The Vindicator - December 2018

Vindicator Cleveland State University’s Arts and Culture Magazine

DEC 2018

THE HISTORY & CELEBRATION OF

KWANZAA PAGE 25

THE AGORA THEN & NOW PAGE 19

A DAY FOR US HUMAN RIGHTS DAY PAGE 41

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DEC

25

what’s in this issue?

3

Check Us Out Online

4

Calendar

5

Letter from the Editor

6

Meet Our Contributors

THE

CELEBRATION & HISTORY OF KWANZAA

Arts 7

BY TYISHA BLADE

Movies to Anticipate in December

by JOSCELYN ERVIN

9

Holidays in Film

by GREG ELEK

11

Culture

LAND-ing Art in a Growing City

by SHANNAH BYRNES & LIV WILSON

15

Dare Mighty Things: Robert P. Madison’s Story

by ERYKAH BETTERSON

17

2018 Photo Contest

by CENTER OF INTERNATIONAL SERVICES & PROGRAMS

19

Beauty + Wellness 33

Experiencing Tarot Cards

by CHAU TANG

35

Staying Active Outdoors in the Winter

by JILLIAN VANDYKE

BY TABITHA TIMMS & MICHELLA DILWORTH 37

The Diet of Society

by ALANA WHELAN

Poetry 43

Trois. Sun Story

by V

Social

44

39

45

Homelessness in Cleveland

by BRENDON LYDIC

A Day for Us

by NGUYET VO

When You’re Never Out This Late

by NICK CHMURA

by MEGAN BARANUK 41

Then How Do Flowers Grow?

46

I Am My Mother’s Daughter

by GRACE ROBERSON

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 2

CHECK US OUT ONLINE

COVER STORY

THEVINDI.COM

“Kwanzaa lasts from December 26th through January 1 st and each day reflects a principle that emphasizes cultural messages relating to the moral standard of what it means to be African and human. In this holiday, celebratory measures are incorporated, uniting people and commemorating the efforts of the African–American community.” — TYISHA BLADE THEVINDI.COM

THEVINDI.COM

“First Man”’s Unique Take on Emotions “...“First Man” shows the harsh realities of the men who dared to travel to the unknown.”

The Success of Shane Dawson “The Mind of Jake Paul” isn’t just about the Paul family and sociopaths—it’s about the evolution of the culture of YouTube and how

#VindiAsks: How familiar are you with Kwanzaa?

it affects young generations.”

10% I CELEBRATE IT

27%

@vindi_csu

NOT AT ALL

63% KNOW OF IT

stay up–to–date with all things Vindi on Instagram 3 | VINDICATOR

Follow us on social media to participate in our next poll! @VINDI_CSU

w h a t’s h a p p e n i n g i n

DECEMBER 12/7 Dance

Interplay: An Evening of Ekphrastic Dance Experience the authentic art of poetry told through dance when six local choreographers come to SPACES to show their original, modern art works.

12/8 Wintertide @ Gordon Square

Celebrate the holidays and enjoy shopping, fire pits, kids activities, music and drinks at this winter festival. Watch “A Christmas Story” at the Capitol Theatre in the afternoon for $1 and stay after hours to attend ticketed theater performances in the area.

12/15 Bar Crawl

12PM—6PM, GORDON SQUARE

6:30PM, 2900 DETROIT AVE, $15

12/13 Sustainability Meetup

Drink beer while supporting Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital, and wear an ugly sweater for a chance to win a prize from Market Garden Brewery.

12PM—6PM, OHIO CITY, $20

12/22 Flea Market

Open to anyone interested in sustainability, this is the last meeting of the year where Sustainable Cleveland will be meeting to discuss the environment, economy and social climate of Cleveland along with the City of Cleveland Mayor’s Office of Sustainability.

5:30PM, 11400 EUCLID AVE, FREE

Presented by the Black Market, vendors will be selling everything from records to gently used gear at this flea market.

This year, they will be accepting material donations for All About the Pawz, a nonprofit dog shelter in Austintown, OH. 12PM—6PM, 11213 DETROIT AVE

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 4

EDITOR’S LETTER

S

ON SANCTUARY

anctuary” is something that’s especially

commissioned by LAND studio in an article written

difficult to define. I’ve been reflecting on

by returning writers Shannah Byrnes and Liv Wilson.

the different aspects of the sanctuaries that

First–time contributor Erykah Betterson shares a

exist in our world this past month—the

thoughtful piece on the life of Robert P. Madison, a

state of them, the disappearances of them,

local figure who inspires. Another new contributor,

the attacks inflicted upon them, the lack of them. For

Ngyuet Vo, gives a timely reminder of the ongoing

me, and for many of the creatives that have built this

struggle for human rights; Arts Editor Alana Whelan

platform and contributed to it, the Vindicator has

delves into the social implications behind diet.

been a much–needed sanctuary. Creating, in whatever

This aspect of sanctuary is what we must strive

medium one may choose, is also a sanctuary—a way

for and rescue as a publication created by and for

to express our innermost thoughts and complexities.

marginalized voices and artistic expression. As we

In this issue, we explore the Pan–African holiday of

close out the semester, I would like to personally thank

Kwanzaa—a sanctuary in the form of celebration of

the members of the Vindicator staff, our contributing

Black diasporic culture—in our cover story written by

creatives and our readership, who have all played a

Managing Editor Tyisha Blade, with illustrations by

part in our journey so far.

Zavier McLean. We also feature the iconic Agora’s new look, with writing from contributor Tabitha Timms and Online Content Editor Michella Dilworth. We also delve into the many public art works around the city

BRENDA CASTAÑEDA YUPANQUI

5 | VINDICATOR

NOVEMBER 2018

Faculty Advisor Julie Burrell Web Specialist Daniel Lenhart

MEET OUR

CONTRIBUTORS STAFF HEADS Brenda Castañeda Yupanqui Editor–in–Chief

Tyisha Blade Managing Editor

Andriana Akrap Art Director

Alexia Carcelli Asst. Art Director

Greg Elek Multimedia Manager

Michella Dilworth Online Content Editor

Alana Whelan Arts Editor

Renee Betterson Culture Editor

Imani Stephens Beauty/Junior Editor

Dorothy Zhao Social/Junior Editor

Grace Roberson Copy Editor

WRITERS

JUNIOR DESIGNERS

Joscelyn Ervin Greg Elek Shannah Byrnes Liv Wilson Erykah Betterson

Tyisha Blade Chau Tang Jillian VanDyke Alana Whelan Megan Baranuk

Tabitha Timms Michella Dilworth

Ngyuet Vo

Michella Dilworth Gia Paulovich Jillian VanDyke

Austin DiLorenzo Anna Oprisch

ARTISTS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Antonio DeJesus Zavier McLean

Mikayla Colston Beth Elliot

POETS V Nick Chmura

Brendon Lydic Grace Roberson

Disclaimer The content of the Vindicator does not necessarily represent the opinions of Cleveland State University, its students, faculty, or staff: nor does it represent the members of the Vindicator staff or our advisors unless otherwise stated. The editor reserves the right to comment on any issue that affects the student body in general as well as the multicultural community at large. Letters to the editors and other submissions are accepted, however they must have the authors name, address, major if applicable, and telephone number. All submissions become property of the Vindicator and the Vindicator reserves the right to edit submissions as deemed necessary. Magazine and newspaper theft is a crime; limit one per person.

2121 Euclid Ave, MC 471, Cleveland, OH 44115 216–687–2118 THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 6

ARTS

MOVIES TO ANTICIPATE

WRITTEN BY

Joscelyn Ervin

A list, synopsis, and some opinions on the movies that will hit theaters throughout December of 2018.

T

he last month of 2018 is upon us, and that usually comes with big–shot movie releases, like a new “Star Wars” film or “The Greatest Showman,” all of which premiered at the beginning of December

last year. Looking through the movie releases for

Mary Queen of Scots “Mary Queen of Scots” will premiere on December 7th.

This historical drama stars Saoirse Ronan and Margot Robbie, who play Mary Stuart and Queen Elizabeth I, respectively. Focusing on the life of Mary during the period in which she tries to overthrow Elizabeth, this movie looks like it’ll be a success. Although there isn’t a high demand for historical dramas, the acting capabilities of Ronan and Robbie are bound to be enticing and powerful.

this year, however, I didn’t get the same feeling of excitement that I usually do. Don’t get me wrong, I

Aquaman

now plan on seeing at least half of these films after

“Aquaman” is coming to t heaters on t he 13 t h of

they come out, but most of them are not massively

December. Although I’m not expecting to enjoy the

advertised, big budget Hollywood movies, which

entirety of this one, or for it to be groundbreaking, I

surprised me. Even so, I had the chance to read over

still think I’m going to see it because of Jason Momoa.

a synopsis of each of these movies, and I changed

Momoa, if you’re unfamiliar, had a brief, but shining

my mind about how many I want to see when the

role in “Game Of Thrones.” He’s beautiful. After how

time comes.

much “Justice League” flopped last year, I’m surprised that I’ve heard buzz and excitement for this release.

Centering around a revolt in the underwater world of Atlantis, “Aquaman” has some decent expectations to fulfill. Even so, I’m interested to see where they decide to take the new hero’s storyline after previously introducing him in “Justice League.”

DECEMBER 2018

Spider–Man: Into the Spider–Verse

Welcome to Marwen

“Spider–Man: Into the Spider-Verse” can be seen

Along with “Bumblebee,” the new Steve Carell movie,

in theaters the day after the release of “Aquaman,”

“Welcome to Marwen,” will be in theaters on December

on December 14 th . Another superhero movie, but

21 st . This drama is described on movieweb.com as

unlike all the recent others, this story is going to be

a story in which “a victim of a brutal attack finds

exploring dimensions and alternate realities within

a unique and beautiful therapeutic outlet to help

it’s become clear that the past decade or so has been a new age of live–action movies inspired by our favorite novels and comic books, this film reflects back on the original roots of 2D design and style. Even so, it still explores modern issues and utilizes an African– American character as the main hero, instead of the usual white protagonist. This film stars a fantastic cast that includes names such as Shameik Moore, Jake Johnson, Hailee Steinfeld, Nicholas Cage, and many others. Although I haven’t always been thrilled with every movie produced by Marvel or DC in recent years, I’m looking forward to this one.

Mary Poppins Returns “Mary Poppins Returns” is being released just days before Christmas—on December 19 . It feels like th

this movie was supposed to come out ages ago; I remember hearing about it through interviews with Emily Blunt, but it took a while to come out. I’m not sure if Disney was just preemptively advertising, or if Blunt just happened to talk about it during several interviews, but I was expecting to see it in theaters a lot sooner than December of this year. “Mary Poppins Returns” is obviously based on the original 1964 story of Mary Poppins that starred Julie An-

him through his recovery process.” I’ve seen the

“

preview for this movie maybe a dozen times in the past year or so. Based on the trailer, it doesn’t look like something I would be interested in, however,

It explores

because Carell is in the starring role, and I love what he has done in his other works, I might have to see it when it comes to theaters at the end of the year.

modern

Carell has been focusing on more serious acting

issues and utilizes an African

roles in the past few productions he’s been in—like “Beautiful Boy,” which has received a lot of praise, so “Welcome to Marwen” might have the same potential for high reviews.

On the Basis of Sex

American

“On the Basis of Sex” is premiering on Christmas of

character

looking up a list of releases for this December, and

this year. I hadn’t heard about this movie until I was that surprises me. “On the Basis of Sex,” starring Felicity Jones, is the story of Ruth Bader Ginsberg and

as the

a Supreme Court case about gender discrimination.

“

the Spider–Man universe, through animation. While

main hero.

Considering how popular Ginsberg is with teens and young adults, it’s odd that the advertising for this story hasn’t been plastered on other social media platforms. I almost wish I’d heard about it before.

