Whittier Homecoming 2015 by Wilmington Friends School

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Homecoming 2015 Since 1884

iscellany

Wilmington Friends School's Community Newspaper

Syrian Refugee Crisis Persists Leah Johnson '18 News Writer

One consequence of conflict is human displacement. When a nation goes to war with another country or with itself, people seek refuge from the fighting. Revolutions and wars have been fought in the name of peace and freedom, but like any other conflict, there are people who do not want to fight. These people are often forced to choose a side or flee. These refugees try to escape the fighting around them and are forced to leave their homes. Syria’s civil war between ISIS, a religious extremist group, and the government has created millions of refugees. In Syria, thousands of people everyday try to flee their country because they feel that their living situation has gotten too unsafe for them and their families. Forced out by violence, the displaced Syrians run to surrounding countries hoping for aid and a chance at a better life. However, leaving the country can be just as dangerous as staying in it. Refugees sometimes walk for hundreds of miles. They hide during the day and flee at night, hoping to avoid getting shot by snipers or forced to fight for one side. When asked about the living conditions of Syrian reefugees Upper School History teacher Javier Ergueta said, “The living conditions of the Syrian refugees can be compared to the Irish during the Irish Famine, when one third [of the population] had to leave the country. They stowed in log ships to get to the USA, meaning that they took the place of logs on the ships.” The Syrians’ have had to survive inhumane conditions very similar to the Irish. The Syrian refugees have run to Jordan and Lebanon in an attempt to escape, but there are too many refugees for just Jordan and Lebanon to help. Syrians have also fled to Iraq and Turkey, but like Jordan and Lebanon, there are too many refugees for Turkey and Iraq to meet all of the displaced Syrians’ needs. Some refugees are living in camps set up by the surrounding nations to meet the Syrians’ basic needs. One of the biggest refugee camps is Za’atari in Jordan. According to Mercy Corps, a refugee aid corporation, there are more than 80,000 displaced Syrians living in

Za’atari, making it Jordan’s fourth largest city. To call this huge collection of tents a city may be a stretch. The camp is located on a formerly barren desert and is made of acres of tents. There are makeshift shops that line a “main street” and some schools for children. Za’atari has provided a safe haven for many refugees, but it is not a permanent solution. Despite the language barrier, many refugees move to urban areas in search of jobs and shelter. According to Mercy Corps, there are about four million refugees registered with the UN awaiting assistance. Already over crowded cities in Syria’s neighboring countries cannot support an influx of millions of Syrian refugees. Some Syrians have found shelter in old, abandoned buildings, where they endure harsh living conditions and little aid. One anonymous student commented on the refugees living conditions, “People should open their homes to them.” The refugees can not continue living without aid to help provide for their basic human needs. However, for many Syrians still living in conflict zones and without aid, conditions are much worse. Lowincome families struggle to meet basic requirements such as food and water and often live in places without running water or heating. Some Syrians have moved into abandoned storage sheds and chicken coops in search for shelter. The places they live have little to no sanitation, and diseases spread easily amongst the crowded Syrians. The world has responded to this crisis, and now actions are being taken to combat the tragic situation in Syria. Organizations like the UN and Mercy Corps are working to provide aid and shelter to the displaced Syrians. Syria’s neighboring countries are constructing better camps designed to make refugees feel more comfortable and at home. The United States has increased the limit on refugees allowed to enter the country in order to accommodate the growing number of displaced Syrians. When asked about how she thinks everyday people can help the Syrian refugees, anonymous replied, “If everyone helps one refugee there wouldn’t be a problem.” Each day more and more refugees are created by Syrian civil war, and those refugees need the help of others if their basic needs and rights are going to be met on a day to day basis.

Is Soda "So Yesterday?" Cecilia Ergueta '18 News Writer Over the last few decades, consumption of soda has plummeted as Americans have become aware of the impacts of intaking these sugared beverages. Coca-Cola’s response to these developments have often proved to be questionable, raising the issue of the American consumer’s freedom to honest business practices. Sales of soda in the United States have decreased by more than 25% in the last 20 years as sugar in sodas continue to be labelled as dangerous and linked to health problems. Mary Agne ’18 stated, “I generally didn’t drink that much soda to begin with, but once I discovered the negative health effects I was extra careful to stay away because of the excessive amounts of sugar and caffeine.” Numerous workplaces, government offices and school cafeterias have prohibited the sale of soda; as a result, from 2004 to 2012, American children on average consumed 79 fewer sugar-sweetened beverage calories a day. Coca-Cola has started more morally dubious endeavors. In late September, the company released a list of nearly $120 million in grants given to health and community organizations since 2010. Coke’s generous donations may serve a dual purpose; studies show that beverage studies funded by Coca-Cola and its competitors were five times more likely to find no link between sugary drinks and weight gain than studies whose authors reported no financial conflicts. Results from a large Coke-funded study performed by the Louisiana State University’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center determined that the major lifestyle

factors for childhood obesity around the world were a lack of exercise, not enough sleep and too much television. Behind the scenes, L.S.U. is the single largest recipient of Coke money, with more than $7.5 million from Coke in the past 5 years. In another telling case, Dr. Steve Blair received more than $3.5 million in funding from Coke for research projects since 2008. The outcome was articles arguing that physical inactivity is largely overlooked as a cause of obesity, and proposing to raise awareness “about both sides of the energy balance equation.” Serena Gutsche ’18 observes, “Health organizations are doing the opposite of what they’re supposed to. They’re doing something that will eventually harm the people.” Along the same lines, Chicago’s City Council proposed a soda tax in 2012 to help address the city’s obesity problem. After Coca-Cola donated $3 million to establish fitness programs in more than 60 of the city’s community centers, the tax was dropped. Coca Cola’s attempts to prop up Coke sales through hidden manipulations are revealing of how much it fears the shift in how consumers are responding to sugary beverages. Coke’s actions also bring attention to the issue of the freedom the American consumer should arguably have to be receiving information uninfluenced by powerful corporations like Coca-Cola. Katie Zucca ’16 states, “I think that their manipulation in public health information isn’t right… it makes me wonder how many other companies have done that.” Scientists and economists are in agreement: health and wellness is a major enduring trend in the USA, and soda brands will have to learn how to compete in this changed environment if they wish to succeed.

The Freedom Issue Wilmington, DE

Islamaphobia in America Intensifies Zack Horowitz '17 News Writer What exactly is a phobia? According to the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary, a phobia is “an e xtreme fear of a particular thing or s ituation, especially one that does not have a r easonable explanation.” Although phobias are legitimate feelings, the reason behind phobias are not always justifiable. For example, a common fear among Americans is being bitten by a shark. This fear may seem rational, but in reality, the odds of being killed by a shark are 1 in 3,748,067. Likewise, the fear of Muslims (Islamophobia) is an increasingly prevalent fear, but in reality, 98% of Muslims are not extremists. Let’s take Ahmed Mohamed, for example. Mohamed is a student in Texas who enjoys science. In September of 2015, Mohamed put together a clock, brought it to school, and in no time he was reported and arrested for bringing a “hoax bomb” to school. Whether or not this same accusation would have been made against a white student is impossible to know, but it is logical to assume that the outcome would have been very different. Another example of Islamophobia is a statement made by Ben Carson, Republican presidential candidate, during a Meet the Press interview: “I would not advocate that we put a Muslim in charge of this nation. I absolutely would not agree with that.” As a presidential candidate and neurosurgeon, Carson is highly respected among his fellow Americans as both a surgeon and a presidential candidate; however his negative comments about Muslims in America have stirred much controversy. Greg Smith ’17 says, “This demonstrates how racist our nation really is. It is unbelievable that even someone among the highest authority is so racially biased against Muslims.” Is it a coincidence that Carson has received a dramatic increase in financial support ever since he made this controversial statement? He said that “a recent controversy over whether he would support a Muslim for president has energized his money game,” saying that, “it’s hard to even keep up with it.” Hence, it is evident that many Americans agree with Carson’s Islamophobic statement. The rise of Islamic extremism in the Middle East has caused an uproar of hate against Muslims. With every hate crime and stereotypical comment, it becomes more apparent that Americans are unable to see the difference between Islamic extremists and peaceful everyday Muslims. Upper School History teacher, Javier Ergueta, who has taught the history of Europe and the Middle East class for years, says, “it is unhistorical to cast all Muslims as inclined to violent extremism. The Muslim Ottomans ruled most of the Middle East, Eastern Europe and North Africa for hundreds of years as the most multi-cultural, multi-lingual, poly-ethnic empire in history.” It is also interesting to note that Americans typically only focus on crimes committed by Muslims; millions of people have died in the name of Christianity, beginning as early as the fourth century. When Christianity became legal, Pagans were slain by the thousands. Christians have murdered millions throughout history. The difference is, however, that no one holds it against Christianity, or blames their Christian peers for it today. Seung-Hui Cho, a student from Virginia Tech who shot and murdered thirty two fellow students, was raised Christian. After the shooting, there was no backlash against Christianity, only the shooter. On the other hand, after the Boston marathon bombings, committed by two Muslims, hate crimes against Muslims increased drastically, similar to the increase of anti-Muslim hate crimes after the 9/11 attacks. The fact of the matter is, Muslims are held to a higher standard than those of other faiths.

