The Commonwealth Times; Oct. 30, 2019 by VCU Student Media Center

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VOL. 61, NO. 11 OCTOBER 30 , 2019

‘TIME FOR CHANGE’ limited sga funding causes some orgs to fundraise, outsource money

The Student Government Association’s deadline for spring semester funding is Friday, but some student organizations are still struggling with budget deficits. Photo by Jon Mirador HANNAH EASON News Editor ANYA SCZERZENIE Contributing Writer

ith the deadline for student organizations to request spring semester funding on Friday, many are still struggling to make up for the money they weren’t allocated earlier in the semester. For the fall semester, the funding for student orgs was cut by 20% due to a budget deficit. The Student Government Association, or SGA, determines the money allocated to student organizations through the Student Activity Fee and enrollment. SGA Chair of Appropriations Xaneya Arroyo said that due to a drop in enrollment, the allocated budget for student org funding was cut by 20%. “That’s why more student orgs this year may have seen from our annual or fall semester funding that they haven’t gotten as much as they have in previous years,” said Arroyo, a junior international business major. The Student Activity Fee is used to support student activities such as concerts, plays, student organizations and publications. The fee ranges from $4 to $90 depending on the student’s campus, credit hours and housing. Arroyo is hoping the fee will be raised. “In the flowchart of how VCU’s money is breaking down, there just hasn’t been as much funding as there has been in the past,” Arroyo said. “I think that that is a huge deficit, especially since we’ve been getting the same activity from students for a long, long time. So I think it’s time for change. I really do.” For full-time undergraduate students, the Student Activity Fee is based on what campus they attend. For Monroe Park students with private and on-campus housing, the fee is $90. MCV students are charged $36. Others, such as graduate, masters and doctoral programs, have lower fees ranging between $36 and $56. Students who live off campus do not have to pay the fee, according to the VCU 2019-2020 budget.

Colleen Connolly of Catholic Campus Ministries said the organization still receives school funding, but it decreased significantly this year. “Our funding has been decreased by a couple thousand dollars,” Connolly said. “We do a free Sunday supper every evening that’s open to all students and not just our club specifically, and as long as we push that enough, we’re not being hit as hard by [funding cuts].”

There was no apology, no notification that they’d even messed up. They just said we had that amount of money until we didn’t. Each event is about $300, so we don’t need $3,000 to run three events [per semester], but it would have been nice for them to admit their mistake and try to fix it.” Virginia Moore, Italian Club president Connolly said the organization may have to forgo some of the events it has had in the past due to funding cuts. “We have had a conversation recently about trying to fundraise,” Connolly said. “I know some bigger events like our haunted house may not happen this year because funding is not up to par.” Vivek Kuruvilla, who served as SGA president last year, said that SGA recently changed its system of allocating funds in order to “make sure everyone got a piece of the pot.” The change encouraged student organizations to budget their spending for the year instead of the semester, and the funding limit for each org is

based on the budget created at the beginning of the year. Budgets outline expenses such as operational, travel and program funding and planning for the year rather than per semester would give organizations access to a larger amount of money. “It was to simplify [the process],” Kuruvilla said. “It was to make sure that orgs add more access [to funding].” Kuruvilla, who is a fifth-year mechanical engineering student, said the process involved a lot of work with their internal appropriations bylaws. “It came with all the best intentions,” Kuruvilla said. “I’m not sure specifically how it worked out from an individual student org perspective, but it came with the intentions of trying to make sure every single org had access to the resources that each other had.” Many student orgs, like the Italian Club, say they are struggling with funding and the new RamsConnect system. RamsConnect, an online space for student organizations, departments and community partners, can assist organizations with event planning, campus involvement and financing. In their first semester of receiving funding, the Italian Club’s president, Virginia Moore, said they have already experienced problems with the new RamsConnect system. “We deal with budgeting through the student office, which has been difficult,” Moore said. “They’ve redone the system, and it’s a whole new layout.” Moore said her club — which has about 40 members — was listed in RamsConnect as having requested $4,000 for the fall semester. The website later listed that $3,000 was granted to them, which Moore says was more than they needed. “We were very happy with that amount of money, and we planned our events,” Moore said. “Our most recent event was a cooking night where we divided into teams in the kitchen, one team cooked cacio e pepe and the other cooked carbonara. There was a judge, but mostly it was a night where we cooked, ate and hung out together.” See SGA FUNDING on page 2

2 The Commonwealth Times

Stories of the week

national: CNN reports the Getty Fire has destroyed at least eight homes in Los Angeles since flaring up early Monday. The area is under extreme red flag warning, with hurricane-strength winds expected Wednesday. international: Lebanon’s Prime Minister resigned Tuesday after demands from protesters who have been demonstrating in the country for nearly two weeks.

Unsure where to vote? Here are some polling places near VCU EMMA GAUTHIER Contributing Writer

