Black Ink Homecoming Issue

Finishing The Race: Gabby Whitehall’s role in the political realm

hOMECOMING: bsm 45TH aNNIVERSARY sPECIAL

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Letter from the Editor-in-Cheif

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Hello Readers!

Election season is over.

We’ve all (hopefully) done our democratic duty and cast our ballot for local, state and federal leaders. By voting, we’ve honored those who have fought for us to have that right sans extra obstacles like taxes, costly identification or exams.

As we gather for homecoming and celebrate the 45th anniversary of the Black Student Movement (Black Ink’s parent organization), I ask that you look back at the political impact that this organization has had on the University and the surrounding Chapel Hill community. I want you to evaluate the BSM’s impact with a critical eye.

After 45 years what strides have we made and on which issues has the organization we fallen short?

As a University community we need to decide what are the most important issues of our time. Thanks to the hard work of those who came before us, our fight is no longer to secure basic rights for the African-American community. Our fight doesn’t (usually) require the proverbial march or sit-in. Thanks to not only activists but everyday people who committed themselves to the work of defending the rights and wellbeing of the African-American community, our discourse is elevated.

In this issue, we wanted to bring you special issues. We discuss the health and well-being of the AfricanAmerican community (Did you know it was Diabetes Awareness Month?), we discuss the evolution of affirmative action and the impact of race in politics.

This issue is for students, alumni, family and friends. It’s a testament to the hard work of our staff and a celebration of the BSM and its legacy of activism, political-awareness and fellowship.

Also, please remember to visit our new website www.uncblackink.com for the latest buzz about the UNC’s black community.

Enjoy!

Averi Harper

editor-In-Chief

@averiharper

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Letter from the Managing Editor

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Dear Readers, It’s that special time of year again—HOMECOMING! Complete with football, tailgates and a Carolina family reunion. It doesn’t get much better than that! Not unless you also happen to be reading this exciting new Homecoming issue of the Black Ink Magazine. On behalf of myself, and the entire Black Ink staff, we welcome all UNC-Chapel Hill alumni back to “a Southern Part of Heaven.”

Seeing familiar faces return to campus is always an enjoyable time, but this year is truly an occasion to celebrate. In this issue, we commemorate the Black Student Movement’s 45th anniversary. Be sure to take a look at our photomontage of the BSM’s impact on UNC’s campus and the surrounding community from its beginning to now. We also offer exclusive interviews with the BSM presidents from the past and the present.

This issue is a true testament to commendable legacy and success, which would be impossible if not for the trailblazers who paved the way for us. And so, Black Ink hopes to uphold its own legacy and continue our commitment to revolutionary media by keeping all of our readers informed and encouraging them to achieve beyond the expected.

Cover girl Gabrielle Whitehall has already begun to leave her very own “heel-print” through her relentless support of President Barack Obama’s re-election campaign. Check out her story on page 11.

In addition to Whitehall’s article and much more, this issue of the Black Ink intends to bring social issues, politics, entertainment and health awareness full circle in order for all our readers to expand their thoughts and challenge their thinking.

But the pursuit for revolutionary media doesn’t have to stop there. Be sure to visit our new website www.uncblackink.com for additional articles, videos and more!

Peace, love and happy reading!

Briana Harper managing editor

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Table of Contents

4 BSM Anniversry Special 8 NEWS 11 Student Spotlight 12 Our campus 15 Awareness 17 in the pit 19 reviews 20 entertainment 22 Release celebration NOV2012.indd 4

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BSM anniversary special

CELEBRATING 45 YEARS OF ADVOCACY Lauren Houston

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ovember 7th marks the 45th anniversary of one of the most influential organizations founded on UNCChapel Hill’s campus-- the Black Student Movement.

Unsatisfied with the progress of the University in creating more attainable academic policies, living conditions and social toleration for Black students on campus, the BSM was formed to improve these areas.

Founded in 1967, in the midst of the civil rights movement, the BSM worked diligently to improve the lives of Black students, faculty and staff here at Carolina.

As we celebrate the 45 years of tireless work by BSM’s members, an entire week of events will aim to educate, uplift, and rekindle a sense of community for Black students on Carolina’s campus.

The president of the BSM, Alexis Davis, a senior Journalism and Mass Communication major from Garner, says that she is excited about the anniversary and stresses the importance of remembering BSM’s past while positively looking forward to its future.

“My main goal is to have people really understand where BSM has gone and where it is going,” said Davis. “I want to make sure that people have an appreciation for BSM and for Black students.”

The Black Student Movement History Exhibition is set to take place on Nov. 7 at 5p.m. at the Sonya Haynes Stone Center in the Hitchcock MultiPurpose Room. There, students along with several BSM alumni will be able to take an extensive look into the history of this prestigious organization. Past presidents such as Dr. Sibby Anderson-Thompkins ‘87 - BSM President ‘86-’87 and Eric

4 D. Campbell '12 - BSM President '11-'12 will be in attendance. Past Mr. and Miss BSM members will also be present including D. Kelvin '04 and Ronda Taylor Bullock '04 –Mr. and Miss BSM –’03. Many other BSM alumni and current members will participate in a general discussion with current members about the BSM’s history and future aspirations.

Many current members are anticipating the arrival of these alumni because of their insightful leadership and legacy. The current Miss BSM, Antoinette “Pinky” Newsome, a senior Management in Society major from Aulander, N.C., is looking forward to gaining new insights on the past experiences of earlier moments in the BSM. “I am looking forward to meeting the past founding members to get their perspective on what their experiences were in BSM and to see if we are headed in the right direction,” said Newsome.

Vice President Darius Latham, a junior Public Policy major from Greenville, N.C., recounted how excited he is about meeting with past executive members to seek advice and understanding of how the BSM was governed in the past.

“What I look forward to most is the executive connection from past presidents and exec members,” said Latham. “[I want] to hear about past experiences that they had to do then versus what our exec is doing now.”

