Gazers” p. 8 Enjoying Philly Amid COVID-19 p. 9 In Memoriam: Chadwick Boseman p. 9 Meet Sanaä Barnes and The 13% p. 10 Loss of John Thompson Jr. Rocks Big East Basketball p. 10 Interview with “Super-Super Senior” Casey Comber p. 11 Bigger than Sports p. 11

Natalie Nwanekwu offers an expression of thanls on behalf of the Vigil Planning Committee.

Courtesy of Michelle Charles

Cate McCusker Co-News Editor

On Friday evening, members of the University community joined in to watch the live streamed event, Justice for Black Lives: A Vigil. The virtual vigil consisted of prayers, a moment of silence and remarks by several members of the community, including students, members of Villanova Black Alumni and University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph. D.

Hosted by Campus Ministry and Alpha Kappa Alpha Inc. Sorority Tau Xi Chapter, the vigil was an effort to “stand in solidarity for justice for Black lives, lament over those killed unjustly, amplify Black voices and activate a path toward transformation and justice on campus and in our communities.”

Shortly after 6 p.m., the vigil began with a single candle illuminating the stage as pianist Caleb Lucky filled the room with music.

At the end of Lucky’s piece, a pre-recorded video of Dr. Terry Nance, Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, welcomed the audience to the event.

Dr. Nance acknowledged the University’s communal debt to Native Americans, as the University is on Native American land. She stated Villanova’s commitment to learning about and dismantling all legacies of oppression. Referencing James Baldwin, Dr. Nance pushed students to work to end rac-

ism.

“There can be no justice until we are all conscious and passionately and purposefully enraged at the racism that has come to define our normal lives,” Dr. Nance said.

Following Dr. Nance’s welcome, Natalie Nwanekwu, a junior at the University and a member of the vigil’s planning committee, introduced the event and thanked all for joining.

Nwanekwu expressed gratitude towards those who made the event possible, especially the Alpha Kappa Alpha Inc. Sorority Tau Xi Chapter and the Center for Peace and Justice Education. She welcomed the first speaker of the night, Fr. Kevin DePrinzio, OSA, Vice President for Mission and Ministry.

Fr. DePrinzio reminded viewers that this vigil was being held on the feast day of St. Augustine and that Villanovans, as Augustinian Catholics, are the “beneficiaries and stewards” of St. Augustine’s work.

DePrinzio called on viewers to acknowledge not only the suffering in the community but also the cause of this suffering, as this is an essential part of the healing process.

He explained that there are ways to practice vigilance, action and accountability on the mission website, such as an anti-racism sign project, that will allow the community to deeper explore the meaning of The CARITAS Commitment.

Asheq Fazullah, a Muslim Prayer Leader, also mentioned the University’s CARITAS Commitment.

Fazullah explained that some Villanovans have experienced the opposite of caritas and that this inequity “cheapens our commitment and dilutes our values.”

Fazullah then quoted the prophet Muhammad’s statement of equality in his final sermon before offering the opening prayer.

Dr. Crystal Lucky, Associate Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and Pastor of the Sword of the Spirit Church, then took the stage to lead viewers in eight minutes and 46 seconds of silence — the amount of time that George Floyd laid dying. Dr. Lucky asked viewers to use the strength of the late Congressman John Lewis and the hope of St. Paul’s words to reflect.

“Determine how you’re going to do the work that God, in his mercy, has given you to do,” Dr. Lucky said.

During the moment of silence, the names of Black men and women who were killed by police brutality and racial violence from the beginning of 2009 to August 2020 in the United States were displayed on the screen.

Sierra Thompson, senior and Vice President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Inc. Sorority Tau Xi Chapter, then introduced student and alumni speakers. Thompson explained that after each speaker, a bell would be rung

to recognize the sacredness of their stories and to allow the audience to let these stories resonate within themselves.

“May these sacred pauses bear witness to the dignity of every human person and the experiences they carry,” Thompson said.

After Thompson, Idjatou Barry, sophomore and Real Chat Chair of the Black Student Union, approached the podium. Barry expressed the disconnection she feels with the University community and that there are not enough spaces where she feels comfortable.

She explained that people need to be held accountable, reiterating that empty promises do not work. Barry expressed her hope that people actually care about Black lives and understand that this is not solely a trending hashtag.

“Black people deserve better,” Barry said.

Louis Manon, cochair of Villanova’s Black Alumni, shared how he felt after watching the killing of George Floyd. He expressed how he was compelled to join others in marches in Philadelphia but broke down at the thought of having to risk his own and his family’s health and safety by marching during a pandemic so that people who look like him would stop being killed.

“For those who see these trying times as something that is temporary and something that needs to be put to rest so we can get back to enjoying life as normal, I ask you to recogContinued on p. 2

2 | The Villanovan

News 1 Opinion 4 Culture 6 Sports 10

PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER

VOL. 111 | ISS. 7 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan

EMILY COX TYLER KEMP ARIANA MEGERIAN RYAN HARMS CATE McCUSKER JACK ROBERGE GRANT CARTER A.J. FEZZA MADDIE BURKE BILLY VINCI HELENA ERNST MOLLY BAKER

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

NEWS

Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief Digital Editor News Editor News Editor Opinion Editor Culture Editor Culture Editor Sports Editor Sports Editor Photography Editor Copy Desk Chief

MICHAEL BRADLEY Advisor DEENA SMITH Advisor CONTACT villanovan.eic@gmail.com

Possession — Synthetic / Liquor Underage August 21 Gallen Hall Four resident students were in possession of synthetic THC. Alcoholic beverages were also located. None of the parties involved was over the age of 21.

Disorderly Conduct August 23 Whole Campus Anonymous Tip received on the Nova Safe App reporting an unknown male acting disorderly inside a women ‘s restroom. No location was given with the anonymous tip.

Liquor Underage August 21 Good Counsel Hall A male resident student, under the age of 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication.

Criminal Mischief August 23 Pavilion Damage to a beverage cooler door was discovered.

CONFIRMED POSITIVE CASES AS OF 8:00 P.M. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

32

Liquor Underage August 21 Katharine Hall A male resident student, under the age of 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication.

Villanova University

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CORRECTIONS The Villanovan incorrectly stated the conudctor of the interviewer in last week’s “Albert Lepage Center Pivots Towards Coronavirus and Crisis Collection Research in 2020.” Kristin Curely of Media Relations conucted interviews with Mr. Jason Steinhauer and Mr. Allen.

CAMPUS CALENDAR Employer Resume Review Day Septmeber 2 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Virtual

Student Involvement Days September 4 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Virtual

Career Fair Prep with Freddie-Mac September 8 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Virutal

Student Involvement Day September 2 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Virtual

Student Involvement Days September 5 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Virtual

Campus Tree Tour September 9 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

In-person

Sustainable Career Panel: Public Service September 2 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Virtual

Student Involvement Days September 6 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

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Inclusive Hiring Meet Up September 9 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Virutal

Labor Day September 7 No Classes

Fall Career Fair September 10 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Virutal

Student Involvement Day September 3 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Virtual

COVID-19 TRACKER

Continued from p. 1

nize the privilege of being able to step away from the fray at any time and get back to enjoying your life,” Manon said. “As a Black person I do not have such a luxury, as I cannot tire nor fatigue with my efforts of preserving my right to exist, my right to equal justice and my right to equal opportunity.”

Danielle Burns, a senior, explained her pain. She asked viewers what we, as human beings, owed each other and she called on them to take action.

“I do not ask for your sympathy, but for your passion and your energy,” Burns said.

Following a powerful prayer led by Pastor Craig Campbell, Qadir Ismail and Sanaa Barnes, junior Co-Presidents of The 13%, a club representing Black student-athletes at the University, both gave their remarks. Ismail expressed his exhaustion at the violence and trauma and reminded members of the Black community that it is okay to rest and recharge. He encouraged Black viewers of the vigil to collaborate with the Black community, stating that this organization is what the leaders of our country fear.

Barnes shared her struggle of explaining racial injustice to her four year old sister. She stated that she will continue to fight so that her sister can grow up in a better world.

Barnes asked everyone listening to continue to work to be the change they wish to see.

In DeVon Jackson’s remarks, he called on those who say they are allies to actually be allies. Jackson, a member of the University’s Black Alumni, challenged white members

of the community to fight against stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination.