ranked higher than the national averages for all institutions. On Tuesday, Virginians In 2018, 60% of registered Dominion Place will be voting for represenvoters at VCU showed up on 1025 W. Grace St. tatives in both the Senate Election Day, which contribTabernacle Baptist Church and the House of Delegates, uted to the university-wide 1925 Grove Ave. where Republicans hold a voting rate of 48.6%. The majority in both houses. average voting rate for all inVirginia Most on-campus students stitutions was 39.1% in 2018. Commonwealth will be voting at the UniverA representative for University sity Student Commons, but NextGen America, an orlocations vary for some resiganization that mobilizes dence halls and off-campus young people to vote, says neighborhoods. one of the reasons people Unsure where you’ll be don’t vote is because they voting Nov. 5? Here are don’t do the research to find some of the polling areas their polling location. Randolph Community Center near campus: “I think there’s a lot of ap1415 Grayland Ave. athy,” NextGen Field OrgaMain Library George Washington nizer Safa Eltaib said. “A lot 101 E. Franklin St. Carver Elementary of people don’t understand School (1110 W. Leigh St.) what voting does or how it • Broad and Belvidere can impact what’s going on Student Apartments in their day to day lives.” Clark Springs Elementary School • Ackell Residence Center Topics expected to be 1101 Dance St. Maymont Elementary School • Jackson Ward addressed following the 1211 S. Allen St. • Carver election are state budgeting, as well as gun violence Infographic by Andy Caress Clark Springs Elementary Main Library (101 E. Franklin St.) Virginia General Assembly, many races prevention. Eltaib says elecSchool (1101 Dance St.) • Cabaniss Hall could be decided by a small margin,” said tions can affect education and health care, • Gladding Residence Center Jackie Smith-Mason, co-chair of the VCU and every vote counts. • GRC III Randolph Community Center (1415 Votes Advisory Council. “As a result, VCU “There was an election that came down • Oregon Hill Grayland Ave.) students could have a huge impact on to a tie and ended up having to flip a coin,” • Randolph, between Lakeview Aveelection outcomes.” Eltaib said. Dominion Place (1025 W. Grace St.) nue and Floyd Avenue The National Study of Learning, VotIn 2017, more than 23,000 votes were • Grace and Broad Residence Center ing, and Engagement released data last cast in a Virginia House of Delegates race • Parts of The Fan District between Maymont Elementary School (1211 S. month that showed the rate at which reg- in Newport News between Democrat North Harrison Street and Stuart CirAllen St.) istered students voted in 2018 has nearly Shelly Simonds and Republican David cle, and within Park Avenue and West • Randolph, between Kansas Avenue tripled since 2014. Yancey. A difference of one vote meant that Broad Street and Lakeview Avenue “Many VCU students care about specific Simonds would win, resulting in a balanced social issues, such as the environment, gun House. After a discarded ballot for Yancey Tabernacle Baptist Church Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., violence and homelessness,” Smith-Mason was counted, it became an even tie. (1925 Grove Ave.) and valid photo identification is required. said. “They recognize that they can make a After drawing names from a bowl to de• Parts of The Fan District between VCU-issued student IDs are considered positive difference by electing individuals clare a winner, Yancey’s victory became the • North Harrison Street and North valid forms of identification. Off-campus who will support public policy that advanc- confirmation that the GOP would keep the Shields Avenue, and within Park Avevoters with addresses not included in the es their interests.” House majority. nue and Floyd Avenue list above can find their polling location at The data shows three separate rates: the It’s rare, but ties happen in local elections. richmondgov.com under “voter registration.” registration rate, voting rate of registered In the case of the 94th District, it would “With every seat up for grabs in the students and overall voting rate. All three really have come down to a single vote.

Polling Locations Near VCU Campus

George Washington Carver Elementary School 1110 W. Leigh St.

SGA FUNDING

‘No apology’ after SGA changes group’s funding Continued from front page The night after this event, Moore said she logged into RamsConnect to request reimbursement for the event costs and saw that the amount of money in the club’s account had decreased to $320. “There was no apology, no notification that they’d even messed up,” Moore said. “They just said we had that amount of money until we didn’t. Each event is about $300, so we don’t need $3,000 to run three events [per semester], but it would have been nice for them to admit their mistake and try to fix it.” Moore said that two weeks later the club has not yet received the reimbursement they requested for the cooking event. Before the club recieved funding from the school, she said they had to pay for events like this out of pocket.

“We’ve had some issues with registering too,” she said. “This entire new system isn’t understood by users.” Ellaiza Antonio, sophomore and vice president of the Asian and Pacific-Islander Student Alliance, or APSA, said her organization has had trouble getting funding from the school because of its small size and lack of a treasurer. “Right now, we’re not getting any funding at all,” Antonio said. “The other board members and I feel like the smaller organizations don’t get enough funding, and that kind of hinders them from growth.” APSA has about 10-20 members. Only three members are on the board of the organization. “Another thing is that with RamsConnect, it’s hard to keep organizations registered,” Antonio said. “Smaller organizations have to do more work for their group in order to stay registered on RamsConnect.”

President of the Student Veterans Association James Grubb said his org saw a 20% cut to the money that was requested. Grubb said to make up for the money, the club has turned to fundraising and local organizations such as Veterans of Foreign Wars, Epic 360 and the Richmond Kickers. “We were told that funding from the SGA was a lower amount this year than usual and granted what they could,” said Grubb, a senior political science major. “We were lucky to have the SGA really understand our requests” This semester, SGA helped with all of the club’s general body meetings and about 50% of their events. Grubb said they also received their funding later than usual, around a month after the deadline for approval. “We weren’t sure if we had any funding at all,” Grubb said. “It got to the point that our faculty advisor started contacting SGA to see what was going on. As a student org, we never received a reply from SGA, whether about funding or anything else.” The VCU chapter of Virginia21 — which has about eight members — gets some funding from Virginia21, but Chapter President Adam Lockett says that it is limited. He said

he heard similar things about SGA funding. “You can apply for things like funding and reserving space on campus,” said Lockett, a junior graphic design major. “But I did not go ahead and apply for any SGA funding, because in the past, I’ve been told it’s going to be very limited.” Virginia21 is a nonprofit that provides information about voting, elections, safety and economic opportunity. Some clubs, such as the VCU Cycling Club are funded completely by VCU Rec Sports. “We feel comfortable with the amount of funding we’ve received this year and don’t have any current plans to fundraise,” said club president Alex McClanahan. Not all organizations at VCU are funded by the university. For example, the VCU chapter of Planned Parenthood Generation Action is funded by a grant from Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia, according to the organization’s president Malena Llamos. The last day for student organizations to register for spring semester SGA funding is Friday.

Wed. October 30, 2019 3

Virginians on Trump’s impeachment inquiry 31

ADULTS

INDEPENDENT

DEMOCRAT REPUBLICAN

CONTINUE INVESTIGATING

83 28

30 25

BEGIN IMPEACHMENT HEARINGS

NO HEARINGS

40 75

DON’T KNOW/REFUSED Information compiled by Hannah Eason Infographic by Jeffrey Pohanka

Poll shows public opinion on impeachment evenly split between Democrats, Republicans KATHARINE DEROSA Contributing Writer Virginia has a significant partisan divide in regards to President Donald Trump’s impeachment, according to a poll from VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs. Democrats officially began an impeachment inquiry on Sept. 24. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi accused Trump of using his position as president for his own political gain by incentivizing Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden, former vice president and Trump’s political opponent. The poll found that 53% of Virginians either believed that there is enough evidence against Trump to begin impeachment hearings, or that investigations into Trump should continue. There was a large party divide between these statistics, with 85% of Democrats saying that Congress should act with either further investigations or impeachment trials, and 83% of Republicans saying Congress should do neither. The Wilder School’s poll included 801 Virginians, 18 or older, who were called using random digit samples on either landlines or cell phones.

