Ablaze Issue II

ISSUE II

SPRING

2024

Table of

Contents

Letter from the Editor Our Favorite Influencer: Pop Culture!

Exposing the Harm Caused by Yellow Fever The Culture of Zines and Power within Riot Grrrl Black Students for Artistic Expression Combatting the Financial Monster Lady Vols Student-Athletes are Committed to Community Stars, Sexism and Society Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall: Here’s How You Can Love Them All! The Most Adorably Meaningful Volunteer Program How to Be Okay with Being Alone Shattering the Silence: Let’s Talk about Sexual Assault How to Dress like an Italian How Women are Saving the Economy, Against All Opposition Meet the Social Media Team Cover Photo: Bailey Beller Cover Design : Holly Sarah Liban This magazine is produced by the students of Ablaze magazine and is not an endorsement from UT. The publication is sponsored by the College of Social Work and School of Journalism & Media.

designed by:

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holly sarah liban

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Dear Readers,

I am excited to share with you some remarkable highlights and updates from Ablaze magazine since our print in Spring 2023. I hope you all share our enthusiasm for our recent accomplishments and our vision for the future.

In Ablaze magazine’s first year after rebranding, we were awarded 2nd place in 2023 by the College Media Association Awards for the Best Magazine News Page/Spread (Division I) category. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. Our incredible editorial team has played a pivotal role in motivating and uplifting our contributors, who have shown talent and significant growth over the last few months.

This year, Ablaze magazine is taking a unique approach by not choosing a specific theme. Instead, we decided on a cover design inspired by a colorful tea party similar to the whimsical world of the Mad Hatter in Alice in Wonderland. This artistic choice symbolizes our organization’s growth and the diverse range of topics we explore within our pages.

At Ablaze, we take pride in advocating for others by providing a platform to students of all backgrounds. We believe in the power of diversity and inclusion, and we support voices that would otherwise go unheard. In addition to our commitment to providing a platform, we have organized social events geared towards members to create community within our organization.

EDITORIAL TEAM Editor-in-Chief: Madelyn Stone Content Editor: Mattie Chase Graphic Design Editor: Holly Sarah Liban Photography Editor: Bailey Beller Social Media Editor: Molly Nichols

MASTHEAD Ablaze | 4

Going forward, we have exciting plans for the Fall 2024 semester. Ablaze is increasing publication frequency, by releasing two two print editions a year at the beginning of each semester. We are dedicated to creating fresh and engaging content that delves into topics that may have received less attention, particularly in the realms of social justice issues and pop culture. Overall, we are grateful for the support from our readers, sponsors, contributors, and editors as we look ahead to the future we hope to continue to grow and evolve with you.

Sincerely,

Madelyn Stone Editor-in-Chief

GRAPHIC DESIGN

CONTENT

Emma Thomas Erin Herbers Kayleigh McGee Kyla Kirby Lailah Rucker Lita Lemmon Olivia Omer Natalie Neal Peyton Blumenfeld Taylor Pearson Riley Doyle Sinit Tesfamariam Sydney Barney

Abigail Doehler Alexius Brunson Anna Eason Ann Howard Anna Woods Aurora Bryan Ava Franzoy Catherine Espejo Carmen Rivera Carrie Cheng Cee Spiller Chloe Cross Ella Kelley Ella Stewart

JOIN NOW?

PHOTOGRAPHY Emily Ellis Grace Donoho Hannah Jansen Kennedy Davis Kim Wooodward Lily Davidson Lily Rutherford Madison Russell Makenna Wevick Morgan Beirne Sarah Kennedy Sophia Black Spencer Ferry

Amelia Beuscher DJ Campos Sophia Carter Maywyn Haydamack Ishma Khattak Joni Mitchell

SOCIAL MEDIA Ashlin Coffinberry Jerika Eduave Reagan Koerner Amari Mills Kaylie Mosher Yvonne Ratledge Jenisse Sanches Quinn Summey Reagan Wilson

Designed by: Holly Sarah Liban

Written by Lily Rutherford | Photos by Joni Mitchell | Designed by Kyla Kirby | Model: Auriyan McClure

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There, across the street - that girl looks like she’s going on a hot girl walk. She’s moving at a brisk pace with her headphones on, wears a matching Lululemon set and carries her Stanley cup in one hand and her phone in the other.

While five years ago every person passing her would’ve thought nothing of it, today, a fair portion of people, especially women, would look at her and think, “what a nice day for a hot girl walk.”

The occurrence of the hot girl walk blowing up across social media is only one example of how pop culture impacts our daily lives.

Everything including movies, TV shows, books, music, TikTok and fashion trends and individual celebrities can influence how we act.

Most people check their social media multiple times a day, some even dubbing themselves as “chronically online” and unable to separate themselves from the internet. Through social media, pop culture has been given a quick and convenient way to spread its impact across the globe, becoming unstoppable.

Starting with the most obvious modes of influential pop culture, let’s look at movies, TV shows and books.

Movies and TV shows continuously make headlines for breaking box office records, influencing charts and more. Looking at just this past year, we’ve got shows and movies like “The Mandalorian,” “Bridgerton,” “Barbie” and “Avatar” that began to appear in every store and whose memes filled every online platform following their release.

Now for books: Books have been the basis for countless movie franchises over the past couple of decades, but even in their original form have impacted the lives of millions. Characters, no matter from what media, have always had the ability to give pop culture life and help people relate to it.

Caroline Coleman, an environmental and soil science major, shared how pop culture has impacted her.

“Aspects of my personality could probably be attributed to characters I admire…I value academics more because of some of my favorite characters as a kid…for example, Annabeth Chase from ‘Percy Jackson’ and Hermione Granger from ‘Harry Potter,’” Coleman said.

While our personalities can be shaped by countless different things, the beauty of how pop culture impacts us lies in how it moves with time; there is never a moment when pop culture is empty.

The way pop culture has given a platform for certain characters to inspire generations is astounding.

How does music play a part in this?

As with the other forms of media, music has had the ability to dictate listeners’ moods, inspire how people dress and has even created entire subcultures from its sound for years.

Popular musicians tend to set fashion trends, like with Billie Eilish and her signature oversized look, and certain songs have resurfaced on the charts because of the new attention pop culture has put on them.

Another huge part of all of this includes social media like TikTok.

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As we all know, TikTok has a huge influence on trends, with everything from the hot girl walk gaining traction on the platform, to how the “e-girl” aesthetic and corset tops have, at certain points recently, both been considered by many to be peak fashion.

Closely related, and certainly helped by platforms like TikTok, many celebrities have found themselves integrated into core, nearly universally recognized, parts of pop culture.

With instances like the Kardashian’s “You’re Doing Amazing, Sweetie” line, the “Hotline Bling” memes following Drake’s music video release and Kamala Harris’s infamous “We did it, Joe” quote, certain celebrities and public figures are now cemented in pop culture by defining memorable moments like these.

