Vol. 71, Issue 12

OPINIONS

ABHIJIT REGE NEWS EDITOR

The HUB has finally opened another dining option in its space with the grand opening of the Halal Shack. The restaurant opened on campus last Thursday, Jan 12, 2023, and is especially notable due to providing an entirely Halal Menu.

Taking influence from New York City street food, the restaurant’s cuisine consists of a variety of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors and spices with American-style fusion. It features a build-your-own meal concept, similar to fellow HUB restaurant Hibachi-san, where diners can choose from rice, salad, zucchini noodles, or french fries to create a bowl. Diners can add chicken, beef, falafel, chickpea korma (an Afghan dish), or the plant-based Impossible meat substitution. A variety of special

sauces can be added to top off the bowl.

The addition of the Halal Shack reflected a growing concern on the UCR campus regarding the lack of Halal food options for Muslim Students. The Halal shack’s website clarifies the meaning of Halal, where it explains that “Halal food and meats are sourced and prepared following Islamic dietary guidelines to ensure not only the highest quality but also the humane treatment of the animals they come from.”

Kourtney Gilbert, marketing and communications coordinator for Dining and Hospitality Services expressed, “Everyone’s really excited to have something new on campus. It provides a different dining option with more

KIANOOSH NOOSHI, SPORTS EDITOR

The UC Riverside men’s basketball team defeated Cal Poly this week in a thrilling back and forth game. The Highlander’s were led by their starting backcourt consisting of senior Flynn Cameron and Senior Jamal Hartwell II. The two stars combined for 48 as the Highlanders improved to 6-1 in the Big West marking their best start to conference play in recent years. The contest was more than a little uncomfortable for the Highlanders who had to finish the job in overtime with a push from the amazing UCR home crowd.

The game started off with a fluid, uptempo pace from UCR as the Highlanders grew and kept an early lead, but Cal Poly’s hot form from three kept the game close. The Highlanders who were struggling early on from three were able to hit back to back shots from deep courtesy of freshman forward Lachlan

in

Olbrich and junior forward Will Tattersall who drained back-to-back threes to get UC Riverside going. Olbrich went into halftime with some good makes and finished the game with 11 points and eight rebounds. The aforementioned threes opened the floodgates from deep for the as UCR opened up a sixpoint halftime lead by virtue of a late 8-0 run and a 6-for-11 ratio from deep.

The Highlanders came out of the half hot and continued to torch the opposition with the three ball, turning in 57.1 percent of their efforts from deep in the game, a season high. Kyle Owens put in a massively underrated performance for the Highlanders recording his third straight double double with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Flynn Cameron had 25 points on 50 percent shooting also adding six assists leading the way

New restaurant, the Halal Shack, opens in the HUB Highlanders men’s basketball win

thriller versus Cal Poly in overtime 83-78

EO

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New Bylaw Revisions: Senate Visibility

HARU CHANG Assistant News Editor

The ASUCR Senate meeting was called to order at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, Jan. 18. Besides CHASS Senator Andrew Bui, CHASS Senator Lu and BCOE Senator Chloe Au, all were present. President Pro Tempore Richardson motioned to approve the agenda, which was seconded by Senator Brenden Cano. Motion passed 14-0-0. The previous Senate Meeting Minutes were approved 15-0-0.

During the public forum Executive Directive Brenden O’Brien announced that the search for an Executive Director is underway.

In Ex-Officio Reports, Chief Justice Arias notified the senate that the Elections Director applications would be open until Sunday. The Chief Justice hopes to find a candidate by next Wednesday and notes that this will delay the election process.

The senate reviewed three bills during the committee reports. SB-W23-002 Amending Chapter X aimed to make the bylaws clearer and more specific to make transitions smoother for future Executive Vice Presidents. The changes direct senators to pay closer attention to their publicity efforts and encourage the senators to maintain communication amongst each other. The Senate Report Revision system added to the bylaws specifies the importance of detailed communication with the student body. The revision system allows senators to edit their reports. After a few friendly amendments to readjust the format of the bill according to the bylaws, the bill was approved with the amendments 13-0-2.

Chief Justice Arias announced during the public comments that on Tuesday at 5:00 pm the Judicial Council will hold an open session meeting at the senate chambers. The open meeting was delayed by other confidential agendas.

Sen. Shah reported that the GCAP-2 Green Grants were approved. As a part of her efforts within the Women’s Rights and Equity committee, Sen. Shah has been working to get the legislation for easy access to feminine products approved with Sen. Barman. According to Sen. Shah the legislation has been in the works for 3 years and there has yet to be action for the legislation. Sen. Shah will be hosting the Research event with Sen. Choy, Sen. Mohammed, and their respective interns to connect students with Professors, research programs, and grants.

Motion to extend time by 5 minutes was approved by Sen. Nguyen, seconded by Sen. Elkatat. The senator has also been working with Sen. Choy to have professional headshots for students, working on getting in contact with R’Professional Closet, and collaborating with other Senators to make ASL courses available on campus in the near future.

Sen. Nguyen attended the second meeting of the quarter recently, and has already passed 4 pieces of legislation. The senator reported attending committee meetings and talked about updating vaccination requirements, continuing the CalFresh event from last quarter, working with Sen. Yang on a financial wellness workshop, authored and passed legislation.

During the Roundtable Announcements PPT. Richardson announced that the LRC meetings are held Friday 12-1 pm, any legislation submissions can be submitted by 9 am Fridays. Sen. Yang will be hosting the Financial Wellness workshop Wednesday Feb. 1-2 pm at the Senate Chambers. Sen. Mido reported that the Basic Needs Committee Event will be held on Jan 26, where they will be painting flower pots, plant baby seeds, and have pizza at HUB 360. The meeting was adjourned at 7:42 pm. ■ H

NEW BYLAW CHANGES ENCOURAGE CLEARER COMMUNICATION AMONGST THE SENATE AND WITH THE STUDENT BODY

ABHIJIT REGE News Editor

The HUB has finally opened another dining option in its space with the grand opening of the Halal Shack. The restaurant opened on campus last Thursday, Jan 12, 2023, and is especially notable due to providing an entirely Halal Menu.

Taking influence from New York City street food, the restaurant’s cuisine consists of a variety of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors and spices with American-style fusion. It features a buildyour-own meal concept, similar to fellow HUB restaurant Hibachi-san, where diners can choose from rice, salad, zucchini noodles, or french fries to create a bowl. Diners can add chicken, beef, falafel, chickpea korma (an Afghan dish), or the plant-based Impossible meat substitution. A variety of special sauces can be added to top off the bowl.

The addition of the Halal Shack reflected a growing concern on the UCR campus regarding the lack of Halal food options for Muslim Students. The Halal shack’s website clarifies the meaning of Halal, where it explains that “Halal food and meats are sourced and prepared following Islamic dietary guidelines to ensure not only the highest quality but also the humane treatment of the animals they come from.”

Kourtney Gilbert, marketing and communications coordinator for Dining and Hospitality Services expressed, “Everyone’s really excited to have something new on campus. It provides a different dining option with more vegetarian and healthy choices.”

