Texas Southern University named 2nd Largest HBCU Page 4.
Students Recount Hurricane Harvey 1 YEAR LATER Page 1.
Angela Davis and Jane Elliott Speak Race & Privilege Page 6
The Official Student Newspaper of Texas Southern Universty Since 1953
SEPTEMBER 19, 2018
TSU Student Recounts Devastation One Year Post-Harvey Todd Travon Rogers Staff Writer
Angela Davis and Jane Elliot Speak About Race and Privilege
U
Brandon Aninipot / Editor-in-Chief
niversity of Houston Graduate School in Social Work hosted their 3rd Annual Social Justice Solutions Event: A Conversation on Race and Privilege.
The auditorium was packed to hear Civil Rights Activist and former Black Panther Party member, Angela Davis, along with Jane Elliott, the internationally known teacher, lecturer, diversity trainer, and recipient of the National Mental Health Association Award for Excellence in Education. The panel wasted no time as Davis touched on the idea of living in a post-racist America. “Those who believe we’re living in a post racists society don’t know the extent to which racism has affected and infected the entire history of this country,” said Davis, “It’s not a simple thing we can fi x. We can’t just wish it away. Trainings won’t fi x the problem. Racism is deeply ingrained in the economy, the prison system, and school system.” The ideal arose from people assuming, since Barack Obama’s presidency, racism was now a thing of the past. (Continued on Page 6)
Tamerras Leonard experienced the devastation of Hurricane Harvey firsthand. The TSU student decided to share her story a year later via her social media platforms. She also started a GoFundMe account for her family after losing four cars, entire wardrobes, and plenty of valuables in the home. “My mind was blown away at how fast people contributed to my GoFundMe,” she said. “I was halfway to my 2K goal by the end of the first day.” She also found assistance through the FEMA national website with a list of organizations to call that aid in the relief of disaster victims like Leonard. “I don’t like to compare circumstances, but my area was hit a lot harder than others,” Leonard said. Her neighborhood is located between to that were opened on both sides in the front and the back. Leonard hesitated calling the police due to the high call volume in her area. “Honestly, the police were no help,” Leonard said. “They were receiving so many calls.” Instead, Leonard dialed a hotline that was recommended to her by an employer. Eventually, police assistance was available in her area. “It was intense,” Leonard said. “Everything that people watched on the news, I witnessed in person.” She said her neighbors hung SOS signs outside of their windows to signal for help, children struggling to wade through rising waters, and wandering dogs. (Continued on pg. 7)
Herald Staff Ryan Nickerson - News Editor
Terrance Turner - News Writer
Jazmyn Proctor - Opinion Editor
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Megan Burnett- Opinion Writer
Januel Burton - Lifestyle Editor David Butler - Sports Editor Janaya Britton - Entertainment Writer
Whitney Allen - Columnist
Christian Greene - Graphic Designer
Jaden “September� Body - Photographer
Paul Banks - Videographer/Photographer
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19 71 92 st I 3
EDITOR’S LETTER
Brandon Aninipot 71st Editor-in-Chief 2018-2019
JASMINE GERSHANOV Managing Editor Colorado Springs, Colorado
NIYA SPAIN Digital Director Baton Rogue, Louisiana
TAMERRAS LEONARD Marketing Director Baltimore, Maryland
am grateful.
As the 71st Editor-in-Chief, I sit here quietly thinking about all of the changes and blessings that have occurred in my life since I enrolled at TSU last Fall. While running track and cross country, I was able to travel to Mississippi and Louisiana. As the Managing Editor of the TSU Herald last school year, I saw what I liked and didn’t like about the newspaper. This summer interning with the Oakland Post Newsgroup, a Black News Publication located in Oakland, California, I covered the 2018 NBA Finals, interviewed Reverend Jesse Jackson, and had mentorship on how to run a publication. My experiences have prepared me for this moment to become the Editor-in-Chief. This year I am accompanied by a talented and driven team. Jasmine Gershanov as our Managing Editor, Niya Spain as Director of Digital Content, and Tamerras Leonard as Director of Marketing. We will be focused on implementing ways to better disperse information on campus. In addition, we will be launching our website and produce more digital content. In this issue the staff has chosen to highlight what it means to “Be The Exception”, how to retain your title as the 2nd largest HBCU, as well as shed light on issues in our community that often don’t get talked about such as mental health, colorism, and recovering from disaster. Some new additions to this year’s paper include a comic strip created by our own Megan Burnett, a map on the back of the paper of the locations to pick up the newspaper on campus, and an entrepreneur advice column called, Whitney Talks. This year I plan on informing and documenting the school I felOkay what elseTestingl in love with the best I can. Respectfully, Brandon Aninipot 71st Editor-in-Chief
PRESIDENT’S LETTER
University President Austin Lane Talks “Being the Exception” From the Office of the President
4 Last spring, TSU held a series of workshops with faculty, staff and students. The goal was to discern the core values and behaviors that we collectively embrace. The results were phenomenal and invigorating, and they will drive much of our activity this year – both internally and externally. In addition to the values that were identified (more on that later!), there was a pervasive theme that came out of the workshops. That theme is “Be the Exception!” Students, faculty and staff were solidly convinced that being exceptional is a trait that is common – and much desired – in TSU’s culture. Having served as TSU’s President for the past two years, I can attest that this theme is spot on. I see it every day in our scholarly pursuits. I see it with the leadership of our student organizations and activities. I see it in the competitive arena of athletics and extracurricular endeavors.