To our generation especially, these famous moments will serve as inside jokes and nostalgic memories for years to come, although there will surely be more added as pop culture continues its growth with time.

With all of this, it is important to reiterate how impactful pop culture can be to our day-to-day lifestyles and choices.

Anna Eason, a public relations major, explained the impact of pop culture on her life.

“I love hot girl walks and I did start going on more of them when they became popular…I think pop culture makes life more interesting…and depending on what it is, it can also make you a better person,” Eason said.

When asked if pop culture adds a sort of “spice” to day-to-day life, Eason agreed enthusiastically.

“If something big happens, then I know my friends and I are going to be talking about it,” Eason said.

Across student answers and the strong presence of pop culture in our daily routines, it’s clear how impactful it is on our society. With pop culture and everything it entails, we’ve been able to relate to others through shared jokes and experiences, find things to spice up life with and hot girl walk our way into healthy routines.

The influence of pop culture is strong, and with it, we’ve been able to create a whole new perspective on our daily lives.

On your next hot girl walk, think about all the aspects of pop culture that you love!

EXPOSING THE HARM CAUSED BY

Y ELLOW F EVER The hard truth behind the effect of fetishization on women

Written by Ann Howard | Photos by Ishma Khattak Designed by Holly Sarah Liban

For many Asian women, there is a shared experience that causes unsettling emotions and faltering perceptions. From the tiresome issues of misrepresentation, Asian women are not recognized for their heritage, being a woman or their humanity. They are commonly reduced to mere sexualized, objectified individuals. In modern times, we call this “yellow fever.”

The roots of the issue date back to the Page Act of 1875, which introduced the importation of women for prostitution in the U.S. Back then, legislators rationalized their immoral actions by depicting Asian women as lewd and provocative to favor Americans for job opportunities.

In this context, yellow fever isn’t the disease that is in medical records, but Asian fetishization. Their story is often untold and ignored and the history is not commonly known.

Camp towns, which arose overseas during World War II, led the situation to become more wicked for Japanese women. The women were forced to be comfort girls to provide sexual services for the Japanese soldiers.

Eventually the Western soldiers picked up these services during conflict in Asia, leaving women on the receiving end.

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Models: Katie Creech, Sydney Eunji

YELLOW FEVER YELLOW FEVER The money made from their services went toward rooms they would rent for these soldiers to perform sexual acts. The women were trapped in an endless cycle of sexual abuse from men who could not hold their composure. When American soldiers returned home, their perception of Asian women was horribly painted from their experiences in camp towns.

Hollywood started to invest in the perception that Asian women were meek and docile.

“Kill Bill” objectified O-Ren Ishii, “The Fast and Furious” franchise used Mia Toretto as an exotic love interest and “Full Metal Jacket” presented a Vietnamese geisha stating “Me so horny. Me love you long time.” These harmful depictions created a vivid vision for outsiders that Asian women were not humans with real passion and interest.

Asian fetishization extends to small screens, too. The most viewed category of porn in 2021 was Japanese according to Pornhub Insights. PornHub has significantly harmed different groups of women by profiting from fetishization. For instance, the portrayal of Latina women in pornography frequently centers on the hypersexualized “spicy Latina” stereotype, which distorts the realities of their diverse cultures and personalities.

Similarly, Black women are often depicted as hypersexualized figures in porn, reinforcing harmful racial stereotypes. Even White women are not exempt, as they may be subject to fetishization based on features like hair color or body type. These depictions not only distort women’s confidence and security but foster a culture rife with sexual prejudices.

Now, you can make the argument to yourself, “well I just have a type.” It is okay to have a natural liking to the physical features you find attractive. It is fine until you start projecting problematic stereotypes. Fetishization involves objectifying and dehumanizing individuals based on specific attributes, often tied to race or ethnicity. To help depict a type and a fetish, think of it as this.

“I love men with blonde hair. All blonde-haired men have fun, make so much money and are very smart. A brunette man is not able to provide all the qualities a blonde man can.”

This is not true: It’s a generalization. It is not neccessarily the blonde hair that you find attractive but your societal view inappropriately correlates hair color with success. This is a similar kind of situation when Asian women are asked, “Can you cure my yellow fever?”

Just a heads up, the answer will always be “no.”

Heather Shoffner, a senior at UT, shared how you can alleviate and end situations like yellow fever.

“I feel calling out the inappropriate things people say is a good start. Make people aware that they are saying disgusting things. If they already know it’s wrong, ask them why they would continue, ” Shoffner said.

Heather was on the mark when she stated that we must speak up. Using your voice for women who have been stereotyped develops civil understanding when going against ignorance. Question those who continue to deny their misunderstanding with a receptive mind. Continue to learn more and share your knowledge to not only help women now but also for the next generation of women.

YELLOW FEVER

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The Culture of Zines and Power Within Riot Grrrl A General History and a Direction for the Future

Written by Madison Russell | Photos by Bailey Beller Designed by Sydney Barney

Model: Emma Fingeret | Alternative Images via: David Buckingham, The Guardian, Lithium Magazine, and Silly Gal hen you first catch sight of a zine, it can seem, well, juvenile.

The booklets are slim, generally held together with staples and look like they were thrown together at a moment’s notice - but this immaturity is simply part of their charm.

Zines can be difficult to define, but they generally contain most or all of these four characteristics: 1. Zines are subversive 2. Zines are self-published or published underground 3. Zines are creative 4. Zines fit into a cultural niche: most often leftist politics, women’s rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, etc.

According to Cornell University, the title of first zine can be awarded to Martin Luther’s “95 Theses” and while the zines of today may not change the course of human events, it is easy to see how modern zine culture grew from this early example of church criticism.

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The first modern zines were commonly known as fanzines and grew from the 1930s novel sci-fi genre. Fans of this subculture were desperate for an outlet to communicate and share thoughts and theories on their favorite stories. Zines like “The Comet” and “Detours” provided an outlet for these fans and featured letters from aficionados as a main source of content.

Flash forward to the 1970s, where zines most familiar to today’s audiences begin to emerge. Coinciding with the rise of punk culture, zines became unapologetically anti-establishment, with creators often having absolute control of the entire creation process from development to printing and distribution. Zines started to heavily feature topics that society often preferred to keep quiet, things like addiction, the importance of mental health and how to retain one’s individuality in the face of all-consuming capitalism.

Though zines from previous eras are certainly fascinating and contain important perspectives on their respective subcultures, my personal favorite era of zine culture is the “Riot Grrrl” movement of the 1990s. Riot Grrrl is the intersection of feminism, punk and progressive politics.

The authors of Riot Grrrl style zines called for “revolution girl style now’’ and stressed the importance of female power. They argued that listening to what society tells women they “should” be only serves to uphold the patriarchy. Within Riot Grrrl, women could be whatever they want; they could be gross or emotional without the constraints of society.