All students are encouraged to join the Black Student Movement on their 45th anniversary and participate in these celebratory events. A list and description of its events can be found on www.uncblackink.com.

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INTERVIEW WITH BSM PRESIDENT ALEXIS DAVIS

major!”

When she’s not tirelessly working for the BSM Davis is a Public Relations major at UNC. She found her niche by doing publicity for the BSM. The Garner, N.C. native is also the Publicity Chair for UNC Student Television and is a mentor for Movement of Youth, Inc.

Paris Alston

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ince her freshman year, Alexis Davis has been making her name known through the Black Student Movement at UNC-Chapel Hill.

“Many of my friends joined but eventually stopped showing up at the meetings, and some stopped being members altogether,” Davis said. “But not me—I went to every meeting, and now I’m president.”

Like many minority first-year students at UNC, Davis was seeking an influential, passionate community of minorities to belong to. She found it within BSM. She loved the unity of the organization, and wanted it to be a big part of her college experience.

Shortly after joining BSM, Davis was voted Miss Freshman. She also helped with former Miss BSM Krista Stepney’s service project for her Miss UNC campaign. During her time at UNC, Stepney served as a mentor to Davis. Davis also looked up to B’anca Glenn, who was BSM President as a junior.

“I knew I wanted to hold the position someday, so I saw her as a great role model,” Davis said.

Following in the footsteps of Stepney and Glenn, Davis has devoted much of her extracurricular time to BSM matters and activities.

“BSM is my life!” Davis laughed. “But it’s what I love. Sometimes I feel like I’m a BSM

anniversary.

Many UNC students are excited about the events taking place and alumni returning during Homecoming this year. For BSM members, Homecoming is a milestone— Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2012 will mark the organization’s 45th

“The anniversary will make Homecoming even more special,” Davis said excitedly.

Many alumni will be speaking about how much BSM has impacted their lives since graduation.”

A few weeks ago, Davis had one of the most emotional phone conversations of her life with Preston Dobbins, founder of BSM. “I spoke with him for 30 minutes, and cried most of the time,” Davis laughed. “I was just so happy to be speaking to him! Like many other alumni, he has a lot of good stories to share and also provides a good social networking opportunity.”

Davis highly encourages first-year students to make connections early by attending the UNC Black Alumni Reunion events taking place during homecoming. She also hopes underclassmen will uphold the BSM legacy.

“Historically, BSM has been very socially and politically active. Over time, this activism dwindled. It’s building back up, proving that we still have a voice on this campus. It is our responsibility to make the perception of Blacks at UNC a good one.”

BSM has been a big part of Davis’ life at UNC, and will continue to be long after graduation. Davis hopes it has just as powerful a meaning to every other member, past, present and future.

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BSM anniversary special

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MEET MR. & MISS. BSM

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oshua Rowsey is a business administration major with a minor in Chinese. Rowsey has been storming campus for the past few weeks trying to get everyone to know his name, as if they didn’t already. Rowsey is heavily involved on campus. He’s a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., the Multicultural Student Recruitment Committe, improve comedy group CHiPs, club swimming team. Plus, he entered college a Kenan-Flagler business school Assured Admit. Rowsey is a well-known face around Carolina. Hailing from Durham, he was inspired to run for Mr. UNC because he felt like he has a responsibility to lead in the community he is so active in. His involvement in Ebony Readers, Oynx Theatre early on in his college career, along with other types of performance, has inspired Josh’s service project. “I want to provide an artistic after school program which helps mentor kids through poetry workshops.

Not only encouraging them to do well in life but also to thrive in everything they do through poetry. Its focus is learning not only about yourself but having confidence in who you are and being able to present that in front of people,” said Rowsey. He cites his large support system as the reason that the idea of winning Mr. UNC is so compelling and recognizes that the Black Student Movement is really behind him in making sure he does the best that he can. Along with BSM, Rowsey joked that the Freshman Class heavily supports him from recognizing his face in the dining halls as a part of his internship this past summer with Carolina Dining Services. “I knew a lot of people were my friends but I didn’t know that I had that much support” Rowsey humbly admitted, surprised at the amount of people who want to see him succeed as not only Mr. BSM, but also as Mr. UNC. Rowsey put it best when he said, “Regardless if I win or lose, this experience has allowed me to see how much of a Carolina family I truly have before I leave.

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ntoinette “Pinky” Newsome has been giving her time to the Black Student Movement for the past three years and now she is seeking the title of Miss UNC. “I thought running would help enhance the reputation [of the BSM] and help me get assistance with a project that I’m really passionate about while involving my classmates with a situation that we need to invest our time in,” Newsome said. “My sophomore year I just kind of did what was done before and then my junior year I wanted to enhance the committee and assist BSM in reaching out to other communities, so last year we really got BSM working with other groups and getting other cultural organizations as campus partners,” Newsome said of the changes she helped make with BSM. Newsome is a Management in Society major with a Social and Economic Justice Minor. She’s a native New Yorker but resides in Aulander, N.C., and if you listen closely you can hear Newsome’s New York accent slip out every now and then. As president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a Senior Marshall, McNair Scholar, and Vice President of the National PanHellenic Council, Newsome is busy on campus. Her service project targets high school students. Newsome wants to do a dual project involving Carolina students to help them de-stress. Newsome recognizes that Carolina students need that extra push from time to time and she’s reveled in the experience of being able to reach out to them. “Actually meeting people who know me who I may not know, and then to meet people I probably never would have talked to if I didn’t need their help,” Newsome said is the best part in running for Miss UNC but it doesn’t come without any challenges. “Making sure people remember, 30 seconds of a 24 hour day, what are other people saying that I don’t know? What am I missing?

What strategies am I doing? Marketing? Interacting?,” Newsome said implying that figuring out how to reach out to a large group of people in a short amount of time is one of her biggest trials. Newsome knows that this experience is making her senior year one that she’ll never forget. “If I win or not, it doesn’t matter. But to know that I had fun doing it with the people that I love and my friends just makes it all worth it in the end,” Newsome said knowing that her heelprint is marked by the path of her peers.