If participants did not pick up on the first call, they were called seven times on landlines and five times on cell phones before moving on to other phone numbers. Calls were made at different times of the day and on different days of the week in order to ensure input from a range of people. Two VCU students said they agreed that Congress should continue with impeachment proceedings. “I 1000% believe he should be impeached,” said Med Salkic, a senior finance major. “I just think he’s been an idiot throughout the short presidency.” Andrew Sylvain, a senior majoring in business, said that he wasn’t completely aware of all the facts. “I think he definitely has something coming,” Sylvian said, “I don’t know if that’s impeachable.” The poll also found that those who identified as independent voters fell in between, with 58% believing that Congress should take some sort of action against Trump. Sylvian and Salkic said they would have trouble voting in the 2020 presidential election based on party alone. “It depends,” Sylvian said, “The only person I’d vote for would be Elizabeth Warren. If it wasn’t her, I wouldn’t vote.”

“I’m a Democrat at heart, but I also have conservative views,” Salkic said, “I feel like it would be very situational. I want to swing both routes.” Political science professor Chris Saladino said that independent voters are usually evenly split on the impeachment issue and that the Wilder School’s poll showed the highest difference he had seen. “I think that there’s always been a question about those who call themselves independent versus people who vote independent,” Saladino said. “There are people who call themselves independent who are either reliable Democratic or Republican voters because they don’t want to be pinned down for the purposes of primaries.” The poll also asked Virginians about the upcoming presidential election and different Democratic candidates against Trump. Joe Biden had the highest advantage at 52%, with an 8-point difference between those who would vote for Trump at 44%. When a subject was asked whether they would vote Democrat or Republican, the Democratic advantage decreased by two points. Saladino said he wasn’t surprised by Biden’s popularity.

“I think that it’s a circular argument. That is, people think he can beat Trump because people think he can beat Trump,” Saladino said, “Their faith in him may not be that they love Joe Biden, their faith in him is somehow that they believe from day one — especially from early polling numbers — this is the guy who can beat Trump.” The Wilder School includes undergraduate and graduate students interested in government and public policy. The school contains eight programs and enrolls about 1,000 undergraduate students and 400 graduate students. The survey was conducted by the Director of Public Policy Poll, Farrah Stone. Pelosi’s accusations that Trump was withholding established military funds from Ukraine in an attempt to motivate the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate Biden’s son came to a head with former Ukrainian Ambassador William Taylor’s opening statement in closeddoor congressional hearings. In his statement, Taylor said he could not support withholding military funds to protect Ukraine from Russian threats, but said that Trump threatened to do exactly that unless Zelensky publicly stated Ukraine would begin investigating the Biden family.

Popular RVA halloween costumes include ‘It,’ ‘Joker’ KATIE HOLLOWELL Contributing Writer

has a unique perspective on Halloween, having worked at King’s Dominion’s HalMany VCU students believe the Joker loween Haunt for the last and clown-like costumes referencing the four years. movie “It” will be the most popular this “I feel like clowns could Halloween. That observation aligns with come back into the mix bewhat Google trends released as its most cause ‘It Two’ did just come searched for Halloween costumes in Sep- out and people always ask tember, nationally and by city. me about Pennywise when Google calls it “Frightgeist,” an interac- I’m working,” the junior tive guide that shows what the most popular said. “Also, Joker too, so I costumes are in your area that can be nar- do think clowns will be one rowed down by city. of the top ones.” The Frightgeist has a costume search Google released the generator called the “costume wizard” where most-searched-for Hallowyou can describe how you want to dress up een costumes of September for Halloween, and it gives costume ideas 2019 in the U.S. Here are based on how trendy, stylish and spooky you the top 10: want to be. Richmond had “It ” as the most1. “It” searched-for Halloween costume in the 2. Witch area. With the release of “It Chapter Two” 3. Spider-Man and “Joker,” many students think clowns 4. Dinosaur and jokers will make a strong appearance. 5. Descendants Senior Ayush Bajgain guessed the most 6. Clown popular costumes he expects to see Thursday. 7. Fortnite “Joker again, because of the new movie. 8. Chucky Also, some more superheroes, bunnies, cats,” 9. 1980s the interdisciplinary studies major said. 10. Unicorn Environmental studies major Katie Belic

Illustration by Sammy Newman

Some students are new to Halloween costumes, including sophomore Jen Paredes. “I haven’t really thought about it too much, and I’ve never dressed up. My parents were pretty strict growing up,” the biology major said. “I want to try to dress up this year. It’d be fun to be one of the typical vampires because I used to want to be a vampire as a kid.” Some VCU students said they were

unsure which weekend they would celebrate Halloween because the holiday falls on a Thursday. Public relations major Calen McCarthy would like to celebrate Halloween both weekends if his “bank account allows it.” “My bank account would probably prefer me to only do one weekend, so we’ll see how it goes,” the senior said.

4 The Commonwealth Times

Stat of the week

Women’s basketball was picked to win the A-10 in the preseason poll for the first time in program history.

Battling brain tumor, Sanger inpires teammates NOAH FLEISCHMAN Sports Editor At the beginning of this season, it looked as if Rea Sanger would never again get a chance to lace up her cleats and set foot on the field at Sports Backers Stadium. That changed on Sunday when she was in the starting lineup for the first time in her career. Sanger, a senior midfielder, was diagnosed with a brain tumor, ending her soccer career at VCU before her final season began. Sunday was senior day for the Rams when Sanger took the field for the first time this season. The kickoff was passed to her before she sent it out of bounds at midfield, where her substitute was waiting. When her name was announced and junior midfielder Lyndsey Gutzmer entered the game for Sanger, the entire team converged at midfield and embraced her. Tears were shed by many, but Sanger wore a smile as she exited the soccer field for the final time. “Getting her to go out and take the kickoff her senior night, and getting to see her so happy and excited for it, I think the whole team just lost it,” senior defender Sarah Gibson said. “I’m not a huge crier, and I was bawling like a baby.” Even though she was not able to play this season, Sanger still was around the team throughout the year. When she was there, her presence was inspiring. “I would say every day she showed up, [she] reminded us that we can show up too,” Gibson said. “There were a lot of tough moments, but there was never a day where someone was like ‘Nah, I can’t show up today.’” Not only did Sanger bring inspiration to the team, but she was also a source of hope after a slow start to conference play, Gibson said. Gibson, who was Sanger’s roommate during their freshman year, said Sanger is

determined in every area of her life. “Whatever she wants to do she wants to set her mind to doing it,” Gibson said. “She had everything happen and she said, ‘No, I’m going to finish my degree.’ So, she came back and finished her degree.” Sophomore midfielder Emily Charen, Sanger’s roommate this year, said she dedicated this season for Sanger, who lost the opportunity to play every day because of the brain tumor.