Dr. Austin Lane University President
At Founders’ Day this year, we will kick off the Be the Exception campaign. But this is just the beginning. Our marketing efforts will center on this concept. We will showcase outstanding faculty, students and alumni who are being exceptional. What does being an exception look like?
Collectively, it means helping students, faculty, staff, and alumni because it is a pleasure and not an obligation. It is seeing struggle as an opportunity to lift up, not an excuse to sink down. We will be the exception with the heart of a Tiger, the soul of a brother or a sister, and the pride of humble service. You are the exception when your concern is for others, not for yourself. You are the exception when you sacrifice for your school, your city, and your people, not for recognition, money, or power. You are the exception when your focus is “How can I?” and not “How can someone else?” When I first heard that this theme had emerged from our workshops, I immediately knew it was the right direction for TSU. The timing is perfect. It falls right in line with the values that were stated (in your own words): • Excellence • Student Centeredness • Engagement • Creativity • Collaboration This is an exciting time to be a Tiger at Texas Southern University. We all have the opportunity – and the obligation – to Be an Exception!
Texas Southern University Named Second Largest HBCU Brandon Aninipot/ Editor-in-Chief
In the heart of downtown Houston, Tex- on students that hurt TSU’s enrollment. as Southern University finds itself with over There is a culture change this year on cam10,300 students from all walks of life who pus as students work to revive school spirit desire to bring educational, economic, and and thirst for change. financial prosperity to their name. “This year is going to be exciting because TSU has been named the 2nd largest we’re going to be doing something comamongst the nation’s Historically Black Col- pletely different,” said Tyler Smith, SGA Senleges and Universities. ate Chair, “Students like transparency and there are going to be updates on campus.” “We will continue to focus on the priorities which are the needs of the students,” said Administration has taken steps to better TSU President Austin Lane. facilitate students needs and give students the ability to voice their concerns and needs. The increase of attendance doesn’t surprise some when looking at President Austin Kiosks have been placed around campus Lane’s track record. for students to give feedback on facilities and customer service, as well as a smoothie spot Lane was previously the president at Lone being placed on campus in response to stuStar College-Montgomery for six years, lead- dents voicing their desire for healthier food ing an institution that experienced the fast- options. est growth in Texas and the nation. Moving forward into the school year, the In previous years there was a lack of focus administration urges students to continue to
cultivate the culture on campus and create a community of strong, hardworking students. “Administration is meant to provide resources and aid students with the opportunity to make this campus feel like home,” said Wendell WIlliams, Special Assistant to the President Austin Lane. “Students provide the overall culture of the community in Texas Southern.” As the school year progresses the students
“We will continue to focus on the priorities which are the needs of the students” are to expect continued growth in school spirit and an administration working to provide service and resources to its students.
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NEWS BRIEFS
SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION STUDENTS ARE GENERATION NEXT
KTSU News, written, produced, and presented by students of the School of Communication, took off well on September 10. The students gather and deliver relevant news through the leadership of Professor Serbino Sandifer-Walker and Angela SmithJohnson. To listen, tune to KTSU-90.9, or go online.
TSU STUDENT TRAVELS TO CHINA THROUGH THE CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE Kaleigh Davis Contributing Writer
This summer I travelled to Beijing and Shanghai, China for a 2 week long study abroad trip with The Confucius Institute here at Texas Southern University. Our class stayed at the Beijing Jiaotong University in the heart of Beijing. During the day we had classes which taught us about chinese culture such as mandarin, calligraphy, kung fu, braiding, and even painting class. When not in the classroom the education continued visiting historical landmarks like The Lama Temple, Summer Palace, The Great Wall of China, The Palace Museum and my personal favorite the Shanghai’s Art District. Las Vegas has nothing on China’s nightlife Everything is so flashy, over the top, and exotic. On this experience, I took away everything I could have and ran with it. Meaning, I learned to speak a little Chinese. I meet people from Beijing Jiaotong University and other students at TSU I wouldn’t have spoke to otherwise. Overall I learned see the world from different points of view and saw how differently people live on the other side of the world.