Community

“Free Spirit” Isn’t Just for Hippies: It’s for Journalists Too

violence with presidential candidate, Mike Huckabee. Afterwards, we had a question and answer session with him about journalistic integrity and the importance of Did you know that 33% of Americans cannot name being impartial. any of the freedoms of the First Amendment? Of the We heard accomplished news professionals speak to Americans that do know one or more of the freedoms, us at the Newseum, including former White House Press free speech is the one known best. For those who need a Secretary for Gerald Ford, Ron Nessen, former freedom refresher course, the five freedoms of the First Amendment riders, and co-anchors of PBS Newshour, Judy Woodruff include: freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom and Gwen Ifill. We listened to writers from big news of religion, freedom to assemble, and freedom to petition. outlets such as NPR, the Washington Post, Politico and I have to admit, before I attended the Al Neuharth Free USA Today. We were inspired by former Free Spirits, Spirit and Journalism conference this summer, I was a including New York Times writer and author of The little rusty on my freedoms as well. Monopolists, Mary Pilon. We went on a private tour of This past summer, I was selected for an all-expense the USA Today headquarters, and spoke with the editorspaid trip to represent Delaware at the Al Neuharth in-chief afterwards. We were issued press passes to tour Free Spirit and Journalism the U.S. Capitol Conference in Washington building, and D.C. This program was sat in on the held at the Newseum, beginning of and was sponsored by the a Senate press Freedom Forum at the First b r i e f i n g . We Amendment Center. Along went to the U.S. with fifty other aspiring District Court high school journalists, I to learn about discovered what it meant free speech in to be an Al Neuharth Free high school Spirit. A Free Spirit is publications. It someone who is not afraid was there that to stand up for what they my love for believe in. A Free Spirit is arguing collided someone who is engaged in with my love for Newspapers on display from journalists’ highschools. the world around them, and journalism when wants to tell a story no matter the cost. I was selected as one of eight students to argue a case about Throughout the conference, we were taught about our school censorship in front of Senior United States District First Amendment rights in many ways. We got to attend Judge, Royce C. Lamberth. a private taping of Meet the Press with Chuck Todd right In addition to these incredible opportunities and after the shooting in Charleston, and hear him discuss gun lessons, I was able to meet fifty other kids from across the Jodi Lessner ’16 Co-Editor-in-Chief

Maria Bryk

The

WMhittier

iscellany

Founded 1884 Volume CXXXIV, Number VII Homecoming, 2015 Editors-in-Chief Jodi Lessner ’16 Alex del Tufo ’16

News Editor Maddie Ireland ’16

Sports Editor Matt Tornek ’17

Entertainment Editors Sadie Proud ’17 Katrina Skibicki ’17

Features Editors Sarah Gooderham ’17 Chris Stanborough ’16

Photo Editor Megan Flanagan ’17

Copy Editors Merritt Gates ’16 Chloe Hudson ’16 Advisor Daniel Scott

Fact Checker Evelyn Wakeley ’17

Staff

John Blackwell ’18 Emilio Ergueta ’16 Matt Byer ‘17 Hareena Houston ’18 Tess Beardell ’17 Zack Horowitz ’17 Mike Coons ’18 Maya Johnson ’16 Allie Fulginiti ’17 Maggie MartelliLeah Johnson ’18 Raben ’18 Quinn Kirkpatrick ’16 Emily Rossi ’17 Caroline McGinnis ’17 Zareef Khan ’19 Julia Delzingaro ’16 Evie Kortanek ’18

Marley Morton ’18 Lindsay Weber ’17 Nolan Delaney ’16 Abby Kleman ’18 Alice Irwin ’18 Krystal Xu ’19 Charlotte Donoho ’16 Olivia Garber ’16 Cecilia Ergueta ’18

The Whittier Miscellany is published six times during the school year by the upper school journalism staff of Wilmington Friends School, 101 School Road, Wilmington, DE 19803. To access the Whittier Miscellany online, go to www.wfswhittier.com. The Whittier Miscellany welcomes respones in the form of letters to the articles, editorials, and features of this paper. Contact: wfswhittiermiscellany@gmail.com ‘Like’ Whittier on Facebook at ‘WFS Whittier’

country who were incredibly passionate, smart, and engaged. I gained a myriad of perspectives by talking to a student from each state and hearing what it is like to live across the United States. I was able to have heated political discussions with people who had political opinions and beliefs very different than what I was used to. I felt so lucky to be a part of group of people who at the end of every single speech, lined up to ask questions and were eager to learn more. Vermont’s representative, Emin Aličić, commented on his experience by saying, “Free Spirit was a once-in-alifetime opportunity that I will never forget. I got the chance to learn from the best in the industry. However, the most exciting and memorable part of the trip wasn’t that. Instead, it was the people that I met. This conference gave me a chance to meet fifty of the most intelligent and motivated seniors from all over the country. I left DC with a group of lifelong friends and to me, that’s priceless.” Ohio’s representative, Maddie Weikel, held similar views, “It’s amazing how a simple application could sculpt a group of young journalists who are so complementary of each other. We came into the conference as a bunch of people with questions and a knack for writing, and we left truly caring for an entity bigger than ourselves, whether it was the journalism field, the quest for a higher paycheck or simply the amazingly dynamic relationships we discovered among each other.” The Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Program taught me to value the freedoms that we as Americans often take for granted. It taught me what it meant to be a journalist in a country where there is freedom of the press, and it showed me what it would be like without. It taught me that it is a journalist’s obligation to share what is going on in the world and to keep the public informed, because a democracy cannot exist without a free and dedicated press.

Do People Really Want to Be Free? Alex del Tufo Co-Editor-in-Chief Whether you’re sitting in class listening to a history lecture or watching CNN, there is one word that is heard over and over: “freedom.” We hear about the fight for freedom of expression, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and many others. The valiant search for liberation has brought our country achievements such as the Civil Rights Movement, freedom to practice any religion, and the freedom for anyone, regardless of sexuality, to marry the one they love. Without these freedoms, our country would not be able to function as it does. Despite the outstanding aspects of being free; do people really want to be free? Being free takes a lot of work. Atheist author and speaker, Christopher Hitchens, spoke about freedom during his God is not Great, book talk: “I would say there is the real temptation of something poison to humans, which is the fear of freedom.” Hitchens brings up the idea that religion is an excuse for people to not be fully free. Although I’m not sure I entirely agree with this statement, it brings up a unique perspective. Different groups and causes are constantly searching for the freedom and ability to do, or say, whatever they like. This, of course, is desired by many, but not all. If people are held captive by rules and regulations, it is much easier for them to know what to do at any given point or how to stay out of conflict. A simple example of this is schools with uniforms. Although I’m sure there are many students that despise having to wear plaid skirts and collared shirts to school every day, there are those who cherish it as well. Without the freedom to wear whatever they like, it eliminates the need to think about and plan what outfit you’re going to wear everyday. Although this is a minor example of the repression of freedom, this mindset is still prevalent in many large scale situations. There have been times that I’ve had the feeling that the world would be a simpler place if people couldn’t voice their opinions. Obviously this would result in disagreement and rebellion, but the idea that with freedom of speech comes conflict, is undoubtedly true. The United States as a whole is an extraordinarily privileged country and because of this I consider myself to be personally very privileged. I believe this may filter my perspective on the necessity of freedom. I live in a country where I can say whatever I feel, wear whatever I want, and openly believe whatever I’d like. This is not the case is many countries. If I were to transport myself to Saudi Arabia, I would not be allowed to drive a car, wear makeup, interact with men, or even walk down the street without a chaperone. These freedoms that we, as Americans, are granted are an enormous privilege in themselves. I do not believe that these rights should be taken for granted, although they often feel like an obligation. My small town of Arden has quaint monthly town meetings similar to those found in Gilmore Girls. Last month was the first town meeting I attended as a legal voter. I finally had the freedom to vote, yet it only felt like a burden. I had to take the time to make a decision on what I would vote for, attend the meeting, and make my voice heard. This is a freedom that I can not take for granted, yet don’t entirely feel the need to take advantage of. I was striving to not become another teenager that doesn’t educate themselves enough to contribute to their democracy. There is an outstanding fraction of our country that chooses not to take the time to learn about candidates and step into a polling booth for less than a minute. What is even harder to understand are the people that decide to not vote, and continue to voice their disapproval of how our country is run. I strongly believe that voting is a privilege and a necessary part of being an American. Despite this, it is difficult to always care about every aspect of our country’s politics. The difference between not wanting to be free and feeling burdened by freedom is a fine line. I feel as though Americans are conflicted with this difference everyday. We want to cherish the opportunities we are given, yet don’t feel like taking advantage of all of them. I believe that people have the fundamental desire to be free and have the opportunity to exhibit their believes at their own accord. We are all just a little bit lazy sometimes and lack the motivation to live out our freedoms everyday. We need to choose what aspects of life we get the most out of, and the aspects that we simply let slide past us. It’s true that freedom isn’t free; with it comes immense responsibility. The Whittier Miscellany Homecoming 2015