I would say every day she showed up, [she] reminded us that we can show up too.” Sarah Gibson, senior defender “Off the field, life is going to happen. But on the field, we’re here together, and we’re doing it for each other,” Gibson said. Charen said Sanger has always been a strong person, on and off the field, even before the diagnosis. “Even before this happened, Rea’s just always been someone with a strong mind, strong will, both on and off the field,” Charen said. “She has been just such a strong person and always there for other people, even in such a hard time in her own life.” Charen said seeing Sanger return to the field for the final time Sunday was the greatest moment she’s witnessed, not only with Sanger but the entire team. “I don’t think anything will be able to beat that just because she’s such an exceptional human being, and her having the opportunity to play one last time was so incredible to watch,” Charen said. “It just motivates me even more.”

Women’s soccer wore wristbands this season to support Rea Sanger in her battle with a brain tumor. Photo courtesy of VCU Athletics

PRESS BOX

Hyland becomes VCU’s latest solution at backup point guard RYAN GRUBE Staff Writer When starting guard Marcus Evans went down with a knee injury in the quarterfinal of the A-10 tournament

against Rhode Island, VCU’s lack of serviceable depth at the position was immediately felt. VCU lost that opening conference tournament matchup, as well as the NCAA Tournament contest at the

Illustration by Sammy Newman

hands of UCF. Now, as the Rams prepare to kickoff the 2019-20 season, a lot rides on the shoulders of freshman guard Bones Hyland. For men’s basketball, a vital piece of the Rams’ roster in recent history has been the backup point guard position. So now, Hyland will become the latest in the long line of great backup point guards. When VCU legend Eric Maynor was the starter from 2007-08, fellow big-name alumni Jamal Shuler and Joey Rodriguez backed him up. For the next decade, VCU enjoyed the luxury of elite two-man backcourts. It wasn’t until the 2017-18 season — after Lewis had graduated — that the Rams realized the importance of a reliable backup point guard for their offensive and defensive schemes. The black and gold rode an unproven scoring tandem of Jonathan Williams and Tyler Maye to an 18-15 record in

2017-18. For the first time in seven years, the Rams missed out on the big dance. Evans’ injury history — two Achilles tears — makes the Delaware product’s role that much more important. Hyland’s 26.1 points per game average certainly caught the head coach’s eye. For Hyland, the winning culture and family aspect at VCU was too convincing to turn down, he said, After his promising performance in the team’s annual Black and Gold scrimmage — 10 points on 4-7 shooting — early indications are that Hyland has answered the Rams’ questions at the backup guard position. Having a capable ball-handler on the court at all times is extremely important in today’s college basketball. It’s something the Rams haven’t been able to accomplish in recent years. With Hyland behind Evans, the hope is that those problems have been solved.

Wed. October 30, 2019 5

Observations from men’s basketball’s final preseason tune-up NOAH FLEISCHMAN Sports Editor In the men’s basketball preseason finale Saturday night, the Rams defeated Virginia State 90-53 at the Siegel Center in front of a crowd of more than 5,000 fans. Here are the top observations from the evening: KESHAWN CURRY Sophomore guard KeShawn Curry was the star of the show for the Rams, logging 14 points off the bench. “He had an awesome offseason and he didn’t catch feelings,” coach Mike Rhoades said. “He just kept working and getting better.” Rhoades said guarding veterans such as redshirt-senior forward Issac Vann and redshirt-senior guard Marcus Evans in practice is what’s helped Curry improve. Curry shot 3-for-3 from beyond the arc against Virginia State, the only Ram to be perfect from three. “I needed to shoot the ball better. I worked hard at shooting the ball better with coach JD, coach Brunt and those guys,” Curry said of his offseason training. Last season, Curry appeared in 15 of the Rams’ 33 games, averaging 2.1 points. DEFENSE

PLAY IN THE PAINT The Rams missed 35 shots in the contest, but the black and gold grabbed 13 offensive boards. “The past couple weeks, Coach has been on us about rebounding,” junior forward Corey Douglas said. “That’s been a big topic that we’ve been discussing, especially in practice.” VCU logged 47 rebounds on the night, and Rhoades said that has been something the coaching staff has focused on. “We want to rebound better,” Rhoades said. “We’re a good defensive team, I think last year at times we didn’t always finish plays. I think that’s been an emphasis all offseason, five guys rebounding.” Another focus for Rhoades was keeping the ball after forcing turnovers or making a stop. He does not want the Rams to give away the ball after working for the turnover. HUNT MENTALITY The Rams were picked to win the Atlantic 10 in the conference’s preseason poll, a year after being tabbed to finish seventh in the preseason poll. Last season’s motto for the Rams was to hunt, and this season’s no different. “It’s who we are,” Rhoades said. “We’re always going to hunt, we’re not the hunted. We’re going to hunt, we’re going to attack, we’re going to go after people. There’s no other way I know how to play or coach.” Curry said the team still needs to win games, whether they’re picked seventh or first. “We’re going to have that mindset of being picked seventh in the conference and we’re going to keep working to get better like we’re seventh in the conference,” Curry said. The Rams players know that no matter who they play on the road, the opposing team’s gym will be full because of the Rams’ recent notoriety. “Every game is their Super Bowl, so that’s how we’re going to look at it going into the season,” senior guard Mike’l Simms said.