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BSM anniversary special

ALLAN JOHNSON INTERVIEW Chassity Bobbitt

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n honor of the Black Student Movement’s 45th anniversary, former President of the BSM and former Editor-in-Chief of Black Ink Magazine, Allen H. Johnson, III recalls his term in office as a time of unity among UNC-Chapel Hill’s Black community.

During Johnson’s term in the 1978-79 school year, graduates and undergrads, Greeks and non-greeks, and students and professors were united in efforts to improve and promote awareness of issues that affected the Black community in Chapel Hill.

“It means sacrifice. It means fellowship. It means choosing important battles. It means solidarity. And it means having a good time,” said Johnson of his BSM experience.

Johnson conducted research on issues pertaining to UNC’s Black community. That research helped the BSM accomplish many things during his term. In 1978, questions were raised as to why Black applicants with strong SAT scores were not being admitted.

Johnson says he worked to retrieve records from the Undergraduate Admissions Office that displayed SAT scores of admitted and denied students. Johnson and his executive board were prepared to discuss the issue with then Chancellor Ferebee Taylor.

“We believed in doing our homework. If you’re going to support a cause you need to know it. It’s not about emotions, it’s about knowing,” Johnson said.

Johnson graduated from UNC in 1977 with a Bachelors degree in English degree and returned for his master’s in journalism. It was during graduate school that he served as the BSM’s President.

Other graduate students followed his lead, making the BSM an entity where all students were not only welcomed, but were also actively involved.

Johnson also remembers inheriting debt from his predecessor as a result of hosting an unpopular concert on campus, which caused the BSM to lose a large amount of money.

Although a difficult time, the entire BSM pulled together to help overcome these odds.

Johnson said what he enjoyed most about this time was, “the support

that we got from other organizations on campus when we needed it. We didn’t ask them to do anything they just did it. I was really touched that they were that supportive of us.”

The efforts of UNC’s Black community to pay back this debt reinforced Johnson’s vision for the BSM. He said he felt that from the community’s actions, he knew that the BSM represented Black students well and that everyone who contributed helped enforce the idea that the BSM was focusing on the right priorities.

“You need to check your ego at the door,” Johnson advises future leaders of the BSM. “You may have been elected to the position, but you must remember that you are here to serve.”

Johnson believes that in order to be a successful president of the BSM, one must listen to others and remember that they do not have all the answers.

A president must be open to others’ ideas as well as working with other organizations.

He said that presidents should not act on issues without first understanding them and that they should choose their battles wisely.

“Choose the things that are most important and that you can have an impact on,” advised Johnson.

One should know how to manage their time because you are a student first, but essential things must be accomplished before your term as president is complete.

Most importantly, Johnson believes that one must have a vision, of at least two to three things they want to accomplish during their term.

They should keep this in mind as they go forward during the year and to help them remember why they are here.

As the editorial page editor at Greensboro News and Record, Johnson said that the BSM helped prepare him for life after Carolina. He learned that you must do your homework before taking on any issue.

Knowing the facts is important before you argue any side. You have to know how to make decisions, especially the hard ones. He said that the BSM taught him that you could still learn from others even if you disagree with them because as he puts it, “You will always come across people who challenge you throughout life, but you must keep an open mind.”

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AFFIRMATIVE ACTION: AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE Averi Harper

The methods UNC-Chapel Hill admissions officers use to ensure diversity at our university could disappear.

Supreme Court case Fisher v. University of Texas at Austin will determine if affirmative action will continue to exist in educational admissions and hiring processes. In this case, Abigail Fisher, a white Louisiana State University graduate, claims she was denied admission to the University of Texas at Austin solely because of the color of her skin. She said there were applicants she knew who belonged to minority groups that were granted admission to the university despite having lower test scores, GPAs and less extracurricular involvement.

The University of Texas at Austin responded that Fisher’s race wasn’t a factor in her rejection.

On Oct. 10, The Supreme Court heard oral arguments for this case.

As a public university, the results of this case will undoubtedly have an effect on the way students are chosen to attend the UNC. Right now, race is one of the more than 40 criteria considered in the admissions process. Each application is reviewed individually and evaluated holistically. Applications are never

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separated by race of the applicant and, in fact, racial identification is an optional part of the process.

The UNC School of Law’s Center for Civil Rights wrote an amicus curiae brief to the Supreme Court in support of the University of Texas and its right to consider race in admissions.

Under the leadership of the School of Law dean, John Boger, the brief stated why. The brief reads, “Any holding that would foreclose its ability to consider race in admissions would undercut decades of Supreme Court precedents and establish a new standard of review that would prohibit UNC and other public institutions of higher education—long recognized as special marketplaces of ideas—from making their own determinations about who will be successful students.”

Despite the University’s usage of race as a criterion in admissions blacks and Hispanic students are the only racial minority groups that remain underrepresented in comparison to 2010 census. Black students make up 22% of the state’s population but only about 10 percent of the class of 2016.

Hispanic students are 9 percent of the state and only about 6 percent of the

first-year class.

UNC’s law school isn’t the only entity calling for the University’s right to consider race in admissions. Vice Provost to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions Stephen Farmer wrote an editorial citing the benefits of affirmative action. “A growing body of evidence confirms that students learn better when they learn alongside talented classmates from different races and backgrounds,” Farmer wrote.

Some students, like the online editor of the politically conservative Carolina Review Elizabeth Merritt, do not believe that race should be considered. Merritt and others like her think that consideration of socioeconomic class and other nonracial factors would be more accurate. Merritt said, “I don’t think poorer minorities are the ones who benefit from affirmative action. Upper-middle class minorities are the ones that really benefit from affirmative action.”

The Court’s conservative 5-4 split could put an end affirmative action and the past precedents that define and uphold its principles.