News How Far is Too Far? Hareena Houston ’18 News Writer Freedom of speech is defined as the right to express any opinion without censorship or restraint. The right to be able to express one’s opinion about a public figure or situation in the spotlight is one that is cherished by Americans; however, when does a public figure go too far? A prime example of pushing the limits of this freedom is the presidential candidate, Donald Trump. He has been headlining news stories in the past weeks for all of his controversial comments. Many of his comments have sparked debates over the extent of the First Amendment, and if the government should put any restrictions on the forms of freedom of speech. While many Americans are wary of what will happen in the presidential debates, most are looking forward to seeing just how far Trump can take political correctness. It can be argued that taking away the ability to say whatever you want is a violation of human rights. Izze Rios ’18 says, “Donald Trump can go as far as he wants. He shouldn’t have to draw a line on freedom of speech. The only place you have to draw a line is when you’re in a crowded room because you can’t cause mass panic.” Along the same lines, another popular opinion is that Donald Trump is one of the only presidential candidates who can speak his mind and make a change in our community by using his voice. An anonymous student said, “Donald Trump may have some controversial views, but he is going to get things done as our next president.” A large majority of Trump supporters believe that his honesty is refreshing and will serve him well if he is president. While some may consider Donald Trump as bold, others are not so kind. It is a widely known fact that most of what Donald Trump says is controversial and is likely to offend more than a few people. Sydni Hopes ’19 candidly said, “Donald Trump is racist.” In light of Trump’s recent comments about women and immigration reform, many people would agree with Hopes that Donald Trump is racist and even sexist. Some might even go as far as to say that Trump’s comments are unconstitutional, making Americans uncomfortable. Serena Gutsche ’18 expresses, “Donald Trump’s comments are unconstitutional because the constitution says we can pursue happiness, and Donald Trump makes me feel undervalued and uncomfortable.” When talking about how Donald Trump uses his freedom of speech incorrectly, people usually mention his comments about Mexican immigrantion in America, or the comments he recently made towards women. A popular example is Trump’s comment to Brande Roderick, in which he insinuated that a woman belongs on her knees rather than in a boardroom, saying, “It must be a pretty picture, you dropping to your knees.” The topic of freedom of speech and controversial comments or moves also brings to mind the recent lowering of the confederate flag in South Carolina. While some argue that the removal of the confederate flag is a direct violation of the First Amendment, others disagree, claiming that the flag represents a culture of racism. This is another example of why some Americans are in favor of having limitations to freedom of speech. An anonymous student comments, “Donald Trump is one of the prime examples of the misuse of the First Amendment. He uses the excuse of being able to say whatever he wants to express his discriminatory views.” Some say that allowing Donald Trump to express his views spreads a feeling of hate throughout America, and seeing an American political figure expressing hateful views can affect how other countries see the United States. Trump’s comments and views about Mexican immigrants and women are examples of Trump taking advantage of his First Amendment right, but that certainly doesn’t rid his comments of controversy. As many people in America know, the discussion of Donald Trump and freedom of speech is a popular one that many people believe should be addressed before the presidential election in 2016. Many have very different opinions on the controversial topic of freedom of speech. Every political figure has different opinions on how Donald Trump should be handled and if he should be censored. With the presidential debates heating up, and Donald Trump’s opinions being publicized and listened to, people are all considering the controversial question: when does freedom of speech cross the line from cherished to taken advantage of?

The Whittier Miscellany Homecoming 2015

Debate: Pro-Planned Parenthood Funding Charlotte Donoho ‘16 News Writer Planned Parenthood is most commonly known as the largest provider of abortion services in the United States, but Planned Parenthood offers more services than just abortion procedures. Besides providing abortion services, Planned Parenthood offers testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases, affordable contraceptives, and screenings for certain types of cancer at low prices. Because it is a non-profit organization, it relies on government funding, private contributions, and donations from non-government sources in order to provide affordable healthcare. Interestingly, family planning is one of the government’s most cost effective investments. For instance, the Guttmacher Institute found that four dollars are saved for every dollar spent on family planning. Despite this, in light of the recent Republican debates, the government has been under fire for giving funds to Planned Parenthood. Some congressional Republicans are even proposing a government shutdown in order to defund Planned Parenthood. In a country where more than half of the population is composed of women, the government must continue to fund Planned Parenthood and other family planning programs. Traditionally, the Republican party has been opposed to abortion and, consequently, the services that Planned Parenthood offers. However, abortion procedures only made up 3% of the overall services provided in 2014. Furthermore, it has been illegal since 1976 for the government to fund abortion services. As a result of this ban, all of the abortion procedures are payed for with Planned Parenthood’s own funds. Most government funding goes towards making health screenings, pregnancy tests, and prenatal care available to low-income women. Although the Republican party is opposed to abortion, the most momentous effect that defunding Planned Parenthood would have would be reducing women’s access to affordable healthcare services. William Stanborough ’16 expressed his belief that the government should continue to fund Planned Parenthood, sharing, “Planned parenthood provides sex education, the

means for safe sex, and women’s healthcare. There’s no reason the government shouldn’t be funding any of these services, because people might not have access to them any other way.” The Guttmacher Institute did a study in 2012 where they polled female clinic patients and found that an overwhelming majority reported that the use of birth control allowed them to better take care of themselves and their families financially, stay in school and get or keep a job. When asked why she thought that the government should continue to fund Planned Parenthood, Caroline Wren ’16, co-clerk of the Half the Sky club, stated, “Defunding Planned Parenthood takes away a woman’s right to make her own decisions regarding her own body, and it would also defund a safe service of family planning, disease prevention, and treatment.” Not only does investing in family planning help these women, but it is also beneficial for the economy. It’s estimated that preventing all unwanted pregnancies would potentially save around fifteen billion dollars. Some Republicans have suggested that the government redirect some of the funding towards other organizations that could provide the same services, but there are not enough organizations to absorb the work that Planned Parenthood is currently providing. Andrew Slomski ’17 agrees that the funds currently going towards Planned Parenthood should not be redirected, stating,“Planned Parenthood seems like a worthwhile program, and I feel that there are plenty less important programs that should be defunded before Planned Parenthood should.” By redirecting funds to other organizations, the need for care would continue to exist and there would be fewer providers to take on the needs of the patients. Although some people are morally and religiously opposed to the abortion programs that Planned Parenthood offers, abortions are not the only health service that Planned Parenthood provides. It is crucial that Americans look past the stigma of abortion and understand the incredibly positive impact that Planned Parenthood has on the people of this country. It is time for Americans to demand that the government continue to fund Planned Parenthood.

Debate: Anti-Planned Parenthood Funding Marley Morton ’18 News Writer Planned Parenthood is a non-profit organization that provides reproductive and other health services to men and women. Planned Parenthood health care professionals have been dedicated to offering men, women, and teens not only high-quality, but affordable medical care since 1916 when it was founded. The majority of this care is precautionary, offering services to prevent unintended pregnancies via proper contraception, and reduce the spread of sexually transmitted infections via testing and treatment. They also offer screenings for cervical and other types of cancer. However, despite the variety of services Planned Parenthood offers, they should not be funded by the government due to recent overwhelming controversy. About a month ago, Republican presidential candidate, Jeb Bush, made an offhand remark at an event hosted by the Southern Baptist Convention claiming that Planned Parenthood should be defunded. He mentioned doing this as governor of Florida before adding, “I’m not sure we need half-a-billion dollars for women’s health issues.” This is a statement Democrats have made known, portraying Jeb Bush as someone who doesn’t care about women’s health. Although Bush has since said he misspoke, Bush’s comments raise questions about what the organization does with the large amounts of government money it receives and whether defunding Planned Parenthood would save taxpayers money. Bush is right that Planned Parenthood receives hundreds of millions of government dollars. According to Planned Parenthood’s latest annual report, they were funded $528 million last year. That makes up more than 40% of Planned Parenthood’s $1.3 billion in revenue for the year, which suggests that the organization would be in some heavy financial trouble without that public funding. The programs that provide this money are Medicaid, a health care program targeted at lower-

income Americans, and Title X, a federal familyplanning program that focuses on serving lower-income Americans. However, not all of the public funds that Planned Parenthood receives are federal spending.While Title X is a federal program, Medicaid operates using federal and state funds. Medicaid spending receives 90% federal reimbursement, so when politicians talk about “defunding” Planned Parenthood, they mean cutting off only federal money. States, however, could continue to spend as they please. Atim Kilma ’18 states, “I think that someone would want the government to defund Planned Parenthood because they think that there are many other women’s health centers that the government isn’t funding. So they don’t understand why their tax money goes to an organization that seems like they can fund themselves.” Recent videos from the anti-abortion rights, Center for Medical Progress are bringing the “defund Planned Parenthood” discussion into the light. The group says its videos show Planned Parenthood officials discussing the sale of fetal tissue. According to Planned Parenthood’s annual report, only 3% of the services it provided last year were abortion-related. This statistic has many critics pointing out that it doesn’t explain how much of Planned Parenthood’s revenue comes from abortion. Others say that the figure counts services provided, not patients served. This means that more than 3% of patients may receive abortions. The 1977 Hyde Amendment dictated that federal Medicaid funds could only be used to fund abortions in cases of rape, incest, or to protect the life of the mother, though some states have expanded cases for which they will provide funds. Overall, in order to end the flow of federal tax dollars to Planned Parenthood, Congress must disqualify the national organization and its affiliates from receiving grants under specific family planning programs. Both Title X grants and federal Medicaid funding could still go to the many other qualified health care providers that offer the same and additional services as Planned Parenthood, without getting caught in the controversy of abortion.

Features

Whittier Quiz!

Laptops: MyVision or MyPrivacy?

A) This Whittier editor once slept inside of a

Tess Beardell ’17 Features Writer

volcano... B) This famous celebrity once touched the shoulder of Entertainment Editor Maddie Ireland...