Since I haven’t had the chance to learn anything about Ginsberg, or read the popular book about her,

drews. Filling these big shoes, as stated previously,

Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik’s “Notorious RBG,”

is Blunt. I wasn’t a huge fan of the previous Mary

this is definitely on the list of films I’m going to see

Poppins movie, so I don’t know too much about this

this December.

one. On the other hand, every time I see someone react to the trailer, they’re usually filled with a ton of excitement. Hopefully it’s as good as everyone thinks it will be.

Bumblebee “Bumblebee” is premiering shortly after “Mar y Poppins Returns,” on December 21st. Starring Hailee Steinfeld, the latest addition to the Transformers universe features the background and history of one of the audience favorites—Bumblebee. The story is set in 1987, when Bumblebee is found by Steinfeld’s character, Charlie, who is about to turn 18. Although PHOTO CREDIT GOOGLE IMAGES

the Transformers movies arguably aren’t that great, this movie gives me a slight hope that “Bumblebee” won’t follow the example set by its predecessors. This probably won’t be the case—which is why I don’t think that I’m going to waste my time, energy, and money sitting through this one. However, if you’re a big fan of the Transformers franchise, or action movies in general, this might just be right up your alley.

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 8

ARTS

HOLIDAYS IN FILM Why non–holiday movies are set on the holidays.

WRITTEN BY

Greg Elek

would follow it, such as “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946), “Fanny” and “Alexander” (1982), “Scrooged” (1988), “Die Hard” (1988), and “Elf” (2003) just to name a few.

There are a lot of great holiday films out there—and a lot of horrible ones that are blatant cash grabs. What has always been more interesting to me are films that take place during a holiday, without actually having anything to do with said holiday.

Almost as soon as we got Christmas movies, we got films that used holidays as set dressing. One of the most critically acclaimed and influential films of all time, “The Phantom Carriage” (1921) takes place on New Year’s Eve, which is a holiday we don’t often see on the big screen. “The Phantom Carriage” is a film about change and the decisions we make. Thematically, New Year’s is a great time to set a film like this. The theme of change should be an obvious one, and for some silly reason people traditionally use New Year’s to make decisions to try to change themselves. When you look at more contemporary films that use holidays as backdrops, the themes that relate to the holidays

THE HUNT

tend to be a little less obvious.

I

Modern films like “The Hunt” (2012), “Prisoners” n 1898, George Albert Smith changed the face of

(2013), “Tangerine” (2015) and “Phantom Thread”

cinema when he released what is believed to be

(2018) all use holidays as a backdrop. One interesting

the first Christmas film ever made, “Santa Claus.”

surface level observation is that none of these movies

Over the film’s runtime of 76 seconds it depicts

are particularly happy movies. Some are more dour than

two children going to sleep on Christmas Eve,

others, but none of the characters in these movies are in

and Santa bringing them present—it’s also believed

9 | VINDICATOR

great situations. Without even looking into the mean-

to be the first example of parallel action (two differ-

ings of specific holidays, it’s interesting to think of the

ent events cut together at once) in film. When George

sadness these films bring and the holidays they’re set

Albert Smith made this film, there was no way he was

around. Holidays are special events that a lot of people

aware of the onslaught of classic Christmas films that

look forward to. Think of all of the countdowns you

DECEMBER 2018

acters in every movie will have obstacles standing in the way of their goals, but Christmas movies are relentless in that sense.

Different holidays can affect your movies in entirely different ways as well. “The Phantom Carriage” is very different from any adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” yet these films are telling the same story. As I mentioned before, New Year’s Eve brings out feelings of change and decisions, while Christmas brings out feelings of nostalgia, comfort, and family.

It’s almost as if using a holiday is cheating. It’s pulling out a certain emotion from you, and that will undoubtedly affect your viewing experience. By the end of “A

TANGERINE When thinking of your personal favorite holiday, some things that might come to mind are nostalgia, family, comfort, and giving. So when you’re watching a film, and a scene is taking place at a church on Christmas Eve, there are a lot of strong emotions that can be evoked from a mass audience. If you place optimism in a setting that isn’t considered a happy one, like the climax of “The Hunt,” the dichotomy of the scene will get stronger, and make the scene much more emotional.

This contrast of joy and depression even comes up in those aforementioned mainstream Christmas movies, even if it is by accident. Think of a movie like “Elf.” Sure it’s an optimistic, fun Christmas movie, and I don’t believe the filmmakers intended to make it anything deeper, but think for a second—what is “Elf” really about? It’s about a man learning his entire life was a lie, seeking out his father, only for his father to brush him off, and then. when things are finally going well,

PHOTO CREDIT GOOGLE IMAGES

he’s sent away from his new family. Obviously, char-

“

of “The Phantom Carriage,” I find myself having quite

...films that

the difference.

take place

films makes me wish we had a more diverse selection

the opposite reaction. Make no mistake, they’re their own pieces of art, but setting is so important in film.

Setting these films in different holidays made all of

during a

This phenomena of holidays enhancing the tone of of holidays for our film. Let’s see more psychological thrillers take place during Easter. Give us more romances set during Kwanzaa. Give me more arthouse set on the

holiday,

4th of July. Holidays are thematic playgrounds, and it

but don’t

would be so interesting to see what films would look

actually have

like if they took place on some holidays that aren’t Christmas.

anything to do with said holiday.

“

see leading up to Christmas—people can’t wait for it.

Christmas Carol,” I don’t find myself having a lot of empathy for the main character. However, by the end

PRISONERS THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 10

LAND-ING ART IN A GROWING CITY

WRITTEN BY

Shannah Byrnes Liv Wilson PHOTOS BY

Bob Perkoski, courtesy of LAND studio

With the assistance of local and national artists, commission invigorating murals, sculptures, and eye–catching displays are presented. The growth of their projects redefine Cleveland and reaffirm the allure of the city experience.

D

owntown Cleveland is a hub of art and culture, and is open to everyone. Against the backdrop of some dreary Cleveland days, the artwork instituted by LAND studio illuminates the city and heightens

the downtown experience. LAND commissions local

and international artists to create and showcase their artwork in some of the most vibrant and accessible

communities.

Na med a f ter t hei r fo cus on la nds cap e, a r t, Detroit Shoreway Water Tower

neighborhoods, and development, LAND studio is a vibrant member of the Cleveland arts community. In

conjunction with local government’s urban planning, the artists commissioned by LAND create sustainable and creative structures to draw attention and appreciation to public spaces. The murals, sculptures, and installations they create are artistic expressions to bring greater attention to the areas of Cleveland that deserve more than just a glance as you pass them on the street.

The art pieces created by LAND are easily accessible and, even better, free to view! Many of these art pieces can be experienced a short walk from CSU’s campus, or a longer bus ride to Ohio City, as well as other locations at the hub of Cleveland’s various communities. These installations draw more people into the areas, promote local businesses, and thus boost local property values. These pieces of art stretch far beyond what the eye can see, and there is something from this studio for anybody to enjoy.

After a short walk from campus, you can visit

DECEMBER 2018

the “Rock Box” on East 9th Street, featuring large

interurban-cle.com.

speakers in front of a mural backdrop. These speakers

“Common Energy” is located in the Eastman Reading

were designed by Mark Riegelman, a graduate of

Garden of the Cleveland Public Library. Standing

the Cleveland Institute of Art. The speakers are

almost a stor y high, even covered in rainwater

Roll Hall of Fame, and frequently project songs of over 300 inductees honored in the museum. Speakers like these can be found like Easter eggs throughout the city—you may have spotted them at the RTA bus stop across from Heinen’s, in front of the Rock Hall, in front of One Cleveland Center, or in front of Progressive Field. Better yet, if for some reason you cannot locate one, just simply listen for some rock music and follow your ears!

Perhaps one of the most widespread mural projects taken on by LAND, is the INTER|URBAN: Art & Culture Connector. These murals—painted in bus stations, on bridges, and other unlikely places—display themes of diversity and empowerment. These themes are even derived from literature written on social justice, specifically from award–winning literature in the Anisfield Wolf Book Awards. These murals allow transit–riders to contemplate life, culture, diversity,

it adds a vibrant splash of color to the otherwise

“

monochrome garden. Grey and crunchy leaves litter the ground around the huge blue and yellow cylinder, which initially seems out of place. However, the

These pieces

LAND foundation website provides an explanation of

of art stretch

was constructed by Northeast Ohio–native artist

how important the piece really is. “Common Energy” Lauren Herzak–Bauman and modeled after Tibetan

far beyond

prayer wheels. There are Buddhist mantras that

what the eye

the outside of the wheel, and many more cover the

can see.

of the world, onlookers need only spin the cylinder

“

interactive, honoring the inductees of the Rock and

promote peace and positivity inscribed in braille on inside. In order to spread their messages to the rest and let the love flow.

Alyssa Miller, a design intern at LAND, answered a few questions about the LAND experience for her and the entire city: Q From viewing LAND’s artwork and visiting their website, I’ve come to see their mission as one of

literature, self–awareness, empowerment, and more,

promoting artists and rejuvenating local spaces. As

just by participating in their daily commutes. For a

a design intern, how would you describe LAND’s

further description, or to see these murals, visit:

mission?

Rock Box THEVINDI.COM ­­| 12

and even international. I love to see work from Cleveland artists, of course, but it’s really incredible that we have work from artists all around the world in our city.

Q What can a reader, hearing about LAND studio for maybe the first time, take away about this process and appreciation of artwork in our own city?

A I think I would want them to see LAND as the organization that assists in making this abundance of incredible artwork in Cleveland possible. I always admired how artful Cleveland is, but had no idea that there was any particular organization behind it.

Our city is swimming with art, and I hope that the readers take a moment to appreciate the art when they see it out and about. Engage with a sculpture, take a picture with a mural, slow down for a second and enjoy the art around you.

M i l ler e ncompa s s e s t he mea n i ng of L A N D effortlessly, and acknowledges the importance of community engagement in the appreciation of these art pieces. LAND is heightening the city experience

Common Energy

in art, culture, and representation. Thanks to LAND, a walk through the city, a bus ride, or a trip to the library is a little more vibrant and immensely more memorable.

A As their design intern, I’ve observed that they do much more than just make public spaces beautiful.

LAND is thoughtful in approaching projects large and small, from the conversations they have with communities while planning, to the observation and execution of implementing the art itself. Their mission, to me, is to create a strong sense of community, using Q In your opinion, what do you think are LAND’s most prominent pieces? In addition, are there any artists commissioned that you appreciate the most—any you would like to see more from?

A LAND is responsible for so many things—it’s really hard to pick select projects. Their ongoing Inter|Urban project is really great, they designed Public Square, and they’ve done so many little things in different neighborhoods throughout Cleveland. It’s almost like a scavenger hunt when I’m in a new neighborhood.

This year, we have done a lot of really incredible work, as I’m sure you saw. Common Energy is an interactive sculpture in the Eastman Reading Garden at Cleveland Public Library downtown, multiple beautiful murals went up in Gordon Square Arts District, Inter|Urban put 25 artworks related to literature on the RTA Red Line, the water tower along the Detroit Shoreway got a makeover and we held multiple community engagement events to bring neighborhoods together for discussion and to create relationships with the residents.

And picking a favorite artist is like picking my favorite child at this point. I adore them all so much for all that they do. LAND is really good about being diverse in the artists they select, from local, national, 13 | VINDICATOR

“

I’ve observed that they do much more than just make public spaces beautiful.

“

art, programming, and thoughtful public spaces.