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DECLINE IN RELIGION Vicki Wigginsr

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eligion is one issue avoided in polite conversation in order to keep the peace. However, the presence and importance of religion in the United States is undeniable. Religion, more importantly the freedom of religion, played an integral role in the shaping of this great nation. Yet the practice of religion appears to be on a steady decline. Scholars have yet to decide on a conclusive reason for the transition away from religious practice.

Extreme conservativeness and greater adherence to modernity are cited as two reasons for Christianity’s decline. In a 2007 Pew Forum survey, about 78 percent of adults aged 18 and older identified themselves as Christians. Although this may seem like a high percentage, past responses were closer to 90 percent. At one point in time, being Christian was synonymous with not only having good morals, but also being a good American.

As time progressed and people interacted with others of different faith, some became conflicted and began to question the aforementioned notion.

David Dickerson accredits homosexuality as an essential determining factor on people’s views of Christianity. Once a conservative Christian, Dickerson now states, “It was only when three of my friends came out of the closet in one month that I was forced to look at the consequences of my theology.

It was the literal bible as I understood it versus my friends, and my friends won. Historically, friends always win.”

In his opinion, Christianity will continue on its downward slope until the religion becomes less conservative.

moving away from Christianity, but other religions as well. Nearly a quarter of Americans have strayed away from the religion in which they were raised. Although some Americans have found comfort in other religions, others have displaced themselves from the whole idea and this has led to an increase of individuals identifying themselves as Atheists.

Some scholars believe that Atheism is also a religion because it is a belief in nothing, yet this remains to be an ongoing debate. University of Tampa sociologist Ryan Cragun does not believe Atheism is on the rise.

He said, “…people are feeling less inclined to identify as religious to comply with what it means to be a good person in the U.S." Holding steadfast to one’s faith and religion is a serious challenge and some individuals decide to be good people while disregarding faith-based principles.

Yes, the majority of Americans still fall in the “religious” category, but the number of adults transitioning to “non-religious” is growing. Whether this is due to conservativeness, lack of conservativeness, or a sense of loss purpose, individuals who are devout in their beliefs find themselves having to work even harder to make believers out of those who have lost hope.

In today’s society, more and more people are not only

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BLACK VOTERS FOR OBAMA Tasia Harris

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n Ebony magazine’s March 2012 issue, the well-known actor Samuel L. Jackson stated, “I voted for Barack because he’s Black.” Jackson’s statement caused some expected controversy. People were allowed to confirm their suspicions about the overwhelming support of Obama from Black voters that they had held sine 2008. But does Obama have the support of Black Voters just because he is Black?

The 2008 election was a historical moment. Despite the United States’ ugly history of racial prejudice, the American people managed to elect a Black President for the first time. The significance of his race is not overlooked, but many have agreed that the same infatuation with “making history” is over. There are numerous issues that have diminished, even erased, the importance of race for some Americans.

Unemployment is steadily decreasing but has not fallen quickly enough for some. In terms of social issues, Obama’s position on gay marriage goes against what many social conservatives — including Black religious voters — believe.

What is it that keeps Obama winning 94 percent of the Black vote? It is tempting to agree with Jackson’s blunt statement. After all, unemployment affects Black Americans the most. While the national rate of unemployment is at 7.8 percent, the rate among Black Americans is almost double that at 14.4 percent. Socially, Obama’s support of gay rights divided the Black community for quite some time.

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The issue is the question itself. While there are people who will vote to re-elect our President because he is Black, that is not the case for the majority of Black voters. None of Obama’s policies or positions are designed to help the Black community exclusively. Rather, they increase the opportunity for Americans to make the American Dream a reality. Obama has either made progress or has plans in a second term to increase the affordability of healthcare, increase the quality of education and make higher education more affordable, and give women equal pay for equal work, just to name a few. None of these issues are for Black voters specifically, but they do improve their lives because Black voters need healthcare, access to a good public education, and Black women should receive equal pay for equal work.

This is also true for voters of all races.

As demonstrated by presidential exit polls from 1972 to 2008, major party candidates draw support from certain demographics. Black Americans, along with women, young people, Hispanic Americans, and Jewish Americans, have all voted strongly in favor of Democratic candidates who were not Black. Explaining Obama’s support from Black Voters as purely racial does not account for those previous years of support of White candidates.

Dividing votes by race may not be the best measure of demographics anymore when it comes to voting. Voters are looking for a candidate who will act on their behalf, regardless of race.

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FINISHING THE RACE: GABBY WHITEHALL’S ROLE IN THE POLITICAL REALM Vicki Wiggins

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abrielle Whitehall is tall and slim but has the heart of a lion. You’ve seen her in the pit, on panel discussions, on Facebook, and Twitter. Regardless of the environment, event or social media platform she is usually encouraging you to do one thing: VOTE! A native of the beautiful Caribbean island, Barbados, Whitehall, a junior, made her political presence known to many people on and off the campus of UNC-Chapel Hill. After a two-month internship with the Obama’s campaign, Organizing for America, during the 2008 election, Whitehall has continued to support the President. She serves as chairwoman of the Political Action Committee of The Black Student Movement, the president of the International Pre-Law Organization and an active member of Young Democrats. Whitehall strives to encourage students to be politically informed and active.

Whitehall is a Political Science and Peace, War & Defense double-major. She understands the importance of being politically informed on not only the federal level but locally, too.

Although the Presidential election was her main focus, she has worked with the Young Democrats for local congressional elections for two years during Elaine Marshall’s 2010 senate democratic campaign.

Aside from the previously mentioned organizations, Whitehall co-founded Tar Heels for Obama in the fall of 2011. When asked why founding this organization was important to her Whitehall responded, “The re-election of President Obama is personal to me and Tar Heels for Obama is the way I can contribute and get my peers involved.” Getting her peers involved is an understatement. Tar

Heels for Obama has registered over 5,000 students on UNC’s campus — that is about 25 percent of undergraduate students.

Legislation that has passed under the Obama administration has resonated with Whitehall.