Meggie Flanagan

C) Which Whittier section is entirely run by Canadians? D) Which Whittier editor was on the cover of a magazine? E) How many countries has Copy Editor Chloe Hudson lived in? A) Sadie Proud; B) James Franco; C) Features; D) Alex del Tufo; E) 4

Word Search A

G X S

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could discourage them from using their laptops at all. It seems that the line between educational uses and personal entertainment is blurred. Subliminally, all Privacy and freedom are two concepts that seem to students know that they should complete their schoolwork stem off one another much more frequently than one might before using their computers for other purposes; however, expect. For instance, many parents give their children the a feeling common to all students, and perhaps teachers, privacy of their own bedrooms, but usually do not allow is an overwhelming desire to do, well, nothing (that is, their child the freedom to have anyone they please in their nothing related to school). This leaves the question: when room. It is a similar concept when it comes to school- is this appropriate, if it even is at all? Obviously, it is not issued computers. Students have been granted privacy by acceptable during class, but what about during study halls having personal computers, and have also been given the or frees? Alyssa Nathan ’17 recognizes that MyVision freedom to use their computers for can be “Good to have for testing, leisure in addition to schoolwork: because people could be tempted their primary function. to cheat without it,” but to many So is a teacher’s ability to use others it seems unnecessary to use screen monitoring services, such the application during class time as MyVision, at any given point or free periods, including study during the school day justified? halls, where students are trusted Some students say they find it to to maintain integrity. be an invasion of privacy. Isabel Teachers who do choose to Crowther ’17, commented “It use the program during regular doesn’t really make sense for class time endorse it, as Library teachers to use MyVision during Media Specialist Mary Woodward WFS Students discuss a presentation while using their laptops study halls because that’s [the states: “When the software works students’] time, and if we don’t get work done during smoothly, it can be helpful to make sure kids stay on task them it’s our own fault.” However, the point of study halls while working independently.” This becomes a thought and frees is to give students time in school to complete provoking stance when seen in contrast with an anonymous their work. The teachers’ concern is that students who do statement from a student, “As a whole, MyVision is used not complete work during free time in school might not more as a threat. It’s almost like teachers saying, ‘if you complete it during free time after school either. In order to do something bad, we will see it.’” Regardless, the exact combat students who avoid the completion of their work, purpose of MyVision is to give teachers the ability to a teacher can remove some of the freedom they have to monitor their students’ activities and give consequences do so by using MyVision. if they are necessary. Thus, keeping students on task with Still, it can be difficult to pinpoint just how much their work in class. freedom students should be given in regard to laptop use. At Friends, students have the freedom to use their Erica Rodi ’17 said, “We are given a lot of freedom— computers for leisure, but they also have responsibilities unless a student is in study hall and a teacher monitors as students. MyVision helps to ensure that students do their screen, then I could see people feeling bad about put their schoolwork first. As Jeffrey McAbee ’18 puts MyVision.” The complication that presents itself here is it, “MyVision is academically valuable, because it can that teachers expect students to be productive and focused prevent us [students] from wandering.” Students are on school work during their study halls, so it makes sense granted many freedoms in their laptop usage, such as that they would use MyVision to maintain a productive the privilege to keep personal items on school-issued environment. While presenting students with too much computers, that it almost seems unfair to suggest that they freedom could distract from the original purpose of the cannot be monitored by faculty during the school day. All 1:1 Program, which is to enhance the learning experience in all, students come to school to learn, and the primary at Wilmington Friends, giving students too little freedom goal of the 1:1 Program is to heighten this experience.

COMPETITION DISNEY FREEDOM ISLAMOPHOBIA JOURNALISM MYVISION REFUGEE WHITTIER

Gender Sexuality Alliance: Freedom for all Friends Evie Kortanek ’18 Features Writer Equality for people of all sexualities remains a prevailing issue in the U.S., and in our own community. Although the Supreme Court declared same-sex marriage legal in all fifty states on June 26, 2015, members of the LGBT+ community still face difficulties in receiving their freedoms and equal rights. There still remain judges in courts nationwide that refuse to marry same-sex couples, and many American citizens who do not view members of the LGBT+ community as equals. At WFS, the Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) club, led by Myla Brilliant ’17 and William Stanborough ’16, meets and discusses remaining issues for LGBT+ equality, which, as Brilliant states, is currently “a huge problem in the transgender community that inequality still exists for everyone, especially transgender people of color.” This club offers a place for students to talk about frustrating, real-world issues, and face controversial topics openly with one another in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment. For those who do not know much about GSA or what they do, Brilliant describes the club by saying, “In GSA, we create a safe space to open the discussion surrounding current LGBTQIA+ issues. It’s a really awesome place for people to just talk about the things that make them angry, because usually if one person is mad about something going on in the news, everyone in the club is probably thinking the same thing.” As Myla explains, not only can members of GSA open up about current LGBT+ issues, but they are not alone in their frustrations, as they can relate with others in the club. Member Sarah Balick ’17 agrees that “GSA is a really accepting community. There’s no judgment, and people are encouraged to speak their minds.

In GSA it’s easy to learn in an environment where no one cares what you do or don’t know. They’re just happy to educate people on topics that mean a lot to them. There is also freedom to be who you are. Expressing your true self can be difficult and intimidating, but the members of GSA are very open and accepting of everyone that joins.” As Brilliant and Balick mentioned, the GSA club truly embodies freedom in their group by offering their members freedom of thought, speech, and action through working towards equal rights for members of the LGBT+ community. In the past, GSA has held a lock-in as well as the Day of Silence, during which members of the WFS community sign up to wear a rainbow ribbon and remain silent for the entire day to raise awareness for LGBT+ equality. They also offer purple ribbons for those who did not wish to remain silent, but still wish to support the cause. Looking into GSA’s growth since last year, clerk William Stanborough says, “Our club got a lot of out-ofclub interest in the lock-in, and this year we have more than 30 members! Even without the success of a genderneutral bathroom and the Day of Silence, our number jump is enough to show that more and more people are coming to learn and discuss LGBT+ issues and current affairs.” GSA has successfully raised awareness in the WFS community about the prevalence of inequalities among sexualities, and has posed ways to combat these in our own school in the future. We are privileged to have this club and other similar ones, like African American Affinity and Amnesty International, to bring attention to controversial topics and work toward the equality of all members of our community. Currently, GSA is implementing an open topic jar for anyone to offer current issues for the club to discuss, which is the essence of GSA. As Stanborough explained, “Our

club doesn’t really work with two people doing everything; we have all sorts of ideas from all of the members! We’re working with Amnesty International to create an ABCD (Atrocities Behind Closed Doors) paper on transphobia, there is an LGBT+ awareness poster being designed to post up around the school, we’re planning a collection and a clothing drive for transgender youth, there’s the usual lock-in and Day of Silence, and we’re going to talk to admissions about advertising our LGBT+ friendly atmosphere as something our school has that others around us don’t.” These are all wonderful ideas that will raise awareness of LGBT+ inequalities and hopefully be achieved in the next few years. In the future, GSA plans to continue to “raise awareness in the school and hopefully organize some events in the surrounding community.” Brilliant commented that “an important thing to remember about GSA is that everyone is welcome. You do not have to be a member of the LGBTQIA+ community to join.” GSA is a fantastic opportunity for anybody in the Upper School to let loose and simply talk about things that are going on in the world, both inside and outside our school. Freedom and equality for all has been a problem since the beginning of time, and will most likely stay with us until the end. Thanks to groups like GSA, Wilmington Friends is working step by step as a community to raise awareness for the continuing unequal treatment of members of the LGBT+ community, find ways to conquer these issues, and turn these ideas into action to provide everyone with the rights they deserve. As President Obama once said, “Every single American –gay, straight, lesbian, bisexual, transgender– every single American deserves to be treated equally in the eyes of the law and in the eyes of our society.” This quote captures the discussion topics of our own GSA club, its future goals for WFS, and the community at large. The Whittier Miscellany Homecoming 2015

Freedom to Participate in Class Krystal Xu ’19 Features Writer It is already the end of the second month of school. As freshmen, students have to find their way to fit into high school – not to mention the classes are completely different than those in middle school. Nevertheless, after a month of adapting to the high school, freshmen are already participating in class more often. So how has this happened? Researching freshmen participation in class gives the answer. The vast majority of students think that it is hard to transfer from middle school to high school because they find themselves learning with different people, and being taught by teachers they may never have met before. They may get nervous at the beginning of the school year, often causing them to stay quiet in class. Bella Stuccio ’18 agrees, sharing, “I think participating in class was hard for me at first, especially in English class. I think it has been so much easier recently after three weeks studying in high school because I am more trusting of the environment and the people.” If you are the kind of person who doesn’t participate in class because you are not intrigued at first, or maybe you are confused about what the topic of conversation in class, don’t worry! Lots of people feel the same as you. “Global Peace and Justice just seemed a bit boring at first, though I really like our teacher, Betsy,” said Jack Zhang ’18. “We were talking about a book about Malala at the beginning of the year. Since I already read the content during the summer, I just listened to her and a couple classmates talking while I barely participated. But after a period of time, I got to know more about this girl Malala and notice more meanings behind the theme in this book. I find it interesting that there are actually lots of exciting question to argue about through this one tiny book. I started really admiring her by how brave she actually is and discussing more with others from then on which make me like this course so much more now.” Through observing classes, it is clear that exciting topics intrigue students and create a desire for them to participate more in class. Students get really excited when the teacher suddenly mentions a topic that stirs up their interest, and they start to focus more in class. “I like when a teacher starts by making jokes or telling stories,” says Eric Jiang ’18. “I remember a couple of days ago when Ms. Puritz was talking about her experience in Mexico. I think it really caught everyone’s interest, since it’s a completely different country and culture. It just somehow made the whole class focus more, and people just started to talk a lot and asking questions. Who doesn’t like stories?” One might wonder, however, if these topics could influence the class’s efficiency when the teacher has accidentally gotten off topic. Jiang adds that he thinks off-topic stories are actually a good way to get to know more about the teacher and other classmates, as well as making the learning process easier as the lessons goes along. “Moreover, stories somehow help me absorb the content much better if I didn’t understand it before,” Jiang concludes. So, it turns out that an appropriate amount of jokes or funny, off-topic stories might even enhance a student’s class participation. You are lucky if you meet a teacher who loves telling jokes! Many people think it is harder to participate in high school than in middle school because the material is more challenging. “I think it requires more thinking skills,” says Denny ’19, an Advanced Math student. “Sometimes the questions are really hard and I can’t follow along. However, I do enjoy the pace during class; it’s such an exciting course to participate in.” For those who don’t speak in class because you can’t follow, you can try asking your friends for help, and maybe your teacher would be glad to give you extra help during lunch! All in all, people who don’t participate in class are usually quiet because they are shy and have yet to adjust, don’t have interest at first, or just need more time to absorb the content and follow along. It is completely okay in any of these cases, because as long as you try to take the first steps to participate, you will eventually succeed. The Whittier Miscellany Homecoming 2015

Features WFS v. The World: Freedom to Cheer Matt Byer ’18 and Mike Coons ’18 Features Writers