These authors viewed female power and companionship as the greatest weapons in the fight against misogyny. Their zines featured sections on reproductive health, information not easily accessed in the pre-internet days, making the knowledge especially valuable. They described what consent was and stressed that a woman who often had sex was no more than another woman who preferred to abstain.

Today, the spirit of zines still hold an important space in counterculture. I don’t need to tell you (likely for the millionth time) how insane American politics have been in just the past few years.

Spaces created by and for those who don’t “fit in” are imperative in eras where societies often seek to push them further and further to the side.

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak to two experienced “zinesters” and college students Matthew Kendall and Kate Moore.

“Within Riot Grrrl, women could be whatever they want; they could be gross or emotional without the constraints of society.”

Kendall has made quite a few zines, with topics ranging from the occult to the trans influence on electronic pop. Their zines, published under the name PH0, are colorful, engaging and represent a new era for the medium. He cites the creativity and community around zines as his favorite facets of zine-making such as citing memories of collage parties with friends, and where they would cut and paste images to create visually striking and thought-provoking pages. These parties allowed for collaborative exchange of ideas and perspectives, leading to a zine that didn’t reflect just one person’s preferences, but those of the community overall.

We spoke about the influence of the internet on the zinespace, a subculture that has for a long time been characterized by its physicality and elusivity. The internet however, has opened up new possibilities for zines, making them widespread and changing the art-style drastically, which led Kendall to ask, “can they even be called ‘zines’ anymore?”

Moore is a University College Cork student who has made two zines as part of the student cooperative society. Their zines cover subjects such as the Irish housing crisis, student rights and LGBTQIA+ topics. Moore told me the society’s purpose in making their zines: to spread the word about the co-op and what the group stands for and provide a beginners guide to activism.

Like Kendall, Moore cites the artistic freedom intrinsic with zine creation as her favorite aspect of the medium. The co-op’s zine, “Rat. jpg” is full of color and striking graphics, drawing in the readers where they find written narratives focused on social issues. Through their zine, Moore and the co-op aim to spark valuable conversations and ignite a sense of activism among readers.

This provides a valuable beginners guide, while still appealing to more experienced audiences looking to widen their community.

The fusion of vibrant visuals and insightful content inside “Rat.jpg” capture the essence of zine culture, inviting readers into a space where creativity, knowledge and social consciousness intersect.

I asked Moore what her advice is to people looking to get into making zines, or even just entering the zine space. Her response was a simple, yet powerful one.

“Begin,” Moore said.

She noted that the diversity of zines means there is something for everyone and the content of zines are meant to inspire those who open them, making simply getting into the space particularly important.

Zines have held an important place throughout their long history as devices for self-expression and community building. From their humble origins as mediums for fan communications, zines have emerged as a powerful platform for anti-establishment sentiment and the amplification of marginalized voices.

In today’s world, where resistance against societal constraints remains vital, zines serve as essential spaces for creative freedom, activism and the dissemination of alternative perspectives.

With the advent of the internet, the landscape of zines has transformed, raising questions about their evolving nature and the possibilities they offer. Zine creators like Kendall and Moore embrace the artistic freedom and collaborative nature of the medium. They contribute to a vibrant and ever-evolving zine culture that inspires and empowers others to challenge the status quo and express their unique voices.

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BLACK STUDENTS FOR The UT student-led organization BAE and its home to the Black community creatives Written by Mattie Chase | Photos by Jennifer Martinez Mendez Designed by Lailah Rucker Throughout history, Black culture and arts have been relevant and influential to all aspects of society. Flashing forward to today on UT’s campus, there is a student-led community on campus known as Black Students For Artistic Expression (BAE). They are a “home to creatives of all kinds” and give students within the Black community the opportunity to showcase their creativity.

The founder of BAE, Madison Payne, created the group as a safe space for all Black creatives so they can share their talents with the world. It is her passion as an advocate to help people to express their true selves.

“BAE speaks to the Black experience because there was once a time where we were literally not allowed to express ourselves. We were told what to wear, how to behave, [and] who we are. Art allows us as Black people to write, direct and star in our own stories. This club was created to be a safe space for Black students to be their authentic selves while creating art that speaks to their experience,” Payne said.

BAE has collaborated with multiple organizations such as the Black Musicians Alliance, Black Cultural Programming Committee, National Society of Black Engineers and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. These events create greater unity and presence by showcasing poetry, prose, art, fashion and more. President of BAE Katelynn Bledsoe and vice president Sherleen Mwaura shared their experience in the organization alongside founder Payne.

How do you express art and how is it relevant to your Black experience?

Bledsoe: Growing up, I didn't have many people around me who appreciated art, photography, music or any other sort of creativity. Then BAE was established, and I found myself becoming increasingly drawn to this group. I recognized that I felt at ease in this environment, and the individuals in this organization allowed me to be myself while still pushing me to seek higher goals for my talent and work.

Mwaura: Art has always been the center of my life in one way or another.

I grew up in predominantly white spaces which limited the amount of exposure I received to black art around me. Within these experiences, my desire to express my art through performances in theater and music has developed because I want others to see themselves reflected and represented through me.

What made you join this organization?

Mwaura: I initially joined BAE because it highlighted the artistic talents and cultural contributions of black individuals on campus. The first event I attended was BAE’s fall “Mahogany Soul,” which was a showcase of different forms of expression like art, poetry and voice; I was immediately hooked and knew I wanted to get involved.

Models: Sherleen Mwaura (Vice President), Tristan Massengill (Treasurer), Katelynn Bledsoe (President), Kousei Takeda-Mays (Creative Director)

ARTISTIC EXPRESSION How has BAE developed your student life or professional future?

Bledsoe: As now president of the club, BAE has helped me become more of a student leader. I get to organize and plan events as well as help my organization and the members collaborate with other groups on campus.

Payne: BAE has helped me find the confidence to pursue art after college. BAE has helped me realize that art soothes the soul and fosters connections. Art is revolutionary. BAE has not only shifted my entire perspective on what I want to do with my life, but it has also helped me realize that I can do anything that I put my mind to.

What is your favorite aspect of BAE? Payne: There are lots of different types of artists and art forms represented in the club, but we all come together and form this creative collective. If someone in the club is a fashion designer or photographer, there might be people interested in modeling that they can collaborate with. It’s amazing getting to see the community that we’ve built inside BAE - be taken beyond the club.

Mwaura: My favorite aspect of BAE is definitely the people. There is so much black talent and creativity on campus and being surrounded by these influences has been inspiring to me. I feel a strong sense of community among the members in BAE and the love and support between us is unwavering.

“Growing up, I didn't have many people around me who appreciated art, photography, music or any other sort of creativity.