The idea to bring Halal Shack to campus started as early as 2018 when members of the Middle Eastern Student Center met Halal Shack CEO Jamal Rasoully in New York at a conference and connected him with Dining Services. The Associated Students of UCR in 2021 had passed a resolution which proposed to diversify food Options for various dietary needs and preferences and called for support in adding a Halal options on campus. Continuous support of this led to the idea for a Halal restaurant to replace the MOD Pizza after it closed during the pandemic.

Omar Aziz, director of the Middle Eastern Student Center, has expressed support for the opening of the restaurant. He explained how the group has been advocating for more inclusive dining options and more halal food choices. Aziz explained how it means a lot to students to know they can order anything off the menu at the Halal Shack, “It’s really important and great for our community and our students that they can go right in, no questions asked, and know the food is going to be accommodating and serve them.”

Students have given positive reviews of the Halal restaurant. Second year Electrical Engineering major, Benjamin Kim noted that the food was quite good but held a concern that the pricing may be too high. Third year Computer Science major, Navjot Brar supported Kim’s claim and explained that, “While it was worth the wait to get a taste of the food, the lines have been obnoxiously long.” Many students have expressed that the popularity of the restaurant has led to long lines, making it difficult for many students to be able to give them a try.

The Halal Shack, like all other HUB dining options, will be open Monday through Thursday, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Simultaneously, it will also be closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

You can learn more about the restaurant and other campus dining options at the Dining Services website.and demonstrates that historic progress can be made on UC campuses through proper action.

New restaurant, the Halal Shack, opens in the

OpiniOns

THE HIGHLANDER EDITORIAL

Prater

BY THE EDITORIAL STAFF

Hamline University, in St. Paul, Minnesota, has made headlines this month after firing a former art history professor, Erika Lopez Prater, over issues of academic and religious freedom. Prater was fired after students complained following her showing a 14th-century painting of Islam’s Prophet Muhammad to her class — a taboo in the Islamic faith. Despite Hamline agreeing with students and letting go of Prater, many are outraged as she gave ample warning that the image would be shown and do not believe that she was acting malicious or in a prejudiced manner. Depending on how one views the controversy, the firing of Prater can be seen as positive or negative; the topic, however, has brought to light a debate over the role of academic and religious freedom and how they fit into higher education.

Those in support of Prater have cited that the showing of the prophet’s image was not done without warning. In her syllabus, she explained that religious images would be shown throughout the course “including the Prophet Muhammad and the Buddha” and that students should contact her if they wanted to talk more about the subject. On the class day in question, Prater also gave another warning that the image would be shown for a few minutes and anyone who wished to step outside could. In both instances, no one spoke out, and on that day, no one left the classroom. Only after the fact did a student complain which resulted in Prater being dismissed from the campus, a violation of academic freedom.

Higher education institutions are often a place where students are taught heavier subjects that’ll make them think more profoundly and look at the world through a different lens. It is not uncommon for students to discuss uncomfortable topics, and many professors do give a warning prior to or on the day when the lesson is being taught. Even though it is not necessary for them to do so. In this case, warning was given and Prater knew the gravity of the image trying to be sensitive of the situation and of students’ religious backgrounds. Those trying to label the professor as islamophobic are wrong and should look

at the evidence surrounding the event.

Additionally, not all college classes taught can be tailored to fit the specific religious needs of the students taking the course. If this were the reality, academic and religious freedoms would be encroached upon with the classes being divided and classified by someone’s moral and religious attitudes. College campuses are a place to spread ideas and learn other perspectives, not suppress what knowledge is taught.

While showing the Prophet Muhamad’s photo is prohibited in Islamic religion, Muslims and Muslim groups are torn on the issue of whether Prater is truly at fault. The experience of the student who complained and those who are outraged should not be dismissed, but one needs to look at the whole situation to understand the intentions of Prater, which were purely academic.

The Muslim Public Affairs Council, released a statement in favor of Prater stating that “the painting was not Islamophobic,” and that it was “commissioned by a fourteenth-century Muslim king in order to honor the Prophet, depicting the first Quranic revelation from the angel Gabriel.” The council continued their statement explaining that the inability to view images of the prophet is a narrow and extreme interpretation of the religion. The Council on American-Islamic Relations also leaned in favor of Prater, claiming that professors “have the duty to exercise wisdom in determining when, whether and how to address sensitive and disputed subjects, such as visual depictions of the Prophet.”

Following the outrage, Hamline University has released their own statement expressing that they are reconsidering their stance on the issue and on academic freedom. They have also voiced that Prater was not fired over this incident and was allowed to finish teaching her course until it was completed. After her class finished, the university agreed not to offer her course again.

Regardless of what stance one may have regarding the image of the Prophet Muhammad, in this case, Prater is not at fault and should not have been terminated or receive the backlash that she did. Prater was sensitive to those in the Islamic religion and is being largely supported by those in and outside of it. The issue of academic and religious freedom should not be limited to this event where Prater was acting with both in mind. Allowing these freedoms to be skewed and weaponized in this manner will only divide and censor higher education campuses.

Hamline University’s firing of Erika Lopez

is unethical and encroaches on academic freedom

The Highlander editorials reflect the majority view of

the Highlander Editorial Board. They do not necessarily

reflect the opinions of the Associated Students of UCR

or the University of California system.

WHILE SOME ARE OUTRAGED, PRATER HAS THE SUPPORT OF SEVERAL GROUPS AFTER BEING FIRED FOR SHOWING AN IMAGE OF THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD IN CLASS.

OPINIONS

COURTESY OF PEXELS

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OpiniOns

Pro-therapy culture hasn’t done nearly enough for the people who need it

The costs and stigmas surrounding therapy are still too high and too present to claim that pro-therapy culture has done too much.

Results from the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health indicate a steady increase in adults who received therapy or counseling since 2002. As of 2020, 41.4 million adults in the U.S. have received some form of mental health treatment. Unfortunately, while that number is encouraging and a significant positive growth, a closer look indicates that certain groups are being left behind. The idea that pro-therapy culture has gone too far indicates that it has done its job and more when it hasn’t. The usefulness of therapy can’t and shouldn’t be written off simply because it’s inaccessible, in fact that’s exactly why emphasizing the effectiveness of mental health treatment is so important.

The survey points out that these patients are overwhelmingly women and are overwhelmingly white. In 2020, approximately 24.4% of white adults received therapy or counseling in the past year while the number of Latine patients was about half of that number. The fact that patients are mostly women is an issue as well when men make up almost 80% of suicides in the U.S. despite making up less than 50% of the population.

It cannot be declared that therapy has been successfully destigmatized when the needs of these individuals are not being addressed. Stigmas within different cultures remain difficult to deconstruct and unfair standards of masculinity continue to dehumanize men. This isn’t to say that these people having access to therapy would solve everything, but it remains an effective treatment supported by significant evidence and people should be able to make that healthcare decision without outside pressures. Mental health treatment remains an important part of the equation in addressing larger institutional issues even though it is not the com-

Despite women being a large percentage of all patients, not enough women who need some form of mental health treatment feel that it is a viable or acceptable option. It’s clear that mental health treatment needs are not being met as over 93% of American women over the age of 12 asserted that they received no form of mental health treatment in 2020 despite experiencing substance use disorder. About 57% of women who experienced a major depressive episode received no treatment either.