She is particularly fond of the Affordable Health Care Act and the Dream Act. The Affordable Health Care Act, more popularly known as Obamacare, has received considerable attention and is a highlight President Obama’s first term. Whitehall passionately explained why this is important to her. She’s personally invested in the Affordable Health Care Act, she said, “I support the Affordable Health Care Act because it will allow my mom who is ill to come to the United States and receive help.”

She’s also personally connected to the Dream Act. The Dream Act is an immigration reform policy that, if passed, could allow Whitehall’s foreign-born cousins to be put on the path to American citizenship. This campaign and organization is more than a vote to Gabrielle Whitehall and her passion for Tar Heels for Obama has only growing stronger.

The average 21-year-old college student doesn’t usually devote his or her weekend to politics. However, Whitehall spends many weekends going door-to-door and canvassing different places to encourage people to vote. Tar Heels for Obama gave individuals

volunteer opportunities to sign up for shifts to help contribute to the President’s re-election campaign. Tar Heels for Obama has held phone drives, canvassed dorms three times per week to inform students of the importance of early voting, and hosted debate watch parties with other organizations. The effect of Tar Heels for Obama’s presence on UNC-Chapel Hill’s campus is evident in that nearly 10,000 students voted early at Rams Head Dining Hall. Although the results of those votes aren’t yet known, Whitehall and her group definitely impacted the registry of many students on campus. At press time, the results of the election were not known. If President Barack Obama is re-elected to office, Whitehall says “Tar Heels for Obama will continue to support him by voicing support for his initiatives.” On the other hand, if President Obama is not re-elected, Whitehall still feels Tar Heels for Obama has been a great success and is a mere example of what people can do when they come together for a common purpose.

Considering her hands-on experience involving political campaigns, one may assume that a political office possibly awaits Whitehall in her future. She chuckled at the idea but said running for office is not in her plans. However, she will definitely continue to support the Democratic Party and its candidates.

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OUr Campus

alia Brown, a first-year journalism and political science student from Charlotte, N.C., is the vice president of a new student group named Natural Girls Discuss Natural Curls.

A ‘NATURALLY’ AMAZING FIRST YEAR Lauren Houston

NGDNC’s mission is to create a positive and safe environment that enables women of color to discuss a variety of topics such as hair, health, beauty and female empowerment. The organization also aims to redefine beauty ideals across all groups. With over 400 Facebook fans, young women at UNC are free to discuss natural hair care, style tutorials and other tips. NGDNC encourages anyone who is contemplating doing away with chemical processes and natural hair veterans to visit the page and discuss the natural hair journey.

Not only does Brown play an important role in NGDNC by coordinating events and introducing new research and materials for the members, but she is also the co-founder of an online natural hair magazine. Natura Magazine released its first issue in Sept. 2011. Filled with photos, blogs, hair product suggestions and empowering feature stories, Natura Magazine became one of Brown’s key inspirations in becoming a leader in the NGDNC organization.

Brown seems to have gotten the hang of college life only a few months into her first year.

As a high school student, Brown always dreamed of attending UNC-Chapel Hill. Now, Brown admits that coming to UNC has been a both challenging and rewarding experience.

“My first semester at UNC has probably been one of the most stressful and invigorating times of my life,” Brown said. “There is such an amazing energy here among the people and the school as a whole, that even though I do experience hard times I can never let my spirit get too low because I’m at such an amazing place.”

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SPOKEN WORD AT T CAROLINA

Alyssa V. Townsend

he spoken word community on the campus of UNC-Chapel Hill has grown with the recent addition of The Rejects to the list of troupes. The list is comprised of Sacrificial Poets, UNC Wordsmiths, The Rejects, as well as the Black Student Movement’s own Ebony Readers/ Onyx Theater, more prominently known as EROT. Since The Rejects were established in the summer of 2011, rumors have circulated about the origin of their name. Some say it comes from being denied the opportunity to join EROT, therefore, making them the EROT Rejects.

“That’s what the gossip and the old stories tell me,” said sophomore Matthew Taylor, an EROT performer, “but, me not being [an EROT] reject, I wouldn’t know what really fueled everything behind it.”

“I know a lot of people say that The Rejects also stand[s] for spoken word – or people practicing it – being rejected from mainstream society … and I think that’s a dope concept,” Taylor added.

Shiesha McNeil, a sophomore and member of The Rejects, clarified the rumors and set the record straight.

“Not true. We use the name ‘Rejects’ because when spoken word was first introduced during the Jazz age, it was a rejected art form.”

She added, “Although the initial founders of The Rejects were rejected from EROT, they bonded over this experience and decided to start their own group.”

Another rumor is the presence of a rivalry between the two groups. Neither Taylor nor McNeil feel animosity or bitterness towards the other. Instead, they share a sense of camaraderie.

“We are all a part of the poet community and we respect that about each other,” said McNeil.

Two other groups familiar to campus are Sacrificial Poets and UNC Wordsmiths. The first is a poetry organization for youth in the Triangle. Sacrificial Poets host workshops and slams in a location just off of West Rosemary Street.The UNC Wordsmiths hosts similar open mic nights and serves as the vehicle for poets on campus to compete on various scales, from the local to national level.

Taylor, the managing director for the UNC Wordsmiths, said they don’t advocate for either group, they just want to “make poetry a [medium] that everyone is involved with – no matter what their background.”

“Whether you feel like you want to be a member of EROT, or you feel more like a Reject, or whether you want to get involved with the Wordsmiths’ open mics and slams – basically everyone is welcomed. Spoken word and every thing that each of these groups do is basically a service to you, in a way, to show the power you can have with your own voice and your own stories,” said Taylor.

The UNC Wordsmiths hold a monthly open mic event.

The next event will be held on Nov. 10, 6 p.m. at the Campus Y.

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our campus

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Q&A WITH ASHLEY ELLIS: AFAM STUDENT UNION LEADER Kalli Hackett

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he Department of African and Afro-American Studies is in the process of rebuilding it’s reputation since its infamous academic scandal.