“The tides comin’ in, brah!” boomed the students that lined the bleachers as the WFS volleyball team faced off against Tower Hill. With the loving support of their peers, the Quakers were able to ride that tide to a 3-1 win. WFS prides itself in being a close community, providing students with a welcoming, friendly, and safe environment. As a result, when any WFS sports team is locked into a competition, their community is there to cheer them on. However, there is a line between vocalizing support and poor sportsmanship, so Whittier reached out to the community to explore the differences. In all competitions, the pressure to win is evident. The WFS volleyball players have noted that the collective encouragement of their peers helps to relieve some of the pressure that comes from tough opponents during close games. “A loud student section boosts our confidence, and it makes the other team and their students a lot less intimidating,” says Jerica Xu ’18. Not only is the cheering considered helpful by the players, it is also enjoyable for the students. When asked about cheering on the volleyball team, Ryan Fischer ’18 says, “It’s a lot of fun to get really hyped about something with a bunch of your friends, and volleyball is a fun sport to watch regardless, for multiple reasons.” Since players and audience members are confined to a compact gym, even a small group of students can make a big difference. “It was a lot of fun, especially because of the rivalry and the atmosphere at the game,” comments Andrew Slomski ’17 on the Tower Hill game. “As fun as it is to cheer on your team, there definitely is a point where fun crosses the line of obnoxious,”

says John Blackwell ’18. While watching the past two volleyball games against Ursuline and Tower Hill, students received warnings about making noise and being distracting before the other team served the ball. “In volleyball it is disrespectful to make noise at all when someone is serving,” says Rachael Ramirez ’17. The entire team voiced a similar opinion when asked about the issue. After receiving warnings, the WFS student section ceased their focus-breaking outbursts before serves at both the Ursuline and Tower games. “We love how loud and supportive our student section is during games, but it can be unsportsmanlike when the fans start cheering in a negative way, because we know firsthand how that can mess with your focus,” commented Sloan Maas ’18. “I think the line between cheering for your team and being unsportsmanlike is when you start dissing the other team instead of cheering,” added Isabel Crowther ’18. Friends students have to stay true to the school’s established ideals, and be conscious of the effect of cheering on both teams. All in all, the WFS volleyball team has started their season with a bang, and the fans are loving it. “It’s so helpful when students cheer for us and we know we have their support; we LOVE our student section,” added Maas. The student section will continue to back the WFS volleyball team during matches, while still upholding the core values instilled in students by the school. Students must remember that acting unsportsmanlike does not only hold consequences for them, but for the team and the entire school’s integrity. “We need to think about how this is representing Friends School and the respect we’re giving to other schools,” says Blackwell. As members of this community, exercise your freedom of speech at competitions, while being respectful to the competition.

Do Students Really Have a Voice?

Nolan Delaney ’16 Features Writer

Wilmington Friends School offers many opportunities for student leadership and participation. But to what extent does the school legitimately value the opinion of the students? When asked whether they feel the student body has a voice value, an anonymous WFS upperclassmen declared, “No. Nothing actually seems to ever get done; it’s good in theory but it hasn’t worked well in real-life recently.” It would be an exaggeration to describe students as being in a state of uproar, but there exists without doubt a small feeling of dissatisfaction in students regarding some WFS policies and the students’ voice. Students in the past have popularly expressed concerns about issues such as the late board policies, dress code, and more recently, the designated “eating areas.” Although many have been frustrated by seemingly confusing and inconvenient policies at WFS, little action has been taken in recent years to address any policy. It is possible that this is because the current generation of students generally find it to be not worth the effort, or maybe students feel like they don’t have enough voice to make meaningful change at WFS, especially when it relates to the rules and policies. Business meeting is a place for students to express their concerns. Furthermore, it offers clubs and organizations access to a healthy six-hundred dollar budget; certainly an aspect of student-involvement not to be taken for granted. Business meeting also gives students a unique and special opportunity to voice their concerns. However, there has been little to no change to school rules in Business Meeting over the past few years despite popular but minor disapproval of policy. Is this at the fault of the students or the school? The involvement of the students is a vital part of the WFS school education and to answer the popular frustration regarding the policies of the school, Lynn Puritz was willing to sit down to discuss this issue. Whittier: Do you personally believe that the student body should have more of a voice? Puritz: I wish that the student body was more vocal about the changes they’d like to see in the community, and more active about making those changes happen. Whittier: Do you think it is possible for student classes in the immediate/ near future to have more of a voice in the governing process? Puritz: I truly believe that the students could have as

much power as a force for change as they desire here. Agenda and Business Meeting are effective means for change and enrichment in the community [and are] right there for developing new ideas, but students need to be willing to use those venues fully in order to affect change. The last policy the school revised, over the summer, was the Academic Probation Policy (now described in the Handbook as the Academic Alert and Support Policy). The former policy established the criteria of two C-s or below in two semesters or three rolling semesters as indicating probationary status. The Student Support Group, or SSG, which is made up of an assortement of school officials, felt that since a student may be working as hard as he/she can to earn a C- and that the grade of C- does indicate adequate mastery in the course, the criteria should be changed to earning a grade of D+ or below. Whittier: Do you believe that the students have been rather lackadaisical when it comes to their involvement in Business Meeting and Agenda Committee in recent years? Puritz: I feel that Business Meeting has incredible potential to affect change, but it has not done so in recent years. Whittier: What is the biggest change to the school policy or most momentous proposal you have seen passed in Business Meeting in your career at WFS? Puritz: The last major policy change that we implemented that came directly from a Business Meeting proposal was that we allow students in the Upper School to wear sandals and open-toed shoes (yes, there was a time when they could not!). Furthermore, Puritz recommended another opportunity for students to more directly address their concerns in a more formal environment saying that “SSG would welcome suggestions regarding the Expectations of Student Behavior portion of the Handbook”. Puritz responses are insightful, but are perhaps representative of the disparity between the teachers and students when it comes to understanding and overall approval of the rules at WFS. Perhaps Puritz’s interview suggests a new problem that the student body has not yet taken full advantage of the opportunity for self-governing already presented in front of them. Although, kindly enough, Puritz has still provided the student body to get more involved by encouraging us to speak up in meetings and to speak with the Student Support Group.

Sports Controversies of the World Cup Alice Irwin ’18 Sports Writer The FIFA World Cup’s enormous and costly events affect the countries involved and numerous people around the world in ways that most do not realize. The simple idea of people coming together to watch soccer can generate controversial activity, such as overspending and unfair treatment of workers. Over the summer Louisa Spinner, ’18 had the chance to visit Canada to see the 2015 World Cup. Spinner said, “Although the World Cup attracts a lot of attention to the country it is in, it also causes a lot of disruption.” Since it was decided that the 2022 World Cup would be held in Qatar, the country has not received much support. The idea was immediately questioned due to the country’s human rights and poor worker safety records. Qatar has begun to build an infrastructure to accommodate for the tournament, but it is seen that the working conditions for the workers on the buildings could be perceived as potential slave labor. Joslyn Gardner ‘16, clerk of Amnesty International, commented, “I think something needs to happen now to help the workers because they have complained to the press about their horrible living conditions. They live in hostels with 300 men and 20 rooms.” FIFA will be raising the number of qualifying teams to 32 and the past Canada 2015 fan attendance was approximately at 1,000,000. Qatar’s solution to this problem has been very controversial ever since the public was made aware of the situation. The modifications being made in Qatar to host in 2022 are major, and the country is attracting many people to help build for them. Gardner explained, “Qatar attracts labor by making false promises to mostly Southern Asians. They keep them there under Kafala law, where they have to surrender their passports to their employer.” The Kafala System is used to monitor migrant workers, requiring laborers to have an in-country sponsor, usually their employer, making them responsible for the workers’ visa and legal status. This policy has been criticised by many organizations, relating again to their faulty human rights records. An estimated 4,000 of these workers will die in the process of building for FIFA. Gardner concluded, “Qatar’s laws legalize this treatment, and the participating countries need to take a stand against this inhumane treatment.” Another disputed aspect of the World Cup is regarding the costs and profits. Gardner said, “Qatar is hoping that in hosting, it would bring more wealth to the nation, but they are trying to make this wealth unjustly off the backs of slave labor.” In addition to the overpriced costs and profits being produced in Qatar, a further altercation concerning money is the discovery of corruption in FIFA. Currently, FIFA and Qatar are being charged by the United States of corruption and money laundering. The U.S. investigation was started by the bidding process for the Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022 World Cups, but then expanded to look at the past 20 years and the dealings of their governing body. In May 2015, 14 people were indicted of corruption charges, including current and former FIFA officials and associates. The corruption found members being associated with bribery and also allowing them to get kickbacks. FIFA claims that the decisions which named Russia and Qatar host countries would not be reconsidered, even though both were already disputed selections. The FIFA World Cup has gained attention on controversial subjects based on the group’s money affairs and slave labor toward the building of Qatar’s new infrastructure. The ways in which the World Cup has affected people around the world has gone relatively unnoticed. One of the WFS soccer coaches, Chamby Zepeda stated, “Most countries around the world do not know the entire details of the situation and this needs to be addressed.” These unsettling issues must be brought more notice and need to continue to be discussed to educate people about these highly conflicting topics.