Mental health treatment still remains widely inaccessible to many for a multitude of reasons in addition to the stigma associated with it. Over 40% of American adults claimed that the cost was a determining factor in whether or not they got treatment. About 30% said they didn’t know where to go to access these services. Protherapy ideas and movements are what demand progress from insurance companies and politicians, even if it is not nearly enough yet. Backing off of parroting the importance of therapy now would be a mistake.

For those going to therapy only because they feel they should, it doesn’t have to be pointless. There’s no rule that says you have to stop at therapy and that there are no other options that address community or cultural issues. Therapy can be a great starting point for setting goals and a good place to find direction for your mental health with the help of a trained professional. It can also be about finding what methods work for you in handling things like everyday stress and anxiety.

Therapists who are frustrated and feel their patients don’t start with clear goals for themselves should know that there is evidence indicating regular progress reports for patient growth can help prevent a worsening mental state while in therapy. Pointing out what they’re seeing in their patient might help the patient identify what they want to work on, especially if they’re already present and open to that guidance. Therapy should be a safe space where it’s okay to not know what to say or what to do and to be unsure.

People shouldn’t discount the importance of pro-therapy culture and how it has driven improvement in mental healthcare. Access to therapy is structured as a privilege and it shouldn’t be. Forcing this issue and having a strong position might be the best way to aid people who really need healthcare. Popular opinion still counts for something and its weight needs to be put behind growing mental health access.

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The Highlander editorials reflect the majority view of the Highlander Editorial Board. Theydonotnecessarilyreflectthe opinionsoftheAssociatedStudents of UCR or the University of California system.

January’ is a great way to cut back or cut out drinking in the new year.

YSABEL NAKASONE, ASSISTANT OPINIONS EDITOR ALEX KUPISIEWICZ CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Social and celebratory events can often include drinking. According to a 2019 national survey, 85.6% of people 18 and older reported that they have had alcohol at some point in their lifetime. But over the holidays, the amount of friend and family gatherings increases exponentially, especially with the extra free time associated with the season. On average, Americans will double their usual amount of alcohol intake during the holiday season. This, plus the coming of the yearly ‘new year, new me’ trends that happen every January, leads many to consider cutting back or cutting out their drinking habits.

Many people are joining ‘Dry January’, a personal challenge to not drink alcohol in the first month of the year. Some participants this year, however, are opting for more of a ‘Damp January’, in which they choose to cut back on the number of drinks, or number of days during the month that they drink. This can lead to more mindful or healthy drinking habits in the long run.

Dry January could lead to better drinking habits by providing a glimpse into what would change by drinking less. Participants often experience weight loss and lowered blood pressure during this challenge. Cutting out drinking can also cause an increase in brain function for those under 21. For those who drink excessively, there’s the added benefit of not having to worry about what happened the night before. Being able to see this difference firsthand can be an excellent motivator to continue drinking less, or not at all, in the following months.

Restricting the initial goal to one month also makes it attainable while also letting people get far enough to actually see this difference. With this challenge, participants typically aren’t doing it alone. Due to the growing popularity of the challenge, about 1 in 5 people are attempting it this year which makes it far easier for people to find moral support and even friends to do it with. At the beginning of the year, everyone has new goals they’re working on in their day-to-day life.

Cutting back on drinking for that long, for some people, might even make people naturally continue to drink less throughout the rest of the year. Drinking in the evening, or on weekends, can sometimes turn into a routine.

People usually want to have a glass of wine at the end of the day, or meet up with friends at the bar on Saturday, because they’re used to doing that. That time of the day can make them think of alcohol, and be tempted to drink.

Research shows that depending on the person, it can take as little as 18 days for a new behavior to become automatic. Based on this, Dry January is a great facilitator to make drinking less come naturally, as well as a great motivator. After spending a month not drinking, most people would have come up with something else they enjoy doing at that time, shifting behavior after the challenge ends.

‘Dry

The City of Temecula Takes a Step Backward for Diversity.

SENNA OMAR Assistant Features Editor

On Tuesday, January 10th, 2023, Temecula City Council declared it will no longer recognize federal heritage months that celebrate and encourage cultural diversity in an attempt to “not exclude people.” Councilmember Jessica Alexander opposed the recognition of Pride month, arguing that conversations of individuals’ sexual orientations would be “dishonoring her god” and do nothing valuable for the running of Temecula. This proclamation is a step back for the city of Temecula and a stab in the back for the diverse population of Temecula.

Temecula is siding with division rather than inclusion. At the city council meetings, many residents voiced concerns about the proclamation. Councilmember James Stewert proposed that celebrations of diversity are “exclusionary celebrations” that promote one group above another. Councilmember Curtis Brown, on the opposition, voted no on the proclamation, expressing that these heritage months are not about excluding other groups but rather honoring and promoting inclusivity. Temecula is rejecting the celebration of diverse racial and ethnic groups, women and the LGBTQIA+ community, who continuously face enormous struggle and opposition to their existence by governmental officials whose job it is to represent and protect them. Heritage months are meant to promote education and condemn ignorance. Many Americans lack awareness of the plight people of color experience in this city because of the extreme pushback and lack of education among government officials. The council proved their ignorance with this vote of 3-2 in favor of the proclamation.

AYLIN MORENO Contributing Writer

TEMECULA SIDES WITH WHITE SUPREMACIST GROUP AND CHRISTIAN NATIONALIST COUNCIL MEMBER.

With this vote, Temecula council sided with white supremacy and Christian nationalism, enforcing the idea that Temecula is not the place for diversity. Temecula Resident Mike Sobcazak, a local Proud Boy, spoke in favor of the city’s decision. Sobczak stated that the residents of Temecula are “not woke” and offered that instead of a June Pride Month, the city should provide a July “straight pride” month. Local Temecula resident Jessica Christopher also spoke in favor of the resolution, declaring that instituting pride month was a “waste of county resources.” Christopher also implied that “Temecula has always been a family-friendly place,” and the celebration of pride month would remove that aspect. Similar to the proud boy, she would like the city to implement a “heterosexual month” to celebrate straight pride.

Temecula council members continue to allow their religious beliefs to interfere with their running of the country. Rather than uplifting its diverse population, the city is promoting exclusion and showing its racial and religious bias.

Member of Temecula’s defense of democracy, Dr. Sandra Cox, saw this as a “thinly-veiled attempt” for Alexander to exclude those who do not represent her individual religious beliefs. Temecula city representatives seem to lack familiarity with the Constitutional theory that government should involve a separation of Church and State.

Temecula council has proven time and time again that they are on the side of ignorance. Councilmember Jessica Alexander, on many occasions, proposed resolutions in line with her own religious and personal beliefs, constantly crossing the boundaries between religion and government. In September, Alexander unsuccessfully attempted to declare Temecula a “sanctuary for the unborn” with a city-wide abortion ban. The councilmember seems to hold that she, as a Christian white woman in America, is a victim of oppression, going as far as to compare herself to Rosa Parks for her refusal to wear a mask in 2021 amid a global pandemic.

The proclamation that the city of Temecula will no longer declare federal heritage months is their way of demonstrating that if you are a person of color or a member of the LGBTQ+ community, you are not welcome in this city. Time and time again, the council proves this, siding with the white supremacist group the Proud Boys and spouting Christian nationalist rhetoric during political discussions. The line between church and state within the government was crossed by Temecula. This line will continue to be crossed until there is new leadership within the council- this new leadership should be representative of the city’s diverse population.