In the year since the scandal first surfaced, the department has planned many changes to improve its image-- including a name change. The department will be known as the Department of African, African-American and Diaspora Studies starting in August 2013. The department also boasts new leadership. Dr. Eunice Sahle now is at the helm of the department and is working to steer it in a positive direction but faculy and staff are not the only ones working to improve the reputation of the department. The AFAM Student Union, a group that formed before the scandal has upped efforts to improve the department’s reputation.

Junior Ashley Ellis, a Women’s and Gender Studies and AfroAmerican Studies double-major, is an active leader in the Union’s tight-knit group of members. Ellis talked to us about her own motivation, her vision for the Union and what they are doing to improve the department.

Q: Why did you want to get involved with the AFAM Student Union?

A: It is important to me to that African and Afro-American Studies are valued on this campus.

Q: How did the scandal impact you directly?

A: The scandal, and the misrepresentation of the scandal and the AFRI/AFAM Department threatens the credibility of my work as a student and the value of my degree.

reports on the scandal, we seek to be the student voice of the department. It is our duty as students to make sure the AFRI/AFAM [department] is facilitating the best education possible.

Q: How is the AFAM Student Union working to improve the image of the AFRI/AFAM Department?

A: To combat the image as AFRI/AFAM majors/minors as students taking easy classes we have an upcoming photo campaign to highlight why we need the department.

Q: As a student, what changes have you witnessed in AFAM or AFRI classes since the scandal?

A: Before the scandal, I was unaware of the wrongdoings of the professor and former department chair. Also, to my knowledge, many of the department reforms are not in effect yet.

Q: What misconceptions about the department would you or the AFAM Student Union like to refute?

A: Every department has classes and professors that many people would consider easy, and others that are hard to get a high grade in. The AFRI/AFAM is not exceptional in this regard. I work hard to earn the grades in my classes.

Q: How has Dr. Sahle, or other faculty, worked with the union to change perceptions and move the department past the scandal?

A: The Union, Dr. Sahle and several department faculty met recently. How to address the scandal was one of the things discussed.

Q: What is the union’s overall goal or mission?

A: Beyond addressing the gross inaccuracy and racism in the

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Awareness

ACT AGAINST AIDS

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Briana Harper

Wear a red ribbon as a universal symbol of awareness and a show of support to those living with HIV/AIDS.

orld Aids Day was established 24 years ago. On Dec. 1, 2012, the celebration of being a survivor and efforts to raise awareness about the HIV/ AIDS virus will continue.

Organize a fundraising event to raise money for HIV/AIDS research.

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This year’s theme is all about “Getting to Zero.”

The slogan is centered on three primary goals including a focus on zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths. The message is important, but even more significant is the action that accompanies this goal.

Nearly 33 million people nationwide are infected with the HIV/AIDS virus. In order to effectively battle this deadly disease, an even larger number of fighters, survivors and supporters are necessary. So how can you get involved?

The answer may be a lot easier than one might

THIRD ANNUAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PREVENTION WALK Hannah Lawson

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he Kappa Omicron chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. hosted the Third Annual Domestic Violence Prevention Walk on October 28, 2012. The walk collected more than $3500 in donations to benefit the local Compass Center for Women and Families with the help of more than 70 UNC-Chapel Hill students and community members.

The Kappa Omicron chapter began this walk three years ago in order to bring awareness towards the issue of domestic violence. Over the years, it has grown larger and gained more exposure not only in the UNC com-

Participate in free HIV/AIDS testing.

Like many other diseases, knowledge is the best tool to proactively prevent the spread of the HIV/AIDS virus. The most recent breakthrough in the study of this debilitating illness is the development of the in-home HIV test kit. The Food and Drug Administration approved the OraQuick test earlier this year and researchers say this easily accessible test kit is “a positive step forward” to help control the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

the universal message that is associated with Worlds Aids Day. This new method of prevention and productive involvement allows everyone the opportunity to raise awareness about the virus. It also attempts to normalize the HIV/AIDS virus such that it is no longer a taboo, but instead promotes an international effort to decrease infection and ultimately find a cure.

In the United States alone, one in five Americans who are HIV positive are unaware of their status. This alarming statistic can be rectified as long as everyone is continuously encouraged. “Know Your Status!”

It’s as easy as a quick mouth swab then wait 20 to 40 minutes to receive results that have been proven to be 99 percent accurate. In many ways, this test is similar to an inhome pregnancy kit and coincides well with

munity but also in the surrounding Chapel Hill community.

The sorority partnered with the Compass Center, the Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity and UNC Counseling and Wellness Services. The walk received sponsorship from the General Alumni Association, Residence Hall Association and Ram Village Community Government.

The walk kicked off around 3 p.m. that afternoon. After signing in and offering donations, students and community members picked up domestic violence prevention t-shirts and began to fill the steps of South Building. The program included a presentation by Interactive Theatre Carolina in which they acted out the cycle of relationship violence.

This short presentation sparked a discussion within the group of participants -- it prompted questions about healthy relationships and domestic

violence. The walk started from South Building then ended at the ROTC Building.

A representative from the Compass Center concluded the walk by speaking about services and volunteer opportunities available to fight against domestic violence. They also mentioned the statistics associated with domestic violence in North Carolina: there were 73 known domestic violence homicides in 2011.

"I think domestic violence is a pertinent issue within all types of relationships people may face,” said Sarah Mafe coordinator of the event. “When some people are faced with it or have family and friends faced with it, it is difficult to know how to deal with the situation. People need to make sure they are aware and well informed about relationship violence so that they can remedy or prevent the situation from occurring.”

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AWareness

‘AMERICAN DIABETES MONTH’ Kamaara Lucas

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very November, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recognizes American Diabetes Month.

African-Americans are diagnosed with diabetes at the highest rates.

In the United States, more than 12 percent of African-Americans suffer from diabetes. These numbers are much higher than the 7.1 percent of whites diagnosed.