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY TO HOST MATHEMATICS CONFERENCE The Department of Mathematics at the Texas Southern University will hold a conference on September 22-23, 2018 with a tentative title ‘Invitation to Mathematics’. Goals of the conference are introduce undergraduates to the research world in mathematics; encourage students from underrepresented minority group to pursue Ph.D program in Mathematics and Mathematical Sciences; show possible career paths with a math degree; and provide an opportunity for undergraduates and graduates from underrepresented minority group to interact with peers from other institutions. The conference will consist of a list of research talks, a poster session, a panel discussion session that with a focus on addressing possible career paths with a math degree.
6 “If racism wasn’t alive Trump wouldn’t be in all women and all people of color to stop office,” said Elliott, “He got elected because playing defense and defending who they are and go on the offense,” said Elliott. white people resented having a Black man in the White House for eight years.” Elliott conducted her exercise of asking all the white people to stand if they would Elliott, an elderly white woman, is often like to be treated the way blacks are in this accused of being a traitor to her own race society, no one stood up. because of her constant criticism of white people’s ignorance and injustice. Davis supported Elliott pushing the idea of fixing systems instead of fixing individuals.
“ONE OF THE REASONS WE HAVE SO MANY PROBLEMS IN THIS WORLD, PARTICULARLY IN THE NEO-LIBERAL ERA, IS BECAUSE WE’VE BEEN ENCOURAGED TO THINK OF OURSELVES AS INDIVIDUALS AND NOT AS THOSE OF A LARGER COMMUNITY”
Elliott believes she isn’t a traitor because she only sees herself as part of the human race, the only race that matters. “It’s time to face the truth, it’s time for
“One of the reasons we have so many problems in this world, particularly in the neo-liberal era, is because we’ve been encouraged to think of ourselves as individuals and not as those of a larger community,” said Davis. Davis, the headliner of the event, continued to speak about the change of mindsets wasn’t enough and to hold people accountable for speaking injustices and to call a person out the moment an unjust statement is heard. Change will only begin to be seen when the American institutions change their repressive apparatus and American people begin to view current issues as a community and become committed to engage racism and oppression.
TSU Student Opens Exhibit at Row Houses
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NEWS
Houston Defender News Service
Dreana Booker, a junior art major at Texas Southern University, is one of seven college students who have unveiled installations as part of the 2018 Summer Studios initiative at Project Row Houses. The viewing period for the work runs through Sept. 16. All seven projects are free and open to the public in the 2500 block of Holman Street. Booker’s exhibit theme – “What Does Freedom Cost?”– revolves around systematic oppression and other social issues that impact African-American society. She uses paintings and mixed media displays to draw a parallel between slavery and its continued legacy in the United States. Booker says that she plans to transform the Row House into a slave cabin as a reminder that antebellum racial politics is part of modern life. This is her first major installation. “My work is about social-political topics and I express past experiences that made me who I am or how it impacts a community. My art is pain,” she said. “I want to use my platform to spread awareness. It’s important to me, my family and my community.” Booker prefers acrylic paint because she can create specific pigments. She often cries while in the process of creating and tries to find colors that match her level of emotion. Project Row Houses is a community platform designed to enrich lives through art with an emphasis on cultural identity and its impact on the urban landscape. It engages neighbors, artists, and enterprises in collective creative action to help materialize sustainable opportunities in marginalized communities. PRH occupies a significant footprint in Houston’s historic Third Ward, one of the city’s oldest African-American neighborhoods. The site encompasses five city blocks and houses 39 structures that serve as home base to a variety of community-enriching initiatives, art programs, and neighborhood development activities.
(Continued from page 1) “The look in the eyes of the other families losing everything they worked so diligently for definitely revealed the character of my family, friends, and the city of Houston,” Leonard said. She said she received a large amount of support and prayer from staff at Texas Southern University and the Third Ward community, including her peers. “We were placed in a shelter and then a family friend’s house for a while,” Leonard said. During the school year, Leonard was taken in by a friend that happened to be a Residential Assistant on campus that semester and allowed her to stay for the time, sharing a twin-sized bed for fourmonths. “It was a hard time. Everyone was eager to help, to call and check on my family,”
Leonard said. “Someone I won’t forget was Ms. Birtenna Bennett.” Leonard said Bennett, the Executive Director of Student Services Operations and Food Services at Texas Southern University, paid for her books for the semester after learning how the student and her family had been impacted by the storm. Leonard also said that if there was one thing that the university could have done to support students, it should have been temporary housing arrangements. After a year, Leonard is still rebuilding her life, but will be well prepared for the next hurricane, or natural disaster that hits her homestead. “Next time I’ll relocate before it gets bad,” she said. “It’s going to probably take another year to fully get back on our feet.”