“To ally is to also lean into discomfort,” Jackson said.

Referencing the University’s motto, he stated, “Go ally. Ignite ‘Nova. Go change.”

After poems read by 20202021 Philadelphia Poet Laureate Trapeta Mayson, and before the vigil concluded, Donohue addressed the University’s Commitment to the Black community. He explained that as a leader of this community, he must call on Villanovans to embrace what it means to be a unified community. He acknowledged where the University has failed our Black students and explained that we must better welcome and understand those members of our community.

He charged Villanovans to take action, as all have the ability to change.

“I can implement all kinds of programs, but unless people are willing to go into those programs with open hearts and open minds, and are willing to open their ears and their voices, those programs will die like so many before them,” Donohue said.

He stated that Villanovans need to listen to and challenge each other to do better.

“We need to be people that stop dreaming and asking for somebody else to do it,” Donohue said.

“Villanova, stop dreaming and start doing.”

The Office of Mission and Ministry urges those who want to take action to watch a recording of the vigil and participate in the anti-racism sign project, both of which can be found on its website.

Delaware County, Pennsylvania

134,795 Pennsylvania

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Local Universities Approach Fall Semester Differently Emily Cox Co-Editor-in-Chief

Temple University has officially suspended in-person classes for two weeks after 103 students tested positive for COVID-19.

In an announcement to the Temple community on Sunday, Temple President Richard Englert wrote that in-person classes will be held from Monday, Aug. 31 until Friday, Sept. 11. Only classes designated as essential by the dean of a school of college will be held in person.

On Friday, Temple reported 58 active COVID-19 cases, but additional test results received over the weekend raised the total count.

More than 5,000 tests have been conducted at the school over the last two weeks.

“An assessment of the situation will be made during this period to determine the best course moving forward,” Englert wrote in the announcement. “We are hopeful, of course, that we will be able to return to the full hybrid program in place at the start of the semester, but any such decision will be driven by the data and public health guidance available at the time.”

Other Philadelphia area colleges, including the University of Pennsylvania, have moved classes online prior to the start of the school year. University of Pennsylvania President Amy Gutmann and Provost Wendell Pritchett announced

in an email on Aug. 11 that students would not be permitted to return to on-campus housing, and the vast majority of classes would be held online. Pritchett announced this only 10 days prior to stating that the University would mail all domestic undergraduates COVID-19 tests. The school had also laid out extensive plans for symptom testing, health regulations, and move-in processes.

Drexel University President John Fry announced on Aug. 19 that Drexel would hold classes online for the fall and close on-campus housing.

Haverford gave faculty and students the option of remote or in-person teaching and learning.

Currently, 54% of classes will be virtual and 46% in person at the school.

Swarthmore invited freshmen, sophomores and some upperclassmen to campus for the first semester. The school was prepared to accommodate 900 students, but fewer than 700 came back to campus.

In a similar approach to the University, St. Joseph’s University has invited students back and has reopened parts of campus. The school started on Monday, Aug. 24, just one week after Villanova’s reopening.

Students there are also required to wear mask, socially distance and self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms.

Unlike Villanova, St. Joseph’s has been updating its COVID-19 dashboard just once per weeek, rather than once per day.

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

NEWS

The Villanovan | 3

The Changing Landscape of Intramurals for the Fall Sophia Pedro Staff Writer

Despite the many changes to campus life as a result of COVID-19, Villanova Recreation has found many fun and safe ways to still have intramural sports this fall.

Michael Hay, the Coordinator for Intramurals and Recreation at the University, is “proud that we are able to provide the campus community the opportunity to let off some steam in a safe but competitive environment.”

Hay also provided some details about the challenging planning process of the Fall 2020 intramural season stating that, “Representatives from Villanova, UPenn, Temple, St. Joes, LaSalle and Drexel met virtually on a regular basis to share ideas, discuss obstacles and work together to find the best path forward for all of our respective departments.”

The hard work of the Intramural staff is much appreciated and their efforts to come up with creative yet safe activities for the University community should not go unnoticed. The new offerings for the Fall 2020 semester include yard game olympics, individual football competitions and the University’s first football combine, singles tennis and disc/frisbee golf.

Masks should be worn at all times during all events and proper social distancing should be in effect

when with team members. The subsequent paragraphs will go into more detail about each of the intramural offerings.

The yard game Olympics is a great way to add a little friendly competition into the games that most of you may play with your friends anyway. The four different yard games that make up the tournament include bocce, washers, horseshoes and kan jam. Teams will consist of two to four people with two designated players for each game, and you can substitute players across different events. The tournament will last the entire month of September with different events each of the four weekends.

In order to remain in accordance with social distancing guidelines, an individual punt, pass and kick competition, as well as a football combine, were created.

Both events will be based on your individual skill only, rather than team competitions.

As far as the combine goes, skills such as vertical leap, 40-yard dash and 20-yard shuttle will be tested, and each competitor will be ranked after each event. The 10 finalists with the highest overall rankings across all three events will then compete for victory.

Similar to regular intramural football, doubles tennis is not being offered this semester. However, singles tennis is still a great way to stay in shape and even compete against friends; if you can’t play with them, at least play against

them. All skill levels are eligible and encouraged.

Disc/frisbee golf is the last new offering this semester, but definitely one of the most exciting.

Disc golf is essentially like regular golf, but instead of having the holes in the ground, they are in upright cages that you throw a frisbee into.

The scoring works the same, so the lowest score wins.

Overall, the University has worked hard for months to make the Fall 2020 intramural season a reality.

“Villanova has one of the best rates of participation in Intramural Sports in the entire country,” Hay said. “We average about 3,500 individual students, graduate stu-

dents, law students and faculty and staff participants every year.”

One of the three Senior Commissioners for Intramurals, Thomas Magnier, thinks that “everyone can agree (especially over the past few months) that sports are a way to bring communities together, which is something Intramurals has always strived to achieve.”

Michael Hay, Thomas Magnier and the other Senior Commissioners, Trevor Scianna and Chris Cooney, have all contributed immensely to making this intramural season possible.

To register, visit the Recreation website or sign up in-person from 2-6 p.m. outside The Finneran Pavilion, Sept. 1-3.

An old photo of Intramural Soccer champions Courtesy of Villanova University

Republicans Stress Law and Order at Convention Julia Butch Staff Writer

This year’s Republican National Convention positioned the Republican Party as the party of law and order, patriotism and American values, seeking to contrast the Democratics, whose convention ended a week earlier.

Over four days, dozens of speakers, culminating with a speech

by President Trump, focused on themes including law and order, censorship by social media platforms and threats to democracy. A recurring theme was the urban violence that has swelled this summer and the Republican assertion that it had been ignored by Democrats, including at their convention.

“You won’t be safe in Joe Biden’s America,” Vice President

Mike Pence said in his remarks.

President Trump later asserted that Biden would defund the police and worsen urban crime.

“Make no mistake, if you give power to Joe Biden, the radical left will defund police departments across America,” Trump said. “Noone will be safe.”

Strong political rhetoric is fundamental to conventions, which set forth each party’s platforms and are precursors to the stretch run of the presidential campaign.

COVID-19 had this year’s political conventions looking a bit different. The Democratic Convention was an all-virtual event, while the Republican Convention included both speeches without an audience and speeches in the White House Rose Garden with a crowd. The Rose Garden speeches were rebuked

by Democrats as an improper politi-

Trump speaks during the final day of the RNC. Courtesy of The New York Times

cal use of the White House.

Day one of the RNC included speakers, such as Former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, Senator Tim Scott and the President Trump’s oldest son, all of whom focused on economics and American values. In addition, time was spent questioning Democratic Candidate Joe Biden’s track-record. In particular, Haley stated that Biden is “a godsend to everyone who wants America to apologize, abstain and abandon our values”.

The second day of the convention included speeches from Vice President Mike Pence and Senator Rand Paul, but the most anticipated speaker was First Lady Melania Trump. In her speech, Melania Trump defended her husband, sayig he wants to make the country “the best it can be,” suggesting that Americans “only see the worst of people in politics.”

She also assured the audience that the administration will not rest until there is a treatment for COVID-19. In the perhaps most outright proclamation of her status as an immigrant, she told her story, outlined her journey to citizenship and thanked her parents for their sacrifices.