Senior guard De’Riante Jenkins logged 5 points in the exhibition against Virginia State. Photo by Tzeggai Isaac ADVERTISEMENT

Havoc was back on display at the Siegel Center, limiting the Trojans to 19 firsthalf points. “I thought we had a lot of guys flying around, great activity on the ball,” Rhoades said. “We can play so hard because we can play a lot of guys.” The Rams forced 24 turnovers and scored 27 points off the Virginia State errors. VCU trapped more in the contest, making it harder for the Trojans to move the ball on the court. “We want to make it so hard to get the ball up the court and then even harder to find a way to score,” Rhoades said. “We’ve got to live by that, that’s who we are.” Rhoades said the Rams were able to press more because of the deep second team this season, similar to past teams at VCU. The Rams defense held Virginia State to shooting 18% in the first half and 34% from

the field on the night. VCU also logged 10 steals, led by sophomore forward Vince Williams’ four.

Examining Black/ White racial constructs through art and inquiry OCTOBER 5 – JANUARY 5 Broad + Belvidere / icavcu.org

Redshirt-junior guard Marcus Evans scored a team-high 15 points on Saturday. Photo by Tzeggai Isaac Commonwealth Times_ICA Great Force Ad_4.9167x7.92_2019.indd 1

9/19/19 6:30 PM

6 The Commonwealth Times

On this day

In 1974, American boxer Muhammad Ali regained the world heavyweight title after defeating George Foreman in the “Rumble in the Jungle” fight in Kinshasa, Zaire.

Author Ta-Nehisi Coates visited the Virginia Museum of History and Culture on Friday as a stop on a tour for his novel, “The Water Dancer.” Photo by Wessam Hazaymeh

‘Legacies of Emancipation’ generates discussion on race IMAN MEKONEN Spectrum Editor

follows the journey of African Americans starting when the first slaves arrived in Hampton, Virginia, in 1619. It describes Author and writer Ta-Nehisi Coates the lengths African Americans have gone visited Richmond on Friday to speak to in fighting for freedom. at the Virginia Museum of History The walls of the exhibit are lined with and Culture, but his trip also carried a documents, photographs and drawings personal significance. that chronicle several overlooked African Coates recently found out his great- Americans and their accomplishments. great-great-grandfather was from The exhibit includes profiles on prominent Petersburg, where he was also enslaved. figures including James Lafayette, Mildred “It’s of special meaning to be here, in the and Richard Loving, Missy Elliott and capital of the Confederacy,” Coates said. “At President Barack Obama. the same time, if you think of Virginia in the broader sense — in the capital of that older, black America that comes out of slavery particularly — my story of having my ancestors being from Virginia is actually not that original.” We will never get Coates and author Manisha Sinha spoke right with each other at the museum in a lecture moderated by American Civil War Museum CEO until we get this Christy Coleman. history right.” The lecture, titled “Legacies of Emancipation,” navigated the status of racism today Christy Coleman, CEO of through the topics of emancipation, slavery, American Civil War Museum mass incarceration and voter suppression. “All of these organizations at different points in time have partnered so that we It also commemorates the 400th annias Richmonders, we as Virginians, we as versary of the arrival of the first enslaved Americans — can finally get our history Africans to British North America. right,” Coleman said. “I see the entire history of emancipation The lecture ties to the VMHC’s most as a struggle for black freedom, and has recent exhibition titled “Determined: The always been tested,” Sinha said. “Even at its 400-Year Struggle for Black Equality” that height during the [Civil] war, and during

Reconstruction — when you actually had serious black political power in the South — it was always a contested project. And at its core, it continued to be contested and it continues to be today.” Coleman referenced “The Horrible Gift of Freedom” by Marcus Wood during the discussion. She said the book explained how the narrative of free- From left: author Manisha Sinha, American Civil War CEO dom being given as a gift Christy Coleman and author Ta-Nehisi Coates. Photo by disconnects black people Wessam Hazaymeh from their own narratives. “One of the things that I thought was The discussion topics revolved around so fascinating about that book is that … the way slavery is portrayed in history today. people perceive that freedom was a gift “On one level it [slavery] was the robbery given to black folk, rather than something of history,” Coates said. “But on another that was earned or fought for by black folk,” level, it was the idea that somehow fighting Coleman said. for the right to steal labor from people Coates is promoting the release of his and sell people … would somehow … be first fiction book, “The Water Dancer,” depicted beautifully.” which places the protagonist in the middle Coates then went on to talk about the of the slavery era. He emphasized how several Confederate statues in the South, important it is that the longest leg of his most notably in Virginia. After the lecture book tour is in the South. concluded, the exhibit was opened for ex“‘The Water Dancer’ comes out of my tended hours so that attendees could visit. own studies of … the period of enslavement “We will never get right with each other and a little bit of Reconstruction,” Coates until we get this history right,” Coleman said. “And the main thing that I was said. “And we keep lying … because it thinking about … was the notion that the makes us comfortable, and that’s not healthy. Confederates lost the war … but did not lose the war of historiography.”

Wed. October 30, 2019 7

KATHERINE’S PERSPECTIVE

Spooky movies to check out this Halloween UPCOMING EVENTS

KATHERINE NOBLE Contributing Writer

See something

Halloween is an inherently cinematic time of year — with costumes, candy, and a defined visual language that speaks to the masses. The movies on this list all feature engaging plots, unique visuals and seasonally appropriate themes. Additionally, they’ve all earned their place by being good enough to stick with me for long after the credits roll. So, with all the expertise of a first-year film student, here are my top six favorite Halloween movies.

FRI., 11/01 B.A.S.E. 5th Annual Art Showcase

Illustration by Evan McGrady

‘THE LOVE WITCH’ (2016) What really stands out about this film is its production quality and completely unique aesthetic. Director Anna Biller spent years handmaking the costumes, props and sets for this homage to ’60s horror movies. Shot on 35mm film, “The Love Witch” throws in a dash of feminist gender theory exploration to bring it all together in a really vibrant and engaging way.

that many categories. I think it wholeheartedly succeeds. ‘A GIRL WALKS HOME ALONE AT NIGHT’ (2014)

If you want a movie that will actually make you think (and probably cry) Ana Lily Amirpour’s Iranian vampire Western is perfect. Funded through an Indiegogo project, it uses classic film techniques like ‘ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW’ shooting in black and white to emphasize (1975) the dreamlike atmosphere. Amirpour creates “Rocky Horror” is as much about the a sly, moody film that can’t help but elicit experience as it is the movie itself. There emotion. It’s intellectual, but it’s also deftly is a clear community of Rocky Horror funny and deeply romantic in its own time. aficionados; some have memorized por- It’s the kind of film that sticks with you. tions of the movie and scream out the most unexpectedly hilarious lines at cru‘JENNIFER’S BODY’ (2009) cial plot points. This movie was one of the early pioneers Criminally underrated for years, Karyn of camp and kitsch with its drag queen Kusama’s horror flick is more than its villain, wacky plot and dramatic visuals. It’s surface-level thrills (although it has plenty wickedly funny, desperately ridiculous, and of those). Diablo Cody’s darkly comedic let’s be honest — Tim Curry is absurdly screenplay contains nuanced commentary sexy as Dr. Frank-N-Furter. on female friendship and obsession. It This cult classic science fiction horror subverts typical horror movie tropes while musical has to do a lot to earn a place in still serving up plenty of blood and gore.