DECEMBER 2018

Detroit Shoreway Water Tower

MURALS TO SEE FOR YOURSELF GORDON SQUARE 5209 Detroit Ave

by Jessie & Katey DETROIT SHOREWAY WATER TOWER Detroit Shoreway by sam3.es RED LINE GREENWAY ENTRANCE Columbus Road

by Agnes Studio PIXELATING MORGANA E. 49th Street

by Christopher Diehl, John Troxell, and Shaun Breslin MIDTOWN E. 36th Street & Euclid

by Lauren Noel

RTA’s Red Line THEVINDI.COM ­­|

CULTURE

DARE MIGHTY THINGS

ROBERT P. MADISON’S STORY

WRITTEN BY

PHOTOS BY

Erykah Betterson

Jason Miller

R

obert P. Madison, a living legend, has a phenomenal story of triumph over adversity to share not only as an architect, but as a Black American. I had the opportunity to meet with Mr. Madison and discuss, first

hand, his many accomplishments and what makes him most proud looking back on his life at the ripe age of 95.

In 1923, Robert Madison was born in Cleveland, Ohio.

Soon after his birth the family moved to Washington D.C., where his father taught Civil Engineering at a local university. Here, Madison and his three younger brothers lived a comfortable middle–class life—the family owned a nice house and car, and the children never wanted much of anything. Unfortunately, when the Great Depression hit, everything changed for the Madison family; it was a traumatic turn of events that led the family to experience four evictions. The family soon moved back to Cleveland, where Madison graduated with honors from East Technical School in 1940. After graduation, Madison was Howard University bound for his degree in Architecture but left his studies early when he was drafted to serve as a cadet in WWII. During the war, Madison served

The story of how Cleveland’s first Black architect made history through triumph over adversity and discrimination.

15 | VINDICATOR

in the first Black regiment committed to battle on September 1st, 1944.

DECEMBER 2018

Though injured in combat by German soldiers,

his favorite projects were for senior citizens and

Madison returned home with a sense of purpose

low–income residents. These were the people that

and a new perspective on life, anxious to get back to

Madison recounted as exhibiting profound gratitude

school. When back in Cleveland, Case Western Re-

for the work he could provide for them. In 1957, one

serve University was where Madison set his sights to

particular work on the storefront of a church really

study architecture, only to learn the administration

touched him. Mt. Herman Baptist Church, a small

had other plans. Madison was told that he was not

congregation of community members with little

welcomed to attend the School of Architecture, and

money, had more than enough love to make up the

that no Black students had not or would not ever

difference. To hire Madison as their architect for much

receive instruction from the university. This answer

needed renovations, 25 church members pooled their

just would not do for war veteran Robert P. Madison,

resources, working diligently to raise $250,000 for

who was set to dressing in full uniform—complete

their church. Once the money was raised, the elder

with his Purple Heart—and marching in determined

women of the church could barely contain their tears.

resolution straight for the Dean’s Office. A fervent

They explained to Madison how much they prayed

conversation was had and won in his favor; Madison

that God would let them live to see the day that

graduating with his bachelor’s degree in 1948. Two years after graduating, he became the first registered Black architect in the state of Ohio. Madison went on to marry and earn a Master’s in architecture from Harvard University, beginning his career.

As a recent graduate, Madison began looking for work in his desired field. Even though he was qualified to practice and held a degree from Harvard, no one was willing to hire a Black architect in Cleveland—his search turned into a hopeless pursuit. After enduring discrimination in the war and education system, racism was not new to Madison. Not letting others’ views and prejudices stop him, Madison and his brother opened their own architecture firm in 1954: Madison & Madison International. Once established, this new firm catapulted Madison into a very successful career, where he worked on several major projects, both in Cleveland and around the world.

However, along with the newfound joy of owning a business, there were still battles to be won and trials to be endured for Madison. There were not many Black architects at the time and many in the field refused to consider a person of color a qualified candidate. For years, Madison experienced blatant

“

their church could bring him to work on the place of worship they loved so dearly—and Madison feels he was blessed to be an integral part in answering

Even though

their prayers.

Robert Madison has lived a fulfilling life, full of

he was

both life–threatening experiences in combat and

qualified to

in 2016, Madison now has his mind set to recounting

groundbreaking advances in his career. After retiring

practice,

his story in a memoir.

One of the most powerful moments during my

no one was

conversation with Mr. Madison was when he shared with me the wisdom he has lived by all these years.

hiring a black

Hanging on his wall as a constant reminder were the

architect

mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though

in his

spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they

words of Theodore Roosevelt, “Far better it is to dare checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor

hometown in

“

was admitted to Case Western’s School of Architecture,

Cleveland.

live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.” These words got Madison through his tough times and are a testament to exactly what he did in life. By daring mighty things, refusing to take no for an answer, and working tirelessly to achieve his goals, Madison has won many glorious triumphs.

Undoubtedly, the life of architect Robert P. Madison serves as a reminder for anyone who has an ambition

racial discrimination and found himself constantly

to never stay in the twilight, but dare to do mighty

overlooked and undervalued by clients and fellow

things, take big risks, and to always work toward

architects. In the mid–1980s, however, Madison was

your dream.

chosen by Cleveland State University to serve as the lead architect for their new science building. This marked the beginning of a new wave of opportunities for Madison to demonstrate his ability to visualize and execute the structure of buildings that would impress everyone who saw them. background image: wikizie.co

In the late 1980s, he designed the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with world-renowned Chinese architect I.M. Pei, and later led the design for the first United States Embassy in Dakar, Senegal. Madison’s work is proof of how architecture can be the foundation of hope for a community and become a marker of the pride and educational pursuits of a city.

Looking back on his career projects, Madison says

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 16

CULTURE

CISP HAS ANNOUNCED

THEIR 2018 WINNERS! WRITTEN BY

Center for International Services & Programs The Center for International Services and Programs or CISP, serves as a support resource for international, study abroad, and exchange students.

S

ince 2011, the Center for International Services and Programs has hosted an Annual Photo Contest that allows students to showcase their experience while studying abroad in

another country, or for own international students to document their experience here at Cleveland State University. Here are our 2018 winners!

Interested in studying abroad? Get in touch with the Center for International Services & Programs office!

LOCATION Berkman

Hall Suite 412

PHONE 216–687–3910 EMAIL intlcenter@csuohio.edu

STUDY ABROAD ENTRY

Saiida Bowie–Little Volta, Ghana "These are children that live among monkeys at the Tafi– Atome Monkey Sanctuary in Volta, Ghana. The two younger brothers are mirroring the actions of their older sister.

This is representative of most of the interactions that I had with children while teaching in Accra. Children naturally find older humans to imitate so they can be as great as they think that older human is."

17 | VINDICATOR

DECEMBER 2018

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ENTRY

Mariia Boichuk Grand Canyon, AZ “Just another lit American summer in my life. I left my heart in this place”

HONORABLE MENTION

Gwendolyn Kochur Isle of Skye, Scotland “While my host city was Edinburgh, Scotland, I traveled to the highlands during a guided trip. We stopped at the Cuillin Mountain Range on the Isle of Skye. Pictured are the Black Cuillin. These mountains are steeped in myth and legend, being the previous home of an unbeatable female warrior, the site of haunting by a murderous father and just below lives the infamous Kelpie creature. The mountains are as mystical as they are beautiful.

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 18

FEATURE

PHOTO BY ANTONIO DEJESUS

WRITTEN BY

Tabitha Timms & Michella Dilworth

Partnership with AEG brings life back to the Agora’s legacy.

T

he Agora Theatre and Ballroom continues to be a significant part of Cleveland and music history. Founded by Hank LoConti Sr., the Agora played an irreplaceable role in giving exposure to many bands from

the Cleveland area as well as from abroad. With the

original venue being in Little Italy and then moving near Cleveland State University’s campus, the venue

has given artists like Bruce Springsteen, KISS, and ZZ

Top the best shows of their careers. Specifically for Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band, their 1978 Agora 19 | VINDICATOR

performance is considered by many fans and critics to be one of the most essential live recordings to be released. Following their popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, the Agora expanded to 12 other venues across the United States. However, the Cleveland venue is the only one left today.

After a 1984 fire, LoConti Sr. decided to reopen the venue in its current location on Euclid Avenue in 1986.

The building was founded in 1913, and was known as the Metropolitan Theatre and WHK Auditorium. The auditorium showcased shows for Elvis Presley and The Beatles in its heyday. It was the hotspot of the 1970s new wave music scene and featured Ohio’s own DEVO, Pere Ubu, and the Dead Boys. As the third venue

DECEMBER 2018

to have the Agora name, the old auditorium location

known as the Metropolitan Theatre. “A few weeks ago,

became the permanent home of the Agora. The venue

we did an event called ‘Mystery Science Theatre.’ It’s

was donated to Midtown Cleveland Inc. in 2011, before

basically a series of crappy movies and they narrate

Hank LoConti Sr. passed away in July 2015 at age 85.

it and make it really funny. It’s a very a niche crowd,

In 2017, AEG Presents bought the operating rights

but we did that and it nearly sold out here,” Tata said.

of this historic venue. The California–based company

It doesn’t stop there as far as screenings are

is the world’s second–largest concert promoter after

concerned—the venue also hosted a premiere of the

Live Nation. The space had been looked at for almost

Browns’ HBO series, “Hard Knocks” and it unraveled

a decade before the deal was finalized. After dotting

into a wild night. “We had an orange carpet out in our

the i’s and crossing the t’s, AEG began a $3 million

ballroom. Jim Brown and bunch of ex–Browns’ players,

renovation. The renovation brought the venue back to

all the sports media were here… Swagger, the Browns’

life through restoration of the original tiling, plaster,

dog, was here and [they all] walked the orange carpet.

and architectural integrity of the lobby. Some of

And then we played the first episode of ‘Hard Knocks’

these elements date back to 1913. As the venue had

here on a projector,” Tata said regarding the event.

been the heart and soul of Cleveland’s music scene

When it came to renovations, the venue intentionally

for the past 50 years, AEG seems to be excited about

maintained the historical feel— “almost 80 percent of

the opportunity to bring a wide variety of acts to the

it,” according to Tata. “The goal with our renovation

area. The Agora’s owner and chief concert buyer Chris Zitterbart has been with the venue since moving from Peabody’s in 2013. He says the deal with AEG will be a partnership. They want to continue offering the best fan and artist experience.

With all the Agora has to offer through its new partnership with AEG, it got us thinking: how were decisions made? What was the progress between the renovations? Is the history still a factor? We sat down with Mike Tata, Agora marketing coordinator, to talk about the Agora’s history and all the hard work that went behind the new Agora/AEG partnership.

The Agora has always been a unique venue, and while

“THE VENUE HAS GIVEN ARTISTS LIKE BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN, KISS, AND ZZ TOP THE BEST SHOWS OF THEIR CAREERS.”

previously feeling a little dark and slightly damp, each show that’s hosted was put on by passionate employees and hardworking bands climbing their way to the top. Now, with the new AEG partnership, there’s a lighter atmosphere—gorgeous chandeliers gleaming from the ceilings, illuminating the theatre, which is now complete with two back bars, lights lining the railings around the steps scaling down to the general admission pit and the antique–looking columns that lead past the seating up through the balcony, all create a new polished feeling. If you’ve made memories at the Agora before, prepare to make new, glowing ones now.

With the Agora’s legendary past, it would be a shame to wash away all of the beauty that radiated from the walls and floors of the venue, including the Ballroom.

“Both Chris [Zitterbart] and I both see the value in the Ballroom. It’s nice to have that secondary stage to… host artists that are building up to something,” Tata said regarding the ballroom’s past. “I completely agree on the Agora end. You know, Bruce Springsteen, U2, The Police, Metallica, the list goes on… all of those acts have started in the Ballroom and now they’re some of the most historical names out there.”

It appears that the Agora has no limitations on what they believe can and will draw a crowd for them.