Trump’s youngest daughter, Tiffany Trump, made a notable appearance on the third day of the convention. A graduate of Georgetown Law School, she spoke of prison reform, free-speech and the tough job market for recent graduates.

These issues are important to young students and professionals, the de-

mographic to which she categorically belongs. In a subtle acknowledgment of her father’s tough tone, Tiffany Trump prompted voters to focus on policy, not rhetoric.

The fourth day of the RNC showcased some power-players, including cabinet members determined to “Keep America Great.”

There were many speakers closing out the event, notably Alice Johnson. Her speech added a personal story to the night, one of redemption and freedom. Johnson stated, “Through the grace of God and the love and compassion of President Donald John Trump, I stand before you tonight, and I assure you, I am not a ghost. I am alive, I am whole and most importantly, I am free.”

Ivanka Trump also touched on prison reform, additionally touting administrational wins for women, the economy and in the Middle East. She also spoke of her children, noting that she wants them to grow up in a world where “differences of opinion and debate are encouraged, not cancelled.”

Then, she introduced her father, President Donald Trump as “The People’s President.”

Focusing on law and order, Trump stated, “[Our] vote will decide whether we protect law-abiding Americans or whether we give free rein to violent anarchists and agitators and criminals who threaten our citizens.”

The RNC concluded with an extravagant firework show and a powerful performance by opera singer Christopher Macchio.

4 | The Villanovan

OPINION

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

OPINION

End Qualified Immunity to Increase Police Accountability ages when those rights were violated. Today, Section 1983 is the main avenue through which individuals can hold their government accountable if they are a victim of police brutality;

On Aug. 26, the Milwaukee this is typically done through a lawsuit Bucks decided to forego their playoff alleging a violation of their Fourth game to bring attention to the police Amendment right to be free from unshooting of Jacob Blake the previous reasonable search and seizure. HowSunday in Kenosha, Wisconsin. As ever, through a series of cases since the the rest of the NBA games scheduled 1960s, the Supreme Court has inventfor that night were postponed, the ed the doctrine of qualified immunity, WNBA, MLB and MLS also postponed their remaining schedule for the which has become a significant barrier evening in a show of unity. According to citizens’ ability to successfully sue on the basis of a violation of their to ESPN, the Bucks players used the rights. The Supreme Court qualified time to call the Wisconsin Attorney immunity precedent holds that govGeneral and Lieutenant Governor ernment officials cannot be sued even and asked how to help enact police if someone’s rights have been violated reform, to which the Lieutenant Governor recommended pushing for unless the infringement is “clearly “action at every level of government.” established law.” As the Cato Institute has explained, this means “it is entirely One of the most effective reforms possible—and quite common—for the players could use their platforms courts to hold that government agents to advocate for is the elimination of did violate someone’s rights, but that qualified immunity, a legal doctrine the illegality of their conduct wasn’t that often prevents people from suing sufficiently obvious for them to be held when their constitutional rights have been violated by government officials, liable to the victim of their misconduct.” including police officers.

While the legal jargon may

After the Civil War, African obscure to the untrained eye how the Americans in Southern states were doctrine prevents accountability, a few subjected to denial of their newly examples demonstrate its untenability acquired constitutional rights as local and why it is imperative for it to be and state officials failed to prevent racial violence. As part of Reconstruc- abolished. Under the doctrine, the “clearly established” standard means tion, Congress passed the Ku Klux that unless there is a practically idenKlan Act of 1871, which contained tical case demonstrating the conduct a provision, now known as Section was unconstitutional, the government 1983, providing a path for citizens to official in question will be granted sue government officials for violating immunity. Take the case of Alexander their constitutional rights. The law Baxter, who sued two police officers was a critical step in protecting individuals’ constitutional rights because it who in the course of his arrest sicced their canine on him after he surrenempowered citizens to recover damAndrew Ceonzo Guest Writer

dered. One might think it is clearly a violation of one’s Fourth Amendment rights to have a police dog released on you after you have surrendered and have your hands in the air, as Baxter did. However, as the Institute for Justice explains, the officers were “entitled to qualified immunity because—while an earlier case had held that officers were not allowed to sic a dog on someone lying down—no case had ever discussed whether they could do so to a suspect who was sitting down with his hands up.” Additionally, the court further explained, according to the Cato Institute, that while “an earlier case had established that the use of an attack dog against a suspect who was not fleeing was an excessive use of force, the court distinguished that case because the dog in Baxter’s case had better training and police had warned Baxter they might use the dog before he surrendered.” Or consider the case where police shot a 10-year-old child while trying to shoot the family’s non-threatening dog. The officer was granted immunity because, according to the Institute for Justice, “no earlier case held it was unconstitutional for a police officer to recklessly fire his gun into a group of children without justification. The Court also declined to establish that rule. Not only was the officer let off the hook in that case, but the very same officer could act the same way again, and would still be entitled to qualified immunity.”

Recognizing the problems with qualified immunity, public interest legal organizations across the ideological spectrum, such as the Cato Institute, Institute for Justice, ACLU, Alliance Defending Freedom, and

NAACP Legal Defense Fund, have all taken steps to rein it in by supporting litigation that seeks to chip away at the doctrine. Instead of waiting for the Supreme Court to correct its mistake—a process that could take years—the doctrine could be eliminated through an act of Congress at any time. In fact, Representatives Justin Amash (L-MI) and Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) have introduced such a bill, aptly named the Ending Qualified Immunity Act. Additionally, state legislatures can take action to curtail qualified immunity within state courts, just as Colorado did earlier this summer in response to the police killing of George Floyd.

Eliminating qualified immunity would have the immediate effect of giving citizens a way to collect damages as a remedy for a violation of their constitutional rights, introducing much needed accountability. Additionally, the threat of such liability would have the long-term effect of making governments bear the cost of violating an individual’s rights, providing a strong incentive for governments to improve hiring, training, and disciplinary practices of officials, especially police officers.

Ending qualified immunity would mean that the government and citizens would be on equal footing: the citizens are responsible to obey the laws, and the government will be held accountable to follow the Constitution.

There cannot be two sets of laws in this country where the citizenry is held to a stricter standard than the government officials who serve at the will of the citizens. Abolishing qualified immunity will bring us one step closer to making that principle a reality.

American Disconnect: The Tale of Two National Conventions Brendan Donoghue Staff Writer

As Election Day 2020 approaches, both the Republicans and Democrats have wrapped up their respective conventions, with President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden having officially accepted their respective party nominations. Historically, party conventions have given each candidate the best chance to frame the election and make their case directly to the American people. While 2020 has certainly been anything but a normal year (underscored by the largely virtual conventions), the one constant in this election cycle has been the role of the party conventions.

There were many identifiable differences between the two conventions, ranging from the more substantive messaging to the more superficial production value.

More than anything, the single greatest difference between the two parties was who they chose as their messengers. Specifically, the Democratic Party made a fundamental error in their reliance on celebrities to champion their electability.

Almost by definition, celebrities have an inflated sense of their own importance, and a polit-

ical party that trots out celebrities as their chief messengers overestimates the impact that celebrity endorsements have on the electorate.

In an election that will come down, once again, to the votes of blue collar Americans, celebrity endorsements do very little to influence key voters. Americans living in rural Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan care very little about the political perspectives of Julia Louis-Dreyfus or Kerry Washington. They care even less about who Billy Porter or Billie Eilish want to see elected President. Instead, they want a President who they believe can have a positive and recognizable impact on their lives. They want a President whose policies prioritize jobs, economic growth and security. The impassioned pleas of millionaire actors and artists living in Beverly Hills do next to nothing in terms of convincing an individual making $60,000 a year fracking in Pennsylvania to change their vote.

Contrast the lineup of Hollywood celebrities throwing their support behind Joe Biden at the DNC to the Americans expressing their support for President Trump at the RNC. A Wisconsin dairy farmer, a Minnesota logger, a police officer and the president of a Nebraska-based heating, ventila-

tion and air conditioning company are just a few examples of working-class Americans who highlighted the RNC speaker lineup.

President Trump won the presidency in 2016 because of the American people’s strong dislike of Hillary Clinton and his successful attempt to appeal to working-class Americans in rural areas. By ignoring those same working-class Americans in favor of liberal celebrities is, in my opinion, a

mistake of colossal proportion for a democratic party that refuses to learn its lesson from 2016.