How Chinese Athletics Became Dominant John Blackwell ’18 Sports Writer With a population of 1.3 billion people, competition is a main part of Chinese culture. Whether it is in careers, academics, or economics, China will stop at nothing to be the best. Athletics have made a big leap in the last 15 years. At the Beijing Olympics, China had 639 Olympians compete and won 100 medals, 51 of those being gold. They ended up finishing first overall. The Chinese athletes have schools like Shichahai Sports School to thank. Shichahai Sports School is a school where children can board and train in a specific sport. They accept students aged six to eighteen. Students enroll to hone their skills and to be the best they can be. It sounds like a regular sports camp, but it is far from it. While attending this school, students are pushed to their limit. They endure pain, hardships, and criticism every day. Coaches have been accused of physical and verbal abuse towards their pupils. It is comparable to a boot camp: if you are not working hard enough, you will be humiliated, yelled at, and punished. Blaise Glowiak’16, commented:“I think it is very inhumane to treat children like that.” Some children are being forced into going to this school by their parents, and others go voluntarily, hoping to succeed in the sport that they are training in. The children are only allowed to see their parents on the weekends, yet there is little push back. Parents are more concerned about the money and fame that their children will obtain by competing in professional sporting events, rather than their child’s well being. Parents are able to pull their children if they feel necessary, and some students can even drop out. Xiaohong Xu, the Wilmington Friends upper school Chinese language teacher, used to train to be a table tennis player at a sports academy like the Shichahai Sports School. She commented on how she quit: “I was in a sports academy as a table tennis player, but I was lazy. I quit… More parents feel hesitant to do this (enroll their children) because of the outcome.

Many claim that the negative effect these schools have on the children is not worth it. The kids are not getting any real education, and there is always a possibility that professional sports will not work out. They can not get a well-paying job without a proper education. The aftermath of the training can be severe. Ex-athletes have been known to have severe health issues after the training process. Some cannot even perform what they have been training for correctly due to these health problems. On the other hand, these schools can be a great opportunity for some children. Sports academies give less fortunate kids a chance to help them and their family. Margeaux Pantano ’16, said, “Even though it seems like very difficult training, it is a great opportunity presented for children. Some of the kids who came from nothing are talented and able to train enough to become potentially successful athletes.” There have been many successful Olympic athletes that have come from schools like Shichahai Sports School, such as former NBA all-star Yao Ming. China is not the only country that has children attending sports schools. Singapore, Russia, East Germany and North Korea also have schools revolving around athletics. They are called “Olympic Reserve schools”. Wherever these schools may be, people need to be aware of the toll they are taking on these young athletes, and kids should be given the choice if they want to attend or not. It is unfair that children are forced into these academies against their will. But from the other point of view, these schools provide opportunities that some children need to help their families financially. This summer, the Olympics will be held in Rio de Janeiro. It will be interesting to see how China and other countries that have incorporated sports academies to their athletics score in this worldwide event. Perhaps other countries will start to follow in their footsteps if they notice that this is making a difference in their medal count. The Olympics are about having fun and are not to be taken too heavily.

Players Fight for Free Speech Maya Johnson ’16 Sports Writer When professional, collegiate, and even high school level athletes are under the spotlight, a number of programs have started to restrict the players’ ability to express themselves on and off the field. In January of 2015, racially insensitive tweets led to the expulsion of a high school cornerback , and a lost scholarship to Michigan. Major universities like Mississippi State, South Carolina, and University of Connecticut have limited their studentathletes from distractions like Twitter,Facebook, and Instagram. In professional sports, the National Hockey League had issues concerning homophobic slurs between the Philadelphia Flyers’ Wayne Simmonds, and New York Rangers’ Sean Avery. Athletes of all levels are consistently criticized by the press on their public and private social media accounts, as well as how they perform on the field or court. The First Amendment protects freedom of speech and press rights. The Constitution states, Kobe Bryant yells at a ref “Congress shall make no law... abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press.” Because professional athletes work for the league, there are many policies they have to follow. Essentially, professional athletes’ contracts restrict much of their freedoms.This allows all professional sports leagues to punish and restrict their employees’ behavior in anyway that they see fit. Similar to the NHL incident, the National Basketball Association fined Kobe Bryant one hundred thousand dollars last year for using a homophobic slur towards a referee. Comments like these are sometimes rooted in social media, which is what these associations are attempting to avoid by restricting their employees’

freedom of speech. WFS senior, Sydney Gardner ’16 commented, “I think teams and associations should have control over what the players say on social media because in the end it’s going to reflect on the team and organization as a whole, not just that individual.” Whether the intention is for the betterment of the team, or in actuality, protecting others’ rights, these private companies should not be given the ability to essentially take away their employees first amendment rights. Henry Gise ’17 believes, “Players at any level should be able to say what they want, but if necessary, a team should be able to take control of what an athlete says; at least when it’s regarding that team.” The image and fluidity of the team is the concern of most associations, coaches, and fans. Student and professional athletes alike should be extremely cautious of the content they put on social media, as well as how they portray themselves and their team on the court. When asked about this issue, Jake Rashkind, coach of boys lacrosse, shared that there’s no real way for a coach to control what his or her players do on social media at a high school varsity level. “In an era where smack-talk and shameless self promotion draws a lot of attention, I think it’s important for leaders, and I mean captains as well as coaches, to teach the importance of humility. Can I stop a player from going on Facebook and saying something disrespectful about an upcoming opponent? No, but I can let all players know that such behavior will not be tolerated on the field or off.” Players have to think about the content they put out on social media, and how it can potentially impact not only their program, but them as a player.It is up to the program, and the players to instill expectations on social media. During games that players and coaches should act with respect and tolerance despite a difficult situation. The Whittier Miscellany Homecoming 2015

Sports

Julia Delzingaro ’16 Sports Writer The beginning of each school year comes with an array of sports games that many Wilmington Friends students take part in, in one way or another. Although participating in a sport each year is required at Friends, extreme devotion and support for the team is not. Wilmington Friends is an example of how students go above and beyond when it comes to supporting their fellow classmates at the events. Whenever there is a sports game occurring the whole school is aware of it. Each player of a sports team will show up to school wearing a specific dress code, such as all black or neon, to express how dedicated each of them are to their sport. This not only allows other students to become aware of the game and attend it, but it also allows the team to express themselves. Even without being a part of any sport at Wilmington Friends, students experience what it is like to be in a gym or field filled with devoted fans. Cat Clark ‘16, said, “Although I do not participate in any of the Friends sports teams due to the fact that I participate in crew outside of school, I still get really pumped about going to volleyball and football games throughout the school year.” Although the cheering is usually kept within reasonable and appropriate measures, there are times when the cheering seems to get fans kicked out of the game for being too rowdy or distracting. Some argue that fans should be allowed to go to a sporting event and express themselves West Virginia fans cheer because it is seen as a freedom of expression. On the contrary, others believe that sporting events should have limits because the ones that end up getting kicked out have gone too far. Sydney Gardner ‘16, commented, “I feel people should be able to cheer as loudly as they want to for their team but I think that doing things like yelling at the referee is crossing the line.” Although many other people shared the same opinion as Gardner, there were a few who felt the opposite. Spanish teacher Chamby Zepeda says “I feel the fans should go crazy when cheering for their team, I don’t think there is anything disrespectful or wrong about cheering on your classmates in a positive, energetic manner.” The student section is often filled with chanting students. The amount of time and effort that fans put into supporting their school at games shows how much sports really can be seen as a freedom of expression. When asked about her devotion to WFS sports, Louisa Spinner ‘18, said, “This year I decided to become the manager of the volleyball team because every year before I went to every game anyway, so it was a bonus to be able to help out the team and have a bus ride to every away game.” Whether it’s soccer, football, volleyball, track, or a different sport altogether, each team has their own unique ways of expressing themselves, and each team has their own set of devoted fans. Although every sports fans might not be as loud as the others, they are all seen as a freedom of expression. Though some people may think the catchy phrases and crazy outfits should be kept to a minimum, others feel that the chanting is a freedom of expression. Overall, fans cheering is a form of freedom of expression. The Whittier Miscellany Homecoming 2015

Debate: Required Sports Restrict Zareef Khan ’18 Sports Writer Should you be forced to take part in sports? Currently, each Wilmington Friends School student is required to take part in an after-school sport at least once during the school year. Some believe that sports shouldn’t be mandatory. Doing sports can be fairly restricting for those who might already have means of staying in shape, as well as those who just don’t want to do sports that are offered by the school. In fact, if you have a sport outside of school that you want to do, it can only be one that the school does not offer, such as fencing or golf. For those who want to worry more about academics than sports, they should have the option to not do sports, especially if they feel that a sport could get in the way of schoolwork. While students have the option to choose which sport they want and when they have to do it, they might not want to do a sport at all. While WFS does require you participate in a sport during the year, some other high schools in Maryland do not require any sports during the entire year. So why is there separation between schools in terms of sports requirement? Daniel Scott, an English teacher at WFS, said: “There are many countries that separate their academic programs from their extracurriculars more, and nearly every one of them ranks higher than the USA in terms of education achievement. Certainly sports can teach lessons that classrooms can’t, but it’s still worth noting.” He also reinforced the idea that people should have the option to focus on academics rather than sports. Thomas Hilder, ’17, commented, “sports should be optional, and people should do what they want to.” This statement backs up how freedom is necessary, especially in high school. The general argument is that students should have freedom

over whether or not they should be forced to participate in athletics, and reasons such as Mr. Scott’s give strong evidence as to why students should not be forced to. However some, like Computer Science teacher, Jenks Whittenburg, think that sports should be mandatory. He said, “If it’s not mandatory, those who are naturally good will do it [the sport] and those who are new will be intimidated, and not want to join. If it is mandatory, then those who are new might enjoy being a part of a team and enjoy the sport.” Mr. Whittenburg is speaking from experience, as he never thought about doing a sport in high school, until he joined the lacrosse team. It was a positive experience for him and now he coaches middle school. James Tallman, ’19, says, “Since sports are mandatory, this allows there to be no separation of those who play sports and those who don’t.” Ryan Fischer, ’18, commented, “It’s all about gaining experience. I did wrestling in middle school, but I didn’t like it very much. I got nosebleeds, I threw up at meets, but what I got out of it was an experience.” These cases are compelling, but in Tallman’s and Whittenburg’s cases, there could be alternate outcomes. Some students may not enjoy doing a certain sport, and some may feel even more intimidated based on their amount of experience. Although Fischer said that he got an experience, some kids may not want to potentially risk their health for an experience that they might not want to have. In high school, students are busy enough with schoolwork, picking out college, and other extracurriculars, so why burden them with something like sports? It’s clear that some people want options, and by being forced to do sports they are being limited in terms of options and choices that can significantly affect their high school careers.