The venue has on occasion gone back to its roots of showing films, much like back in 1913, when it was

PHOTO BY ANTONIO DEJESUS

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 20

FEATURE

project was to enhance and not change. Being responsible for the rise of so many legendary artists and bands, it was important to keep that feeling of nostalgia,” he said. “We cleaned it up a bit, but we didn’t physically change it and that was super important.”

While the Agora is on a bright path towards its

H

FEATURING

Mayday Parade This Wild Life William Ryan Key Oh, Weatherly

future, the venue still has an eerie friend that likes to hang around. Attendees of shows have said to have seen a ghost in a yellow raincoat haunting the stage of it t i ng C le ve l a nd on No ve m b e r 3rd, Mayday Parade’s Welcome To Sunnyland tour brought in a huge

unfortunately, has had no personal experience with the ghost, but did do some paranormal investigations

crowd to the Agora. The anticipation

prior to the renovations. “We worked with a team called

was in the air as the crowd waited

Black Sheep Paranormal. The leader of the group has

for the night to begin. Of course, the excitement was

been coming to this building for years, and according

there for Mayday Parade but also for the opening bands:

to her and what she believes, the man in the yellow

This Wild Life, William Ryan Key formerly of Yellowcard,

raincoat is not really [in] a raincoat but more like a

and Oh, Weatherly.

gold robe… she believes it’s Alan Freed. I wouldn’t

Dallas natives Oh, Weatherly kicked off the night with

complain with a story like that,” he said.

their songs, “Chasing California” and “Here Tonight.”

Also among the mystifying rumors that surround the

Their pop–punk tunes reaffirmed the crowd’s vibe for

Agora is the “Marilyn Manson” room. “The Manson

the night. “Burned Out”, which they played next, had

room is a room in our basement right underneath

more of an edge which gave the crowd the chance to

the theatre,” Tata explained. “He used to practice

chant the lyrics: “And the moon broke out in a burst of

and perform here. He used to have a trunk for his

flame/While the sun started taking its place/All I knew

belongings and that trunk disappeared, and has yet

is our love burnt out the same day.” They closed their set with “Lost and Found” from their 2016 EP “Light Nights and Heavy Hearts.”

Formerly from Florida’s own Yellowcard, William Ryan Key played songs from his new solo project he started shortly after the band’s farewell tour. He played his songs “Vultures” and “The Bowery” from his “Thirteen” EP. He gave the crowd a warm, nostalgic feeling of Yellowcard as they sang “There’s a place off Ocean Avenue/Where I used to sit and talk with you/ We were both 16 and it felt so right” in unison.

The California acoustic rock duo, This Wild Life played “Positively Negative” and “Westside” from their recent record “Petaluma.” Acknowledging that many of their songs about break ups, the duo spotlighted a couple of their only love songs, “Hold You Here.” They closed out their set with “Headfirst” and “No More Bad Days.”

Finally, the moment the crowd had been waiting for: Mayday Parade. After 13 years, the band still gives the crowd chills. At the peak of excitement, “Never Sure” from their “Sunnyland” album kicks in. Mayday Parade played their classics “Jersey” and “When I Get Home, You’re So Dead” from their album “A Lesson in Romantics.” The crowd sang their newest anthem “Piece Of Your Heart,” in unison: “Say hello to all my problems for me/Tell them sorry, I can’t be around anymore/The years will go on, we’ll get older and then we’ll die/But we’ll get by” with lead singer Derek Sanders. They also added their cover of Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used To Know”, and demonstrated how they can make any

PHOTO BY CASSIE BLOTZER

the Ballroom, on the catwalk next to the stage. Tata,

to be seen… And we’ve been in that room and there’s just a lot of old Peabody’s [venue] stuff is in there, but it’s not as mysterious as the legend has it.”

Tata gushed over how awesome the partnership with AEG has been while talking about which feature of the renovation he’s been most elated by: “We’ll be able to bring comedy shows here, events like ‘Mystery Science Theatre’ are going to be here and more.” He adds, “That includes all the genres of music, too. Primarily, it’s [been] metal and hip–hop and pop–punk for a very long time, but the indie–rock is starting to come in, the singer–songwriter–type stuff. Again, [we’re] not limited to what we’ve been doing, but with AEG we’re able to encompass that.”

While finishing the renovation took some time, Tata didn’t have too many struggles during the venue’s facelift. “Not having an office, we were in a hallway for a very good portion of time. There was a lot of traffic with our event staff coming in and when you’re working on things, you’d get disrupted [by] a lot with people coming in and out. But we knew it was temporary and we got through it,” he said. “This venue just needed a lot of love. The power upgrades were necessary; we didn’t have heating or cooling in here at all… it’s nice that it was addressed and we’ve taken care of that situation.”

All in all, the renovation process with AEG was smooth sailing. There were only a few instances of trouble with booking shows before the venue was

song their own. Mayday Parade rounded off their set

ready to go. “The time tables weren’t really certain.

with “Three Cheers for Five Years” and “Stay,” and

We didn’t know how long our renovations were going

closed the unforgettable night with “Oh Well, Oh Well.”

to take,” Tata said. “We’ll book shows anywhere from

DECEMBER 2018

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 22

FEATURE

a month and a half in advance to eight months give

As for the Agora’s future, Tata confidently believes

or take—it’s all based on the tours’ needs, so we had

“I GENUINELY

that the Agora will be the best venue in Ohio sometime

BELIEVE WHAT

enjoy what we bring to the table: the shows that

WE DO NEXT

going to bring… We keep doing what we can do to

five shows booked in February that we had to move to other venues,” he added.

With AEG’s financial backing, it’s making possibilities seem endless when it comes to booking bigger tours.

“This year alone, we had Dave Matthews play our venue. To have a name like that in here was incredible.

We also had Tool Music Clinic [tour]; the band Tool, they were in here, [when they] both could be playing Blossom,” said Tata. “It’s a matter of who’s touring, if the room makes sense, if the price makes sense— there’s a lot of different factors. The price of tickets are based on how much the artists cost. We’re only a 2,000 cap room, so you can only pay the artist based

YEAR IS GOING TO SLAUGHTER WHAT WE DID

in the next five years. “There’s a lot of people who we’ve previously brought in this year and are still keep generating money and making this venue even better,” he said. “Whether aesthetically or whatever the case may be [to keep] the ‘swag’ of the Agora much better. I’m very excited to see what we can bring to the table—I genuinely believe what we do next year is going to slaughter what we did this year.”

THIS YEAR.” — MIKE TATA

on what our capacity is.”

FEATURING

The Story So Far Turnover Citizen

T

Movements

he Stor y So Far rolled through the

long. Their sound quality was clear and well–presented,

Agora in Cleveland on November 11th,

with such a harmonious stage presence rubbing off

in support of their new album, “Proper

on the crowd. Everyone was shoulder–to–shoulder,

Dose.” The band brought a sold out show

practically swaying to the music. The set did feature

and a stacked lineup, including bands

the more upbeat, “Dizzy On The Come Down,” which

Movements, Citizen and Turnover.

added a hype factor to the calming set.

While unfortunately missing Movements due to

Finally came The Story So Far; the band glided on

the overwhelming amount of cars packing the streets

stage with their title track off “Proper Dose.” The set

surrounding the Agora, one can only imagine what kind

had a great way of transitioning from new songs to

of a performance the band put on based on the success

older fan–favorites, songs like “What You Don’t See,”

of their newest album, “Feel Something.” It flirts with

to “Solo.” The general admission pit had the crowd

harder melodies intertwined with poetry and passionate

pouring over the barricades during tracks such as

vocals, which undoubtedly made for an entertaining

“Heavy Gloom.” The band showcased a more serene

show—and judging by the looks of sweat–drenched

sound in their newest record and their stage presences

concert goers leaving the general admission pit after

embodied that in the best way. Watching them perform

their set, they’re not a band to sleep on.

Next to hit the stage was rock band Citizen with fan–

new songs like “Out Of It” and “Upside Down,” created the illusion of watching the album itself instead of just

favorite “Sleep.” Although this song is one of the more

watching them play. TSSF fake–closed their set with

mellow Citizen tracks, it’s showcased dramatic vocals

“Empty Space,” then came back with an encore of the

and an emphasis on full–band sequences throughout.

acoustic crowd–favorite, “Clairvoyant.” As the crowd

The crowd was jam–packed with attendees from the pit

sang in unison, “Don’t paint me black/When I used

to the balcony seating, everyone bobbing their heads or

to be golden,” the band managed to create a sense of

moving around within the pit. The band also showcased

family throughout the venue. They eventually finished

their ability to bring their “As You Please,” album to

their set with their always popular and powerful,

life by including the intro to “In The Middle Of It All,” tying their set together and making it feel whole.

The following act, Turnover, had a very soothing sound, but one that became repetitive and made the set feel

PHOTO BY NATHAN ROGERS

“Quicksand.” It had been quite some time since we’ve gotten the chance to see TSSF hit the stage and it was well worth the wait.

DECEMBER 2018

THE STORY SO FAR

UPCOMING AGORA SHOWS UNDEROATH

w/ Dance Gavin Dance, Crown the Empire, The Plot In You Saturday, December 1st

H.E.R.

w/ Bri Steves, Tone Stith Sunday, December 2nd

DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE Tuesday, December 4th

MIND PARASITES LIVE! Adam Conover Friday, December 7th

SNOWED IN VI

w/ Knocked Loose & Knuckle Puck Friday, December 21st

WINTER WARM UP 2018 Saturday, December 22nd

A BOWIE CELEBRATION

The David Bowie Alumni Tour Sunday, February 24th

THURSDAY - 20 YEARS

NIGHT ONE: Full Collapse NIGHT TWO: War All The Time M-T, March 4th & 5th

For more upcoming events, visit agoracleveland.com/events

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 24

FEATURE

THE

CELEBRATION AND

HISTORY OF

KWANZAA

25 | VINDICATOR

DECEMBER 2018

Tyisha Blade ILLUSTRATIONS BY

Zavier McLean PHOTOS BY

Antonio DeJesus

An African–American holiday celebrating culture, community and the origins of the African diaspora.

K

Kwanzaa (KWAN-za) is a week–long African–American and Pan–African celebration honoring family, community and culture. Created by scholar and activist, Dr. Maulana Karenga, families and communities organize activities around Nguzo Saba (n-GU-zo SAH-bah), or the Seven Principles in Swahili. The principles of Kwanzaa are umoja, kujichagulia, ujima, ujamaa, nia, kuumba and imani. Each principle is represented by West African adinkra, or symbols. Kwanzaa lasts from December 26th through January 1st and each day reflects a principle that emphasizes cultural messages relating to the moral standard of what it means to be African and human.

In this holiday, celebratory measures are incorporated, uniting people and commemorating the efforts of the African–American community.

Kwanzaa History According to History.com, Dr. Karenga searched for ways to bring African–American communities together, in part due to the Watts Riots in Los Angeles, California. The Watts Riots were a series of violent encounters between Los Angeles law enforcement and residents of Watts and other predominantly African– American neighborhoods of South–Central Los Angeles, beginning August 11th, 1965 and lasting for six days.

The riots resulted in the deaths of 34 individuals and

the course of the rioting, buildings were burned to the ground; entire neighborhoods were torched. With the boundaries of their community torn, South–Central Los Angeles was slow to recover from the damage done during the riots. Not only Californian, but other African–American communities felt broken due to this and other growth–hindering occurrences at the time.

To fortify a broken people, a united effort had to occur.

Knowing this, Dr. Karenga began research on African First Fruit Rituals. These traditions, such as those of the Zulu monarchs, are annual harvest ceremonies, which are held when the new season’s crops ripen in December. During this event, young men participate in a series of rituals aimed at providing the Zulu nation with good fortune in the year ahead. Praise singers perform and the Zulu monarch uses the occasion to talk to his people about social issues such as sickness and poverty mitigation. Dr. Karenga used these ideals to combine aspects of several different harvest celebrations and create the infrastructure of Kwanzaa. His goal was to give African Americans an alternative to practicing the traditions of the dominant society. Kwanzaa is not a replacement of religion; it is an opportunity to celebrate self, history and common ground of African culture.