Then BAE was established, and I found myself becoming increasingly drawn to this group,” BLEDSOE SAID. “I recognized that I felt at ease in this environment, and the individuals in this organization allowed me to be myself while still pushing me to seek higher goals for my talent and work.”

Any advice for students wanting to join?

Bledsoe: BAE is always accepting new members! We want to make sure that black creatives have a safe space to share their work and collaborate with other creatives. BAE is a community!

Mwaura: Please don’t hesitate!! BAE is a safe and empowering space for the black community on campus. Come as you are, we would love to have you !

Anyone can be a Creative and the group ensures the door is always open as a safe space for the Black community. You can find more information about BAE on their Instagram @UTKBAE to find your home away from home.

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COMBATTING THE FINANCIAL MONSTER A closer look into the state of finances and what you can do to help yourself.

Written by Alexius Brunson | Photo by Sophia Carter Designed by Olivia Omer Inflation is the boogeyman, or so they say. In all actuality, inflation is just a measurement of how prices have increased over a period of time. It’s a natural part of the economy and there are plenty of things that drive inflation.

However, when inflation increases at a rapid rate over a shorter period of time, as seen within the last couple of years, inflation is suddenly at the front and center of many people’s minds.

Kelley Anderson, assistant clinical director of finance at UT, spoke on recent economic changes.

“The pandemic was a large shock to the economy, but the current strengths in the economy are due, in part, to policies that provided relief for individuals and businesses during the pandemic,” Anderson said.

Model: Riley Doyle

Anderson continued on to explain the reasoning behind current economic pressures.

“If you owned a home or other assets during the pandemic, the value of these assets appreciated, adding to your overall wealth. The Fed has increased interest rates since then to intentionally cool off the growth in asset prices and this is affecting the price of goods and increasing the cost of living, creating a strain on average-income earning individuals,” Anderson said.

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No matter which way it goes, the fact is that it costs more to live now than it did in 2018, and many people, including college students, are feeling the burden of that. However, that doesn’t mean that you are stuck. It is also not a guarantee that life will always be like this.

“While gains in asset prices have been good, the distribution of the profits from these gains are a different story, but the overall trajectory is positive and should continue to have some healthy tailwinds to support it,” Anderson said.

Yet, the struggles of today are still happening, so take advantage of the many resources provided to you to ease the burdens. One of the most important things you can do is educate yourself on your spending habits and changes you can make to increase financial wellness, something that looks different for everyone Dorcas Kwaw-Mensah, a sophomore in biological sciences, explained how she didn’t know much about handling finances until she got involved with the Center for Financial Wellness and was able to be set up for success.

“Now that I know a lot more, I know that saving is important. Thinking about my future is important,” Kwaw-Mensah said.

Inflation, while scary right now, will not climb out from under your bed and attack you.

If you’re not sure where to start, then the Center for Financial Wellness provides a spending plan that is customizable on their website.

“I use the spending plan a lot. I don’t go out as much,” Kwaw-Mensah said.

Another great aspect about a budget is that it allows you to figure out how much money you can set aside for savings and emergencies. Having that money set aside means that if you ever encounter unpredictable situations, you will have at least something there to offshoot your out-of-pocket costs.

Another thing that goes hand-in-hand with budgeting is mindful spending.

While it is fun to go out and buy things on a whim, it is not always the smartest decision. While you can always budget for the things that you suddenly need to have, make sure you are still keeping track of it.

You must also begin to think about the future. Building credit now with credit cards will help you when you want to buy a house or a car. Having a clear plan for how you will handle savings and retirement will take the burden off of you when you have to make the decision. Thinking about life after college now helps the transition go smoother.

“I think it’s important to consider salary in your career planning and seek out the best opportunities for yourself … so when considering trade-offs of time and attention, now is the time to invest in yourself and take advantage of all of the opportunities to differentiate yourself and land a job you enjoy that provides a good work/life balance and financial stability,” Anderson said.

Of course, everyone’s situation is different. Implementing these tips into your life might help you, but it is no guarantee that it will take your anxieties away. Even Kwaw-Mensah admitted to being uncertain about the future. There is also no guarantee that you will be able to handle it all alone. Don’t forget to utilize campus resources like Big Orange Pantry, Free Store and Smokey’s Closet when you need a little extra help.

“Everyone deserves financial wellness,” Kwaw-Mensah said.

For now, pay attention to the little things, and plan for the big things. Only you can control where your money goes, and inflation, while scary right now, will not climb out from under your bed and attack you.

Lady Vols Student-Athletes are Committed to Community Involvement The Lady Vols believe in engaging with the next generation of athletes and the Knoxville community as a thank you for the support they have always received.

The Volunteer spirit is the foundation of the University of Tennessee. Serving others is the basis of everything on campus including clubs, Greek life and even the athletics department.

Knoxville is proud to be the home of many outstanding student athletes. The entire region cheers them on through every sport and season.

In return, the Lady Vols give back wherever possible to reciprocate the support showered upon them.

Softball head coach, Karen Weekly, has been with the university since 2002 and over the years her program has raised money and participated in events for countless charities. Some of these organizations include Habitat for Humanity, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the Special Olympics, holding free inner city clinics, providing Christmas gifts for children and marching in the MLK Day Parade.

During the fall semester, the team spent their weekly day off teaching softball skills to the young players at Girls Inc. in Oak Ridge.

“Every time you do something from the heart, it comes back to you ten-fold…our players are giving their time, yes, but what they are gaining is so much greater. To see the smiles on little girls’ faces and to know you’re making an impact in their lives is the best gift of all,” Weekly said.

Catcher and outfielder Rylie West was named to the 2023 SEC Softball Community Service Team for her continuous dedication to community involvement. She works with Knoxville elementary schools to participate in physical education classes, read to students and engage in their after-school sporting events.

She is honored to receive recognition at such a high level for her ongoing commitment to bettering the Knoxville community.

“It makes me proud to be at a university and softball program that makes serving the community a priority,” West said.

West is also part of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) which hosts events such as an annual holiday meal for the community and Voloween.

She says her favorite act of service thus far was during a trip to Rwanda, Africa in the summer of 2022 with VOLeaders.

Written by Ella Stewart Photos by Amelia Beuscher Designed by Natalie Neal

“For two weeks, I immersed myself in the culture and served the community. I got to visit schools and let sports be a vehicle for change. The children and communities were so grateful for the resources we provided them with, but the truth is they changed our lives more than we ever could theirs,” West said.

Many of the children West serves look to her as an inspiration. As a minority student athlete, she is a representation that sports can change lives.

“In a world where I get to play a sport and take it very seriously, service helps me stay grounded. There are more important things in life than hitting a homerun or striking out,” West said.

This year, the volleyball team worked with Beardsley Farm to learn about the positive impact of community gardens and the farm’s mission to decrease food insecurity.

Right side hitter, Morgahn Fingall, spends her own time volunteering at Lonsdale Elementary School with the Physical Education Teacher, Julie Lowe.