OPINIONS

Anyone opposed to student debt relief cluelessly serves as corporate assets

MICHAEL APELACIO CONTRIBUTING WRITER

There is yet another great divide among U.S. citizens when it comes to borrowed money. Although there are other forms of debt, student loans are often one of the primary topics that come up. While the issue is highly complex and requires multiple perspectives to understand what can be done to help those enduring the hardships being debt-ridden, most arguments are often boiled down into whether or not borrowers deserve relief.

The idea that workers deserve comfort and compassion, especially in times where both are extremely difficult to achieve, is frequently misconstrued by arguing statements such as “it is unfair to those who worked hard to pay off their debt.” These viewpoints normalize the unnecessary suffering that the debt-ridden working class endures under a system of unchecked, exploitative capitalism. It is not wrong to say that those who preach these notions ultimately, although unintentionally, function as corporate assets.

Postsecondary education was intended to be a means to gain a better understanding of the world. While it still has that foundation, elites have found a way to devalue higher education while simultaneously profiting from it through privatization, turning academia into a risky, futile investment rather than the educational opportunity it should be.

Privatization of postsecondary education comes in two basic forms: the simple, direct exclusion of lower income brackets by establishing private universities only they can afford, and student debt. Student debt is a bit more immoral in nature, as it takes advantage of students without high-income resources through interest. Interest rates are used to siphon every cent off of borrowers, leaving debt that could take up to two decades before fully repaing it. There have been recent, more direct efforts that are aimed at combating the unnecessary hardships caused by student debt; despite being highly unpopular among politicians, President Biden unveiled a relief package just last year in August, forgiving up to $20,000 dollars of debt on a case-by-case basis.

Furthermore, on Jan. 10, the White House proposed a major rework of the repayment system that would allow indebted future and current graduates much more breathing space when it comes to balancing their bills. The plan includes significant reduction of monthly payments, sensible lenience on unpaid interest charges, and improved accessibility for forgiving debt. These efforts were inevitably met with resistance from several Republican politicians. While this was happening, the official White House account tweeted that most of these critics themselves had debts that were forgiven. Opposition to forgiving debt, to some critics, was never to uphold the idea of hard work, but because student debt relief is a path to the removal of another tool that allows the corporate elite to maintain control of the working class. These politicians also frequently argue that debt relief will cause inflation. However, the resulting inflation would be natural, causing virtually little to no disruption in the economic cycle. In this context, any inflation that may be caused from such forgiveness would be primarily due to corporate efforts to maintain profit margins to compensate for the buying power granted to borrowers as a result of debt alleviation. Those who believe and propagate the idea that inflation is primarily caused by the working class are often putting corporations ahead of people. A flaw in most arguments against relief, is the oversimplification of how student loans are repaid. Loans aren’t simple neighborly favors where one pays back the exact amount with a little interest thrown in as courtesy. Lending is a business, and it intends to make as much profit as possible. Navient, a student loan servicer, recently paid a landmark settlement as a consequence of pushing predatory loans onto borrowers. Corporations will push their limits beyond the letter of the law in the name of profit. Today, 44 million Americans owe a grand total of $1.7 trillion dollars in student debt. That amount, to businessmen, is profit awaiting due payment. To others, it is money unpaid by “lazy freeloaders,” a narrative that benefits none but the wealthy.

To prevent political violence, stop pushing hateful rhetoric

Political violence is permeating the American mainstream. The only way to stop it is by cutting out the hateful rhetoric that incites extremists.

HARRY STOLTZ CONTRIBUTING WRITER

A new form of discourse has entered American politics: domestic terrorism. Researchers agree that instances of political violence are on the rise, with no signs of stopping. Attacks like the attempted insurrection on Jan. 6, and more recently, the New Mexico election shootings are inevitable byproducts of hateful political rhetoric coming from the United States’ rightmost extreme. The only way to prevent more violence is for Amreicans to stand up to political extremism and the rhetoric that prompts it.

A former candidate for the New Mexico State House of Representatives, Solomon Pena, was arrested by police on Monday for allegedly paying extremists to shoot at the homes of his Democrat opponents, nearly striking a 10-year-old child. Pena denies the legitimacy of at least two elections –the 2020 presidential election, and his own in 2022.

After losing by 47 points in said election, doorbell cameras at a New Mexico official’s home captured Pena attempting to persuade them that the election was rigged. Albuquerque mayor Tim Keller stated that Pena visited all four targeted homes. Pena’s behavior suggests mental instability, and he appeared to fully believe the rhetoric he pushed. This is a deadly combination.

Although a spokesperson for former President Trump denounced the shootings in New Mexico, they likely wouldn’t have happened if not for Trump’s crusade against the 2020 election. The Jan. 6 storming of the capitol was the most blatant example of endorsed extremism in recent memory, but it is far from the first. When extremist politicians promote hateful politics, hate manifests, and when these politicians don’t revise their speech, that is tantamount to endorsement.

Americans need to stop political violence while they still can. When politicians like Republican Rep. Paul Gosar promotes videos depicting themselves killing a fellow member of congress and they aren’t removed from the chamber, but rather appointed to committee seats, this is a serious problem. Election denial as a centerpiece of one’s campaign might not be popular, but spurs extremists in dangerous ways. Political violence is permeating the mainstream, and Americans need to stop it in its tracks.

The Highlander editorials reflect the majority view of the Highlander Editorial Board. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Associated Students of UCR or the University of California system.

000STUDENT LOAN00\ SERVICERS HAVE BEEN 0EXPLOITING THE0 EDUCATION SYSTEM

BY CULTIVATING FALSE NARRATIVES THAT DEVALUE THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION TO SECURE THEIR PROFITS AT THE EXPENSE OF STUDENTS.

THE POSITION OF THE MOON AT YOUR BIRTH HAS IMPORTANT IMPLICATIONS FOR YOUR PERSONALITY.

YSABEL NAKASONE Assistant Opinions Editor

e moon sign isn’t one that is typically discussed as most astrological analyses focus on one’s sun sign. e sun sign sheds light on the more visible aspects of who you are, while your moon sign is the parts of you that nobody knows. It can help you understand the choices you make that don’t align with your sun sign. To nd your moon sign and get a more detailed birth chart, you can calculate it here.

Although a sun sign in Aries indicated passion, in a moon sign, these qualities are even more intense. You express an innate priority towards their emotional needs, expressing yourself however you see fit. This can give way to impulsivity and trouble.

TaurusMoon

You possess a more romantic side and you are loyal in your a ections. You are o en conservative in nature so this side of you is o en under the surface. You don’t air your dirty laundry in public, but you do not lack sentimentality.

istock/pngimg

GeminiMoon

You move a mile a minute and your thoughts go even faster. You are not someone who can sit still or follow a routine. Uncertainty may be something most people fear, but not a Gemini Moon sign. You’ll find that you’re easily comfortable in a crowd despite initial discomforts.

istock/istock

CancerMoon

You have a deep-seated need for stability. Cancer Moons are deeply connected to the people and institutions around them. You try to maintain your status quo instead of a high-risk, high-reward outcome. You aren’t the type to let go and often hold on to grudges. Forgetfulness is not in your nature.

istock/creazilla

Leo Moons have a lot of pride in their hearts and it drives you even when you’re unaware. You aspire to gain the respect of others, but more so their love. In order to get there though, it’s your way or no way.