There is a significant chance President Trump loses in November. After an effective and targeted convention, he could blow it all with one tweet. That is what Democrats are counting on. But if the President exhibits anything close to self control (an admittedly big “if ”), the reliance on celebrities could backfire in a big way.

Courtesy of Getty Images

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

The Villanovan | 5

OPINION

EDITORIAL BOARD EMILY COX Editor-in-Chief TYLER KEMP Editor-in-Chief JACK ROBERGE Opinion Editor

LETTERS TO THE EDITORS

The Villanovan encourages all members of the Villanova community to voice their opinions. Letters to the editors may be submitted via e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com. Letters must not exceed 500 words and must be signed. No anonyous letters will be published. All submissions become property of The Villanovan and are subject to editing for clarity and space.

POLICY

The unsigned editorial that appears is the opinion of The Villanovan as deteermined by the majority of the Editorial Board. Other columns, letters and artwork represent the opinions of their auhtors and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Villanovan.

The Impact of Hong Kong’s National Security Law On American Universities and International Students Alexis Leanord Staff Writer

Earlier this month, China passed a national security law in Hong Kong forbidding its citizens from criticizing the government.

Given China’s proclivity to assault and arrest protestors, this sentiment isn’t new. The Chinese government frequently stymies protests; however, it wasn’t legislated in Hong Kong until this summer.

This law concerns pro-democracy inhabitants of Hong Kong, a city which tends to act with Western ideals. Security forces of the Chinese Communist Party are now imprisoning the residents of the once democratic and capitalist Hong Kong for protesting or speaking against the government. Further threatening the freedom of Hong Kong’s citizens, Beijing is upending Hong Kong’s autonomy.

Legislation particularly concerning China also affects Chinese students taking courses abroad and the professors of those courses.

Political science and international

business courses hold discussions and assign essays criticizing the Chinese government, so will Chinese students studying here opt out of these courses? American universities encourage free thinking, so how should professors approach this issue?

Per the Wall Street Journal’s reporting, professors at Ivy League colleges, such as Princeton and University of Pennsylvania, thought of possible solutions to these problems. One possibility includes the assignment of codes to students in order to prevent the Chinese government from discovering the author of assignments critical of China.

Another option is to place an advisory note on each class cautioning students of content which will criticize Chinese politics or societal aspects.

Surprisingly, adjusting courses for Chinese international students has upset many Americans who think the United States should not make accommodations for students from China. Anti-accommodationists radically claim that American universities should not alter anything for Chinese students

because the students study here of their own volition and are aware of the risk involved. American universities should, however, feel compelled to disguise Chinese international students if they are willing to take the course. The professors cannot guarantee a student’s safety, but they can take steps to protect students wanting to study and participate in

the course.

The Ivy League universities accommodating Chinese students should serve as a model for Villanova. In the upcoming semester, The University must decide to resist the new Hong Kong national security law and demonstrate its commitment to free thinking while protecting students’ identities.

Students in Hong Kong gather to protest the new policy.

Courtesy of Time Magazine

Letter From the Editors: Stay on Campus this Weekend

As Labor Day weekend approaches, we believe that it is important to remind the community of the pledge we made when we signed The CARITAS Commitment. We promised to put our community first. Not only did we make this promise, we assured the school that we would modify our behaviors and limit travel. All students signed a practically binding contract with the school that we would only travel for essential reasons in order to limit unnecessary exposures. We even promised that we would find new ways to connect with others — safe ways that would allow for social distancing.

With this weekend being our first, and only, long weekend of this semester, it is understandable that students want to go home to visit family, go down to the shore or take any number of other off-campus trips this weekend.

While this may be tempting, we must acknowledge that it is our duty to protect one another and the staff and faculty who make the University the place we know and love.

Many of us have already watched friends and acquantiences get sent home because they

were not following guidelines provided to us by the University.

Many of us even have friends who have had or are battling COVID-19.

While it is easy for the administration to regulate, and punish, what goes on on-campus, it has a much harder time controlling what happens off campus.

That responsiblity is on all of us; we have a duty to ask our friends to cancel their plans and stay on campus for this long weekend.

We aren’t asking you to not have any fun and to not enjoy the three-day weekend, but we are asking you to be smart about how you do it. We owe it to ourselves and our community to hold one another accountable this semester if we want it to last.

We have already witnessed other schools, including ones in the Philadelphia area, get sent home or go fully online. Villanova is one of the few schools in the area to still attempt an in-person semester, and we should keep this in mind. The administration has faith that we can be smart, be respectful and make this work. It is on us to prove America wrong right now.

This pandemic is not a joke, and schools are not treating

it as such; just because we are doing (relatively) well so far does not mean that we are suddenly in the clear and have the license to act as though everything is normal.

Everyone who can stay on campus this weekend should

absolutely do so. It may feel like a good weekend to party, but with school-wide testing likely coming after Labor Day, this will be the make-or-break weekend. Have fun, but please, stay here and stay responsible.

FOR RENT • 4 bedrooms single house, located 10 minutes from campus in Wayne on Lancaster Ave. • Furnished (no beds) living room, dining room, kitchen, and 2 newly renovated bathrooms • Laundry facility and a large yard with off-street parking • Available from August 1, 2020 • $1850.00 per month for 4, plus utilities For details please email wesesther@gmail. com, call (215) 820-7245 or visit www.timelessfindart.com/769/campus

6 | The Villanovan

CULTURE

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

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How to Decorate Your Dorm Room Like a College Pro Julia Stanisci Staff Writer

wall feels as bare as your floor, look on Amazon or Redbubble for some cute tapestries.

Pictures: Fill your room

with the places, people and things you love most. This will really make your dorm feel like home.

If you’re looking for a place to print photos near campus, try the CVS Pharmacy in either Wayne or Rosemont. Their kiosks allow you to print as many photos as you want right off your phone in seconds. You can also order some cute frames for canvases of your photos, but these will just take a little lon Personality: Make sure ger. If you’re looking to get a little your room is “you.” Whether this crafty, try making some collages. means choosing blankets and pilThese look awesome either done lows that are your favorite colors or by hand in big frames or on cork hanging your favorite quotes on the boards. You could also try using an walls, customizing your decor to fit app like PicCollage to make one your personality is crucial for mak- digitally and then print it. ing your space feel like it’s yours.

Inspiration: If you’re

Lighting: Lighting is key. looking to step up your decorating Especially if you’re in a dorm game with some aesthetically pleason South or the Quad, the light ing additions, spend some time fixtures provided just don’t do surfing Pinterest to find cute quotes the trick. Try buying some cheap or artsy images that’ll spruce up lamps from Target and investing in any cinderblock wall. some string or fairy lights to brighten up the walls.

Apartments: How’s adulting going? If you need any

Rugs: Rugs are important. kitchen decor or supplies, there’s a They warm up a room and make HomeGoods in Wayne. Its clearit feel like a comfy home instead ance aisle has decorations that of a cold little box. Look online for can cozy up any kitchen or living a nice soft-looking throw rug (or space. If you’re in need of some two if you have room), or check inexpensive, easy-to-set-up storage out HomeGoods or Target. If your containers for either your kitchen,

Welcome back, Villanova.

We’ve been moved in for a couple weeks, and hopefully your dorm room is absolutely everything you dreamed it would be. However, many students are still struggling to make their room really feel like home. Whether you’re living in a shoebox in Sullivan Hall or in a sprawling apartment, here are some tips and tricks that can help make your space a little more cozy:

Stanisci’s dorm room is decorated to her liking in Friar Hall of The Commons.

Courtesy of Julia Stanisci

bathroom or even bedroom, Target still has lots of options.

Men: Room decorating can be tougher for you, I know, but you can put a little bit of effort into keeping your dorm from looking like a jail cell. How about a Villa-

nova flag to hang on the wall next to your bed? Some fun posters or funny sayings? Anything to give it some life.

If you’re still feeling like your room isn’t yours, don’t worry. It takes time to make any new space feel like home.

Weekly Club Spotlight: Campus Activities Team (CAT) A.J. Fezza Co-Culture Editor

During this peculiar semester, one club has declared its mission to keep the spirits of University students high: Campus Activities Team (CAT). CAT, the official programming board of the University, has made sure to provide ample opportunities for fun activities since the pandemic began.