Models: Morgahn Fingall, Rylie West

“The Knoxville community from my perspective has been very welcoming and supportive of the Lady Vols, so to give back to the community by serving in different ways is something I look forward to,” Fingall said.

Whether on the field, court or classroom, one thing is certain, the Lady Vols care for Knoxville and want to make this community an even better place for the next generation of players and fans alike.

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Models (Cover): Ashley Sooklal, Mattie Chase, Madelyn Stone, Riley Doyle, Sydney Eunji Ablaze | 18

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Sta rs

ety ci

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a m n s i d x S e o S ,

Written by Bailey Beller | Photos by Amelia Beuscher Designed by Riley Doyle

Astrology provides a sense of belonging and safety for women within a male dominated world of religions.

When I mention astrology, what comes to mind? Star signs, celestial objects, zodiacs and horoscopes?

Astrology is a subject that has been thoroughly studied for hundreds of years by both astronomers and the general public. However, in this generation – more than any other – astrology has become something many use in a religious context and representative of their beliefs and self-determined worth, rather than traditional worldly religions.

In the vast tapestry of human culture, astrology’s influence on gender dynamics has become a compelling thread to unravel, shedding light on the complex relationship between the cosmos and the deeply ingrained misogyny that has persisted throughout history.

Women typically are more devoted to this practice than men and have found a comfort in this pseudoscientific community that they haven’t been able to find in other religious groups.

“No, I think it’s stupid,” Acton said.

So, there you have it.

But, why?

Throughout history, many religious institutions have upheld patriarchal structures since their conception. These foundations grant men authority, leadership roles and highlight them as providers and conquerors; this often marginalizes women due to the emphasis placed on their roles as caregivers of society.

As a result, women were unable to find a sense of belonging or comfort where they were supposed to feel fully supported and accepted; rather they are seen solely as a factor in the story of man and the creation of mankind. This seems to be the biggest reason astrology is an appealing subject to women more than it is to men.

I’m in no way discrediting the role of women in religious societies, moreover highlighting how for years, women have been expressed as inferior to men, specifcally within religious institutions.

So what’s the deal? Why do men tend to not only shy away from the subject of astrology, but judge the women who indulge in it?

This can justify why men may find astrology a silly or “stupid” practice. They see it as unnecessary because for them, it is. Most of them have never felt oppression within their own religion or from their own deity; because of this, men have never had a need to stray away from religion.

UT student Donatella Thomas gave her opinion on misogyny’s correlation to astrology.

“I think a lot of men are scared to be perceived as too feminine if they believe in something that’s more mythological and abnormal,” Thomas said.

There is a prevalent idea that men often tend to allow insecurities to take over and impact their beliefs. I feel as though there is a trend in men shying away from subjects due to the fear that their masculinity will be questioned.

I asked Wesley Acton, a UT sophomore business major, if he knew what astrology was and whether or not he found it interesting. He replied to the first part of the question mentioning he knew his star sign, but had little interest in astrology as a whole.

Ultimately, astrology offers an outlet and safe space for women to understand their lives and fate based on the universe surrounding them. This pseudoscientific community provides a sense of belonging and safety within a male dominated world.

Model: Emma Scheibe

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall: Here’s How to Love Them All! Model: Payton Skinner

Written by Sophia Black | Photos by Maywyn Haydamack Designed by Emma Thomas

Embracing the change of seasons and dealing with seasonal depression

Everyone has a favorite season, but it can take time to learn how to appreciate all of them. After all, it’s easy to find things we like, but easier to find things we don’t. Since seasons are a part of life, especially in Knoxville, it’s important to find the beauty in all of them.

Most of us have a mental image for each season: Spring brings flowers and pastel colors while winter produces snow and holiday imagery like Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. Alternatively, if you don’t like winter, images of freezing hands, snow slush and gray skies come to mind.

While there’s nothing wrong with disliking a season, life can be more enjoyable when you embrace them. Finding things you can look forward to with each season is a good way to start.

Holidays are something that many people celebrate and enjoy, and there are holidays within every season to look forward to. If you are a particular fan of spring, maybe you look forward to Easter, Holi or April Fool’s Day. These are a great way to get excited or optimistic about a season you may not love.

Even if you don’t observe holidays, there are other ways to maintain a positive mindset surrounding each season.

UT student Tess Valkovschi shared how she embraces her least favorite season.

Spring is definitely a love-hate relationship for me. While the pollen is not my best friend, I do enjoy the nice weather and all of the flowers blossoming,” Valkovschi said.

Her response is a great example of finding things to appreciate about a season that may not be your favorite.

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Model: Maywyn Haydamack

Finding themed forms of media to associate with a particular season is also a fun way to appreciate and embrace all the seasons.

For example, many people think of the show “Gilmore Girls” as an autumnal show and choose to watch it during the fall. Similarly, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” is associated with summer and is read by many people during that season. Associating shows, movies and books that you love with different seasons can make it easier to embrace all of them.

So, what happens when the weather changes and you start to feel gloomy? If this happens to you annually with the change of seasons, you may be experiencing seasonal depression.

Dr. Macy Copple, staff psychologist from the Student Health Center, shared how someone can recognize clinical signs of seasonal depression.

“Seasonal depression is exactly like it sounds—it’s an experience of prolonged low mood, loss of interest, decreased energy, lack of motivation, etc. that occurs in a seasonal pattern… Some common symptoms include sleeping more, having less energy, overeating, gaining weight and craving carbs,” Dr. Copple said.

Dr. Copple also listed some strategies to deal with these symptoms. “...self-care (i.e., nutrition, moving your body in non-punishing ways, hygiene), judicious distraction, contributing to others, relaxation exercises, mindfulness and social engagement…

Something unique about treating seasonal depression is to give yourself some time in the sun, whether that’s sitting by the window while doing your schoolwork or going on a brisk walk at the warmest part of the day,” Dr. Copple said.

A final statement from Dr. Copple serves as a reminder of the services offered by the Student Health Center.

If you or another student might be experiencing depression (seasonal or otherwise), please consider contacting the UTK Student Counseling Center for a brief assessment of your needs and treatment options (865-974-2196).

“We are currently offering both in-person and telehealth appointments, as well as group therapy and psychiatric services,” Dr. Copple said.

Remember, it’s important to embrace the seasons because life is more fun when you do. Finding the good in the little things about each season, maintaining good mental health through self-care and having good relationships with others can all contribute to embracing the change of seasons and getting the most out of life.

Some major takeaways from Dr. Copple’s responses are to stay connected with loved ones, prioritize sunlight or light therapy and reach out if you are feeling symptoms of seasonal depression. Putting your mental health first is the first step in being able to embrace the seasons.