This month, the ADA’s primary focus is to raise awareness about new cases of this disease and the growing number of people it affects. This year, the

association is using a social initiative in order to emphasize the impact that diabetes has on Americans in today’s society. The campaign is looking for individuals who would like to shed light on the issues surrounding diabetes through social media outlets.

Though the disease is one of the most common in the country, many remain uneducated on the actual statistics pertaining to it. According to the ADA, approximately 26 million American citizens are currently affected by either type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes.

Another 79 million have pre-diabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes in their lifetime.

There are also many serious health issues associated with the disease including stroke, kidney failure, nerve damage, heart disease, high blood pressure and blindness. Since minorities have a higher risk for developing diabetes and the multiple health complications that may come

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along with it, it is important we participate in the movement to raise awareness.

The ADA’s premier event during American Diabetes Month is titled “A Day in the Life of Diabetes.” This photo project encourages participants to post photos showing how diabetes affects them or a person they know.

CVS Pharmacy, the sponsor of American Diabetes Month, will donate $1 for every photo posted.

The association will also incorporate success stories on both Facebook and Twitter from followers, fans, and highprofile celebrities affected by diabetes.

To find more information and find ways to get involved, visit www. uncblackink.com

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HOW DO YOU FEEL WHEN YOU ARE THE ONLY BLACK PERSON IN CLASS? KIANA GLOVER

“I definitely fell intimidate but at the same time it makes me want to show them. I fee likes I have to prove myself sometimes. I mean obvously this is a PWI but it just makes me feel uncomfortable and alone. I’m always like ‘oh my god, am i going to be the only black student?”

- Lendra Gause, 2013

“Like I belonge there. Someone needs to represent us, right?”

- Mariah Mosamto, 2014

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“I guess I’m kind of used to it now because my middle school and high school were predominately white.

After a while you get used to it.”

- Gabriel Baylor, 2014

“I’m kind of used to it because the high school I went to was predominately whit too. i try not to think of myself as the only black student, i try to think of myself as just a student in the class.”

- Alexis Jordan, 2015

“I’m actually conditioned to it. The high school I graduated from, the classes i was in were advanced classes so I was always the only black person. It kind of makes me feel lonely, but then it’s extra added responsibility to perform and to make sure you prove to the people in the class that you deserve to be here as well as othe black people and that you are a good student. you aren’t here because of a quota and you can excel in those classes.”

-Joe Bryant, 2013

“I feel like sometimes i have to teach people AFAM 101.”

- Matthew Taylor, 2015

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Reviews

“STEEL MAGNOLIAS” REVIEW Tyler Rouse

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ore than 6.5 million viewers tuned into the record-breaking premiere of the Lifetime Network’s contemporary version of the 1989 film, “Steel Magnolias.” The silver-screen production has received both raving reviews and harsh criticism.

In contrast with the original film, Lifetime’s remake includes a strong Black female cast: Queen Latifah as M’Lynn, Phylicia Rashad as Clairee, Alfre Woodard as Ouiser, and Jill Scott as Truvy. Phylicia Rashad’s own daughter, Condola Rashad acted as Latifah’s diabetic daughter, Shelby.

This movie retells the story of friendship between five Louisiana women who grow closer during a time of great heartache and loss. The film is a story about love and

GOOD KID, M.A.A.D. CITY

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Dillion Robinson

fter being featured on Drake’s sophomore album Take Care everyone had the same question -who is Kendrick Lamar? The breakout single “Swimming Pools (Drank)” was only a tease of what this rising West Coast star had to offer on his debut album. Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, m.A.A.d City is nothing short of stellar and is without a doubt in the running to be the top rap album released this year. The bullet-riddled minivan on the album’s front cover does not parallel to the usual arrogance found throughout modern-day hip-hop.

Instead, the image sets the stage for Lamar to display his masterful storytelling skills about growing up in his hometown of Compton, California.

continuity. It’s a story that celebrates several facets of womanhood.

The plot of the 2012 remake doesn’t stray from the original storyline. The tight-knit group of women are still brought together

by Truvy’s hair salon and M’Lynn’s daughter, Shelby.

Throughout the movie, M’Lynn and Ouiser’s development is most apparent.

M’Lynn’s character serves as an overprotective mother to her diabetic daughter. Keeping Shelby’s best interests at heart, M’Lynn tries to discourage her from having a baby. Nonetheless, once M’Lynn holds her newborn grandson, she softens to the idea of being a grandmother. Some viewers argue that Latifah did not show much emotion, but the hospital scene serve as a climax in her performance.

The development of Ouiser’s role throughout this movie is just as significant as in the original. In the beginning, she is lonely, mean and bitter. As the story continues, Ouiser reunites with a former lover and her The interludes between each song gives the album its smooth, continuous flow and serves as a segue into the next piece of the story. It also provides the listeners with additional information that aids in portraying the story more clearly. Kendrick leads us through his experience of being set up by his summer fling on the opening track “Sherane a.k.a. Master Splinter’s Daughter”.

character softens as she is seen in the pews of a Baptist church.

Alfre Woodard, like her 1989 counterpart, Shirley MacLaine who played the same role, functions as a comedic relief in the movie.

Some viewers found it strange that Latifah would play the role of Condola Rashad’s mother instead of Phylicia Rashad. However, it was a way for each actress to strip away their own societal roles and put their efforts into being the cast of Steel Magnolias.

Overall, the remake does justice to the original film. Many criticism stems from racial distinctions within the cast, but in a contemporary way, executive producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron produced a winner.

Janet Jackson infused “Poetic Justice” is another instant classic that only increases the cohesiveness of the album.

Without a doubt, Kendrick Lamar has quickly grabbed the attention of rap fans everywhere.

Needless to say, this first effort from Dr. Dre’s protégé will hold us over until Dr. Dre’s own “Detox” is released.

Lamar’s ability to bend his voice helps to reflect the weight of the subjects he discusses.