‘KIKI’S DELIVERY SERVICE’ (1989) This heartfelt animated classic is the perfect family Halloween film. Centered on a plucky young witch setting off on her own for the first time, it features themes of persistence and self-love, and a charming cast of characters. However, the standout of this film is the trademark Ghibli watercolor animation. It’s gorgeous and a wholesome alternative to the oversaturated saccharine garbage typically marketed to kids. ‘AMERICAN PSYCHO’ (1991) Mary Harmon’s psychological horror classic “American Psycho” checks a lot of boxes. It’s elegantly horrifying, visually engaging and just straight up really fun to watch. Christian Bale gives a disconcertingly brilliant performance as a slick Wall Street psychopath with a penchant for murder. The themes of materialism, narcissism and consumer culture elevate it from a delightful slasher to something far more disturbing.

Weekend art build unites climate activists in Oregon Hill QUENTIN RICE Staff Writer Participants sat outside on an unusually hot October day and painted banners with phrases like “System change, not climate change” and “Dinosaurs against mass extinction.” Climate activists from the Extinction Rebellion, the Earth Folk Collective and other organizations met in Oregon Hill on Sunday to prepare for the All the Saints Theater Halloween Parade, the neighborhood’s annual art build. The parade, which will take place on Halloween night, will feature these banners and puppets made by All The Saints Theater of Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and the Amazon rainforest, featuring dancing trees and flames. Other banners bore Extinction Rebellion’s hourglass-inspired logo — stressing what little time there is left to take action toward climate change — and Greta Thunberg’s famous “How dare you,” which she delivered in a speech at the U.N. Climate Action Summit in September. “I think people confuse optimism and encouragement and cheer with happiness,” said Extinction Rebellion member Laura Haden. “Whereas it’s really about being cheerful while having extremely sad conversations, because that’s the gift that we give each other.” Laney Sullivan and Jameson Price founded Earth Folk Collective to provide a space for people to have those conversations in a positive atmosphere. “It started at our home that we wanted

The Black Art Student Empowerment organization is hosting its fifth annual art showcase. Several artists will showcase their art, including painting, dance, poetry and drawings. To sign up for free tickets, visit B.A.S.E.’s Instagram, @ baseatvcu. Otherwise, tickets are $2 at the door. For more information, contact baseatvcu@gmail.com. 7 - 10 p.m., The Anderson Gallery, (907 ½ W. Franklin St.) $2 at the door

SAT., 11/02 ‘My Fair Lady’ screening at the Byrd

The Byrd Theatre will screen the 1964 movie “My Fair Lady” directed by George Cukor. For tickets, visit byrdtheatre.org 10 a.m., The Byrd Theatre & Foundation (2908 W. Cary St.) $4

Do something

FRI., 11/01 ICA First Friday: Snatched Back Wig Party As part of its First Friday celebration, the ICA is hosting a wig-themed party with dancing, contests and prizes. The event will be held in the Royall Forum. For more information, contact Meredith Carrington at mtcarrington@vcu.edu or 804-828-1088 or visit the ICA’s website. 6 - 9 p.m., Royall Forum, the ICA, (601 W. Broad St.) Free.

MON., 11/04 Humanities Research Center presents ‘Femme in Public’ Writer and performance artist Alok Vaid-Menon will present at a lecture called “Femme in Public.” The Humanities Research Center is hosting the event, and it will be presented in the third floor lecture hall of the Commons. For more information, contact Brooke Newman at bnewman@vcu.edu or visit The Humanities Research Center’s website. 4 - 5:30 p.m. University Student Commons, (907 Floyd Ave.) Free.

Learn something

FRI., 11/01 Global Cafe

The Global Education Office is hosting its monthly “Global Cafe,” an event that connects VCU students with international students. Food and refreshments will be available. The event will take place in the Globe building, West Grace North. For more information, contact Nichole Dorton at nldorton@vcu.edu or 804-828-8471 or visit the Global Education Office’s website. 12:30 - 2 p.m., West Grace North kitchen (830 W. Grace St.) Free.

Members of the Earth Folk Collective and Extincion Rebellion groups came together on Sunday to create signs for this year’s All The Saints Theater Halloween Parade. Photo by Alessandro Latour to open up to workshops and to discuss and that building a community is the way educational things like nature immersion to assure a sustainable future.” and earth skills, but also topics like consent Moira Neve, a VCU freshman who or social justice,” Price said. “We don’t want works with Extinction Rebellion and youthit to be just a basement show space, we want led climate action group Sunrise Movement, it to be somewhat immersive with food helped organize the build to unite climate and agriculture.” action groups around a single event. Mara Robbins, who helped organize “I really wanted to have one, an art build, Sunday’s art build, moved to Richmond and two, a chance not just for Extinction this year from Floyd County. She said Rebellion, but for other groups to come Richmond is more diverse in income level together,” Neve said. and race than where she came from. “And I love those differences, I’m The All The Saints Theater Halloween Parade inspired by them,” Robbins said. “I’ve will begin at 7 p.m. in Monroe Park and travel believed for a long time that a diversity through Oregon Hill via Laurel Street. of tactics is the only way we’re gonna win,

TUES., 11/05 VCUarts Qatar Day

The Student Government Association is organizing Qatar Day, an event to connect Richmond and Qatar VCU students. Members of the VCU community can learn more through displays of traditional Qatari clothing, Arabic calligraphy and henna demonstrations. 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Academic Learning Commons (1000 Floyd Ave.) Free.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