Based on African agricultural traditions, Kwanzaa is designed to allow people of African descent to reflect and celebrate their ancestral origins.

“

Kwanzaa is not a replacement of religion; it is an opportunity to celebrate self, history and

“

WRITTEN BY

common ground of African culture.

the injuries almost 1,000 others. Jill Edy reports, in her Encyclopedia Britannica article “Watts Riots in 1965,” that the cause of rioting was the arrest of an African–American man, Marquette Frye, by a white California Highway Patrol officer on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. Many sources agree that Frye initially resisted arrest. However, questions arose on excessive force being used to subdue him. During

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 26

FEATURE

Principles of Kwanzaa Daily, we must live by a moral code of ethics and standards that structure our lives and set goals for us as a unified people. These standards are determining factors of who we are, where we have been and where we need to go. The Nguzo Saba are guidelines that motivate our intentions, keeping our actions prosperous and progressive.

UMOJA (OO-MO-JAH) — UNITY To strive for and to maintain unity in the family, community, nation, and race.

The unity principle Umoja highlights the importance of togetherness for the family and the community stemming from the African proverb, “I am because we are.” As a community of united people, we are responsible for one another. On the first day of Kwanzaa, the first candle is lit, focusing on the value that is placed on respecting and protecting African–American lives. With unity comes power.

Power creates the potential to achieve goals at a stature greater than an individual attempt.

KUJICHAGULIA (KOO-JEE-CHAH-GOO-LEE-AH) — SELF-DETERMINATION To define and name ourselves, as well as to create and speak for ourselves. Kujichagulia represents an emphasis to control our own destiny and not allow external forces to define us, name us, create for us, or speak for us. On this day we must ask ourselves three questions: Who am I? Am I really who I say I am? Am I all I ought to be? These are questions of personal identity.

Knowing and living our history and practicing our culture are key in knowing who we are. These questions also measure the qualities of our thoughts. Practicing who we are and who we must become is essential for self growth and determination.

UJIMA (OO-JEE-MAH) — COLLECTIVE WORK & RESPONSIBILITY To build and maintain our community together, making our brothers’ and sisters’ problems our own, and solving them together. As a collective entity, members of a community must strive to work toward common goals, bringing forth productivity from within. Commitments of an aggregate unity create positive outcomes benefiting the masses. Working in a progressive manner as units of society builds momentum and helps present and future generations.

27 | VINDICATOR

UJAMAA (OO-JAH-MAH-AH) — COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS To build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.

We are to share social wealth and the work necessary to achieve it. Sharing wealth is a form of community exchange and is essential because, without the practice of shared wealth, social conditions for exploitation, oppression and inequality are increased.

NIA (NEE-AH) — PURPOSE To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.

Building, developing and defending our national community, is essential to the culture and history. Regaining our historical initiative and greatness as a people makes us conscious of our purpose in light of our historical and cultural identity.

KUUMBA (KOO-OOM-BAH) — CREATIVITY To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it. We must continue to be creative in ways to restore our people to their traditional greatness. This principle has both a social and spiritual dimension and is deeply rooted in teachings of African societies.

IMANI (EE-MAH-NEE) — FAITH To believe with all our hearts in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle. Faith leads to belief in goodness and possibilities of the human race.

DECEMBER 2018

A POEM OF UNITY DAY 1 Here we are on distant shores, Searching for love ones lost, Knowing their pain and suffering Was an ocean of love lost.

Can’t you see the sun is shining Bringing energies of love?

Come, my people, unite together; Wake up, stand up, be the love for all!

The bells are ringing—it is time To answer the call of one.

Get together, my brothers and sisters, It’s time you must unite as one.

Unite, unite—it’s time, it’s time, You must unite as one.

Hold together, brothers and sisters, It’s time to unite as one!

Kwanzaa Display & Symbols Kwanzaa celebratory symbols include a mkeka, a kinara, mishumaa saba, mazao, muhindi, a kikombe cha umoja and zawadi. Other representations include nguzo saba posters, the Pan–African flag and African books and artworks.

Sonia Dixon

MAZAO (MAH-ZAH-OH) Crops, fruits and vegetables are symbolic of work and form the basis of this holiday.

They represent the historical foundation for Kwanzaa and the gathering of the people for the African harvest festivals. Joy, sharing, unity, and thanksgiving are the fruits of collective planning and work.

MKEKA (EM-KEH-KAH) The mat on which other symbols are placed. The mat is made from straw or cloth, and expresses history, culture, and tradition. During Kwanzaa, we study our history and the role we are to play as a legacy to the future. The other celebratory symbols are placed on the mkeka.

VIBUNZI & MUHINDI The singular stalk of corn represents fertility. In reproduction, the future hopes of the family are brought to life. One ear is called vibunzi (vee-BOON-zee), and two or more ears are called muhindi (moo-HEEN-dee).

Each ear symbolizes a child in the family, and if there are no children in the home, two ears are still set on the mkeka because each person is responsible for the children of the community. The Nigerian proverb “It takes a whole village to raise a child” is realized in this symbol. In African cultures, raising children was an affair involving the entire village.

MISHUMAA SABA (MEE-SHOO-MAH-AH SAH-BA) The seven candles: three red, three green, and one black, representing the flag. The candles are ceremonial objects with two primary purposes, both symbolically re–creating the sun’s power and providing light. The black umoja candle is placed in the center of the kinara. Three green candles, representing nia, ujima, and imani, are placed to the right of the umoja candle. The three red candles, representing kujichagulia, ujamaa, and kuumba, are placed to the left of it. During Kwanzaa, a different candle is lit each day.

KINARA (KEE-NAH-RAH) The candleholder and center of the Kwanzaa setting. It represents the original stalk from which we came—our ancestry. The mishumaa saba are placed in the kinara.

KIKOMBE CHA UMOJA (KEE-KOHM-BEE CHAH OO-MOH-JAH) The unity cup used for commemorating and giving shukrani (shoo-KRAH-Nee) or thanks to African

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 28

FEATURE

THE AFRICAN PLEDGE

Ancestors. It is used to perform the tambiko (tam-Bee-ko) or libation ritual during the Karamu feast on the sixth day of Kwanzaa. During the Karamu feast, the kikombe cha umoja is passed to family member and guests, who drink from it to promote unity.

We will remember the humanity, glory and suffering of our ancestors and honor the struggle of our elders; We will strive to bring new value, and new life to our people We will have peace and harmony among us We will be loving, sharing, and creative We will work, study, listen, so we may learn; Learn so we may teach.

We will cultivate self-reliance We will struggle to resurrect and unify our homeland; We will raise many children for our nation; We will have discipline, patience, devotion and courage; We will live as models, to provide new direction for our people; We will be free and self-determining; We are African people…

We will win!!!!

ZAWADI (ZAH-WAH-DEE) The gifts. When we celebrate imani on the seventh day of Kwanzaa, we give meaningful zawadi to encourage growth, achievement, and success.

We exchange these gifts with members of our immediate family, especially the children, to promote or reward accomplishments and commitments kept, as well as with our guests. Handmade gifts are encouraged to promote self–determination, purpose, and creativity. Accepting a gift implies a moral obligation to fulfill the promise of the gift; the recipient will follow the training of the host.

Accepting a gift makes the receiver part of the family and promotes Umoja.

Kwanzaa Celebrations A major joy of Kwanzaa is that each practicing family can celebrate in their own way. The greeting for each day of Kwanzaa is “habari gani?” (Ha-ba-ri gani), which is Swahili for “what’s the news?” Annual celebrations include song and dance, African drums, storytelling,

Kwanzaa in Cleveland

poetry reading, and a large traditional meal on the

There are celebrations around Cleveland embrac-

sixth day. On each of the seven nights, families gather

ing community efforts of Kwanzaa. For instance, the

to light one of the candles on the kinara. Afterwards,

Karamu House often celebrates the fourth day, ujamaa.

the corresponding principle of nguzo saba is discussed,

According to a story he did with Cleveland.com, Aseelah

reflecting values of African culture which contribute to building and reinforcing community. Families celebrating Kwanzaa decorate their households with objects of art, fresh fruit and symbols that represent

Shareef, director of programming at Karamu House, Visit the Karamu House at 2355 E 89th Street, Cleveland, OH.

African culture. Colorful cloth, such as kente, is used.

factors to him. Golden Ciphers Inc. Youth Develop-

gratitude to ancestors. Libations are shared in the,

ment and Cultural Art Center holds their annual event

kikombe cha umoja, and passed around to all celebrants.

the African Pledge and reflection on the Pan–African colors. The African feast, called karamu (kah-RAHmoo), is held on December 31st. Celebrations are held as community events as well. Hosts welcome guests for each day and teach the practices of each day and its corresponding principle.

29 | VINDICATOR

community is an important issue. He is concerned with and planning for generational wealth are important

dren in Kwanzaa ceremonies and give respect and

A Kwanzaa ceremony may also include a reading of

because the state of economics in the African–American how the community spends its dollars. Also, investments

Kaftans are worn, and it is customary to include chil-

Non–African–Americans can also celebrate Kwanzaa.

started planning Kwanzaa events highlighting ujaama

at the Phillis Wheatley Association. Golden Ciphers Visit the Phillis Wheatley Association at 4450 Cedar Avenue, Cleveland, OH, or get in contact with them at 216-574-4888.

is an African American grassroots organization that assists in reconnecting family structures and recreating communities. These and many other events are held annually around Cleveland.

Pictured from top left to right: John Brown, Saiida Bowie–Little, Zion Omobuwa, Gabrielle Fowlkes and Andrew Curry

Black Studies Program Kuumba Festivals Annually, Cleveland State University’s Black Studies Program and The Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center present the Kuumba Arts Festival. This year, held December 8th at 6 p.m. in the Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs, the festival pays tribute to the African Grove Theatre of 1820. The Black owned and operated theatre was founded by William Alexander Brown, leader and entrepreneur who resided in New York.

The theatre brought people of African decent together to have entertainment presentations and socials, keeping the community active. “This theatre celebrates the fact that people of African descent were being brought together before 1865, the

“

abolition of slavery,” said Prester Pickett, Cleveland Bicentennial Playwright and coordinator of the Howard

There were free Africans in

A. Mims African American

America celebrating themselves, and celebrating with other

“

communities...

Cultural Center. “There were free Africans in Amer-

— PRESTER PICKETT

ica celebrating themselves, and celebrating with other communities,” he adds.

“African descendants, of the time, had liberties and free societies as well.” Starting

as a Tea Garden, the African Grove Theatre progressed into a larger space attracting diverse audiences. “Many times, the African Grove Theatre was raided by the police, but they had the ability to reassemble and make their shows happen anyway. That is something that has inspired me with my theatre background,” says Pickett. The first African American to receive a master’s degree from Case Western Reserve, Pickett’s studies have allowed him to include the traditions of African Americans and pay homage to a legacy of African descendants in America. He values the liberation and rich significance of being an employee of Cleveland State in the Black Studies Program.