The more playful track, “Backseat Freestyle,” is delivered at a tongue-twisting rate as a younger Lamar rides around with his friends.

Another example is the raspy tone he uses on “The Art of Peer Pressure” that mirrors the grittiness of recalling the times when his behavior was altered due to pressures from his friends. He also touches on his first encounter with marijuana which he was unaware was laced with cocaine. This encounter led to one acronym of the album’s title, my Angels on Angel’s Dust. Drake’s guest verse on the

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ENTERTAINMENT

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SIX LYRICAL HAS-BEENS Mimi Mendouga

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here are some words in the unwritten pop-culture dictionary that just have to go. They come, we use them, reuse them, and abuse them. Eventually there is a voice -- a voice of wisdom I might add -- that overcomes us and rightfully pushes us to let go. I’m talking about words like “swag,” “epic,” “haters,” “thirsty,” arconym “YOLO” and soon to follow suit are current slang favorites “ratchet” and “turn up.”

When we constantly use these words, we tend to lose track of their origins. Music-- the blueprint for popular culture is usually the origin. There is something to say about the fact that there are several trendy, overused and overdone lyrics that developed from hip-hop.

Here are six lines we’re tired of hearing on our iTunes, our Spotify, and our radio: 1) “Girl, those jeans look so good. How did you get in those?” It was really cute and sensual when Ginuwine said it in 2003. Now, almost 10 years later artists like Trey Songz and the slew of other R&B artists before him are refusing to let this phrase go! It’s a boring song lyric to say the least. It either goes unnoticed or it’s just flat out annoying. Speaking on behalf of objectified women, I think it’s safe to assume that I’m wearing these jeans because I bought them. I bought them because I thought they were flattering. The constant perverse swooning is loosing its flavor.

2) “Ladies raise your hands if you feel me.” I’m all for connecting with the audience, but I’ve heard this so many times it’s the equivalent of a conventional sequence of greetings. For example, “Hi, how are you?” Let’s be honest, we’ve stopped reacting to what comes next.

Soul singers need a new approach. Aretha Franklin said it, Mary J. Blige said it, Lauryn Hill said it, Christina Aguilera said it and Beyonce said it. Dear imminent and unknown diva, I beg of you, say something else!

3) “Get low. Drop it to the ‘flo’. Turn around. Pop That.”

Unless it’s along the lines of the Macarena, the Wobble, or the Cotton-Eye Joe, it may be best we refrain from taking instructions from the likes of Lil’ John, Waka Flocka and French Montana.

4) “The way you workin’ that thang, makes me want to say ‘Ooh.’” Chris Brown, ‘N Sync, Justin Bieber, Drake, you name it, they’ve sung a variation of these lyrics. It never fails. If the song is about a girl, a songwriter will find a way to describe her rear-end.

5) “Tell the DJ to turn up my song!” No. 6) “I can’t sleep at night, I’m tossing and turning thinking of you.” The signature of the love song. Whatever happened to metaphors? This line may be the Adam and Eve of all love song lyrics. Regardless of time, love doesn’t change in nature or feeling. But I’ve heard all lovers are poets - and thus are capable of manipulating old feelings into new sayings. This lyric just screams, “I’m a lazy, unoriginal songwriter!”

There has to be another way it can be said. It feels as if we’re reading the same book with a different cover or listening to the same audio book with a different narrator.

Songwriters should refrain from using classic lyrics and move toward greater originality.

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Entertainment

BLACK WOMEN REVEALED? Darrilyn Fisher

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hen you flip through the television channels today, you find a variety of programming involving Black women from all walks of life. From Oprah Winfrey’s OWN channel to the Basketball Wives franchise, the visibility of the Black woman in entertainment and media has increased significantly. This diversity was seen most recently when rapper Nicki Minaj and singer Mariah Carey were chosen to join the panel of judges on American Idol. When a couple of the show’s former judges decided to leave, rumors began swirling that Carey had accepted one of the open positions. Sticking with the new theme of having four judges, the show looked for another female judge. According to numerous sources, this proved problematic for Carey who wanted to be the only female judge on the show.

These rumors seem to be only the beginning of the negativity. Soon after Minaj was chosen to be a judge and the singing auditions began, news broke of a verbal spat between Carey and Minaj.

It is undeniable that this feud between the two judges gives society an opportunity to label assertive Black women as angry. It was said that this argument was due to a disagreement over a contestant’s performance and Minaj told Carey that she was going to start a physical altercation. Media outlets like ABC News reported that Minaj went on to say that she would shoot Carey if she had a gun. Some argue that Minaj’s behavior perpetuates the stereotype of angry Black women.

Black women are not monolithic. They do not have the same beliefs, morals or opinions. Black women, like Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey, have been given a platform. They live in the public eye and with that comes great responsibility. There should be a wider variety of positive images that combat some of the negative images that are reinforced every time someone turns on the television. This can only be done through the conscious and cooperative effort of the decision makers in media, Black women themselves and those connected to them.

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THE BLACK INK RELEASE CELEBRATION On October 11 we celebrated the release of our first issue of the year. Here’s a snapshot of the amazing event.

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Masthead Averi Harper — Editor-in-Chief Briana Harper — Managing Editor Chantrel Reynolds — Creative Director Mballa “Mimi” Mendouga — Associate Editor Tyler Rouse — Copy Editors Samantha Wilson Lauren Houston — PR Director Kiana Glover — PR Assistant

Contributors Paris Alston Kali Hackett Dillion Robinson Chassity Bobbitt Tasia Harris Alyssa Townsend Darrilyn Fisher Kamaara Lucas Vicki Wiggins

Photographers John Daniels Nick Johnson Krista McGuire Interested in joining Black Ink? Contact us at uncblackink@gmail.com follow us on Twitter @uncblackink and visit our website www.uncblackink.com

Our mission remains: “If Blackness can be transformed into pictures and words, we intend to do so, by any means necessary.” *The Black Ink is a recognized publication at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

This issue was paid for, in part, by student activity fees.

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