8 The Commonwealth Times

Quote of the week

“Cultural differences should not separate us from each other, but rather cultural diversity brings a collective strength that can benefit all of humanity.” — Robert Alan

I am not your Halloween costume

Illustration by Sammy Newman

TAGWA SHAMMET Opinions Editor Spooky season is upon us. It’s time to trick or treat, time to carve out some pumpkins, time to get your spookiest decorations up. But most importantly, it’s time to get dressed up as our favorite characters and concepts. So, as you plan which costume you’ll be showcasing this year, please remember: I am not your Halloween costume. I’m sure some of you are reading this piece thinking, “Oh come on, blackface doesn’t happen anymore.” Tell that to Virginia Gov. Ralph Northan or Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who obviously didn’t get the memo. Listen, I get the hype around wanting to be black. I love being black. I get to dress up as Penny Proud, Beyonce, TLC, a Clover and so many other black artists and characters. Let me clue you in on a little secret: You can also be all of those characters — without the blackface. I was once Belle from “Beauty and the Beast.” Did you see me with baby powder on my face? No, because that would be unbelievably offensive. Obviously, black people are extending the white population a courtesy that’s not reciprocated. Halloween is all about dressing up and enjoying the sweetness and spookiness. But there is a fine line between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation. And some of you have majorly overstepped the bounds. In case some of you are still confused; blackface has been and will always be offensive. Asking, “What’s the big deal?” when you see someone with blackface is not an acceptable response. It’s not just a costume, it’s not just you painting your face a darker shade. It’s wildly racist. The

root of blackface is historically hateful and derogatory. Blackface was first created in the theatrical world when white actors painted their faces black to depict slaves in events called Minstrel acts. According to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, these depictions showcased black people as “lazy, ignorant, cowardly or hypersexual.” I’m sure these performances were a hoot and a holler for white audience members, but for black people, they’re disrespectfully dehumanizing.

So, as you figure which costume you’ll be showcasing this year, please remember: I am not your Halloween costume.” Tagwa Shammet, opinions editor Halloweekend on college campuses is a huge deal. Dressing up and partying with your friends is an exciting concept. However, because parties encourage outrageous costumes, nobody really calls out offensive costumes. The New York Times wrote that Greek life has always been a common setting for blackface and appropriation due to its segregative nature. Well, being a bystander is no longer in. If you see something, say something. Staying quiet makes you just as complicit as the perpetrator. Call out your friends straight

up. Beating around the bush just continues the disrespect. Maybe your excuse for your racism is ignorance. I hate to break it to you, but ignorance isn’t an excuse here. You can’t “I didn’t know” your way out of coloring your face black. What exactly didn’t you know? You didn’t know that blackface is racist? You didn’t know by painting your face black that you’ve perpetrated offensive stereotypes? You didn’t know how to appreciate a culture without appropriating it? You cannot plead ignorance any time it’s convenient. I’ll let the “ignorance” excuse slide, I’ll allow you the privilege of educating you out of the darkness. However, as I said before, your pleading of ignorance is rejected completely here. To some of you, this story doesn’t apply. But, to those of you who thought that painting your face black was a worthwhile concept, your ignorance is a direct tie to your racism. Unfortunately, blackface isn’t the only infamous form of offensive appropriation during Halloween. Putting feathers on your head doesn’t make you a “Native American,” just like wearing a sombrero doesn’t make you a “Mexican.”

Let’s be clear: Culture is not a costume.” Tagwa Shammet, opinions editor Let’s be clear: Culture is not a costume. All of these inappropriate actions stem from racial biases. The more frequently you

get checked on those issues, the less often it happens. However, it’s not up to someone else to put you in your place. You are responsible for yourself and your actions. Therefore, do not blame your friends of the particular culture you’re appropriating for not calling you out on your actions. It’s nobody’s fault but your own. Some of you would prefer to not be bystanders but lack the confrontational skills to call someone out. Here are a few ideas I have for you: • One option is to suggest that the costume be slightly tweaked to avoid offense. • A more evolutionary solution would be — if you’re willing — to educate on the dangers of cultural appropriation, as well as to ensure they never cross the line again. (While I am a fan of furthering the knowledge of others, I’m not the biggest fan of this solution because like I stated above, individuals are responsible for their actions.) • And finally, the simpler, the better. The easiest solution is to just tell the person to remove the costume on the basis of it being offensive. This isn’t a matter of political correctness nor social sensitivity; this is a matter of respect. If you find yourself being called out for appropriation, you lack respect for all cultures offended during the process. Halloween is an experience for people of all ages. For college students, it’s the perfect time to get all kinds of spooky with friends. VCU is a beautifully diverse campus. We pride ourselves on the different cultures and ethnicities that flood these Richmond streets. Please make sure you’re not the one turning this Halloween into a nightmare. So, as you find the perfect costume, remember: I am not your Halloween costume.

Wed. October 30, 2019 9

The only thing you should be scared of this Halloween is STDs BRYCE RANDALL Contributing Writer The spookiest time of the year is upon us: Halloween. Many of us dress up and go out for a few nights of partying, booze and promiscuity. I’d like to take the time to issue a warning — STD cases are at an alltime high. So, if you’re planning on spicing things up this Halloween, be responsible and wrap it up. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of STD cases has risen in the United States over the past few years. The most recent report from the CDC analyzes the increase in STD cases diagnosed from 2017 to 2018: • More than 2 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis were diagnosed in 2018. • More than 115,000 syphilis cases • 580,000 cases of gonorrhea • 1.7 million cases of chlamydia Moreover, the numbers are still climbing in 2019. You would think that with the consistent rise of STD cases, people would take the hint and be more cautious, but apparently not. Virginia is no exception to these statistics — our state has also been seeing a rise in the number of reported cases of STDs. According to data provided by the Virginia Department of Health, Virginia saw a 22% increase in chlamydia diagnoses during 2018. Syphilis cases increased by 52%, and gonorrhea diagnoses have risen by 71%. The data provided by the CDC implies that, as college students, we are part of the grouping of factors that “drive the continued increase in STDs.” This is primarily due to the decreased use of condoms among vulnerable groups, including young people, along with gay and bisexual men. It just so happens VCU is a very diverse campus that fits perfectly into this category. We need to do better. The most effective way to prevent the spread of STDs is abstinence. But we all know this is not practical, so let’s move on to another way to prevent STDs: condoms.