The Kuumba Arts Festival begins with a brief social and the gathering of community in the Roberta Steinbacher Atrium. Performances from the Cleveland State community begin shortly after. “The opening with English royalty is translated visually with African attire and descendants taking those forms of the court,” says Pickett. The festival incorporates Shakespearean dramas highlighting the talents of Cleveland area actors such as Leilani Barrett, Jeannine Gaskin and Kenneth Parker performing popular Shakespearean monologues. These monologues have been placed into an urban context

by Mr. Pickett. Other features at the festival include a celebration of actress, poet, playwright, screenwriter,

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 30

FEATURE

journalist and civil rights activist Ruby Dee. The first

are being pushed to a point and they can’t see their way

African–American woman to star in roles at the Amer-

out.” The play features Hip Hop and R&B, encouraging

ican Shakespeare Festival, Dee also joined the Amer-

audience members to come to the dance floor. In the

ican Negro Theatre and made several appearances on

celebration of traditions of Shakespeare and England,

Broadway. During her career, she was nominated for

“Trans Europe Express” will be played as the entire cast

eight Emmy awards, as well as Academy and Oscar

showcases the finale with audience involvement. This

awards. She was well–known for her work in the Civil

year’s festival encompasses a wide variety of elements

Rights Movement and being a member of several orga-

and invites African Americans into the theatre experi-

nizations including the Congress of Racial Equality, the

ence. “Hopefully the play encourages our students to

National Association for the Advancement of Colored

see a Shakespearean production,” adds Pickett. Cleve-

People, Delta Sigma Theta sorority, the Southern Chris-

land State’s Film School will be recording the event in

tian Leadership Conference and so much more. She was

efforts to engage different disciplines of the university.

also a breast cancer survivor.

Co–sponsors such as Dr. Thomas Bynum, director of

“The Roberta Steinbacher Atrium has all these levels, and

the Black Studies Program and Dean Roland Anglin,

the audience will be turning looking to left, right and straight ahead in our Romeo and Juliet scenes,” says Pickett. “A rose by any other name brings out our queen, Aretha Franklin, as she sings ‘A Rose is Still a Rose’ to Juliet as her nurse.” There are also social justice components in this year’s festival. Cleveland State community members such as Dennis Welch are working diligently to produce rap scenes that transition the play. Issues such as police brutality and gang violence are incorporated. “We want to show how corruption can affect

Dean and professor of the College of Urban Affairs are Tickets to the Kuumba Arts Festival will be available on EventBrite.

For more information about the festival, visit the Black Studies Program at Berkman Hall 137, call 216–687–3655 or email blackstudies@csuohio. edu.

making contributory efforts to help make the event a success. African drumming from Sister Yvetta, youth, bodybuilders, models, martial artists and more are assembled for the production with only one day of formal rehearsal. The festival also acknowledges the Silver Bee award recipient, Angie Winborn, director of the traveling performing arts troupe Showagon, and invites prior award recipients. Other appearances include Honey Bell-Bey, director of The Distinguished

us,” says Pickett. “We have horrendous crimes being

Gentlemen of Spoken Word; a representative of the

committed and we want to show our society how people

Call & Post; Gladys C. Burnett, Parliamentarian for the

are becoming corrupted and sickened. Sometimes they

Community Advisor Committee of the Black Studies Program; and Geraldine Washington. The Kuumba Arts

BLACK NATIONAL ANTHEM Lift every voice and sing, Till earth and heaven ring.

Ring with the harmonies of Liberty; Let our rejoicing rise, High as the list’ning skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us; Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on till victory is won.

Stony the road we trod, Bitter the chastening rod, Felt in the days when hope unborn had died; Yet with a steady beat, Have not our weary feet, Come to the place for which our fathers sighed?

We have come over a way that with tears has been watered, We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered, Out from the gloomy past, Here now we stand at last Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

31 | VINDICATOR

Festival continually encourages the incorporation of creativity and unity. It is free and open to the public and advances cultural aspects among the Cleveland State student body and community.

DECEMBER 2018

“

Pan–Africanism is a worldwide movement that encourages and strengthens bonds of solidarity

“

among people of African descent.

Mishumaa saba and kinara, the center of the Kwanzaa setting, along with other symbols of display.

Kikombe cha umoja

“Harambee!” (hah-RAHM-beh) Pan–Africanism is a worldwide movement that encourages and strengthens bonds of solidarity among people of African descent.

It is a belief that African people, both on the continent and in the diaspora, share common historical value and destiny. Disciplining ourselves in the practices of Kwanzaa will galvanize a political union, and in its humblest measures, will integrate generations of wisdom and intuition. In W.E.B. Du Bois’s discussion of the “talented tenth,” a term referring to a leadership class of African–Americans, he mentions using education and talents to instruct and inspire the masses. Dr. Karenga’s creation of Kwanzaa not only inspires and educates, but also highlights and unifies Black culture.

Habari Gani.

Mazao, vibunzi and muhindi on top of the mkeka.

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 32

EXPERIENCING TAROT CARDS WRITTEN BY

Chau Tang

W

hen people hear about tarot cards,

life. Usually, its message is one of encouragement

their minds wander to crystal balls,

and achievement. The negative aspect this card could

fortune–telling and even magic. Part

represent is a feeling of criticism and incompetence,

of this is true, but there are many

possibly from this kind of figure in someone’s life.

misconceptions as well. It is true that tarot cards can

The magician is the “making things happen” card.

be used in Wiccan practices—often in card games,

It signifies creativity and the ability to think outside

fortune–telling, divination, meditation, and other

the box. This card is all about networking with people

mystical purposes. Wicca is described as a modern

to expand your business or artistry.

religion that is based on ancient witchcraft traditions.

The high priestess ask s you to look deep into

According to Britannica, Wicca is a predominately

your soul, and reflect on your relationships. Is there

Western movement, centered on witchcraft and nature

any toxicity within your social network? If so, the

worship. It spread through England in the 1950s and

high priestess encourages you to take action and

attracted followers from the U.S. and Europe.

do something about it. This card also asks you to evaluate your life at the moment, and make a plan

Cards

for personal betterment in the future. On the other

A typical deck of tarot cards contains 78 cards. The

hand, the empress is a card that encourages the

first major 22 cards are the Arcana cards, or “hidden

nurturement of others. It is often said women are

wisdom” cards. People can interpret their meaning

the central happiness and well–being to others. This

depending on their personal situation. Four of the

card may signify the need to look beyond oneself—

most important Arcana cards are the emperor, the

perhaps someone near and dear to you may need to

WANNA KNOW MORE?

magician, the high priestess, and the empress.

be uplifted, loved, and helped.

The emperor is the power and achievement card.

The moon card and the death card are all about

biddytarot.com describes tarot as a storybook of life

It represents a father and authoritative role—a male

transformation. The moon may call your attention to

relative who is influential, a romantic partner, or an

the next phase of your life. It asks you to reflect on the

authoritative figure of any gender involved in your

benefits and possible drawbacks of any prospective

33 | VINDICATOR

DECEMBER 2018

businesses, careers, or relationships. It is also another

usually at coffee shops. She prefers to pull cards

fertility card for women and it is meant to signal

when it is quiet, so her tarot readings are usually

the next phase in their lives can involve children,

at night, to avoid the distractions of her busy work

animals, or alternative medicine. The death card does

day and hectic mornings. She loves one–pull draws,

not actually signify death as we typically perceive

based off that particular day, evening, or the next

it—instead, what dies is the person you thought you

day. She enjoys three–pull draws as well, since they

knew. Since people are always growing, it is best to

represent the past, present, and what she needs to

think of it as a new self blooming while the past self,

work on for the future.

the one you may be unsatisfied with, withers away

She has nine tarot decks and three oracle decks.

until there is nothing left.

decks give a general idea of what is going on in a

realization of potential. If you are shown the devil,

person’s life. She enjoys both old–fashioned and

don’t worry; it does not involve black magic. Actually,

modern decks, some of which she purchases on Etsy.

it signifies the power you may have but are not using.

She also emphasizes the importance of caring for

It may call for the establishment of boundaries and

your cards. “I cleanse my cards because any tool can

regeneration card. This card can appear if something in your life is not working out and would like to start anew. It may signify the need to claim recognition for your own ideas and anything else you may deserve.

In this tarot deck there are also subcategories which are called main suits, like cups, wands, pentacles, and swords. The cups deal with love and emotions, and can involve all sorts of relationships, calling one to follow their heart as opposed to logic. The wands are associated with the aspects of inspiration and creativity. This card calls you to focus on your life goals and path. They may call you to take action and strive towards what you want. Pentacles deal with the practicality of life involving family, friends, financial matters, and property. Unlike the cups, it may signify the need to check facts, use common sense, and practical problem–solving strategies.

The swords also involve logic and focus, calling one to think rationally when dealing with a difficult matter. This card may call you to confront situations with your mind instead of your heart and to make a change forcefully.

become stagnant with energies,” she said. While some

“

though it cleanses her deck. In order to strengthen

They are

her pillow when she sleeps.

divine, the

bit powerful, a bit mystical, like a goddess. Sprouse

people prefer to keep their deck in a box, she keeps hers in a silk bag or a soft case because she feels as her bond with the decks, she likes to keep them under

power they hold is so gentle, yet

Even with the deck in hand, it can make you feel a describes tarot as a mysterious, divine, and powerful practice. She uses these words to help describe women as well. “They are divine, the power they hold is so gentle, yet strong and knowing,” Sprouse said. Since I use tarot three times a week, the meaning remains in the back of my mind to remind me to get out of my shell. It can be used for anyone to remind them of

strong and

the beautiful human being they are. Remember, the

knowing.

also have the power to change any situation.

cards can symbolize a human in your life, but you

“

self-advocacy. The judgement card is the rebirth, or

PHOTO CREDIT GOOGLE IMAGES

While tarot cards give detailed interpretations, oracle

The devil and judgement cards represent a personal

— PAIGE SPROUSE

One of the resources she recommends is Biddytarot. com. It said for every card we meet there is a spiritual lesson. When we examine the cards we are shown lessons we should learn to live an inspired life.

According to Biddytarot’s website, “Tarot is perfect for self–development, making choices, manifesting

Interview

goals, coaching others, planning a business, and

Paige Sprouse, store manager at Earthbound Trading

meditating.”

Company in Great Northern Mall, describes herself

There are so many tarot decks out there that it

as a businesswoman by day and witch by night. She

can make it feel overwhelming to delve into this

learned about tarot when she was five years old

practice. When you choose your first deck in this

through her mother. She was fascinated with the

tarot journey, find one that speaks to your soul.

cards from a young age, and notes their beauty in first

Does it tighten when you see it, or do you feel joy

developing an interest for the practice—each card

and excitement? Also, it’s best if you write down

tells a beautiful story. Even though Sprouse learned

each reading you do to remember not only the cards,

about tarot at a young age, she did not begin doing

but to remind yourself what you’re going to do that

tarot until the age of 15. She found that practicing

day that connects to the card. Tarot readings can be

tarot and giving readings helped calm her and have

therapeutic as stated before; tarot is a wonder. It’s

continued to do so.

good to always stay curious.

Now 29 years old, Sprouse said, “Tarot, to me, means a way to connect to my spirit guides and the universe. It’s a tool to help better myself and to help bring out my inner thoughts.” She reads her tarot for herself everyday and has read for others for eight years now. She does tarot reading for fun, THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 34

SECTION

Jillian VanDyke ILLUSTRATIONS BY

Beth Elliott

Places to go to improve your mood & health.