OPINIONS
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THE PAPER BAG TEST:
Colorism and What It Looks Like Kamarie Gibbons/ Opinions Writer
More commonly we learn of the popular “ism” that is racism—discrimination or prejudice towards an individual based on race with the belief that one’s own race is superior. Got it. However, when we peel back one of the layers of racism we discover the other “ism” that is colorism—discrimination based on skin color or the shade of skin color. Colorism exists within many cultures and races, because almost everywhere anti-blackness is rooted in society. Where Blackness is unbeautiful and whiteness is hailed as the pinnacle of beauty. Colorism within the Black community is a system that grants privileges to individuals with lighter skin. Systemically individuals with lighter skin are privileged in areas such as jobs, education, and the marriage market, among many other opportunities. In the 20th century it was believed that within the Black community the Brown Paper Bag test was practiced. This test consisted of comparing individual’s skin color to a brown paper bag, for those with skin lighter than the bag they would then gain access or memberships to certain groups. In connection to this, many Black folks have and do still contribute to colorism by
praising and upholding privileges for those with lighter skin by benefiting them exclusively, over those with darker skin. While the responsibility for colorism is not the fault of those born with lighter skin, the reality is that colorism systemically affects the lives of people with darker skin. These effects do call for accountability and education. Colorism’s objective is to peer, poke and probe its way to be as close to European as possible. In the Black community, making statements such as “I only like light skins”, “I can’t be in the sun too long or else I will get too dark” or “She’s pretty for a dark skinned” are examples of colorism. Casual? Yes. Still, it is important to look within the underlying reasons as to why these statements are made and why they continue to be overlooked. Last summer, Florida rapper Kodak Black, who is of a darker skin complexion made comments that he does not like to date women with his complexion. Kodak Black admitted to preferring lighter skinned women over women of his complexion because they are “too gutter.” In this context, the term “gutter” was stapled to someone who is viewed as “ghetto” or not well-behaved. Fortunately, there were no statistics existing to learn exactly
“THIS TEST CONSISTED OF COMPARING INDIVIDUAL’S SKIN COLOR TO A BROWN PAPER BAG, FOR THOSE WITH SKIN LIGHTER THAN THE BAG THEY WOULD THEN GAIN ACCESS OR MEMBERSHIPS TO CERTAIN GROUPS.”
how many dark skinned women are actually more “gutter” than light skinned women. Although colorism was not manifested by Black folks it has divided them and provided them with a weapon to destroy one another. Now, it is imperative that Black people delve deeper into what colorism is and its effects within the Black community. It is crucial to celebrate Black beauty in all shades of black and brown. It is critical to question one another when someone says something that excludes another Black individual grounded on their skin color. It is dire that colorism is shut down entirely.
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“What’s Going On With Reggie” Post Q&A DOES COLORISM EXIST AMONG HBCU STUDENTS? “It shouldn’t because we are all African-Americans and we should come together, but I think it does because people like to show favoritism and have a messed up perception of beauty.” KYLINA WALKER
LIGHTSKIN VERSUS DARKSKIN: WHY ARE WE STILL AGAINST EACH OTHER? “Let’s just look at history, light skins equal house slaves. They were considered to be more like white people so the standard of beauty, quality and status was in skin color. The lighter you are the more power you had. Still today’s standards are if you’re light skin then she’s pretty.” GWENDOLYN THOMAS
LIGHTSKIN VERSUS DARKSKIN: WHY ARE WE STILL AGAINST EACH OTHER? “I would say at this point everybody is just going based on looks, they don’t care about color. For me personally I go by their mindset. So, I don’t really care if you’re lightskin or darkskin. But when I was younger, it’s crazy how lightskins were all my girlfriends but my preference was dark skins” DEVONTRELL DAVIS
OPINIONS
POLITICS
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Democratic Presidential Candidate Booker Endorses Fletcher of Texas Jasmine Gershnov/ Managing Editor
With less than two months left until the midterm elections the campaign trail is hot. Potential Democratic Presidential candidate, Cory Booker, visited Houston to help bring attention to Houston Democratic midterm candidates and inspire voters. “If young people voted at 50% or 60% they would literally transform this nation in one election,” said Booker. In past elections the youth vote has been as low as 16%, preventing the voice of youth to be heard. Each campaign makes a point to identify its supporters, non supporters, and people who don’t identify with a candidate. Campaigns will organize block walks, phone banking, and organize rallies to bring people to the polls.
“We have so much momentum and an incredible team,” said Lizzie Fletcher, 7th Congressional District Democratic candidate,“it’s not just me but we have a team effort and we are working every single day.” Booker and Fletcher both encouraged college students and youth to get out, get involved, and vote.
“If young people voted at 50% or 60% they would literally transform this nation in one election...”