Another aspect of embracing the seasons is making sure to spend time with friends and loved ones. In the fall you could go to a pumpkin patch, and in the winter an activity could be as simple as going to Starbucks for a hot chocolate. Prioritizing connections with others through fun seasonal activities can help you enjoy the seasons and stay positive throughout them.

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The Most Adorably Meaningful Volunteer Program Johnson explains the program further.

“It’s an opportunity for our dogs to take a much needed break from the shelter environment for a day,” Johnson said.

In the past, volunteers have taken their dogs to go for a hike, go downtown or even get a pup cup.

The program is a great way to help students who may be missing their furry friends back at home.

UT student Laurel Kim loved the experience.

“I was able to just walk around campus with him and everyone else on campus was missing their pets too, it was really great to be able to share it with others,” Kim said.

Another volunteer, UT student Kayla Hightower, has volunteered with the program multiple times.

“My favorite part is always taking the dogs out and walking them around campus. I have taken the dogs to the park for a picnic,” Hightower said.

Written by Anna Eason | Photos given by Young Williams Animal Center Designed by Peyton Blumenfeld

H

ere at UT we take the title Volunteer very seriously. Students are heavily involved, and you can see them participating in volunteer work all around Knoxville.

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One of the most unique, and definitely most adorable, opportunities is offered by the Young-Williams Animal Center.

The Doggy Day Trip program allows dogs to get out of the shelter for a day and spend the enriching time with a volunteer.

Young-Williams PR and Marketing Director Chastedy

While the program is very enjoyable for the volunteers, it is also an amazing experience for the dogs. The impact on the dogs is evident, and it helps to get them out of the shelter.

“The dogs enjoy quality time, exercise and socialization outside of the shelter. They also enjoy spending time with people in a calmer environment. The shelter can be a very stressful environment for dogs, so Doggie Day Trips have a huge impact on keeping our dogs happy and healthy by giving them a break,” Johnson said.

The dogs are so excited to meet their volunteers, often jumping into their cars out of excitement.

“My dogs were always nervous at first, but once in the car and the window opened up they were excited,” Hightower said.

Pairing volunteers with the perfect dogs is a simple process.

“We select dogs that love spending time with people. We also select dogs that we notice may need a break from the shelter or are having a hard time getting adopted,” Johnson said.

This process seems to work wonderfully.

“I loved the dog I had! His name was Twobitt and I would’ve adopted him if I could. He loved everybody he met and everybody loved him,” Kim said.

Young-Williams has many other amazing opportunities for people to get involved. The shelter is always in need of more volunteers to help socialize the dogs and just spend quality time with them.

It is very easy to get involved with the Doggy Day Trip program as well. Volunteers just have to complete online training before picking up their dog.

Those interested in the program can sign up at their website under the community involvement heading.

The program is a great way to feel comfort while missing a pet and making a dog feel extra loved.

alone

HOW T O B E O K A Y W I T H B E I N G Written by Abigail Doehler | Photos by Bailey Beller Designed by Lita Lemmon Do you ever wonder why we prioritize time with others over time with ourselves? In the pursuit of constantly spending time with others does it ever feel as though you are avoiding time alone with yourself?

We often don’t see the value in our own company. In a world where alone time is not culturally accepted or encouraged, we rarely prioritize time alone and often lose sight of the benefits that time alone can bring. Social media and technology are a large obstacle making it increasingly difficult to indulge in the quiet beauty of solitude.

Despite its difficulties and negative connotation, learning how to be okay with being alone is key to our growth, development and mental health.

Spending time alone often has a profound positive impact on mental health as it promotes relaxation, facilitates self-discovery and aids in the development of self confidence.

Learning how to be comfortable in being alone supports more than just your own health and independence, but strengthens your relationships with others by bringing insight to the value of connection and intentional love.

Mental Health Professionals Tania Beaudoin and Sarah Summers weigh in with expert advice and insight on how to be okay with being alone.

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“Being alone offers time to reflect, to slow down and to listen to yourself. You are likely to have a greater sense of your own needs, emotions, goals and overall pulse on your life if you take time to be alone,” Beaudoin said.

Spending time alone is critical in supporting your mental wellbeing.

Making time to authentically and honestly check in on yourself can help regulate emotions and stop nagging thoughts from festering over time. Spending conscious quality time with yourself is one of the greatest forms of self care.

The first step in learning how to be okay with being alone is prioritizing your time alone and making it enjoyable.

“Create a habit around solitude - prioritize time with yourself like any other responsibility you have. Surround yourself with people who will encourage and support that,” Beaudoin said.

Forming a habit of solitude can look like scheduling time alone for yourself daily, whether it’s being alone for 20 minutes or 3 hours, setting your phone in another room or going on a walk.

Find ways to weave solitary enjoyment and stillness into the fabric of your life. Making pleasure and enjoyment a priority can make you feel more inspired to prioritize time alone.

“To enjoy time alone, get to know yourself by journaling.

Rediscover what you love doing alone, like playing music, reading or meditating. Get out in nature, appreciate your surroundings... Create spaces of calm and tranquility in your home,” Summers said.

Model: Natalie Neal

Despite putting pleasure first, for many, spending time alone often comes with feelings of anxiousness. Thankfully there are a variety of tactics that you can use to discover comfort without needing to lean on others.

Learning self soothing techniques to help cope with uncomfortable moments that may arise in times of isolation can help with gaining more confidence in yourself and in being alone.

“For those who experience anxiety when alone, meditation, breathing techniques or yoga can be used to self-soothe and find comfort,” Summers said.

If the idea of spending time alone overwhelms you, try taking it slow and starting small. Maybe the idea of going out to dinner or a movie alone creates feelings of intimidation and anxiety. Start by merely setting aside some time to sit alone at home and cozy up to your favorite movie and meal. Whip up that snack that your friends think is weird, put the olives in your salad that your significant other hates.

Enjoy the stillness and quiet of your favorite scenes without anyone interrupting, making fun of your favorite cheesy lines or judging you when you find yourself crying at the sad parts. This is your time to indulge in what you want and prioritize your desires. Seek out the beauty and freedom that can be found in solitude by making choices that please you.

A final tip that helps with learning to be okay with being alone is understanding and distinguishing between being lonely and spending time alone. Have compassion with yourself in understanding that loneliness is not a sign of weakness. It can be hard to let go of those feelings due to how we’ve been taught to fear being alone.

“While loneliness is often seen as a weakness, solitude can be a powerful and intentional choice…It is not a sign of weakness but rather a strength that can help you uncover your true potential,” Summers said.

“As kids, playing alone and not having friends made us feel like failures. Even as adults, many would rather be in an unhappy relationship than be single. Studies show that when we fear being single, we settle for less satisfying relationships,” Summers said.

We struggle to be alone because we fear loneliness but many of us don’t realize that loneliness is not exclusive to time alone.