Debate: Keep Mandatory Sports at WFS Meggie Flanagan ’17 Sports Writer Everyone knows that going to school can be dreadful. With so much going on all the time, it can be very hard to manage it all. Many students significant stress loads, and there is only so much they can do to forget about it. Wilmington Friends requires students to play at least one sport, and most student-athletes relieve their stress through sports it is to have sports practice so they can forget about the challenges each day presents. Most students get to play one of the sports that they love and have fun with their friends. After someone has had a long day of learning, they can always rely on after school sports practices and games to help keep their mind off the assignments they have at school. No matter what sport a student is playing, they always have the freedom they need from school when they go to practice. Many teams at Friends are very close-knit, which makes things even better. New student Nick Gauthier ’17, commented, “After school sports are an outlet from the stress of upcoming assignments and other worries. Also, it is nice having seniors on my team to Girls Field Hockey team ask how they dealt with all the school work.” A majority of the sports teams at Friends are small, which helps build great relationships with people who can help them through their problems in school. Sports alone are a good way to release a student’s stress, but athletes can also utilize their teammates to talk about their problems with as well. In addition, teammates can act as a positive distraction from school because they always know how to make others feel better if someone is having a bad day. Some athletes may appreciate after school sports

practices more than others because of how it helps them with their school work and time management with school. Simone Veale ‘17 said, “It is really nice to have sports because it is hard to go from a stressful school day to doing hours of homework, so sports allows students to clear their head and take a mental break. It also adds structure to the day to help plan out all your homework.” Not only do sports aid a student in forgetting about school work and having fun with peers, but it also gives students something to look forward to at the end of the day. Jon Gardner ’16, commented, “Sports help me get through the school day because it gives me something to look forward to at the end of the day and helps me escape all the stress I have about school.” After school sports are a great break and give studentathletes a little taste of freedom from the school day and homework that has been assigned. Scott Clothier, World Religions teacher and field hockey coach agreed, expressing: “I like to tell my student/athletes that this is an opportunity to put the books, pens, and paper away. Let your body take some stress off of your brain. After giving your all at practice, or a game, you can come back to your studies refreshed.” Student athletes and coaches agree that after school sports are a great way to rest a student’s brain between school and homework. Although these athletes are from celebrates different grades and their work load varies, they all agreed how helpful after school sports have been for them. After- school sports provide an outlet from school for students because athletes get to play something they enjoy with friends. They can also help relieve stress because it adds structure to the day, which makes studentathletes more organized. Practices and games give students something enjoyable to look forward to when they are sitting in class. No matter what sport a student plays, they can always rely on sports and teammates to help them get through their stressful times and homework assignments. Larry Kuhn Photography

The Importance of Fans in Sports

Entertainment

Brantz Shows Disney Real is Beatutiful

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Abby Kleman ‘18 Entertainment Writer Disney princesses are perceived to be beautiful young women, not only with handsome Prince Charmings and Happily Ever Afters, but also with impossibly proportioned bodies. Receiving great feedback, Buzzfeed’s Loryn Brantz recognized this issue and digitally edited six famous Disney princesses to give them more realistic waistlines. Disney’s negative message regarding body types can limit and diminish young girls’ freedom to be themselves. Brantz’s digital editing allowed viewers to see how just mere seconds of tweaking a picture can help send an important message.

culture for self acceptance is a poor idea. Movies, TV, video games, commercials, etc. present us with a shiny ideal that is not the same as reality and is often designed to make us buy something. It can certainly be fun to enjoy the shiny ideal, but if it’s affecting one’s self-acceptance that much, it’s time to read a book, talk to a friend or loved one, go outside, play with a pet, get some exercise, or do something else that’s meaningful and rewarding. That’s where we will find acceptance.” As America strives to become a more accepting and truly free country, one might ask themselves, “Is it okay for a beloved children’s company to portray girls in such demeaning ways?” Disney is lovable for children and does not have to be banished, but the company must realize their flaws in design and correct them for future films. As Brantz demonstrated in her Buzzfeed article, the answer to this issue is simple. All Disney needs to do is to simply make the princesses into more realistic human beings, and create more realistic role models for children. As the future generation of Americans, children should live happy and healthy lives with the freedom to accept themselves for who they are.

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Disney Princesses (non-adapted) Young girls love and look up to Disney princesses as role models. Whether they carry around a princess doll everywhere or play dress-up at home, these girls aspire to be like the beautiful, slim princesses Disney creates. Marie DeVoll ’18 shares, “Disney princesses should have more realistic bodies, because as role models for young girls, they are forcing them to believe that they have to look a certain way when it is physically impossible to.” This could lead to future mental health issues including eating disorders. Especially today with further issues regarding celebrity modification in magazines, the media plays a significant role in girls’ lives and what they strive to look like. Girls and young women should have the freedom to accept and love who they are, and to embrace their great qualities rather than focus on what they believe to be their flaws. Along with the media, society plays a huge role in shaping the way in which girls see themselves. Jay Handwerk ’18 comments, “Disney is a company that portrays girls in unrealistic and unhealthy ways, but it is truly society’s fault for fueling the fire and spending money to promote these movies.” If Disney is able to make all of these films, society is obviously endorsing them to continue with the process of creating new movies. Living in an accepting society is crucial to a child’s development. Jessica Smith, Upper School English teacher and College Guidance Counselor, shared, “Looking to Disney movies or any type of pop

Expression at MIA

Belle with Disney Body vs. Belle with Altered Body *See next issue for student polls on transformations.

Quinn Kirkpatrick ’16 Entertainment Writer Every labor day weekend for the past four years, about 40,000 people have attended the Made in America music festival in Philadelphia. With so many popular artists and bands performing, this festival attracts people from all over the United States. Almost everyone can be seen repping their red, white, and blue to show patriotism and celebrate freedom in America with music. Music festivals such as Made in America give people from all different walks of life a common ground in which to celebrate and express their freedom through shared music. Made in America, or MIA for short, was founded in 2012 by rapper, producer, and business mogul Jay-Z. Jay-Z’s main goal for creating the festival was to bring together music and American culture in a giant celebation of freedom through music. In a 2012 advertisement for the festival, Jay-Z narrated saying, “Through all the lines and things that are put in place to divide each other, all like-minded people gather together. We’re more curious than ever. We create music to express ourselves. And when the world relates, ya know, that’s beautiful things. We’re all trading off each other’s culture.” Katie Zucca ’16 made the trip into Philly for the festival this year and especially loved group feeling, “The concerts were crowded, but the best part was being in the crowds and feeling like a part of the experience.” In 2013, the festival was the main focus of a documentary called “Made in America.” Directed by Ron Howard and produced by Brian Glazer and Jay-Z, the documentary was, as Howard put it, “a reflection of the fabric of what it means to be ‘Made in America’- what the festival represents, why Jay-Z is doing it and how he relates to each artist.” The event represents freedom by allowing artists to express themselves through their music to a multicultural and diverse crowd. The documentary focuses on the creation of the festival and what went on behind the scenes, including interviews with the stage hands and artists themselves. The film discusses the ways in which the festival brings people together to celebrate one thing: music. Jack Prendergast ‘16 said his most memorable part of the entire weekend was just that, the music, “My favorite part was getting to see J Cole, one of my favorite rappers, in concert.” The experience at the festival is like many other music festivals around the world with partying, music, and dancing. However, Made in America stands out as a celebration of America and our country’s freedom. Just as Jay-Z explained in the advertisement, Made in America is a unique music festival where people come to enjoy their freedom to express themselves through music and celebrate their freedom all weekend long.

Pop Musicians Express Hard Messages in Songs Allie Fulginiti ‘17 Entertainment Writer The kind of music that someone writes, sings, or listens to can say a lot about them. Recently, many artists have been creating music with an underlying message and theme of freedom. Especially with the expanding air of acceptance in America, many people are experiencing liberties that they were previously restricted from. The theme of freedom, whether it be wanting freedom or already having it, has been prevalent in the works of many influential artists throughout America’s history and it continues to be important in this day and age. In America, freedom has been an important part of the country’s history. People reflect upon and celebrate important dates where freedom has been achieved. However, freedom has still not been completely achieved in America. Jessica Smith, English Teacher and College Guidance Counselor, explained her view on freedom in America, “Freedom has been a topic in American history for a really long time. Whether it’s individual freedom, the pursuit of happiness, or various groups being able to take advantage of those freedoms. It is still an issue that we struggle with today whether it be racisms, sexual orientation, etcetera.” In fact, these things are far from being achieved. The recent fight for, and legalization of, same sex marriage has brought forward many artists who have written music in support of the movement. For instance, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis voiced their support for same sex marriage through their song “Same Love” and their 2012 album “The Heist.” They use their influence amongst the people who listened to their music in order to spread awareness for a cause that they supported. Margaret Sullivan ’17 commented, “Macklemore was willing to put himself out there and speak up for what he believed in, which is incredibly hard to do in our society. I find it inspiring, and I think it will also inspire others to make changes that they want to see in the world.” Similarly, Bob Marley wrote many songs that voiced his longing for the freedom of oppressed people all over the world. Ethan Moser ’17 resonated closely

with the words of Bob Marley, commenting, “One of Bob Marley’s most famous quotes says, ‘Better to die fighting for freedom than be a prisoner all the days of your life.’ These words make you want to go out and make a change in the world; they make you want to help those who don’t have the same freedoms that we do and to free oneself from anything that is standing in one’s way. Oftentimes one must free themselves before they are able to free others, and those words may give someone the confidence and will to do both.” Bob Marley’s messages of love and determination traveled far and wide to people everywhere. People all over the world are experiencing the effects of suppressing societies. They feel the need to look and act a certain way, even if it does not match who they really are. Not only are people repressed by society, but they can also be suppressed and restricted by other people. Songs that are able to express the importance of being able to break away from anything that is restricting are very influential. In 2014, pop artist Ariana Grande released a song called “Break Free” which emphasized the power of being able to stand up for oneself and not settle for anything less than what one deserves. Alex Trudel ’16 explained just how influential the messages in music can be, reflecting, “Listening to music about breaking free of things that are holding you down is really inspiring to not let anything hold you back. It opens one’s mind to the possibilities of what one may be capable of.” Musicians have widespread fanbases and many people take the things that they say as well as their actions to heart. The things that they say, sing, and do, have huge impacts on their lives and they may strive to be more like that musician. If musicians are encouraging people to fight for what they believe in and not back down, people will follow them. Music can be liberating for people in many ways. It can give people confidence to break free of chains that are holding them back. Music has a powerful effect on people and the messages in songs can have a profound impact. It is important that musicians continue to voice their support of freedom in their music and that people continue to seek freedom in areas where there is none. The Whittier Miscellany Homecoming 2015