Midterm Awareness: WHY IS VOTING SO IMPORTANT? Ryan Nickerson/ Staff Writer
American citizens have the choice to live informed or willingly oblivious to the world around them. Some people are even inclined to think that if they put their heads down, look the other way and only focus on what’s immediately important to them, their life will be okay. And the scary part is, it probably will be. The freedom to vote for representation on the matters that affect the most people is a freedom that isn’t granted to everyone around the globe. “Only 40% of the world’s countries hold free and open elections, 24% are only partly free and 36% percent are not free,” said the Freedom House’s 2106 Freedom of the World report. There are people who live in impoverished countries or under dictator rule that pay close attention to worldly matters, but are effectively powerless in expressing themselves. American citizens should not take this privilege for granted. The things that politicians argue about actually have far greater consequences then one would initially think. “I vote because I understand that there once was a time when we had to fight for it,” said Denzel Cammon, a senior at TSU. “So now, really because it’s right there in front of us, we should take advantage of what is part of our liberties here in America and ultimately effect change locally and on the state level, and not so much just on the national level.” Matters such as abortion, same sex mar-
riage, affirmative action, prison reform, marijuana legalization, and any topic that are present in today’s media landscape, are all important, and they are all worth having an opinion about. No matter what that opinion is, it is important to go out and vote to express that opinion. If one doesn’t, one’s opinions are at risk of being decided for them; a violation of one of the main principles of being a free American citizen. “Midterm elections are a way for us to express our views on the direction of our nation and State,” said Dr. Michael O’Adams, chair of Political Science at TSU. “Historically, it’s been thought of as a referendum on the President. This is the opportunity we have to have our voices heard. Students and people of color haven’t participated at levels on par with older Anglo voters, and the result has been policies we don’t always agree with. If you want to see the direction of our country change—you have to vote.” According to the United States Census Bureau, 66.2% of African Americans voted in the 2012 elections, but only 59.4% voted in 2016. This decline goes against the efforts of African Americans that fought for their right to vote, and because of that fight, HBCUs have an even bigger duty to get students to vote. Will you exercise your right as an American citizen on November 6, 2018?
SEN. CORY BOOKER, NEW JERSEY Potential Democratic Presidential Candidate
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TOP 5 Do’s and Don’t for Freshman Year Janaya Britton/ Staff Writer
DO’S
Dear WhitneyTalks.... Written by Whitney Allen, also known as WhitneyTalks. This fall, Talks is serving an entrepreneurship advice column. Dishing her essential skills for creating your own brand or business, financial advice, a ways to construct your business social handles, etc. Talks hopes to set the platform for readers seeking to build, or start something of his or her own. Submitted questions will be reviewed carefully and answered with great feedback from the columnist! SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO tsu.heraldeditor@gmail. com - SUBJECT: Dear Whitney Talks
1. MONITOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH. College is great, but it can be stressful and overwhelming. Make sure you prioritize time for yourself and maintain a high self-esteem. If you have to take a mental health break, take one! There are tons of great people and safe spaces on campus to express yourself. 2. GET INVOLVED. Join an organization, go to campus events, and go to as many games as you can! Having a college life where you were a part of an organization not only makes college fun, and can help with internships or jobs. 3. TAKE YO BUTT(A**) TO CLASS. You, your parents, scholarships, financial aid...someone paid for you to be here. Don’t get carried away with the freedom of leaving or skipping class. If you have to be absent, talk to your professor. 4. FIND COMFORT IN DISCOMFORT. Everyone and everything is awkward at first. Be bold and grasp every opportunity. Embrace the awkward and I promise that you’ll prosper afterwards. 5. LEARN ABOUT CONSENT Sex is cool, but it’s even cooler when it’s consensual. Make sure that you communicate with whoever you have sex with and respect boundaries. Don’t take advantage of anyone if they’re under the influence, even if they said yes, watch body language, and don’t ignore a no.
DON’TS
1. DON’T TELL ANYBODY THAT YOU WANT TO GO GREEK OR WHAT GREEK FRAT OR SOROR YOU PLAN ON JOINING. Look, I know y’all think it’s cute to chop it up with your homeboys and homegirls about possibly pledging. It’s great to be interested in joining a Greek organization. Just do your research, and don’t share who you want to pledge with because your dreams can be blackballed. 2. DON’T SPEND ALL OF YOUR TIGER POINTS. You don’t need Chick Fil A every day or a bagel with cream cheese at Einstein’s every time you’re in the Science Building. Stretch out them points for as long as you can, because they REALLY count when you’re broke! 3. DON’T PROCRASTINATE. If you’ve bamboozled yourself into thinking that you have “plenty of time” to do your work and it’s due next class, false. Get your homework done as soon as you get it and you’ll be able to turn up as long as you want! 4. DON’T COMPARE AND COMPETE. We constantly see people around our age rising to fame in their field fast, traveling, buying houses, and doing other luxury things. Don’t rush your process because you’re not wildly successful (YET). Grow at your own pace and everything will fall into place! 5. DON’T HAVE A LEAVE OUT. Ladies, Houston is ridiculously hot and horribly humid. Get yourself a closure, braids, a wig, crochet hair, or just let your curls be free because I PROMISE you that the top of your head will go from sleek and silky to a brillo pad in 2.5 seconds.