Oftentimes, people feel lonely even while they are surrounded by others. Spending time alone does not mean that you are isolated, it is merely prioritizing and loving yourself just as much as you do other people.

Taking time alone is not selfish or a negative reflection of the people around you; it is merely a conscious choice to help develop your independence and enhance your love for yourself and others.

“Every step you take towards understanding yourself in solitude will help you love others. By learning to understand and love yourself, you gain perspective on the effort required to love someone else. The process of understanding ourselves teaches us how to appreciate others,” Summers said.

Try to put yourself first. Prioritize and take pleasure time alone. See the profound impact it has on your confidence, your inner peace and your relationships with others.

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Shattering the Silenc LET‘s TALk about sexu Sharing sexual assault experiences and taking back what is rightfully yours.

“I often wonder if I hadn’t chosen to be nice to him, maybe he wouldn’t have assaulted me on prom night. He was a friend of a friend; someone I thought I could trust. It did not matter what I was wearing, although I loved that black sequin dress my mom had specially tailored for me. I was too young to realize what had happened. At school, his friends publicly made fun of me, calling me a whore and telling me I ‘wanted it’ even though I still, to this day, cannot recall ever ‘wanting it,” student one said.

These are thoughts many people who are sexually assaulted have regardless of gender or identity. Victims put the blame on themselves, when the only person to blame is the assailant.

Two UT students shared their personal experience with sexual assualt and will be referered to as student one and student two in this article to protect thier identity. Ablaze magazine’s editorial staff has the right to grant anonymity to sources when their safety is in jeopardy.

There is a common stereotype that women travel in packs that may come off as funny but has a harsh reality as many women do this for safety. Unfortunately, sexual assault is far too common, especially on college campuses. The UT Office of Title IX received 109 reports of sexual misconduct/sexual harrassment in 2022.

Student two mentioned the relevance of the topic in pop culture such as tv shows. For instance, the show “Sex Education” is a lighthearted and comedic watch with difficult, heavier topics intertwined. Student two explained her connection with one particular scene that discusses assault.

One of the main characters, Amy, struggles after her assault and confides in Jean, her therapist. Jean comforts her, making Amy feel heard and reminding her to find strength within. Student two expressed how she related with Amy as they both asked themselves what if they acted differently or were able to avoid the situation. The response from Jean to Amy resonated with her and helped her avoid self-blaming thoughts.

“What that man did to you on the bus has nothing to do with your smile or your personality and is only about him. And it is absolutely not your fault, do you understand,” Jean said.

“Personally, that scene and conversation brings me peace. I find closure in knowing it has nothing to do with me and everything to do with them. I applaud and appreciate the accuracy of this clip and hope the media continues to encourage women to talk about their experiences and display these kinds of topics, ” student two said.

Model: Ashley Sooklal

ce: ual assault

Written by Grace Donoho | Photos by Bailey Beller Designed by Erin Herbers

As someone who’s also been sexually assaulted, I have found that I have difficulty pursuing relationships or even friendships with others at times. I used to kick and blame myself for having what felt like too many boundaries in place.

At the UT, there are resources such as the Office of Title IX to report said incidents intended to prevent and educate those about sexual assault. Although these resources are available, I wish I did not need to receive or seek help and I wish I was not assaulted in the first place. However, after seeking help, I have learned there is nothing wrong with me and that healing from a traumatic event takes trial and error. It can be slow and exhausting at times.

Reaching out to resources can be very helpful and insightful; talking about the instance and acknowledging it is powerful. The Student Counseling Center on campus also offers 24/7 free resources for students through their helpline as well as weekday counseling services.

Discussing the experience with others can provide help with dealing with trauma. Student one expressed her love for therapy and how beneficial it was for her. She was able to overcome past trauma and started to unpack relationship issues.

“With therapy, I have found not to dwell on the past as nothing good can come from it. It can be difficult not to blame yourself, which is why a support system is encouraged. I have learned to not blame myself for not knowing then what I know now,” student one said.

Many individuals feel afraid to speak up due to the pressure of others and societal expectations which is why I choose to be an advocate for it. One way to learn how to reclaim your body is to spend time with other women who uplift and protect you. It is an essential part of the process of healing to not let the assault define yourself.

“It is okay not to own what happened. In fact, I prefer not to focus on it…there is so much more to me than whatever I have experienced,” student two said.

Personally, I remind myself that I

should not carry this burden because it is not my fault, and I will not feel shame for it.

Experiences do indeed shape us, but taking back what is rightfully yours is a choice. We should encourage those who can resonate with this to choose yourself. Sexual assault is not empowering whatsoever, but choosing yourself time and time again is. Choose and prioritize yourself, focus on what makes you happy, and spend time engaging in activities that uplift you.

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HOW TO DRESS LIKE AN ITALIAN A Reflection on the Chic Fashion Scene with Insight from Designer Max Martini

Written by Ava Franzoy | Photos by Ava Franzoy Designed by Taylor Pearson Style is an important part of one’s identity.

Whether we like to admit it or not, our personal style choices leave an impression on the people around us. The sweatpants your classmate is wearing may be seen as lazy to some but comfortable and confident to others.

The girl with the thrifted Chanel purse is seen as wealthy and trendy even though she found it for a steal, and while wearing your Pink Floyd t-shirt from Urban Outfitters you may be asked to name a few songs off their first album whether you’re a fan or not.

The fashion industry is worth 1.7 trillion dollars for a reason: You can leave an impression worth a thousand words without speaking once with the right outfit and with access to the internet, dressing with style is more accessible than before.

Chic is a word used to encompass the classic fashion scene, and no country epitomizes chic quite like Italy. Lucky for us, today, it is easier than ever to dress like an Italian.

Italian fashion is timeless. Generations of women in Italy have learned from their mothers and grandmothers how to curate a luxurious yet practical wardrobe. However, Italian fashion isn’t reserved for those who were raised in Italy. Italian fashion is for everyone.

Max Martini, an authentic made-in-Italy brand based out of Milan working towards expanding its brand outside of Italy and into the American market. Max Martini was the leader of Italian online sales in 2021 and has continued to grow despite hardship during COVID-19 pandemic.

“Before we just had stores, then when COVID started we had to close all the stores and we became a 100% e-commerce business,” Martini said.

Today, Max Martini’s revenue is nearly a million dollars in online sales yearly.

Buying from an e-commerce store is beneficial to both the consumer and the retailer as it cuts the cost of the middleman.

“Being an online brand allows us to be more competitive in the price because customers are buying directly from the brand and the factory, and there is no cost associated with employees and rent,” Martini said.

Model: Martina Corsanego Ablaze | 30

Max Martini has a huge opportunity to expand to America as, according to Zippia, the country that consumes the most fashion globally is the United States.

However, this does not mean that it will be easy for an Italian brand to break into the US market.

UT student Kara Naiper, who is studying in Florence, Italy, shared a few key differences she has noticed concerning American and Italian fashion.