Illustration by Lindsay Hart

Lucky for you, The VCU Wellness Center gives out condoms for free through its “Condom Concierge” program. There are a variety of brands and styles of condoms to suit your needs. If the Wellness Center does not have your preferred brand of condom, just go out and buy some. For those of you who are riding the “broke train,” I sympathize. Spending money to buy your personal favorite brand of condoms isn’t always cheap — especially since we are operating on a college budget — but neither is the medication for an STD. The treatment for chlamydia alone is, on average, around $36. Honestly, you might as well spend the mere $4 or $5 for the box of condoms. What about unprotected sex makes it worth the risk? The few minutes of satisfaction cannot possibly be worth catching a disease that could potentially make your life miserable. Both gonorrhea and chlamydia can cause painful or burning sensations, dis-

charge and bleeding in the area of infection. Interestingly enough, these symptoms are nothing compared to syphilis.

Spending money to buy your personal favorite brand of condoms isn’t always cheap, but neither is the medication for an STD.” Bryce Randall, contributing writer Syphilis symptoms vary but in the primary stage can cause skin sores. Left untreated, in the secondary stage syphilis

can cause fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, hair loss, headaches, weight loss, muscle aches and fatigue. But wait, there’s more. In the case that syphilis has been left undiagnosed and untreated for longer than 10 years, it can develop into the tertiary stage. In this stage, it’s possible it will begin to affect your body’s heart, brain and nervous system. Tertiary syphilis can even result in death. Scary, right? In many cases, people with these diseases do not show symptoms. So, it would also be in everyone’s best interest to go to VCU Student Health Services or to a free clinic in the area and get tested. Condoms prevent the spread of STDs, but so does knowledge about your STD status. Going out, partying and having fun are completely fine. However, we still need to be responsible. STD cases are reaching new highs and, if it’s OK with you, I’d like to keep those rising statistics off our campus. Trick-or-treat. Make good choices.

Tea Time with Tagwa: TRICK OR DRINK

TAGWA SHAMMET Opinions Editor Tea timers, I made a new song for y’all — hear it out: Trick or treat, trick or treat, give me something good to drink. If you don’t, I don’t care, I’ll find the nearest frat affair. Okay, so maybe that wasn’t lyrical genius, but you get the point. It’s spooky season. Time to get all types of dressed up and party like it’s our last weekend on Earth. With Halloweekend nearing its peak, I urge all of you to be careful. Drinking your livers out is cute in concept, but the repercussions are far less attractive. I’m all for the partying planned for this weekend. In fact, I will be participating. I just want y’all to stay safe. Halloween used to be a time when we went around

door-to-door asking for candy. Now, we’re asking for something a bit stronger. I support all of you in your endeavors for this weekend, as I hope you reciprocate the same energy and support for me. However, since I care about all of you so much, why don’t I share some insider secrets on how to ensure you and your friends’ safety this Halloweekend? Freshmen, let me start by welcoming you to your very first spooky tradition. I’m sure you’ve heard many stories about the infamous Halloweekend on college campuses. I understand the excitement may be overwhelming, but please take some notes. While my list of safety tricks is helpful to all, you are the primary target. 1. Go in groups. Make sure you’re going to parties in a group of people you not only know but, more importantly, trust. 2. Know your limit. Watching everyone around you take shot after shot is exhilarating, and the peer pressure

is intoxicating. But be aware of how much you can handle. 3. You are responsible for yourself. Like I said before, nobody knows your limit but you. Therefore, it is nobody’s responsibility to cut you off. 4. Stop peer-pressuring each other. If someone says no to a drink, don’t try to force them to keep drinking. 5. Don’t drink just anything. While stereotypes have perpetuated that this point pertains only to women, I’m going to direct this to people of all genders. If you didn’t see someone pour it, don’t drink it. But seriously, have fun this weekend. Halloweekend is one of the most horrifyingly thrilling times of the year. Enjoy yourself

as much as you can. I know how exciting partying with your friends and meeting new people can be. But don’t let peer pressure turn your Halloweekend into one you’ll never remember. And that’s the tea.

Illustration by Sammy Newman

10â&#x20AC;&#x192;The Commonwealth Times

THE CT STAFF EXECUTIVE EDITOR Georgia Geen geengr@commonwealthtimes.org

Confidence Boost by Lindsay Hart

MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Ringle ringlea@commonwealthtimes.org NEWS EDITOR Hannah Eason news@commonwealthtimes.org SPORTS EDITOR Noah Fleischman sports@commonwealthtimes.org SPECTRUM EDITOR Iman Mekonen spectrum@commonwealthtimes.org OPINIONS EDITOR Tagwa Shammet opinions@commonwealthtimes.org

Costume Conundrum by Sarah Brady

PHOTO EDITOR Jon Mirador photography@commonwealthtimes.org AUDIENCE EDITOR Alexandra Zernik zernikal@commonwealthtimes.org ILLUSTRATIONS EDITOR Sammy Newman illustrations@commonwealthtimes.org STAFF WRITERS Adam Cheek, Sports Ryan Grube, Sports Quentin Rice, Spectrum STAFF ILLUSTRATORS Erin Joo

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Unhappy Halloween by Ellie Erhart

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ABOUT THE CT The Commonwealth Times is the award-winning independent student newspaper at VCU, since 1969. The CT staff maintains all editorial and operations discretion. There is absolutely no prior review by the public, university or VCU Student Media Center administration or staff. The Executive Editor writes and manages the Operations Budget.

ADD YOUR VOICE The opinions pages of the CT are a forum open to the public. Contributions are welcome by email to Tagwa Shammet, by mail or in-person at 817 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220. Opinions expressed are those of individual columnists and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Commonwealth Times. Unsigned editorials represent the collective opinion of The CT staff. The Commonwealth Times strives for accuracy in gathering news. If you think we have made an error, please email the appropriate section editor. Corrections will appear on the news pages and/or online. One CT per person. Additional copies can be purchased at the Student Media Center for $1 each.

Wed. October 30, 2019 11

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Los Angeles Times Crossword Puzzle WHAT ABOUT BOB?