SPORTS
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Williams Challenges Cheating Claims Defending Grand Slam Title
KAEPERNICK: THE NEW FACE OF NIKE
Taylor York/ Contributing Writer
The women’s championship match for the 2018 US Open has stunned people around the world as one of the most memorable matches in the history of tennis. Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka were set to play one another for the Grand Slam title. Williams walked onto the court in hopes of winning her 24th Grand Slam and Japan’s 20 year old Naomi Osaka would be Japan’s first female US Open winner in the history of the tournament. 36 year old Williams left Arthur Ashe Stadium without her Grand Slam title losing 6-2,6-4. Williams lost the first set due to amazing play by the 20 year old professional player. During the second set, Osaka was dominating and Williams was fighting to stay alive. The controversy began when the referee warned Williams that receiving coaching during a match is a code violation. Williams was furious that the ref accused her of cheating and demanded an apology. “I don’t cheat to win, I’d rather lose.” Williams told chair umpire Carlos Ramos. Boos erupted from the crowd after she received the first of three code violations during the match. The match resumed and Osaka continued to dominate in the second set, which led to Williams smashing her racket on the court and receiving a point penalty. The third penalty led to Williams receiving a full game penalty for “berating a ref” because she called him a thief. The match resumed and Naomi Osaka won her first major title defeating Williams, whom she called her idol. During the award ceremony, Williams was seen consoling an upset Osaka while the crowd was booing the officials for the match. Williams then addressed the crowd telling them to “Make this the best moment we can...We’re going to get through this and let’s be positive. So, congratulations Naomi. No more booing.” At the post game press conference, Williams refused to answer any questions regarding Osaka and the match. She instead took that time to voice her opinions on the sexism of the sport. Saying, “I’ve seen other men call other umpires several things and I’m here fighting for women’s rights and women’s equality. For me to say ‘thief’ and for him to take a game it made me feel like it was a sexist remark...I’m going to continue to fight for women and for us to have equality.”
“I don’t cheat to win, I’d rather lose.” - Serena Williams
Tamerras Leonard Director of Marketing
SERENA WILLIAMS American professional tennis player
HOUSTON- On September 4, 2018, Nike unveiled an ad of Colin Kaepernick captioned, “believe in something, even if it means sacrificing everything,” sending the general public into uproar. The ruckus associated with Collin Kaepernick’s ad embodies the culture within America. Real issues are continuously lost in translation and advocacy for minority rights are associated with hostility. They tell us to “be angry… but not like that,” despite Kaepernicks effort to protestpeacefully he is still portrayed as the bad guy. Nike’s ad was supposed to be synonyms to unification against an unjust system, but it was misconstrued for bigotry. Yet another example of America missing the bigger picture. Retired vet, Crystina Rubio states, “I feel America is utilizing military as a scapegoat to pursue their racist narratives.” At any other given moment kneeling symbolizing respect coupled with etiquette; yet, this circumstance is labeled as “disrespect to the flag”. Kaepernick drew attention to the foundation of this country, which is the bones of the oppressed, resulting in the unoppressed discomfort. However, lasting impact cannot be birthed without opposition; people who are a catalyst for change recognize the beauty of metamorphism is its discomfort. In short, sometimes the unpopular opinion is the best one. And Iwill happily proclaim, I am with you Collin Kaepernick.
Fast start propels Alcorn State past Texas Southern
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TSUSPORTS.COM
LORMAN, Miss.- The Texas Southern Tigers Football team dropped a 27-15 road decision to the Alcorn State Braves at Spinks-Casem Stadium on Saturday. After falling behind 27-0 in the first half of play Texas Southern was able to hold the Braves scoreless in the second half but the Tigers weren’t able to generate enough offensive production to mount a comeback.
TSU scored 15 second half points as Bobby Hartzog hauled in two receiving touchdowns of 23 and 16 yards respectively. Alcorn State’s scoring production was a mixture of scores via the ground and passing attack as the Braves initially scored on a 1-yard rush, followed by an 8-yard pass in the first quarter. The Braves added two more touchdowns in the
2nd quarter on another 1-yard run and a 28-yard catch with 5:57 remaining prior to intermission. For the game Alcorn State amassed 477 yards of total offense (166 R, 311 P) while Texas Southern tallied 294 yards of offense (0 R, 294 P). The Tigers will face the University of Houston on Saturday, Sept. 22 at TDECU Stadium.