When students were sent home back in mid-March, CAT had to improvise. The organization never had to deal with a problem of this magnitude. CAT dealt with the situation by holding games of Nova Quizzo, Villanova’s beloved weekly trivia competition, and other community building sessions over Zoom.

Now, with students back on campus, CAT has stepped up its game even further.

If you’ve been confused by the sight of a white gate surrounding the Riley Ellipse every Thursday, wonder no longer. The gate is for a special socially-distanced outdoor version of Nova Quizzo, which is now held outside Cafe Nova every Thursday at 9:30 p.m., rather than inside. As per usual, teams consist of four players, though answers are now submitted on a Google form instead of on paper.

CAT has made sure to keep the event totally safe. The gate

separates the ellipse from the rest of campus so that Quizzo participants all come in through one entrance.

That way, CAT officers can ensure capacity and spacing limitations.

CAT also provides hand sanitizer and extra masks at its events and enforces the policy “BYOC” (Bring Your Own Chair).

“We want to establish community at Villanova and give students something to do in a safe and socially distanced way,” Jared Plattman, Director of Movies, said.

The first week of Quizzo was a Back to School theme. The second week Quizzo was unfortunately rained out at the last minute, but those who showed up received a free milkshake. The event was then held online.

With workouts at the University’s fitness centers now requiring a reservation in advance online, it can be harder for students to find time to hit the gym. Thankfully, CAT has been offering outdoor fitness sessions as a fun way to keep students in shape. On Saturday, Aug. 22, CAT held its first session, which consisted of four workout videos played on a big screen. Participants were offered free snacks afterwards.

Movies and other showings remain a staple of CAT. On Saturday, Aug. 22, CAT showed “Avengers: Endgame,” and on Saturday, Aug. 29, it showed the 2016 NCAA championship, when the men’s

basketball team defeated UNC for its first championship victory since 1985.

Other events that CAT has held so far include virtual speed dating and bingo, which both took place over Zoom.

More CAT events are set to take place in the near future. CAT partnered with the Student Government Association to kick off the virtual Student Involvement Fair from Monday, Aug. 31 to Sunday, Sept.

6. A weekend-long virtual scavenger hunt is set to take place from Friday, Sept. 4 to Sunday, Sept. 6 (with the prize being AirPods). As for in-person showings, the award-winning 2019 film Little Women will play at the Riley Ellipse this Friday, Sept.

4, and Villanova’s Funniest Home Videos will play on Monday, Sept. 7 at the same location. You can submit videos by using the link in the bio of Villanova CAT’s Instagram (@villanovacat) by Sunday, Sept. 6.

Sophomores at the Oreo for Nova Quizzo Courtesy of Ally Weitzman

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Wednesday, September 2, 2020

The Villanovan | 7

Men’s Fashion in 2020: Are Short Shorts Back in Style?

A.J. Fezza Co-Culture Editor

TikTok, a purveyor of trends for Generation Z, has recently declared war on long, drooping shorts. This declaration has been promoted by men and women alike. Since the trend started in early August, the #5inchseam hashtag has already gained over 25 million views. However, the truth is that TikTok is only promoting a trend that had already been in the making. Official publications, like GQ and People Magazine have been writing articles on the matter for the past few years, with People Magazine claiming over a year and a half ago, “Shorts are getting shorter for men in 2019.”

To understand the shift in

men’s fashion, let’s take a stroll through history:

Women’s short shorts have been the norm since the 1960s (around the same time Mary Quant’s miniskirts were popularized) and have barely changed since, but the history has been different with men.

The men’s short shorts trend was the biggest in the 1970s and 1980s. Our fathers probably wore them, along with many of our male professors who were young at the time. Professional basketball and tennis players also participated in this trend. However, beginning in the 1990s, men’s clothes gradually became larger and baggier, a trend that reached its peak in the 2000s.

In the 2000s, men’s clothes were generally as loose as possible.

Students at Orientation between 2009 and 2012 Courtesy of Villanova Television

Clothes were practically falling off bodies. After all, sagging was a popular phenomenon, in which men would let their pants sag low, revealing most of their underwear.

Women even had their own version of sagging in the form of low-rise jeans.

As sagging became largely overdone by the mid-2010s, the length of men’s shorts seemed to stabilize around the knee. Recent trends may indicate that in the 2020s, the pendulum could once again swing in the opposite direction: that is, upwards.

Change is gradual. Many people, especially adults, may not even realize changes in fashion, but all it takes is some research to notice some stark differences between popular styles now as opposed to just eight years ago.

The trend of decreasing short length for men was more than anecdotal; a brief walk around campus will demonstrate an obvious difference when compared to old footage of students.

Check out photos of the University’s students from 2009-2012 on the bottom left. On the bottom right are photos of students from just a week ago (Aug. 26, 2020), for comparison.

For the most part, men’s shorts in 2020 are still not quite as short as what was popular in the 1970s and 1980s, when inseams would often measure under four inches. However, it seems that ultra-casual, cargo-laden and baggy fashion trends of the 2000s are being thrown out the window.

So, are short shorts the new wave? Only time will tell.

Students walking around campus on Aug. 26, 2020 Courtesy of Ally Weitzman

University Students Display Their Creativity on TikTok A.J. Fezza Co-Culture Editor

Arguably the biggest shift in the social media landscape over the past few years has been the rapid rise of TikTok. It only took TikTok a little more than three years since its creation in late 2016 to reach one billion downloads in February 2019. Then, the app catapulted to two billion downloads, just over a year later in April 2020. Currently, President Trump is threatening to ban the app in the United States if it continues under Chinese ownership, and this has brought TikTok even more recognition and demonstrated the platform’s global significance.

TikTok is very popular among college students in particular. The largest demographic is 18-24 year olds, who comprise 42% of the app’s users.

Part of what makes TikTok unique is that most content that a user comes across on his or her algorithm-driven feed, called the “For You Page,” is not from celebrities. Celebrities certainly do have a major presence on the app, but most of the content encountered is from fellow ordinary teens and twentysomethings.

Villanova has some popular creators of its own. Jordan McMeans is a senior from Connecticut, who has over 86,000 followers

on his TikTok account @jordanmcmeans. An avid runner, McMeans has dedicated most of his account to showing his runs and giving fitness and diet tips. Now that he is back on campus for the year, his videos how feature walks on campus and trips with his friends to the local Starbucks.

Also from Connecticut is sophomore Sara Hecht, who happens to be a writer for The Villanovan. Hecht’s account @whattheactualhecht has almost 21,000 followers. She mostly posts fashion videos, but she also occasionally posts humor and singing. She takes requests from her followers on what to post and what styles to try next.

“I started using TikTok during quarantine once classes ended because I needed something to do before my summer job started,” Hecht said. “Making the videos was a good alternative to sitting in bed all day and just watching other people’s videos. This past week, I joined the TikTok Creator Fund which pays creators for every 1,000 views.”

Even students that don’t post often or don’t have many followers can strike it big with their posts. For example, the freshman Natalie Monti recently posted about her experience being quarantined at The Inn at Villanova University, receiving more than 120,000 views and 16,000 likes. In her video, Monti showed off the tasty options

that the hotel had to offer for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

McMeans, Hecht and Monti are far from the only Villanova students that have made it big with their TikToks. A simple search of #villanova on the app will show you hundreds of videos, some receiving over 10,000 likes, that people (mostly students) have made about the University. Topics range from jokes about the University’s promotion of portable chairs to comparing Villanova to other Pennsylvania schools (like Temple and the University of Pennsylvania).

Villanova’s student organizations are creating TikTok accounts left and right. For example, Villanova Television (@vtv17), the University’s Dance Team (@ villanovadance) and the University’s South Asian fusion dance team Nova NASSA (@novanassa) all have accounts.

Despite this, Villanova may not be as deep into TikTok as some other schools. While we succeed with our youth activity, our adult activity lags behind. Unlike the University, institutions like the University of Southern California and Auburn University have TikTok-famous professors. Also, Johns Hopkins University, Hofstra University and Harcum College have official TikTok accounts, a trend that the University Administration has yet to follow.

Still, one thing is for sure:

if TikTok ends up getting banned anytime soon, the Villanova community would be affected. Although, given the amount of time that many students spend on the app, this could be good news, at least for their grades.

One of Hecht’s many TikToks Courtesy of Sara Hecht

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8 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

How to Register to Vote for the November Election

Matthew Clarkin encourages students to register to vote.