Leo Virgo

istock/vecteezy

Virgo Moons find content more easily than others as they are willing to accept simplicities. They don’t aspire to be widely known, but instead deeply. They don’t need attention, simply appreciation from the people close to them. They struggle to express the depth of their own emotions and often show it in less romantic, more realistic ways.

istock/depositphotos

Libra

You have a strong desire for trust and loyalty from one person. You feel a need for another half of yourself within another. Libra Moons need a partnership to feel content in their lives, even if on the surface they show more independence and realism.

You’re the bubbly positive type, trying to see the glass half full. You may seem flighty to others, but in truth you’re a guide for others. You are someone who provides clarity to others with the light of your own personality.

Scorpio

Scorpio Moons are all or nothing. You want true emotional connection with complete transparency and understanding or no relationship at all. Your love is hard to earn, but once earned it is unwavering.

Capricorn Moons are the pragmatic type, making logical decisions and coming across as cold at times. You aren’t less emotional, just more controlled. You plan for the future and don’t leave room for error because you care about the people who do and will depend on you.

You are a denier of emotions and often try to ignore feelings you feel ashamed of. This often makes you appear distant and insensitive. This also makes you unpredictable due to your inscrutability, but you are a steady force in the lives of others despite your independence.

You are deeply empathetic and compassionate, excelling at getting past people’s defenses and earning their trust. However, you can get easily lost in their struggles and lose sight of yourself. You’re open-hearted and o en people try to manipulate your generosity, but over time you learn to see the di erence between honesty and lies better than any other.

Do you have a hard time going on dates on-campus? Have you tried dating within your friend group but it never works out? Try online dating!

There are a lot of misconceptions about online dating, such as high risk factors of being catfished or online dating is used for hookups. However, many people have found their soulmates through online dating apps. Not only are dating apps used for the dating culture, but many people, like myself, have formed life long friendships through these apps. Many dating apps now have a setting where you can choose what you’re looking for. Whether it’s a relationship, friendships, connections or just a hookup, there’s always something for you! Here are some popular dating apps that students can use to meet new people:

Hinge

Designed to be deleted, Hinge is currently the #1 mobile-first dating app and is one of the fastest growing dating apps in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Users can add 6 profile pictures, 3 answers to 3 prompts and record their voice using a video prompt. Users can also link their Instagram in their profile for people to view. Found a potential partner but you’re still unofficial? Users can pause their Hinge profile in order to prevent their profile from being shown to new people and only being able to chat with their current matches.

Tinder

As one of the top free dating apps, Tinder is one of the most downloaded dating apps for all ages. When people think of dating apps, the first thing that comes to mind is Tinder. Looking for a date in under 24 hours? Just swipe right a few times and you’ll be matched with someone in no time. Not into the suggested matches? Just swipe left. There are many features in the map, such as sharing your sexuality, photo verified profiles, and a video chat icon provided for you to find your next potential partner.

As Apple’s 2021 Apps of the Year for connection, Bumble has proven to be one of student’s favorite apps for online dating, especially in college. Bumble allows women to make the first move in order for a conversation to start. Once the woman has started the conversation, men have 24 hours to respond. In a same-sex match, either party can make the first move, while the other individual has 24 hours to respond before the connection expires.

Coffee Meets Bagel

L ooking to make meaningful and genuine connections with the people you meet? Try Coffee Meets Bagel! The app encourages you to fill out genuine information about yourselves and what you’re looking for in a relationship. This results in more genuine matches that fit your preference. It prioritizes quality over quantity as CMB will suggest 10 potential matches a day.

Remember, you should always be aware of your surroundings and who you meet online. Even though you may have mutuals on Instagram or you have a class or two with them, you should never let your guard down. Before going on a date, tell your friends your plans for the night and when you should be back home. Try following your date on social media beforehand so you have an idea of their interests and hobbies. Share your location with your friends and have them monitor your location every hour or so (even if your phone dies, the Find My app is still able to update your location for your friends to see). Have a code word for you and your friends in case things do not turn out as planned. Meet halfway at an open and public area, such as a boba shop, a restaurant or a coffee shop. Ask for help from the people around you if you feel uncomfortable during your date. Try FaceTiming a few times before setting up a date.

FINDING THE RIGHT APP TO FIT YOUR PREFERRED RELATIONSHIP

I recently rewatched Netflix’s To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before. In the beginning of the movie, our protagonist Laura Jean Covey spends her time fantasizing about boys she has crushes on. Her younger sister criticizes her living her life inside of her head instead of going out and having romantic experiences like she dreams of. At the end of the movie, she figures out that it is worth it to go for it and put yourself out there, and she has some real life swoon-worthy moments in the franchise’s other two films.

You find yourself in a similar situation to Laura Jean, here’s some advice for you. Have you ever entertained yourself in class by imagining that the person across from you in discussion is madly in love with you? All because they gave you their extra pencil? In the past, I myself have fallen victim to imagining scenarios with random people around campus. While I agree that sometimes to stay awake in class, it may be helpful to envision dream scenarios, I would also argue that you should get out of your head and into real life.

Almost every day of freshman year, I would see one guy in Glasgow with really sick outfits. I always imagined that he would come up to me and compliment my style. Every time I saw him I would hope that we would notice what cool new shirt I bought or unique shoes I paired with an eye-catching pair of pants. The end of the year came and he never complimented my style. I should’ve just went up to him and told him I thought his outfit was cool! I will never know what cool friendship could have sparked from that encounter if I had initiated it.

If you find yourself over-romanticizing encounters and conjuring up “what ifs” in your mind, try this exercise. Go up to people with good vibes in the dining hall, the gym, the elevator, etc. and strike up a conversation! This doesn’t necessarily have to be romantic, but it’s a good exercise to practice living your life rather than imagining it. Instead of silently hoping that you’ll get asked out by the person across the hall, shoot your shot and invite them on a date. It sounds cliche, but the worst that could happen they reject you. College is a time to experience trying out new things and be bold, so take your chance. Instead of imagining stories in your mind, go out and make some memories! You’ve got this!

Courtesy of Pexels

Bumble

Girl Gains empowers women to go to the gym

FOUNDED IN THE FALL QUARTER, UCR GIRL’S GAINS CLUB HOPES TO PROMOTE A SAFE SPACE AT THE GYM.

DIVYA BHARADWAJ Staff Writer

Girl Gains started in Fall 2022 to create a supportive and empowering weight lifting community, and already has 350 members. The mission of this club is to promote female empowerment in and out of the gym.

“I started UCR’s Girl Gains chapter because I noticed the SRC tended to be male-dominated,” said junior Supriya Haldankar, founder of Girl Gains. “I wanted women to take up space and feel like they deserve to take up space in the gym.”

The club pairs members up based on gym level, and these pairings can attend events, such as hot girl

hikes, yoga, and weekly open gym hours, to earn points. The winners have the chance to receive gift cards to Lululemon, Gymshark, Starbucks and more. This quarter, the club is looking forward to hosting more events and connecting with more members through open gyms.

By attending the meeting on January 17th, I got a better understanding of the buddy system, as well as the overall vibe of the club. This meeting was for members to meet their buddies and plan a workout schedule. Everyone was extremely welcoming and friendly, making it the perfect space for beginners and

advanced gym-goers.