D

espite the frigid temperatures the lake

for a discount on admission and skates, totaling $3.

effect brings to Ohio during the winter

This is a very affordable option for a weekend with

months, being outdoors helps to maintain

friends. It opens with varying weekend hours Friday,

your health year–round. Whether you’re

November 23rd. Trying to get through the middle

living on campus or home for the winter,

of the week, especially before finals? The rink will

you should reach out to a friend and spend periods

of time outside. Getting outdoors and exercising en ha nces product ion of e ndor ph i n s, w h ic h create feelings of relief and happiness. Exercise and nature e x posure

“

starting December 5th, with extended hours begin on the

Being outside breathing

19th. Starting on Christmas Eve (holiday hours vary), the rink is open daily. If you’re

in cool, fresh oxygen will

a beginner skater, don’t fret,

decrease stress hormones

every Saturday.

are complements of one another. As an Ohio resident, I have grown up hearing that there isn’t anything to do in this state,

27 35 || VINDICATOR VINDICATOR

also be open on Wednesdays

“

WRITTEN BY

they offer free lessons at noon If you’re someone who finds ice skating very enjoyable, and want more than an occasional

skating session with friends, look into trying ice

but with having four seasons, even the winter season

hockey, which can be done indoors year round and

brings us so many options.

outdoors in the winter. The Cleveland Skating Club

Starting off in the Cleveland area, bundle up in

offers skate lessons for those wanting to learn to

your winter clothes, and head to The Rink at Wade

skate specifically like a hockey player. Additionally,

Oval to ice skate. Bring your student ID with you

they offer a week ly pick–up hockey session for

DECEMBER OCTOBER 2018 2018

adults, on Thursdays

with less sun exposure, so making the most of your

nights. These games

time outdoors is important. Being exposed to lower

a r e op e n to b ot h

amounts of sunlight by staying indoors can lead to

members and non–

Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. Common side

members.

effects can include anxiety, exhaustion and sometimes

Wanting to hit the

even sadness. Even in the cold weather, being in the

slopes this winter?

sun at least a little bit each day can keep you mentally

Heading south, you

and physically healthy.

w ill end up at sk i

If you are unable to go outside as much this winter,

a reas on ly a m i le

try your best to stay near a window to boost your

away from each other. Boston Mills is better suited

Vitamin D and exposure to sun rays. A product that

for beginners, as Brandywine has a wider range of

can help people working on schoolwork or in an office

slopes and terrain. Along with Brandywine being

job is a Happy Light. It’s an alternative to natural light

larger, it also has a tubing area ideal for days with

when you are not able to access it. It reduces stress

the family or for children not interested in skiing

and boosts your mood. Doing your best to elevate your

or snowboarding. Passes are sold for both parts of

health in the winter months is ideal for any kind of

BMBW and Alpine Valley, which is east of Cleveland.

stability. That being said, don’t be afraid to try new

Season passes include all three ski areas. Friday

things in the winter, for your personal well–being.

night is College Night (with a valid student ID) from 8pm–1am, for only $20 snow passes and $15 rentals, a small fraction of the regular price. Something really great about this area? 18–year–old Redmond Gerard was born and raised here and became a gold medalist in the 2018 Winter Olympics.

If you’re not interested in snow sports, you may enjoy hiking. There’s a wide range of places to visit in Ohio but one that’s close and feels like a winter wonderland is Brecksville Reservation. With a running river and a train rolling through the valley, there’s

THINGS TO DO

OUTSIDE OF THE CLEVELAND AREA

always a beautiful atmosphere on your easy hike.

You can even end the hike by warming up on the train and viewing the scenic byways and snowfall.

Brandywine College Late Nights. If you’re between the ages of

Hiking is a free alternative to exercise and enjoy

18–29, a season pass is $439, which grants you unlimited visits to

Ohio’s winter weather.

any of the three resorts. However, at Brandywine, Snow Passes are

Visit one of Ohio’s wonderful waterfalls—the icicles

just $20 and Rentals are $15 with your valid college ID. At Bran-

and frozen water give off a North Pole vibe. The slight

dywine Polar Blast Tubing Park, Tubing Snow Passes are just $20

flow of the water will remind you there’s still life in

with your valid college ID during Friday College Late Nights, too.

the frigid winter. Brandywine Falls has one of the

This opportunity lasts through the end of February every season.

most extraordinary views in the area and very short hike so your toes won’t freeze… too much. Not only

Akron Lock 3. Ohio’s largest seasonal skating rink located in the heart

will you be able to see the snowfall, you’ll be able to

of downtown Akron. Skating is an affordable rate of $4, but only $2

hear the water rushing down from high above your

if you have your own skates. Opening day is the day after Thanks-

winter beanies. Getting in touch with nature will

giving from 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Hours vary depending on the day, and it

help your immune system and surprisingly, make

is updated on the calendar on lock3live.com, with a printable option.

you less likely to get a cold.

Now, you may be wondering why exactly being

Downtown Canton First Friday. First Friday is a monthly celebra-

outside in the cold weather and doing any of these

tion of art in the Art District of Downtown Canton, Ohio. Art galler-

activities is worth your time when you could be

ies, restaurants, stores, and coffee shops stay open later for this event

bundled up by the fireplace. Doing so will help you

which is 6:00–10:00 p.m., however you can start your self–guided

gain many health benefits, mentally and physically.

look at the district at 5:30 with free admission to the Canton Muse-

Being outside breathing in cool, fresh oxygen will

um of Art. During the December 7th event, “Shop ‘til you Drop,” you

decrease stress hormones and possibly even avoid

are encouraged to browse through the shops and support local busi-

the winter blues for fractions of time. Also, walking

ness. Themes change every month but the most liked ones are kept.

outdoors for short periods of time can increase

A popular theme is January 4th, “Fire & Ice,” in which local artists

dopamine levels due to mindfulness and body activity.

make ice sculptures in front of you to promote the local businesses.

Shock ingly, the cold weather itself has many benefits, despite popular belief. Shorter days come

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 36 28

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

THE DIET OF SOCIETY

WRITTEN BY

Alana Whelan

Diet culture—how society affects diet and how diet affects health.

D 37 | VINDICATOR

iet i s a word t hat ha s g a i ne d v a r ie d

healthier or feel more accepted by a society that so often glamorizes a certain body image. This glamorization has caused a “diet culture” trend to emerge, which has evolved and grown along with the media. “Diet

connotations over the last hundred years

culture” is the food culture that praises certain foods

or so because of mass–marketing and the

and criticizes others. It is a culture that causes people

media. Though diet is described as regular

to believe they need to eat certain foods, follow specific

food consumption patterns, the word has acquired a

rules and go on “diets” in order to look a certain way.

new definition that is associated with trying to eat in

Despite being inundated with these messages that

a restrictive way that will make one lose weight, feel

encourage people to follow diet culture—whether they

DECEMBER 2018

“

know it or not—diet should

eating and exercising has been figured out, and most

not mean restriction, and it

likely never will be, but eating is necessary to live.

should not only be thought

However, ensuring survival is not the driving force

Diet culture

of in relation to weight or

making people eat anymore. Social factors, pleasure,

is the food

looks. Rather, diet should be

convenience and peer pressure are all components

something that is used in a

that go into why people eat the way they do.

culture that

way that will allow people to

Another huge part of what people eat today is based on

live their best lives and feel

their social environment. A study done by psychologist,

praises

their best both physically

John de Castro, at Georgia State University, found that

and mentally.

certain foods and criticizes

“

others.

people tend to eat more when they are eating with

With the growth of social

others—and that number increased with the amount of

me d i a, d iet c u lt u re ha s

other people they were eating with. In addition, people

transformed into something

eat what is available to them, so those with access to

t hat i s not favorable for

supermarkets that sell fresh produce are at more of an

people’s mental healt h—

advantage when it comes to eating healthily. However,

especia l ly young g irls.

income does play a role in what foods people choose

With Instagram accounts

to eat, and often, the cheaper option is also the more

that praise being sk inny,

convenient, less healthy option. According to a study

e v e n a n or e x i c, a n d t h e

done by the USDA in 2013, educating people about

overabundance of fitness–

the importance of healthy diets and decreasing the

re l ate d, fo o d–abu nd a nt

amount of fast food and junk food that is available

content, people are constantly being told what they should and should not be doing in relation to diet and exercise. According to an article published in USA

FOODS TO HELP FIGHT DEPRESSION

Today in 2014, the more time girls spent on Facebook,

food choices. In general, though, it can be difficult to know what to eat when living in a society that is so saturated with mixed messages about diet.

the more likely they were to have a negative body

No matter what messages are being told, it is evident

image or develop an eating disorder. This is usually

that there are some foods that improve health, can help

because many of the people running these social media

relieve symptoms and can even make people happier.

accounts show only the best parts of their lives, using

According to Dr. Michael Greger in his book, “How

Photoshop and altering information to make it seem

Not to Die,” eating at least one serving of some sort

like their bodies, diet plans, or exercise routines are

of greens, like kale, arugula, spinach, collard greens,

perfect. In general in 2018, marketing and media are significant reasons why people eat the way they do, and how they feel as a result.

Despite a general consensus on which foods are healthy, like fruits and vegetables, and which foods

Greens Leafy greens help fight against inflammation; severe depression has been linked with brain inflammation.

aren’t, like sugary, heavily processed foods, there are

and so on, at least once a day, can help prolong life and fight off disease. In addition, Gregor lists different foods that can help prevent and cure some of the most common diseases. He acknowledges the importance of fiber and potassium to fight off brain diseases, how blueberries and strawberries can help slow cognitive

major disagreements about what humans should be

decline, and that eating more legumes can help people

eating. In developed societies where food is generally

at risk for type 2 diabetes and obesity. Gregor goes

abundant, there are copious combinations of foods that one can eat throughout their lifetime. Due to the wide–range of diet possibilities, doctors and health experts have been searching for the combination of foods that will produce the best results for human

Sesame, sunflower and pumpkin seeds Especially good for your mood because they are rich in omega–3 fatty acids.

health. However, no one diet is the answer for everyone Saffron

a study done by William J. Walsh, president of the

Native to Persia and traditionally used as a calmative, anti–depressant, and anti–inflammatory, this is a powerful culinary herb and favored in medicinal use.

the same nutrients to live healthfully—with the exception of people with certain diseases—but because of differences in genetics, everyone needs different amounts of those nutrients. Walsh noted that this is

Diet culture and the oversaturation of messages telling people they need to be eating a certain way has caused so much controversy over what the right diet is. that more whole foods and less heavily processed foods

depends on so many different factors. According to Walsh Research Institute, everyone requires basically

into detail about many of the foods that can aid in living a healthier, and therefore more fulfilled life.

However, countless studies have been proven to show

because what people should be eating as individuals PHOTO CREDIT GOOGLE IMAGES

to them can potentially help them to make healthier

are key factors in allowing people to live as healthily as possible. Overall, humans are complex creatures that require specific nutrients, but also that eat food for so many reasons other than just needing to survive. There will never be one set answer to what humans should eat, but food will always be an essential part of life. It is ultimately up to each individual person to choose

why many people are over–saturated with certain

whether they want the food they eat—or don’t eat—to

nutrients and deficient in others. No one formula for

help them go backwards or to help them progress.

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 38

IN CLEVELAND

WRITTEN BY

Megan Baranuk

As colder months approach, the homeless population in Cleveland does not have many options for warmth.

W

degenerates” as is commonplace in today’s society, we should remember that every homeless man, woman, and child is a unique individual, with unique skills

inter is one of the most beautiful times

and personality traits. Oftentimes, the homeless

of the year in Cleveland: the sparkling

person you see is someone who is truly struggling,

snow, shining lights, and wind on rosy

whether it be financially, mentally, or emotionally.

cheeks. But for some, the sparkling

The upsetting reality is that when a family does

snow quickly turns into flecks of frozen air, biting

not want to deal with a person with needs that the

at bare skin, the wind cutting at their bodies like a

family cannot meet, this person is sometimes bought

freshly sharpened knife. Behind every tree, around

a one-way ticket somewhere far away, with no way

every corner is a threat, ready to attack. The once

to reach out to anyone familiar. On top of this scary

beautiful lights shine no longer, as the rest of the world

situation, hostile stares are common for homeless

lays asleep, comfortable under piles of blankets. This

people on the streets.

terrifying reality is faced every night by the homeless

Here in Cleveland, we have a more direct opportunity

in Cleveland, as they are often left with no choice

to help the homeless than most. There are so many

but to sleep in the cold with no relief. The homeless

ways for college students to get involved with making

population is quickly approaching these frigid months

a difference in the lives of so many people in need. A

and freezing temperatures. Without adequate heat or

hands-on approach is through volunteering. Cleveland

shelter, the weather can quickly turn fatal.