Texas Southern’s McClelland named SWAC Commissioner TSUSPORTS.COM
HOUSTON – Dr. Charles McClelland, who took over the helm of Texas Southern University Athletics more than 10 years ago, has resigned to become the next commissioner of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Kevin Granger, currently serving as TSU’s Assistant Athletics Director, will take over as Interim Athletics Director immediately, as the university conducts a national search for McClelland’s replacement. “I want to publicly thank Dr. McClelland for his hard work and many accomplishments at TSU,” said TSU President Dr. Austin A. Lane. “I served on the the SWAC commissioner hiring committee, so this was naturally a tough decision. We hate to lose him, but he is really committed to taking the SWAC to the next level. We wish him nothing but success in his new role.” “It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve TSU for the past 10 years,” said Dr. McClelland. “I’ve been surrounded by wonderful people, and this has been one of the best family work environments I’ve ever experienced. I am excited to be the new commissioner, and I want to take the same energy and effort we have put forth here at TSU and spread it across all nine SWAC institutions.”
As Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, McClelland supervised a total of 16 sports - nine women’s and seven men’s. During his tenure, McClelland elevated the athletics program to a higher level as it relates to athletics, academics, facilities and overall brand visibility. Additionally, McClelland led the athletic department to significant, year over year improvements in the Academic Progress Rate and Graduation Success Rate among its student-athletes. Perhaps his biggest facility achievement, McClelland played a large role in finalizing a deal with the Houston Dynamo soccer team to share the newly constructed 22,000 seat BBVA Compass Stadium for Tigers football. The Texas Southern Tigers football team began playing in their new home in 2012. Located in Downtown Houston BBVA Compass stadium is a state of the art facility with all of the amenities and features of a premier sports venue. Granger joined the Texas Southern University as Athletics Operations Manager in 2008, the same year that McClelland joined the university. His primary responsibilities include processing athletic contracts, team travel, ticketing and
managing TSU athletic facilities. Before coming to Texas Southern, Granger was the head boy’s basketball coach at Worthing High School from 2001 to 2007. In his last year, he led his team to the 19-4A Regional Boy’s basketball finals. He was also named 2007 19-4A Coach of the Year. Granger was a star player for TSU’s basketball team from 199296, and was the Division I leading scorer in 1996. “I’m extremely excited to lead TSU Athletics into its next chapter,” said Granger. “Having been a former player and coach at TSU, and having worked directly under Dr. McClelland, it means the world to me to have this opportunity, and I thank Dr. Lane for having the confidence in me to fill this role.” Granger received the President’s Award (1996) as the top student-athlete at TSU and he still ranks among the all-time greats in the university’s basketball history is several categories. Granger’s number 10 was retired in 2002.
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Finding Help is Better Than Staying Quiet Jazmyn Proctor Opinions Editor
At Texas Southern University students are able to receive free services from the University Counseling Center (UCC). The UCC aims to alleviate students experiencing high levels of stress, loneliness, depression, and overwhelmingness. As the second largest HBCU in the nation, with over 10,000 students, TSU has two counselors providing the services. Dr. Bernadette Smith and Dr. Caren Cooper are the counselors that provide care to the diverse student body. In order to schedule an appointment at the UCC, students can call directly to the UCC at (713) 313-7804. In order to break the continuation of unaddressed mental health illness amongst the black community, it’s important to become
more aware of what resources and avenues can be taken for treatment. The services offered include personal counseling, couple and group counseling, and consultation and outreach. Students can receive services in between the hours of 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Friday, if a student is not available during those hours the counselor may recommend an outside resource at the student’s expense. With the overflow of student to counselor ratio, the UCC has provided students and faculty the ability to report those students they believe to be at risk or displaying signs of stress through kognitocampus.com, the login credentials are listed on the UCC’s resources page. An alternative resource to consider is a mo-
bile app called The Safe Place, designed with the Black community as it’s target community and consumer. Jasmine Pierr created the app and released it February 2018 in order to shed more light on mental health issues such as depression, suicide, and managing anger. The app not only includes mental health resources, but mental health statistics and virtual mental health classes to raise awareness in the Black community. “The Safe Place” and UCC are only a couple of resources that are accessible to a student that is looking for help. In honor of Suicide Awareness Month find the value in mental health and seek help if needed.