“I would say to someone who wants to join our club that we are open to all skill levels and host a variety of events, from nutrition to fitness inside and outside of the gym,” Halankar said. “Stop by whatever event fits your interests and we are looking forward to meeting you.”

If you are interested in joining Girl Gains, learn more about them through their Highlander Link: https://highlanderlink. ucr.edu/organization/ girlgains, or follow them on Instagram: @ ucrgirlgains.

Friendship or romantic relationship, which is more important?

ALEXANDRIA LACHMAN Staff Writer

College is all about making memories, especially with the people who make up those lasting memories. Now, when thinking of relationships, the normal response is to think of romantic relationships. However, what it’s really about is the relationships with friends.There is no better place to find friends who you will be able to stay in touch with well beyond after college. The friends who go on late night boba runs to even purchasing those last minute concert tickets, those relationships are everything.

Now, I’m definitely not saying having a significant relationship with a partner is not just as important, especially if you can call that person your best friend. Everyone’s different when it comes to who they bond with better. Some prefer a bigger group of close knit friends while others are as equally happy with just being with their romantic partner. Balancing the two can be tricky, with the question of who should have priority over the other? In the end, the answer is going to be different for everyone.It’s more on what balance you feel is right. You might have a romantic relationship where you know it’s long term and that takes priority or you

might have those ride or die friends who trump any romantic relationship. What’s most important is to understand your priorities and being able to accept them without having to apologize for your decisions.

Just remember that when life gets a little difficult, you should value the people who are there for you in those moments and always prioritize those people in your life. College, in the end, goes by a lot quicker than anyone realizes. At the end of the day, the relationships you have are what make memories for years to come.

Courtesy of Pexels

Sundance exclusive: ‘Justice’ reignites the fight against sexual assault on the federal floor

JAELYN GONZALEZ ASSISTANT RADAR EDITOR

Content warning:

This article may not be suited for readers sensitive to sexual violence.

On the first day of the Sundance Film Festival, January 19, the press exclusive panel “Sundance Scoop” announced a surprise addition to the slot of films for the coming weekend. Director of Programming, Kim Yutani, would give the synopsis of “Justice” premiering the next night. No additional screenings of the film, besides an industry and press screening, would follow the premiere.

“Justice” is Doug Liman’s first documentary, as the director dramatically shifted from blockbuster action movies to a meaningful critique of the Supreme Court and other institutions.

The next day, the eight o’clock screening would shock and leave many teary-eyed. As the lights dimmed, the film began with clips of a judge pulling up a black robe. During these scenes, shouts of cheers arose from the crowd. Louder applause from the images of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford quickly followed in juxtaposition to the alluding clips of Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

The film began with the telling of Ford’s childhood life, as well as the hostile culture of high school life at Georgetown Preparatory School. The story of Ford’s life, up to the moment she had to break her story to the entire world, allows audiences to imagine the feeling of a survivor’s secret.

Liman’s film later progresses into the forgotten story of Kavanaugh’s Yale classmate, Deborah Ramirez. The shift from Ford to Ramirez is devastating, as she thoroughly tells the story of her unwanted encounter with Kavanaugh. At Yale, Ramirez felt to be the odd one out. With her biracial identity and no family fortune, she was left with one option — try to fit in with her classmates. This meant heavy drinking and social gatherings were often mixed. Ramirez recounts her experience at a small party, where she remembers Kavanaugh laughing at her embarrassment when he exposed his genitalia to her face.

After Kavanaugh’s nomination in 2018, she went public with a The New Yorker article after Ford’s lead. The film acknowledges what many do not know about the story, suggesting the many strings in Washington, DC that prevented her story from being as large as Ford’s.

With both stories shared in detail, the film crew shared their investigations. With Kavanaugh publicly denying the women’s claims, the FBI-made tip board said otherwise. The 2018 tip board gained more than 4,500 tips on the multiple sexual assault cases against the soon-to-be federal judge. Yet, the FBI did not follow through with the investigation of a single tip. During the Q&A after the screening session, producer Amy Hardy claimed the film crew is still receiving tips even after the film’s announcement the previous morning.

The film ends with an appalling discovery made by the film’s investigative team. To prevent any interview information from leaving the documentary before its release, all participants in the film were required to sign an NDA.

While the main consensus of the premiere audience was a reiteration of what is already known, Liman’s intentions for the film were clearly stated during the Q&A portion of the screening. Liman and the rest of the crew hope the film gives people another reason to continue the fight against sexual violence. Hardy expressed the wish for, “a real investigation with subpoena powers.” While this may be extremely difficult to do, the film does more than add to the conversation about sexual violence.

“Justice” makes the viewer go beyond listening to an assault survivor’s story. The film is intended to make the viewer enraged by the disgusting and devious actions one will do for power.

Liman’s passion for the project is clear from the final film, the production and his comments regarding the film. The director funded the film himself for the sake of preventing his discoveries being known.

Ultimately, “Justice” is more than a tearful experience for sexual violence survivors. When the film is over and you are infuriated with rage, just know that our government has a mountain of evidence against Kavanaugh that collects dust in the hands of the FBI.

DOUG LIMAN’S NEW DOCUMENTARY UNRAVELS THE SECRETS OF SUPREME COURT JUSTICE, BRETT KAVANAUGH.

The Cinematic Legacy of Sundance

THE SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL CREATES MOTION PICTURE MILESTONES THAT HAVE LAID THE FOUNDATION FOR MODERN CINEMA.

MAXEN OLVERA Contributing Writer

The Sundance Film Festival celebrates its 49th anniversary in Park City, Utah this year. The festival has ten days of lm screenings, panels with cinematic legends and rising creative forces.

Sterling Van Wagernen, a local art student who studied at Brigham Young University, helped to develop the festival with the Utah Film Commission. The Film Commission saw the festival as a magnet that could attract visionary lmmakers to their beloved home of Utah. In contrast, Van Wagnen saw the event as a platform to share independent movies with audiences. The festival came together quickly, but Wagernen believed it needed something more. He formed a board of directors that silver screen legend Robert Redford led. Redford provided critical connections that were able to boost the credibility of the new lm festival. The combined e orts of Redford, Wagernen and the Utah Film Commission proved to be a success that allowed the festival to ourish.

Every year Sundance spotlights a groundbreaking lm that was produced outside the con nes of studio meddling. Most movies are made on a budget directly from the directors’ wallets. Robert Rodriguez is a renowned lmmaker that has directed everything from “Spy Kids” to “The Mandalorian.” Before these projects, Rodriguez debuted his lm “El Mariachi” to the Sundance audience in 1993. Rodriguez made “El Mariachi” on the small budget of $7,000 without a crew to assist him. Audience members were amazed by the quality of the action sequences that Rodriguez was able to produce with a lackluster budget. His lm soon became a blockbuster that sparked the interest of Columbia Pictures. The lm enterprise purchased Rodriguez’s solo project for ve times the budget it was built on. Rodriguez revolutionized the independent lm scene as he proved a single person could generate a cinematic spectacle with their passion alone.