“There is a focus on timeless pieces, muted colors and flattering pieces. While not entirely interesting to me or among the styles that I tend to wear, I believe that Italian fashion has a great foundation for building a wardrobe and creating a collection that will promote the rest of the closet,” Napier said.

ITALIAN

Napier continues her analysis and switches her focus to American fashion.

“American style these days focuses on a front of athleisure and bright colors. While you will see some use of pattern and color in Italy, primarily they choose more professional attire,” Napier said.

There is no way around it – Americans value comfort. So how does a brand like Max Martini succeed in foreign territory?

Marketing will play a huge role in breaking down common misconceptions held by many Americans — the idea that professional attire is boring, expensive or uncomfortable.

Well-established Italian brands such as Gucci, Fendi and Prada are accessible but come at a high price.

Many smaller Italian designers have addressed this issue by offering high-quality, trendy pieces at a low cost online.

The inspiration for Max Martini is simple.

“We like the blue, white and light blue colors and we like to play around those 3 colors,” Martini said.

The brand focuses on providing consumers with timeless pieces made from high-quality materials such as Linen and Cashmere at competitive prices. On their site, you can find items ranging from 30 Euros for a polo to 200 Euros for a winter trench coat.

No matter what style you choose, chic like the Italians, comfortable like the Americans or somewhere in between, stepping out in an outfit you feel confident in will always be to your benefit. With endless access to affordable brands around the world, like Max Martini, finding a personal style that is right for you is only a click away.

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How Women are Saving

Written by Aurora Bryan | Graphics by Sophia Carter Designed by Sinit Tesfamariam, Holly Sarah Liban

It’s no secret that this past year has been one for the girls. With the staggering popularity of the “Barbie” movie, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and Beyonce’s Renaissance Tour, female entertainers and consumers have been running pop culture and the economy.

In an article published Sep. 19, 2023 by the U.S. Travel Association, author Aaron Szyf estimates that the total economic impact of the Eras Tour will exceed $10 billion. Similarly, in a Forbes article published Oct. 2, 2023, author Sughnen Yongo wrote that the Renaissance Tour is set to generate around $4.5 billion for the U.S. economy by its end. This trend is continued with the general knowledge that “Barbie” crossed that upper echelon threshold of grossing over $1 billion in the box office.

Now, while these numbers are exceedingly impressive, why are they important?

It’s been pretty clear that the U.S. economy took a significant hit due to the pandemic and has been struggling to return to normal ever since.

But why did it take such a big hit? And why is it taking so long to return to normal?

UT ecnomics professor Donna Bueckman shared her thoughts.

“One of the primary measures of GDP (Gross Domestic Product) is what we call the expenditure approach…the biggest chunk of that is consumption, about 67% of GDP is typically measured from the personal consumption expenditures perspective. That’s you and me spending money,” Bueckman said.

Basically, the U.S. economy is based on the public spending money, and when everyone was losing their jobs and being forced to stay home, they weren’t spending any money. This continued even after the lockdown ended because by that point, the U.S. had entered a recession which caused people to remain hesitant about spending.

So, with lack of spending and recession being a self-fulfilling circle, how do we break the cycle?

“Unless you can convince the public that it’s gonna be okay and they can go ahead and spend, they’re probably not going to spend…. If consumers have more confidence, and can go ahead and continue to spend, GDP will not fall,” Bueckman said.

And this is exactly what the “Barbie” movie, Eras Tour and Renaissance Tour did. They produced so much excitement among women that they decided spending money on these things, massive amounts of it in some cases, was worth it. Female excitement was the cause of all these record-breaking entertainment milestones and a much needed economic boost, and yet, women have been repeatedly made fun of for enjoying these things.

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the Economy, Against All Opposition No one bats an eye when men get animated about the Super Bowl. While this is another fun event that tends to generate significant revenue for the economy, it doesn’t come close to the revenue the talented women behind the entertainment events, and the women who have attended these events, have generated.

So why are women looked down on for being excited about these types of amusement?

Gender and sexuality professor at UT, Alexandra Chiasson, shared her thoughts.

“I think there’s a variety of reasons…what is maybe obvious is misogyny.

I think that there’s a general disdain for, especially entertainment, that is perceived as being sort of uplifting or empowering and that’s because women feeling powerful is threatening to a world that is pretty much structured around men and men’s desires,” Chiasson said.

Along with this disdain comes systematic strategies that are being used to devalue the work of the inspiring women who have created these events, and the women that enjoy them.

“Taylor Swift kind of gets a little more attention for the fans not being taken seriously or being girlish or something like that. There’s these sort of diminutive modes that people use to talk about her fandom, and I think when you look at Beyonce, there’s a similar effect. Right? Where people don’t take it as seriously because ‘it’s just pop music’,” Chiasson said.

However, while it’s disappointing to be facing so much outside opposition concerning the enjoyment of these events, their popularity may also be spelling out a positive turn in the way women perceive themselves and others.

“A few decades ago, this all would be considered too girly. It’s sad to say, but you were looked down upon by other women who were professionals, who said, ‘Well, if you’re a professional, you have to… act like this. You’re in a man’s world, you got to do this.’...Growing up and realizing I don’t have to be a man to play in a man’s world, I can still be me. And that’s cool. Also flexing a little bit of market power is not a bad idea. ‘Remember me? I’m here. I have money. Ignore me at your own peril’,” Bueckman said.

So it’s better to focus on the positives that these enjoyments have caused and hope that the love and feminine energy surrounding them will speak for itself and spread.

Chiasson described it best: “It can become a feminist ethos to sort of spread the love a little more. And I think that big artists who do the work, and I would say Taylor Swift and Beyonce are two good examples, to uplift up and coming people and help the people who have made their careers possible.

I think that that’s some pretty good stuff that it can sort of have its own kind of feminism to it. Especially when that includes spreading money around and economic opportunities for people,” Chiasson said.

In a world where women are continuing to shape the cultural and economic landscape, it’s high time we recognize the immense value of their contributions, celebrate their accomplishments and embrace the positive changes they’re bringing to society.

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ABLAZE SOCIAL MEDIA TEAM

Ashlin Coffinberry Barbie: An Ode to Girlhood

Amari Mills Game Changers: Black Women That Changed Fashion

Jenisse Sanches To All The Girls Struggling In College

Reagan Koerner Fall Fashion: Trend Predictions

Quinn Summey The Art of Wes Anderson

Jerika Eduave What’s Happening in Tennessee

Molly Nichols Spotlight: Madisyn Brown (left)

Yvonne Ratledge Easter Eggs In The Midnights Music Videos

Designed by Molly Nichols Ablaze | 34

“I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to be the editor of such an amazing team. I am so proud of each and every one of our members and cannot wait to see their ideas for the posts to come!”

-Molly Nichols

@ablazeutk

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