39 | VINDICATOR

Instead of profiling all homeless people into “crazy

has many homeless shelters, one being almost in the

Homelessness is often seen in a negative light.

backyard of CSU. The Norma Herr Women’s Center

The stigma surrounding the homeless tends to be

is located at 2227 Payne Avenue, just a five minute

dehumanizing and derogatory. In order to reverse

walk from campus. The location makes volunteering

this stigma, it is important to humanize the homeless.

here ideal, even if you do not have access to a car. The

DECEMBER 2018

homeless shelter. The City Mission helps men, women, and children by providing shelter, food, guidance, and tools to self–sustainability. There are four subsections of how the City Mission serves the homeless. These are through Laura’s Home, Crossroads Men’s Crisis Center, Inmate Outreach Services, and New Horizons Housing Collaborative. Laura’s Home Women’s Center, located at 18120 Puritas Avenue, helps women and children by providing food and shelter. Women are introduced to case workers and support groups. Children are

PLEASE REACH OUT In Cuyahoga County alone, there are 1,727 homeless on any given night.

If you know anyone who could uses these services, or if you’d like to volunteer please contact the following services.

given in-house daycare, tutoring, and other services.

In Crossroads Men’s Crisis Center, located at 5310 Carnegie Avenue, the same process is undergone, the only difference being that they tend to men. The Inmate Outreach Services deals with helping inmates and their families, while the New Horizons Housing

Crossroads Men’s Crisis Center 5310 Carnegie Ave, Cleveland, OH 216–307–1382

Collaborative helps refurbish homes for women who are ready to reinstate themselves after staying at Laura’s Home. If you are able to donate school supplies,

the downtown campus, 5310 Carnegie Avenue. You can

Inmate Outreach Services 5310 Carnegie Ave, Cleveland, OH

volunteer for City Mission by visiting their website,

216–479–0020

toiletries, baby items and clothing, you can drop them off Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at

www.thecitymission.org.

Last, but certainly not least, one of the most important ways to help the homeless is completely

at them and acknowledging that you see them makes

New Horizons Housing Collaborative 5310 Carnegie Ave, Cleveland, OH

all the difference. So many homeless people face not

216–307–1382

free—showing them you care, that you see them as human beings, not just a profiled stereotype. Smiling

only devastating poverty and misfortune, but also

barrier shelter, which means that there are no requirements for the homeless regarding accessibility. The Women’s Center also aims to empower women, give them resources to help fight whatever trauma they have been through, help the homeless build self-sufficiency and reinstate themselves

PHOTO CREDIT GOOGLE IMAGES

into the community, as well as making sure supplies are available for

judgemental stares, or ignorance to the fact that they

“

are, indeed, human at all. The homeless are one of the most vulnerable populations in Cleveland, and it’s important to let them know they are heard and seen.

Be unafraid to make a difference, because you are fortunate enough to be able to.

the homeless throughout the year. You can easily apply to volunteer by going on their website

“

Women’s Center is a low-

In assessing the situation, and if you deem it safe, a good alternative to giving the homeless money is to have a couple sandwiches or even crackers prepped

Laura’s Home Woman’s Center 18120 Puritas Ave, Cleveland, OH 216–479–0020

in your bag.

All in all, it is very important to spread awareness that homelessness is a real issue, and that there are neglected people around us in need of help. These are all great ways to help the homeless, and anything that

OHIO’S STATISTICS

you are able to contribute to help alleviate this issue

Total homeless population:

can make a huge impact on someone’s life and in our community. Even spreading the word, and fighting the stigma is a great way to help the homeless in Cleveland. Be unafraid to make a difference, because you are fortunate enough to be able to.

10,095 Homeless veterans:

1,025 18–24 year old homeless:

695

www. ywcaofcleveland.org.

Another homeless shelter in Cleveland that accepts volunteers is City Mission. City Mission is a faith-based THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 40

A DAY FOR US WRITTEN BY

Nguyet Vo ILLUSTRATION BY

Andriana Akrap

December 10th is the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which is a document that sets out thirty fundamental human rights to be universally protected.

T

he fight for human rights seems never– ending. In a web of sexual harassment cases, shootings, threats to the LGBTQ+ community, and more, the fight for individual rights is still as relevant as ever.

The discrimination and acts against a multitude of different racial, ethnic, and social groups has existed for a long time. In the 1930s and 1940s, millions of Jewish people and others, including members of the LGBTQ+ community and disabled people, perished at the hands of the Nazis. In response to these injustices during the Second World War, humanity resolved to preserve human dignity everywhere. As “a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations,” the United Nations General Assembly in Paris adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10 , 1948, which was architected th

by Eleanor Roosevelt. It symbolizes recurrent human aspirations—“the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world.” The document outlined thirty fundamental rights that people around the world are entitled to. Despite the Declaration including a wide range of civil, social, cultural, economic, and political rights, it is not a binding document. However, it has inspired 41 | VINDICATOR

more than 60 human rights treaties and other instruments which are legally binding. The Declaration set an international standard for human rights and is considered the most translated document in modern history, available in more than 500 languages.

On December 10th, 2018, the Declaration that proclaimed inalienable rights to everyone regardless of race, color, religion, sex, language, etc., turns 71.

While its promise is yet to be fully realized and fulfilled, millions of people in the world embody and fight for that promise. From the survivors of the Parkland shooting fighting for gun control to the migrant caravan seeking asylum in the U.S., the battle for human rights is still significant every single day. People of all ages, races and backgrounds fight for a place where they can feel safe and welcome. Different methods have been used to try to achieve these inalienable rights.

According to an article on USA TODAY, this day has been marked by many events in the past. In 2008, people were asked by gay rights activists in California to call in gay to work to show support for equal rights. In 2011, the day recognized the importance of social media and technology in the battle for human rights after the Arab Spring pro–democracy protests in the Middle East.

People all over the world should stand up for their own and others’ rights. Yet there are people who fight against them, who do not or would not understand that those people deserve those rights. All Lives Matter (ALM) is a movement that has risen in criticism of Black Lives Matter. People use ALM to slink back into their comfort zone, refusing to admit that

U.N. UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS

1 We Are All Born Free & Equal We all have our own thoughts and ideas.

We should all be treated in the same way.

4 No Slavery Nobody has any right to make us a slave.

We cannot make anyone our slave.

18 police brutality and inequity against people of color,

world celebrate this day. The situations in each city,

specifically Black people, exists. There are also people

state, country, and continent are different. It is not

who believe that basic human rights are only for a

easy for some to celebrate this day, as a number of

selected few and may see some of those human rights

world governments are intolerable of human rights

as privileges, or something to be taken for granted.

demonstrations, seeing them as protests against their

For example, Article 13 of the Declaration states that

government or rule. However, there are ways that

“everyone has the right to leave any country, includ-

people in a country that allows such demonstrations

ing his own, and to return

can help. People in those countries, like the U.S., can

to his country,” but people

go on social media and spread information that the

from countries such as North

media may not be reporting. According to a study done

Korea are not able to exercise

by the Pew Research Center, two–thirds of Americans

this right. As stated before,

in 2018 get their news from social media. Of course,

the Universal Declaration of

there are a lot of other things you can do to help the

Human Rights is not legally

fight for human rights. Research how to help in any

binding. To some govern-

way you can—whether it be helping refugees in our

ments and people in power,

city, donating to different charitable organizations,

it is merely a guideline they

going to protests, or simply creating conversations

do not have to follow.

to educate and remind others that the battle is still

“

People all over the world should stand up for their own and others rights.

The principles in the

ongoing.

Declaration are as relevant

It is important to reflect on how human rights have

today as they were in 1948.

affected our lives and to peer into how others may

Human Rights Day is about

be abusing them. For instance, some may say they

celebrating all the ways that

have the right to say whatever they want but abuse

international human rights

this right by choosing to use slurs against a person

have made progress in this

of a different race or ethnic group, or deny opportu-

year. You may know the

nities to people such as immigrants and minorities

background and some facts

because it is not illegal to. The Universal Declaration

on Human Rights Day, but

of Human Rights is merely a guideline, but it is an

how can you honor this day

important milestone that inspired, and continues to

without learning more about the current state of the

inspire, many modern movements, because this is a

human rights around the world? An important first

day when people will not be silenced. This is a day to

step is learning how people from other parts of the

#StandUp4HumanRights.

Freedom of Thought We all have the right to believe in what we want to believe, to have a religion, or to change it if we want.

22 Social Security We all have the right to affordable housing, medicine, education, & childcare, enough money to live on and medical help if we are ill or old.

26 Education Education is a right.

We should learn about the United Nations and how to get on with others.

Our parents can choose what we learn.

29 Responsibility We have a duty to other people, and we should protect their rights and freedoms.

Information from youthforhumanrights.org

THEVINDI.COM ­­ | 42

“

POETRY

Trois.

Sun Story WRITTEN BY

V

It’s when the moon kissed the ocean. “but isn’t that fiction?” the sun asked out of jealousy “is that possible?” the sun added. that’s when you notice without glasses The sadness It fell on the sun like rain with a couple of drops of anger That was snow So cold, yet so hot on the soul it chokes you.

All moved on, but the sun The sun kept rotating around the whole thing for years Each year the sun would lose strength Lose speed. “how long has it been?” the sun asked. “for how long I should go on?”

The sun stopped and the whole galaxy collapsed Just like the sun did Decades ago.

NOVEMBER 2018

THEN HOW DO FLOWERS GROW? WRITTEN BY

ILLUSTRATION BY

Brendon Lydic

Mikayla Colston

Awkward glances Platform poses Loneliness Glistening off of fluorescent lit faces At last, some amity found The sort of company that loneliness craves As she stood He gazed Busied by the black mirror That occupied her hands Perhaps she’s longing But barely reaching For companionship For a dear heart That in which to busy her hands An approach Good intentions Consequences—unforeseeable If only left alone Perhaps that pulsating burden Would feel a little less heavy tonight Random chances Are they taken?

Surely, they must be But at what cost?

Tread lightly For one is to never know...

A dear heart, indebted May pay admission Far too grand

POETRY

When You’re Never Out This Late WRITTEN BY

Nick Chmura

When you’re never out this late, you don’t know people sleep on porches or benches or that some people actually never really sleep.

You don’t know how loud alarms are when there are no other sounds, how fast a car can go without laws, what a dead body looks like on the first train. The things like: lights that always stay on, who’s awake at 3am and who works third shift — you don’t know.

When you’re never out this late, you don’t know when frost starts, what first-light is like and who makes the first cup of coffee for who makes your first cup of coffee. You don’t know how graffiti gets there, that some people don’t leave footprints in snow and that some don’t have shadows.

When you’re never out this late, you don’t know how quiet and dark it can get. You don’t know how alone you can feel — how alone you can be. You don’t know what it looks like to look up from the street into your own window, light on, light off.

When you’re out this late, you know things like regrets, things you want to change — you know very well who you want to be inside with.

When you’re out this late, you know who you miss, and for a moment, you know what you want to be.

NOVEMBER 2018

I Am My Mother’s Daughter WRITTEN BY

GRAPHIC BY

Grace Roberson

Andriana Akrap

Before going to sleep, I’d ask my mother to do my hair for school.

Back then I trusted her hands instead of my own; I was learning how to touch without making a mess.

I still am.

She’d section off my hair, braiding in the language of muscle memory.

As her fingers made her way down my scalp, I hoped that she was weaving secrets into the strands of my hair.

I wondered how she felt about having a daughter with a mind that would never be still.

As the years have gone by, I’ve taught myself how to braid, breaking free from the original hands of creation.

I know now that I wasn’t made to be subtle, just like my mother.

Pull one strand and I’ll unravel.

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