Documentaries make up almost half of the lms shown at Sundance as they are fascinating forms of lm entertainment. My favorite documentary is “Exit Through the Gift Shop,” which premiered at the 32nd Sundance Film Festival, garnered rave reviews. The documentary is the rst lm directed by the infamous street artist Banksy. The feature follows a French man named Thierry Guetta, who ventures out to make a documentary about Banksy and many other street artists. However, the documentary doesn’t even exist. Guetta’s b piques Banksy’s interest and causes him to begin a documentary surrounding Guetta. The lm provides an extreme shock to Guetta’s life that must be seen to believe. “Exit Through the Gift Shop” was a hit among the Sundance audience. Banksy’s lm went on to connect the art world to documentary lmmaking with the help of Sundance.

Sundance goes beyond a yearly lm festival as it’s an institution that provides programs for aspiring lmmakers. These workshops are labeled as “labs” where artists can focus on anything from their screenplay to the editing of their lm. Musician Boots Riley utilized the screenwriting lab for his lm “Sorry to Bother You,” a surrealist take on a dark comedy that analyzes the class system in America. “Sorry to Bother You” debuted at the Sundance Film Festival in 2018 with only positive attributions from the Sundance crowd and became a modern cult classic, as well as a personal favorite. Riley was awarded the Sundance Institute’s Vanguard Award for his thought-provoking lm.

Sundance has become a crucial part of the lm industry, and the festival has proven to be a success for everyone involved with it. Moviegoing has changed as a whole thanks to Sundance. Movie theaters are constantly lled with mindless action lms that lack a human element. Sundance lms focus their sights on the highs and lows of humanity, with feature lms surrounding themes of love, loss and perseverance. These types of movies would never nd their way into a movie theater. However, Sundance has created a space for smaller lmmakers to get the recognition they deserve. Prized lmmakers like Quentin Tarantino and So a Coppola had their very rst lm premiere at Sundance. The Sundance Film Festival has changed the landscape of cinema by introducing us to radical lmmakers.

With an emphasis on independent lmmakers, you may view the Sundance Institute resources at sundance.org/apply/.

Courtesy of Brian Novoa

An “Unsparing” exposé of the Royals

CECILE DIROLL RADAR EDITOR

In his memoir, “Spare,” Prince Harry candidly shares his life story, pulling back the curtain on life as a royal in England. “Spare” quickly reached the top of book charts after it galvanized shocking tabloid headlines following its accidental sale in Spain days before the release date. Just a month following the premiere of the Netflix docuseries “Harry & Meghan” and season five of “The Crown,” public interest in the royal family was fresh and heightened for the release of “Spare.” Prince Harry is very open about his life experiences with no detail being too vulnerable, controversial, frivolous or humorous. From describing drug experimentation in “Friends” star Courteney Cox’s bathroom to losing his virginity to an older woman behind a pub, as well as a physical altercation with his brother — no topic was off the table.

The Duke of Sussex opens the book, awaiting his brother, Prince William, and father, now King Charles III, at the Royal Burial Ground in Frogmore. Prince Harry describes the meeting as a last effort to repair his relationship with them after leaving the Palace three years before due to the press harassment of his wife, Meghan Markle. He says that for his brother, father and the world to understand him and the reason he left, he needs to start from the beginning, “Pa? Willy? World? Here you go.” Here we go indeed. Divided into three parts, “Spare” focuses on the loss of his mother, his military work in Afghanistan and Iraq and falling in love with his wife. Throughout the book, three overarching themes are presented: his unresolved trauma over his mother ’s death; his desire to set the record straight; and his tense relationship with the British press.

One of the most sobering and haunting moments in “Spare” is Prince Harry and Prince William’s procession behind their mother’s coffin to Westminster Abbey. The description of her as “pure and radiant light” and his regret over their last phone conversation is touching to anyone who has felt grief over the loss of a loved one.

While the loss of his mother is one of the softer moments in “Spare,” there is a certain amount of score-setting towards the latter part of the memoir. Prince Harry talks about text exchanges between Kate and Meghan as well as petty fights between the two, from the sizing of bridesmaids’ dresses to a dispute about sharing lipstick before an event (something out of an episode of “The Kardashians”). In addition, “Spare” also includes private conversations and fights with his brother and father — such as the infamous Nazi costume that Harry claims was encouraged by Prince William and Kate. At certain parts, it sounds like Prince Harry wants to set the record straight against the negative tabloids that framed Meghan as the “villain” and share his side of the narrative. However, while these details illuminate his intensely fraught relationship with the British press, they do come off as sounding like a rant at times.

Undoubtedly, a constant theme throughout “Spare” is Prince Harry’s problem with the press. As he expresses in the book’s closing pages, “My problem has never been with the monarchy or the concept of monarchy. It’s been with the press and the sick relationship that’s evolved between it and the Palace.” To survive in a post-colonial world where people condemn unfair institutions, the monarchy relies heavily on a constant stream of publicity — positive or negative — from the press if they want the Crown to continue. As the “spare,” Prince Harry writes that the Palace and other family members used him to protect the heirs — namely his father and brother — by leaking negative stories about him and his wife. Thus, as Meghan Markle said in their show, “Harry & Meghan,” she (and by extension, he) was “fed to the wolves.” Harry also blames the press as a significant factor in the broken relationship with his family.

“Spare” is a conflicting memoir. As a reader, it is hard not to feel empathy for the little boy who lost his mother at such a tender age and the second-hand “spare” treatment he receives from his family. But, it is also hard not to feel frustration over his inability to name the true problem, the monarchy itself, and his questionable intentions behind the timing of the book — as he has been criticized for airing out family laundry to pay for his Montecito home. Still, Prince Harry shows that all families are complicated and people, even kings and queens, aren’t perfect. Hopefully, he hasn’t burned his last bridge.

PRINCE HARRY’S HIGHLY ANTICIPATED MEMOIR, ‘SPARE,’ LIFTS THE VEIL OFF ENGLAND’S ROYAL FAMILY.

Wintery books to keep your mind off the cold

EVELYN HOMAN, MANAGING EDITOR

Let’s face it, January is a sucky month for most of us. We’ve lost faith in our resolutions by now, the weather is cold, the festivities of Christmas and the New Year are behind us and we have to settle into the cold, hard reality of another year. Or, you can just read books and ignore the wind and rain and lack of holiday cheer. Here are some winter-esque books you can check out from your local library or favorite indie bookstore this season to keep you warm.

Please make sure to research potential triggers before reading any of these books.

“The Left Hand of Darkness” by Ursula K. Le

IT’S THE BLEAKEST TIME OF YEARCURL UP WITH A BOOK OR TWO TO BLOW THE WINTER BLUES AWAY.

I’m currently reading this with one of the clubs I’m in and I already love it. This pinnacle of science- ction is set on a planet known as Winter that is, as its name suggests, cold. This book follows Genly Ai, an envoy from planet Earth visiting the people of this planet who can change their gender and exist as genderless. Genly is also a raging misogynist — it’s hilarious as he tries

Now I’ll be honest, this wasn’t a book I completely enjoyed. It follows a ctional tribe of Siberian hunter-gatherers 20,000 years ago. Featuring spirit magic, a lot of discussion about sex to an almost uncomfortable extent and plenty of freezing cold winters. For all of the things I didn’t like about it, though, there were the details about the harsh reality of survival as a primitive human that were so stunning. Thomas’s afterword discusses how much

“Tiny Beautiful Things” by Cheryl Strayed

Another recent read of mine (I swear I’m not just choosing these as winter books because I’ve read them in the last few weeks of winter), this book is a compilation of letters and answers from the “Dear Sugar” advice column that Strayed used to run anonymously on The Rumpus’s website. But unlike Ann Landers, Strayed’s advice column features people absolutely laying their hearts bare with the most di cult emotions and questions they have to o er, and Strayed writes back with such tenderness and understanding, relaying stories about her own life to boost those who have reached out to her. This is by no means an easy read — I’ve cried after reading nearly every other letter — but it has restored my faith in humanity. This book is the human condition laid out on paper, with every response real and touching and eloquent in Strayed’s signature style. De nitely make sure to check the trigger warnings on this one, as a lot of heavy material lies within these pages — but if it’s a book that’s right for you, I promise that it will make you feel very warm this cold, dark winter.