Courtesy of The Villanovan

Katie Reed Staff Writer

Registering to vote is an important milestone in many people’s lives, but it is also a great responsibility. Any United States citizen 18 years or older has the privilege of voting, and with the General Election coming up on Nov. 3, if you are not already registered to vote, it is time to get on it. You can either register to vote in Pennsylvania, request a mail-in ballot if you don’t want to physically go to a poll or if you are from out of state, you can

request an absentee ballot to vote in the state you are currently registered.

This summer, while everyone was stuck at home, the Student Government Association of the University, known as SGA, along with the Office of Student Involvement and the Office of Government Relations, created the #LetsVoteNova campaign. The goal of this campaign is to promote the importance of registering to vote, so that every student’s voice can be heard in all elections. It is run by Caroline Levine, who is also the Student Body Vice Presi-

dent. This campaign was launched via Instagram, so @letsvotenova can be a one-stop shop for finding more information about the election, links to registering to vote and opportunities to get involved in the #LetsVoteNova campaign.

The most important dates to keep in mind for voter registration are as follows: Monday, Oct. 19 will be the last day you can register to vote for the General Election; Tuesday, Oct. 27 will be the last day that you can apply for an absentee or mail-in ballot; Tuesday, Nov. 3 is Election Day.

All absentee and mail-in ballots have to be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day for them to be counted, and the polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

To register to vote in Pennsylvania, you can do it online, or you can mail in a registration form.

You are able to do both of these things by visiting votespa.com, which will also offer you a plethora of helpful information. You can find information about mail-in and absentee ballots to decide what the best option is for you and the appropriate applications for them. If you are unsure about anything, you can also check your current registration status.

On the website, you can update your voter registration information if you have changed your address, your name or your political party. This is especially important if you registered to vote in Pennsylvania last year using your campus address because the University’s campus is separated into four different wards with four different polling locations.

If you are in a different dorm this year, make sure to regis-

ter to vote with your new address and visit the corresponding poll on election day. If you are from out of state and want to register to vote using your home address, you can visit vote.org to register and request an absentee ballot.

According to the SGA website, voters in Alumni, Austin, Corr, Delurey, Fedigan, Moriarty, O’Dwyer, Sheehan, Simpson, St. Rita’s and Sullivan will all report to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church on Election Day.

Farley, Gallen, Jackson, Klekotka, Moulden, Rudolph, St. Clare, St. Mary’s and Welsh residents will report to Radnor Elementary School.

Arch, Canon, Chapter, Cupola, Friar and Trinity residents will report to Rosemont Plaza. Caughlin, Good Counsel and McGuire residents will report to Rosemont Presbyterian Village.

Katharine, St. Monica and Stanford residents will report to Radnor United Methodist Church.

Free shuttles will be offered on Election Day to transport students to the polls, leaving every 30 minutes from the Connelly Center Circle. Make sure to bring a form of ID with you to the poll if it is your first time voting.

The goal of SGA is “to be representative of the interests of the entire undergraduate body in all matters.” Additionally, if you are still a little unsure about registering to vote, be sure to check out villanova.edu/LetsVoteNova to find information pertinent to you.

Do your research ahead of time and vote for what you believe is best, all while considering the opportunity to vote in Pennsylvania, a swing state.

New Music Corner: The Beths and “Jump Rope Gazers” Ryan Weicht Staff Writer

The Beths Courtesy of BrooklynVegan

Not many bands can engineer an explosion of guitar-filled sound while also voicing sobering realities and illuminating down-to-earth scenarios.

The Beths, a fiery quartet from Auckland, New Zealand, do just that— and they excel at it. The band’s spirited power pop is filled with emotion and instrumental riffs that go above and beyond, making the quartet’s two resulting albums some of the most exciting releases on the indie scene.

The band’s unique backstory has influenced its sound, especially on its sophomore album “Jump Rope Gazers.” Band members Elizabeth Stokes and Jonathan Pearce originally met in high school, but the development of the band truly began when the two met Benjamin Sinclair and Ivan Luketina-Johnston while studying jazz at the University of Auckland.

While The Beths’ two albums are certainly not jazz records, the impact of their studies is noticeable in their guitar work. Especially in live shows, the band plays with a certain flexibility that sets them apart from any typical rock act.

The Beths released their punchy first single, “Idea/Intent,” in 2015, not long after the four members formed the band. The tune, as well as two other singles, would go on to form

the band’s first EP, “Warm Blood.”

The band’s music seriously rose to prominence with its 2018 release, “Future Me Hates Me.” Stokes’ deadpan but powerful vocal tone and Pearce’s red hot hooks characterized the album and caught the attention of many— including emo alt-rock powerhouse Death Cab for Cutie, with whom the Beths toured in 2019.

The Beths’ newest album is a very welcome release for many quarantined and live-music-deprived fans.

The 10-track project, which dropped in early July of this year, shows a different and more pacified side of the Beths. While some criticized the album for being too subdued, others saw it as the maturing band taking a new direction. The songs lean less on energy-fueled movement and instead attempt to soak the listener in sentiment. This step away from the band’s earlier motifs may have been surprising to some but is a sign that The Beths are looking for more than a simple formula for their music.

New music is valuable in a time where so much seems indefinite, and The Beths have provided brilliantly. The band has become more than just an exciting new act, and they now must pay attention to the reception of their past projects while developing their future sound. For now, though, it’s more than enough to be thankful for the dynamic sound they have already created.

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Wednesday, September 2, 2020

The Villanovan | 9

Enjoying the City of Brotherly Love Amid COVID-19 Julia Stanisci Staff Writer

COVID-19 has dramatically altered almost every single aspect of our lives, and being back at Villanova this semester definitely looks different. As everyone continues to get used to this “new normal” as best they can, the most important thing is that we stay safe and are conscious of each other in the face of this pandemic. But that doesn’t mean that we have to stop doing fun things altogether, even if those things might look a little different.

While many Villanovans are content with chilling on campus and soaking up Radnor Township, others are accustomed to getting out and taking trips into Philly on the weekends or going out on an occasional date night. While going into the city is definitely tougher now thanks to COVID-19, it is certainly possible to still enjoy the City of Brotherly Love in safe and socially distant ways.

Transportation is the first issue to tackle. If you have a car, that is obviously your safest bet.

Otherwise, both Ubers and SEPTA are still running, with masks required at all times, capacity limits enforced, social distancing absolutely necessary and temporary closures for cleaning. If you plan on taking public transportation, just remember to be mindful of social distancing guidelines at all times.

As for the city itself, Philly has been rolling out a “Reopening

with Care” plan. Currently, it is in the Green Phase.

This means that all social distancing guidelines are being strictly enforced, including wearing masks, maintaining a six foot distance, handwashing and crowd reduction. However, so long as these directions are followed accordingly, outdoor spaces are open, including outdoor dining.Indoor dining is set to reopen on Sept. 8, but if it’s nice out, being outside is safer anyways.

Here is a list of some fun and safe options that you and your inner circle can try out this season:

• See a drive-in movie at Navy Yard. Philadelphia’s Film Society is showing a wide array of movies daily through September.

• Enjoy the lovely September weather at a park. Some great ones are the waterfront Penn’s Landing or the lovely green Fairmount Park.

• Have a cute picnic at any one of Philly’s many parks. Get takeout from your favorite restaurant to support local businesses.

Some restaurants like Rouge 98 are even offering takeout picnic baskets (complete with cocktails) or aesthetic charcuterie boards. Just bring your own picnic blanket.

• Rent paddle boards or kayaks at places like Penn’s Landing Marina or Bartram’s Garden for a fun activity on the water.

• Go out to dinner at one

Roommates Lulu and Liv (Class of 2021) enjoy brunch in Philadelphia.

Courtesy of Liv Whytosek

of the many Philly restaurants that are offering outdoor dining. Enjoy a meal at restaurants offering up their open-air patios, like The Garden at Cherry Street Pier or Harper’s Garden (which even has plexiglass partitions between tables). Or, enjoy rooftop dining at places like City

Tap University City and Attico Rooftop. Just don’t forget your mask.

• Other outdoor attractions like The Magic Gardens or the Love Park are always fun, safe options.