A Silent Cry on the Tiger Walk Teelia Gooden Contributing Writer
No one ever talks about how I’m feeling. Yeah, I said it. Let me introduce myself. Hi, I’m Teelia, and I’m an Army Veteran. I suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Most Veterans like myself walk the Tiger walk most days alone, head lowered, eyes looking the other way, afraid of not wanting to interact with the world. Am I different? Of course, I am but I’m okay, and I’m not ashamed. 18 years ago, an Army Recruiter showed up on my New Jersey doorstep and offered me the dream of a lifetime; joining the military. The first seven years of my military career was challenging for me. At this time, I was exposed to a tour of Kuwait and Iraq. I never knew what the next six years of my life were going to denote. Did I mention I had two small children and a husband at this time? War can negatively impact your family. Never did I expect to lose my family behind the effects of war, but it happened. From waking up to the sounds of mortars rounds to being on constant alert, my PTSD increased. Insomnia began to make its bed in my life. I found myself staying up for days pushing through the mission. There were times; I’d forget where I was. The little voice within me kept telling me to give up; you’re tired. By the time I’d reached my third deployment to Iraq, my psyche had begun to accept what I had thought to be the truth. I recall the night being Christmas Eve and the air filled with emptiness; memories
of my children staying up late at night to open gifts emerged. Most of my unit had left the building and went to their living quarters. My mind was blown to wonder about being far away from family and the war around me. The phone call I made that night shifted my career in a direction I never intended on going.
Lining up several pills I moved to end my life, I felt I had no control over any longer. When I woke up, my hospital bed was surrounded with military uniforms; brothers and sisters alike. The support was solid, and they’d assured me that I wasn’t alone. But the feeling of being alone is what led me to this very place. Sometimes, it only takes us to step back and take a breath. Look around you and you will see that you are never alone. Suicide is real; Depression is real. I share my story because around the anniversary of my attempt; my mind plays a trick on me. I’m reminded of the decision that I’d made several years back. I am not ashamed to share my story because I have developed into a healthy person amidst of the pain. If you know someone who may be struggling with depression and can’t speak for themselves, you can advocate for them. Let’s stand together as a community The phone rang, and my husband was on and fight depression. Every life is worth living, we all have a story the other end, unaware of my mindset. The to tell. Do you care to share yours? only words I could utter were, “take care of my baby girl.” He placed her on the phone, confused as to what I was advising him. Her innocent voice did not affect the dark place my mind had shifted to. I have reached my dark hole, and there was no way to come out of it. I proceeded towards my living quarters, locking eyes to a dresser full of pill bottles.
“I share my story because around the anniversary of my attempt; my mind plays a trick on me. I’m reminded of the decision that I’d made several years back.“
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Musician Mac Miller Dies of Overdose at 26 Ashleigh Vernon Contributing Writer
MAC MILLER, 26 Philly-born Rapper and hiphop producer found dead of an unexpected drug overdose
Listen now on SoundCloud @ Curley Sue
The news of artist Mac Miller’s unexpected passing sent shockwaves through the Hip-Hop community over the weekend. The 26-year-old Pittsburgh native, born Malcolm McCormick, was found dead in his Studio City apartment late Friday morning after a suspected drug overdose. While the official cause of Miller’s death is not yet known, it has sparked conversation within the entertainment community about how to better help its members struggling with the challenges of mental illness and sobriety. Miller, with his kind nature and musical genius, was never shy about sharing his struggles with drug dependence and depression. Whether in interviews, his MTV2 reality show, or through his artwork, Miller allowed others a chance to take a peek inside his troubled yet colorful world. He gives an exceptionally personal take on his challenges, victories, and lessons of acceptance on his fifth studio album in August 2018 titles Swimming. Although Miller was able to be forthcoming about his struggles, it wasn’t enough to save his life. Still leaving the door open for dialogue on how this can be prevented from ever happening again. His case was not especially unique, there is a long history of music artists succumbing to the diseases of mental health and addiction, it leaves one to wonder, “are we really ready to heal our culture or just wait until someone else becomes a trending topic?”
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Introducing Mr. Orlando Sutton and Miss Lashawn Hamb 71st MISS TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY Lashawn Hamb is a Chicago native, promising senior, and the 71st Miss Texas Southern University. She is a firm believer in love being the most powerful force in the universe and strives to make every action out of love. As a mentor to other women and student leader, Lashawn is very active in organizations on her illustrious campus and strives to always inspire. She will be graduating with a degree in Sport Management and becoming a law student in the year of 2019. Lashawn’s family instilled many values in her including that she could do anything she put her mind to. In remembrance of those exact words, Lashawn values hard work and believes that they sky is the limit. She plans to accomplish many more things outside of her law career including being on the front cover of business magazines, mentoring those in the younger generation, giving back to the community, and traveling to different places to build homes and schools for those in need.
10TH MR. TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY Greetings! I am Orlando Sutton Jr. the 10th Mr. Texas Southern University! I am a senior Biology major coming all the way from Hot Springs, Arkansas. I am the second eldest of my six siblings, and the eldest of my five brothers. In my years of growing up in a large household, I’ve quickly learned that the world is much bigger than me and my passion for helping others. My aspirations are to become an orthodontist and give back to my community. Whether it is creating scholarships, improving the infrastructure of communities or a means of bringing well needed resources into the lives of many people I want to help!