“Taaqtumi:

An Anthology of Arctic Horror

Lastly, and possibly my favorite on this list, I o er you “Taaqtumi”. The title is Inukitut for “in the dark”, and all of these stories are by indigenous authors from the Arctic area of the globe. This collection features a variety of horrors, all set in the freezing but beautiful landscapes of near-permanent winter. “Utituq” by Gayle Kabloona and “The Wildest Game” by Jay Bulckaert were my two favorites — if you want some chilling (pun intended) horror this winter, this might just be the book for you.

“Reindeer Moon” by Elizabeth Marshall Thomas

HigHlander SportS

Highlanders men’s basketball win thriller versus Cal Poly in overtime 83-78

KIANOOSH NOOSH ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

`The UC Riverside men’s basketball team defeated Cal Poly this week in a thrilling back and forth game. The Highlander’s were led by their starting backcourt consisting of senior Flynn Cameron and Senior Jamal Hartwell II. The two stars combined for 48 as the Highlanders improved to 6-1 in the Big West marking their best start to conference play in recent years. The contest was more than a little uncomfortable for the Highlanders who had to finish the job in overtime with a push from the amazing UCR home crowd.

The game started off with a fluid, up-tempo pace from UCR as the Highlanders grew and kept an early lead, but Cal Poly’s hot form from three kept the game close. The Highlanders who were struggling early on from three were able to hit back to back shots from deep courtesy of freshman forward Lachlan Olbrich and junior forward Will Tattersall who drained back-to-back threes to get UC Riverside going. Olbrich went into halftime with some good makes and finished the game with 11 points and eight rebounds. The aforementioned threes opened the floodgates from deep for the as UCR opened up a six-point halftime lead by virtue of a late 8-0 run and a 6-for-11 ratio from deep.

The Highlanders came out of the half hot and continued to torch the opposition with the three ball, turning in 57.1 percent of their efforts from deep in the game, a season high. Kyle Owens put in a massively underrated performance for the Highlanders recording his third straight double double with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Flynn Cameron had 25 points on 50 percent shooting also adding six assists leading the way for the Highlanders in both statistics.

Cal Poly again found some waves of momentum in the second half gaining the lead and building on it through their several runs, but the Highlanders were able to stay within a reasonable distance. Jamal Hartwell II drilled his third three of the evening a little past the halfway point of the second half and Owens dropped in a pair of clutch free throws as UCR closed in on Cal Poly’s lead.

Just as Cal Poly seemed to have found the key to breaking through the Highlanders’ defense, Hartwell II was there to close the patch. The reigning Big West Player of the Week scored 20 of his 23 points after halftime, and once again showed his clutch gene by downing multiple clutch shots. The senior transfer student from George Mason continued his hot streak from the floor by shooting above 50 percent in every conference game this season.

UCR was able to close a five-point gap with three minutes remaining, but a back-and-forth regulation period with 10 ties and seven lead changes went to overtime where they were able to build a lead and edge Cal Poly by five in the extra period for their first overtime win of the season. Hartwell II hit the dagger late with a vicious step back three from which had the entire crowd in the SRC Arena hyped and on their feet.

UCR heads to Davis for more conference play before heading back to the SRC arena for two games against Hawaii and UC San Diego on January 21st and 28th respectively, hoping to build on their stellar conference record as they attempt to gain the highest seed possible for the Big West tournament starting in March.

UC Riverside women’s basketball team loses to Cal Poly San Luis

Obispo at the buzzer, 47-49.

The Highlanders drop down to last place in the Big West Conference standings

HANSEL CHU SPORTS EDITOR

On Monday night, UC Riverside women’s basketball team suffered a crushing defeat 47-49 at San Luis Obispo. Going into this game, the Highlanders were winners of two of their last three games and looked to turn their season around. However, graduate student guard Oumou Toure hit the game-winning layup to give the Mustangs the win.

Both teams exchanged baskets in the first quarter as the score was tied 6-6 with 5:46 left in the quarter, After a timeout at the 5:05 mark, UCR went on a 9-0 run to secure their imprint on the game. During that run, redshirt junior Matehya Bryant scored six straight points to give UC Riverside a 15-6 lead before a layup from Cal Poly brought the score to 15-8 at the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, the Mustangs started to climb back into the ball game as the Highlanders struggled to put the ball in the basket. After a personal foul from senior guard RyAnne Walters, sophomore guard Annika Shah knocked down a pair of free throws and followed it up with a mid-range jumper to bring Cal Poly back within five points, 1712. Bryant answered back with a layup to push the lead back up to seven points. However, back-to-back three-pointers from the Mustangs cut the Highlander lead to just one point, 19-18, with 2:02 left until halftime. With one minute left in the first half, Shah concluded her strong second-quarter performance by knocking down two jump shots to tie the game, 22-22, as the game went into halftime.

The third quarter opened up lethargically for both teams as neither team seemed to find the bottom of the net. Senior guard Maddie Willett finally broke the four-minute scoring drought for both teams by finishing a layup to give the Mustangs a 22-24 lead. Both teams continued to trade baskets toward the end of the quarter. With under a minute left, sophomore guard Jazzy Anousinh finished a layup to give Cal Poly a 33-36 lead going into the fourth quarter.

In the fourth quarter, Willett knocked down a pair of free throws to give Cal Poly a five-point lead, their biggest of the night. Moments later, Bryant sunk a jump shot to bring UCR within three points and a layup from Walters brought the deficit to just one point, 41-42, with 4:37 left in the game. Minutes later, Walters finished another layup to tie the game at 43-43. Down on the other end, Bryant blocked Shah’s jump shot which resulted in a made jump shot from junior guard Jordan Webster to give UC Riverside a 45-43 lead with three minutes left. Willett answered back with a jump shot of her own to tie the game at 45-45. After a Webster turnover, Toure was able to finish a layup to give Cal Poly the lead once again, 45-47. With 21 seconds on the clock, Walters came in clutch for UCR as she finished a layup to tie the game at 47-47 with two seconds left on the game clock. However, Cal Poly inbounded the ball from the sideline to Shah who immediately passed it inside to Toure for the layup at the buzzer to give the Mustangs a 47-49 win.

Bryant led the way for the Highlanders with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Senior forward Anna Blount also posted a double-double of her own with 12 points and 10 rebounds.The Highlanders drop to 4-15 (2-7) and will travel down south to UC San Diego on Saturday, Jan. 28, at 2 P.M.

The Highlanders improve to 6-1 in conference play behind strong performances from Cameron and Hartwell II