In Memoriam: Chadwick Boseman, a Real Life Superhero Tyler Kemp Co-Editor-in-Chief

If you told me this past Friday morning when I woke up that my night would end with me on the floor of a friend’s house bawling my eyes out following the death of superstar actor Chadwick Boseman, I would probably say that you are crazy, since that moment was not supposed to happen for another handful of years.

But then, the murmurs and notifications began buzzing.

Once I received word, I did not want to believe it was true, at least not this soon. Boseman passed away at the age of 43, after a fouryear battle with colon cancer. Neither did I meet the man nor did I ever see him in person, but for whatever reason, his death hit me harder than any other that has happened over the past eight months of 2020.

Once I took the time to collect my thoughts after being consoled by friends and family, I finally got to think for a few days, “Why did Boseman mean so much to so many people?”

The answer was easy.

The general consensus for sure will be the fact that he played one of the most beloved superheroes in Black Hollywood history, with his portrayal of the namesake in Marvel’s “Black Panther.” While I enjoy watching films from the Marvel Cinematic Universe just as much as the next comic book and/or superhero junkie, Boseman was more than just T’Challa, King of Wakanda.

I was first introduced to Boseman in a main role on the big screen in his representation of baseball Hall of Famer Jackie Robinson in the 2013 film, “42.” Going in, I had little to no idea what I was getting from Boseman representing one of the pillars of Black American history, but he proved to me and the rest of the world that he was more than ready for the bright lights.

Fast forward about a year later to August of 2014 when I went to see Boseman play the late James Brown in “Get on Up,” alongside my 87-year-old great grandmother.

Whether or not Boseman had the pipes that mimicked one of the greatest entertainers of the 20th century is another conversation for another day, but his performance put a smile on my great-grandmother’s face, as if she had just seen Brown himself put on a show at the famed Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York.

While Boseman started his career with a bang by playing influential Black figures, the biggest break of his career came with his introduction to Marvel. His first portrayal of Black Panther was in “Captain America: Civil War” in 2016. Over the next three years, Boseman made appearances as T’Challa in the hero’s solo film, “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame.” With this four-film run, Boseman was officially stamped as an icon in the industry.

Boseman’s acting resume included playing the first Black man to ever play in the Major Leagues, a

multi-platinum recording artist and the first Black superhero with supernatural abilities in the Marvel comic universe. Boseman also played Thurgood Marshall, the first Black Supreme Court Justice in the 2017 film, “Marshall.” In such a short period of time, Boseman took over Hollywood like few others could.

Throughout Black culture, there have been great debates about the greatest actors in film history.

Names like Denzel Washington, Samuel L. Jackson, Sidney Poitier, Morgan Freeman and Laurence Fishburne are the ones that come to mind throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. Boseman was supposed to be the one that led the charge going forward. Whether it be telling the next chapter of the story of Black Panther or stepping into different roles that were offered to him, Boseman was more than capable of taking on the mantle of the “next

Chadwick Boseman smiles on the red carpet.

Courtesy of The New York Times

Denzel.”

What makes Boseman’s run even more remarkable is the fact that following his diagnosis with cancer, he was still a public figure.

Being a part of films that would bring in billions of dollars in the box office, executive producing projects, making appearances at MLB, NFL and NBA games and events, Boseman lived every day as if nothing was wrong. That was the most powerful part. He showed his fans that he would not let his own personal battle get in the way of telling some of the most iconic stories in American history.

With his versatility, talent and charisma, his acting quite literally transcended generations to give the world the closest thing we have seen to a hero in a time where the world needed one. Rest In Power, Chadwick Boseman. Your story and legacy will live on forever.

SPORTS

10 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

SPORTS

Sanaä Barnes on Black Student-Athlete Group, The 13% Rylie Eisenhardt Staff Writer

Nearly 100 days have passed since the murder of George Floyd at the hands of the Minneapolis Police Department. In this time, undeniable change has occurred and will continue to occur, driven by difficult conversations about race and privilege in our own communities. Several Black student-athletes on campus have taken up this challenge and founded a new organization called The 13%, which represents both the percentage of students at the University who are Black and the percentage of Americans who are Black. They introduced themselves and their mission proudly this summer, releasing a video made in partnership with the University’s media team.

The idea for The 13% stemmed from a desire among many Black student-athletes to form a better support network for one another that

addresses their unique experiences as Black students at a Predominantly White Institution. Sanaä Barnes, one of the most vocal leaders of The 13%, credits conversations with teammates about struggling to adapt to campus life as catalysts for wanting to form the group. The organizers received input from an academic intern working in the athletic office who mentioned that the University of Louisville actually had a program in place specifically to meet these needs.

After seeking out the level of interest from other Black student-athletes, a small meeting was held, and the organization took off from there.

As with many things in the last six months, the ongoing pandemic limited The 13% from making significant progress in terms of reaching official campus recognition.

This changed with the murder of George Floyd in May.

A group chat was made by Danielle Burns, a veteran of the women’s track and field team, with

Cosby-Roundtree, Burns, Barnes and Coach Jay Wright join in a Zoom.

Courtesy of @VUCoachJayWright Twitter

several Black student-athletes in an effort to check in with everyone.

“We talked about what should be done,” Barnes said, adding that many voiced displeasure with how the University “never addressed it.”

The group decided that it was time to be heard.

“You don’t hear much from the athletes on campus about social issues,” Barnes said. “We all have a lot to say but we don’t really know how to say it.”

Barnes and Qadir Ismail of the football team began working on a script for a video to be released to the community. The first draft captured their frustration and anger.

“It was time to say enough is enough,” Barnes said.

Subsequent drafts toned down the message to come across as more friendly. Eventually, the group decided on a strong message that conveyed their frustration and passion but also a desire for change. It may be uncomfortable for some to watch, but that discomfort is necessary for genuine conversations to take place and for the community to grow.

Since The 13% partnered with the University’s media team to produce the video, it had hoped to be able to release the video on the University’s varius social media platforms.

After many productive conversations with Athletic Director Mark Jackson and University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D., the decision was made to release the video on the personal Twitter account of men’s basketball head coach, Jay Wright. Barnes, Burns and Dahmir Cosby-Roundtree of the men’s basketball team, were then invited to join

Wright on his podcast to discuss the video further, in addition to relating their experiences as both Black student-athletes at Villanova and as Black men and women living in the United States.

Since returning to campus, The 13% have been recognized as an official University-sponsored organization. The team, including Barnes, Ismail, Joia McKinney, Darius Pickett, Jalen Phillps, CJ Pressley and Jaden Rolling, has been working tirelessly throughout the summer and into the fall to make their voices heard. They hope to still make an impact on campus life. This includes involvement in the upcoming 1842 Day, finding ways to bring in guest speakers, holding allyship meetings and connecting with the Black Student Union to develop a workshop about colorism in the Black community.

“I would want the community to understand that there needs to be more,” said Barnes. “There needs to be more push not just for the Black community but for all underrepresented communities. It’s not ok to just not be racist, you have to be anti-racist for everyone. Until we fully accept all those different communities that are forming we can’t live up to Villanova’s mission statement, forming a better community for everyone.

It’s time to speak about it. It’s time to make a stand. Being silent or saying ‘I can’t do that because I’m scared to offend people’ is not ok. People are going to be offended when you want to make a change.”

The 13%’s debut video can be found on its Twitter account, @thethirteenp.

Loss of John Thompson Jr. Rocks Big East Basketball ference titles. His coaching career ended with an incredible record of 596-239.

Thompson was named Big

Renowned Georgetown East coach of the year three times basketball coach John Thompson Jr. and UPI coach of the year in 1987. passed away early Monday morning In 2006, he was inducted into the at the age of 78. Thomspon will Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame. forever be remembered as a sacred

Craig Robinson, the Nationpart of Big East basketball. al Association of Basketball Coaches

Thompson was an advocate executive director, praised Thompfor racial equality during his 27 son during an interview with The seasons as coach of the Hoyas. He Washington Post. led Georgetown to four Final Four

“John Thompson Jr. altered appearances, the 1984 NCAA cham- the history of college basketball pionship and seven Big East Conthrough both his on-court success Madison Burke Co-Sports Editor

Coach Thompson speaking with a young Allen Iverson.

Courtesy of ESPN

and his passionate advocacy for equality for all coaches and student-athletes,” Robinson said.

Thompson was the first Black coach to win an NCAA title in men’s basketball with the 1984 Georgetown team. He advocated for increased diversity among both basketball players and coaches.

In 1989, Thompson walked off the court before Georgetowns’ game against Boston College, in protest of Proposition 42. The NCAA was barring athletic scholarships to freshmen who did not meet certain scholastic criteria and unequivocally affected Black student-athletes, leading to Thompson’s protest.

A Georgetown varsity jacket from the 1980s hangs in the National Museum of African American History and Culture, due to the immense amount of progression that Thompson instilled in college athletics for minority students.

Thompson coached and mentored future Hall of Fame players Patrick Ewing, Alonzo Mourning, Dikembe Mutomobo and Allen Iverson. Ewing and Iverson have released statements on Twitter, praising Thompson and thanking him for his lasting effect on their lives as both basketball players and people.

“Thanks For Saving My Life Coach,” Iverson tweeted. “I’m going to miss you, but I’m sure that you

are looking down on us with a big smile.”

Iverson was arrested during his senior year of high school and all potential offers for college basketball had been revoked, except his offer from Georgetown. Thompson offered him a scholarship, and Iverson was later named Big East Rookie of the Year in 1995.

Villanova head coach, Jay Wright, paid homage to the coaching legend tweeting immediately after the news of Thompson’s death broke and also making a further statement.

“Coach Thompson was an icon of the Big East,” Wright commented. “I admired him as much as any coach, but I respected him more than anyone. His commitment to his players and their academic growth is something that inspired me as a young coach. What I respected most about Coach Thompson was his authenticity.”

“Coach Thompson was a great man” Wright continued. “Our game and college athletics has lost a wonderful, impactful leader whom we will all miss.”

Big East basketball has been forever changed by the legacy John Thompson Jr. left on the conference.

His advocacy for minority students and coaches continues into the future of college basketball.

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

SPORTS

The Villanovan | 11

Track and Field “Super-Super Senior” Organizes Raffle to Support 52nd Street Project in West Philadelphia Frank Crippen Staff Writer

Villanova men’s track and field runner, Casey Comber, had himself a busy summer. The stud 3:57 miler and former NCAA indoor nationals runner-up put in serious training as he enters his sixth year of competition as a self-proclaimed “super-super senior.”

He also helped in organizing a raffle to help contribute to the Enterprise Center’s “Support 52nd Street” project.

Comber and his teammates held a gear raffle through the @villanovaxctf Instagram page and other social media pages. All proceeds went to the 52nd Street corridor in West Philadelphia, an underdeveloped and predominantly Black neighborhood, hit hard by the effects of COVID-19, looting and property damage that occurred this summer.

The Villanovan had the opportunity to catch up with Comber and about his charity efforts, his feelings about the upcoming track season and everything in between.

The Villanovan: What is the “Support 52nd Street” project and what made you decide to get involved with it?

Comber: The Enterprise Center is an organization in Philadelphia that helps minority entrepreneurs, a lot of which don’t have access to capital that they need to either grow their businesses or at least keep the doors open. Particularly, in the wake of the pandemic, as well as the looting and rioting that happened in certain areas of the city, there were a lot of struggling businesses. Basically, the Enterprise Center

had a specific effort to help a corridor along 52nd Street in West Philly. They were providing $2,000 grants to a number of small businesses there. I thought it was a very specific and good use of resources that we could contribute to. While people have been striving to better educate themselves on the struggles present within the Black community, it has been really nice to do something concrete like raising money and helping people in a specific way. I’m happy that my teammates and I were able to get involved in this project.

TV: What feedback have you received from the people that you helped?

What is the most rewarding part of the charity process?

CC: We got a lot of gratitude from the organization itself. As far as the grants actually going to the businesses, that is between the Enterprise Center and those businesses. So we haven’t received feedback from them yet. I have, however, received feedback from people who sent in donations. You know, emails just complimenting everyone involved and saying how it was such a cool way to become part of a social justice movement. Villanova is kind of its own bubble out in the burbs of the Main Line. Sometimes you don’t know what’s happening right under your nose, and you go eight miles down Lancaster Avenue, and there are people really struggling. We ended up raising just over $5,000 for the project and it was a good feeling.

TV: You have one season left of outdoor track eligibility. What made you decide to compete for another season, and what are your goals for the upcoming track season?

CC: To be honest, the goal was always to make the Olympic Trials. After a rough year last year with the season being cancelled, it could end up being a blessing in disguise for me. The state of the world right now is not a blessing, but athletically speaking, I didn’t feel that I was in my best shape last year, especially compared to the year prior. Now with the Trials getting pushed back a full year and getting the opportunity to come back to Villanova and compete in the Spring, it is a chance to keep my running career going. If it goes well, it may allow me to keep it going even after this year. It is a unique opportunity to be coming back just for one season as a “super-super” senior, but I was definitely happy to get the opportunity.

TV: You dealt with a lot of challenges this year. Following an excellent redshirt junior year campaign, you had a lingering sickness for the fall cross country season, and your spring track

season was ultimately disrupted by COVID-19. How have you been able to overcome these obstacles?

CC: I definitely had some hard moments last year. Sometimes when one phase of your life isn’t going right, it crosses over to other phases and I was getting really stressed out. Just kind of desperately trying to crawl my way back into fitness. Sometimes when things pile on to one another, it is best to take a long break. After last year, a few months ago, I ended up taking almost a month off just to refresh myself mentally and prepare for one more long grind physically. I think the idea of just taking some time to not work as hard and decompress, although that may seem counterintuitive at times, is very beneficial. Because when you overwork yourself, you start to see some negative effects and I think that I really needed to stop everything for a little while so that I could get myself back on track and reset.

Various items and apparel were included in raffle.

Courtesy of @villanovaxctf Instagram

Bigger than Sports: Multiple Leagues Boycott Competition Meghann Morhardt Staff Writer

In response to the shooting of Jacob Blake, more than 15 professional sporting events were boycotted or postponed last Wednesday, Aug. 26, to show player support for the Black community and the Black Lives Matter movement.

There had been rumors and discussions about the possibility of boycotting games in light of recent events, but no one knew what to expect until the Milwaukee Bucks made their decision. The players, along with their coaching staff, chose to not take the court come tip-off on Wednesday afternoon. The team made the collective decision that the best way to spark action among others was to take a powerful stand themselves. In the case of the NBA, the teams are in the midst of the first two rounds of playoffs, so the games have higher stakes than a normal matchup. By striking, they are showing that despite the importance of these games, there are more pressing issues than basketball right now.

The Bucks were the first team, but certainly not the only. Teams from the WNBA, MLS and MLB followed the lead of Milwaukee and boycotted their respective games on Wednesday night. After the players made the

decision not to play, both the NBA and WNBA postponed all games on Wednesday and Thursday to show their support for the athletes and figure out the best way to move forward.

The NBA and WNBA have both had meetings between players and league executives to discuss the best way to proceed and the best way for them to use their platforms to influence social justice reform. After beginning discussions and drafting plans of action, both leagues have decided to resume games but have pledged to continue their conversations about racial injustice.

Players have continued to speak out and have said that just because they are playing again, does not mean they are going to be silent. They will continue to fight.

Many athletes, both past and present, have shown their support to these athletes and their decision to strike. Former Villanova Basketball star and Golden State Warriors’ Eric Paschall, tweeted, “For those who don’t understand what is going on, it will always be bigger than basketball!

We demand change!!! We demand justice! Have a blessed day!”

Following suit, former Villanova teammate and current Phoenix Suns forward Mikal Bridges tweeted, “I swear its not that hard to understand that WE as human beings just

want to be treated equal ... and if u don’t understand that then im sorry for your ignorance.”

Professional athletes are given a massive platform and feel a sense of duty to speak up and be activists for social issues. With the number of lives they impact, they have the ability to truly make a difference.

Athletes have faced criticism in the past for trying to get involved with social justice issues, but that has never stopped them from taking action. Over the past week, there

have been stories reminding fans of the many times when athletes have spoken out and fought for what they believe.

Athletes have been involved in countless movements, such as the fights for gender equality, gay rights, civil rights and continuing the conversation with police brutality. These boycotts and the further actions of the athletes will continue to affect social activism and the way that these movements progress for a long time to come.

NBA athletes continue to use their voices against injustice.

Courtesy of EPA / John G. Mabanglo

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