Entertainment WFS Stands By Beloved Novels Despite Controversy

The Whittier Micellany Homecoming 2015

The Things They Carried, includes graphic violence and profanity that concerns many. J. D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye undoubtedly features a protagonist considered to Literature, like any other artform, has the ability to be anything but decent teenage a role model. Ethan Moser sway one’s opinion, introduce a controversial idea, or ’17 explained, “These books are a great way to take the spawn an entire movement. Academic administration first step in learning about things outside your comfort controls these effects through limiting their students’ zone.” Each novel has been cherished by WFS students libraries. Book censorship is an intergenerational issue. for their powerful messages, despite the qualities that If one generation destroys the existence of a book, it will are commonly deemed innappropriate and complained surely disappear forever, until brave members of the public about. Specifically, The Absolutely True Diary of a Partrecognize a flaw in the system of freedom. Time Indian, an eighth grade summer reading book, has To some degree, all books can be been banned for addressing multiple challenged. Even children stories areas of controversy. Surprisingly, our with the most innocent plotlines community has not sparked any uproar have received disapproval. When about the book choice. Eighth grade one reflects on the work of Dr. Seuss, English teacher, Eric Tucker enjoys such as Green Eggs and Ham, a fun having the novel as part of his course bedtime story ritual might come to curriculum. He explained, “as for mind. However, in 1965, this book controversy, I haven’t experienced any was considered, “a clear portrayal in my fifteen years; maybe that’s not of early Marxism” in Maoist China. good. Perhaps my book selections need Even though Seuss admits to being, to be a bit edgier. Parent comments have “subversive as hell” with his writing, always been positive, but in a community perhaps Marxism was an extreme take such as ours, parents are generally openon a message for children to be open minded. They look for their children to to new experiences. become independent, critical thinkers, In the same sense, beloved literary and thought provoking content can favorites at Wilmington Friends facilitate these very qualities.” could be perceived elsewhere as The Absolutely True Diary of Alexie’s novel is considered taboo work of writing. Commonly controversial for multiple reasons, such a Part-Time Indian, a WFS challenged books that are revered as anti-Christian ideas, sexual content, summer reading book here at Wilmington Friends include racism, and profanity. This eye-catching The Absolutely True Diary of a Partwriting was exactly what Tucker loved about it, and drove Time Indian, Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk, Catcher him to share it with students year after year. He states, in the Rye, American Born Chinese and The Things They “I want students to be engaged with the literature, and I Carried. While he includes profanity and sexual content, want the literature to cover themes that are relevant to my Ben Fountain captures the reality of war in Billy Lynn. students. The reality in middle school is that many students Caroline McGinnis ’17 elaborated on this idea: “Billy Lynn don’t necessarily gravitate to realistic fiction. Many prefer is a good fit for the themes we discussed in English 10, alternate worlds, alternate realities, but that doesn’t mean such as the American Dream. Because most sophomores they can’t relate this material to their world. And if I have already been exposed to innappropriate content believe the book will capture their interest, why not?” in the media, they don’t let it diminish the educational Not all teachers can agree on what benefits and value of the novel in any way.” Libraries challenge the corrupts the minds of their students. However, locals graphic novel, American Born Chinese due to its blatant wanting a say in how their youth is educated, offered stereotyping. Tim O’ Brien’s collection of short stories, negative comments about The Absolutely True Diary of BookNode

Olivia Garber ’16 Entertainment Writer

a Part Time Indian. According to The Guardian, an Idaho local in support of the banning the book claimed that the story, “subjects children to filthy words ‘we do not speak in our home’, which said the book features ‘reference to masturbation, contains profanity and has been viewed by many as anti-Christian.” These ‘profane’ references banned the book almost immediately. Shortly after, this sparked some outrage on the other end of the spectrum when 350 local students gathered a petition to defend their rights. Eventually, the National Coalition Against Censorship defended the students stating, “Students have the right to read affecting, engaging and valuable works and teachers have the right include them in their curriculum. Public education should not be subject to the personal views and preferences of individuals, nor should access to a high-quality education be obstructed by government officials.” This contention elicited a response from the author stating, “book banners want to control debate and limit the imagination. I encourage debate and celebrate imagination”. Tucker shared a similar view to Alexie, stating, “I hope that the literature we read provides an opportunity for children to ask questions and engage in discussion. I hope it gets them thinking about the world outside our community and their place in it. I hope they begin to understand that their voices can be powerful.” Perhaps an invisible fine line exists between eyeopening and offensive. Profane content in some cases may distract the reader from the author’s overall message, but it also possesses the power to reinforce the author’s ideas. Hannah Kushner ‘17 argued against censorship, explaining how students benefit from reading about controversial topics: “The only way we can learn is through exposure. If we don’t read about topics such as racism in school, how will we understand those topics in the real world? By reading controversial books in school curriculums, students are guided through how to understand information, rather than seeing it on their own and not knowing how to handle it.” It seems as though finding the perfect balance between peaking interest in readers and finding a wholesome narrative is difficult for writers and teachers alike. With honest stories that capture audiences, it seems as though the public cannot be pleased. WFS students embrace their opportunity to read about controversial topics, but where is this defining line between appropriate and taboo, and who is to determine it?

Freedom of Expression Through Song—Or Not?

Music is one of the greatest comforts for human beings. Songs can be used as an alternative way to convey feelings, decompress, or merely provide enjoyment. Not only does music allow desired gain or release of emotion, but it can also inspire and call people to action. One unfamiliar use of music, however, is criminal evidence. In the past few years, police have been arresting musicians, and the central source of evidence is their song lyrics. Rapper Antwain Steward was arrested due the evidential use of two delayed witness statements and his own song lyrics. In 2007, Brian Dean and Christopher Horton were found dead outside Horton’s home in Newport, Virginia. Antwain Steward, commonly known by the stage name Twain Gotti, was an up and coming musician at the time, and his work was considered “gangster rap.” Steward released a song titled “Ride Out,” in which he raps explicitly about violence and murder. The initial murder case was a failure because the local police could not develop a single lead. According to PBS NewsHour, four years later, Carlos Nunez, the case’s new detective, received a tip, dragging Twain Gotti into the case as a suspect. In Steward’s initial interrogation, Nunez zeroed in on the violent lyrics. University of Richmond scholar of rap Erik Nielson offered insight in this case, suggesting that prosecutors, initially lacking evidence, introduced the rap lyrics to secure their convictions. Nielson also emphasized the need to respect the lyrics as a form of art. He explained, “That is the most important distinction that constantly gets missed, is that there is an author and a narrator. We seem to be able to grasp that concept with every other art form that uses the first person narrative. But rappers, who go the extra mile to signal that they are inventing a narrator with their use of a stage name, we still revert back to this idea that they’re the same.” Nielson’s view suggests that

not only are rappers creating characters, but they are also violence to a particular individual or group of individuals.” using the extreme violence to reflect the communities in Those opposed to this type of rap music contend that it which they live. Nielson also insists that there have been encourages young people to accept and even embrace hundreds of instances where rap lyrics have been used at extreme violence. This concern is rational, as some some point in a criminal case. The new perspective derived lyrics appear to serve as more than fictional expression. from the violent lyrics encouraged people to view Twain Therefore, more clarification is needed in regards to Gotti’s rap as his bragging about the murder. Despite the fine line that separates artistic communication and his adamant claims of innocence and ignorance of the criminal statements. Mary Agne ’18 considered the issue, double murder, Steward was charged with the murder, and vehemently delared, “I don’t think the freedom of as the prosecutors overruled his Freedom of expression used in rapping should be used Expression as a conclusion to their murder as a reason to arrest someone unless there is case. He remains in jail currently, continuing compelling evidence. For many people, music to defend his lyrics. is a safe place to express themselves and should As we see in Steward’s case, local not be used as evidence by itself.” police officers may perceive violent songs Many musicians and artists feel deprived as confessions, or a display of pride in their of their freedom of expression. Aware of the violent actions. Critics argue that claims of limits to the rights of the First Amendment, critical behavior should not be based solely on they are afraid that saying the wrong thing a musician’s words, especially if the evidence could even earn them jail time. In most cases, relies on a stereotype, such as the gangster Antwain Steward these lyrics do not actually hold confessions lifestyle found in Steward’s case. Whether was arrested and of crimes; they are an attempt at conveying or not Steward’s lyrics resemble the details charged with double the ideas and messages of the musician. An of the double murder case, a claim as serious inconsistency regarding what ideas musicians murder as murder should include evidence beyond are and are not allowed to express in their the musician’s song and statements from witnesses who songs remains. The American Civil Liberties Union failed to immediately come forward. Defendents in cases supports accused artists such as Steward. Citing the a such as Steward’s also worry that addressing rap lyrics in particular song from country music icon Johnny Cash, the court will impose prejudice in the jury. History Teacher, ACLU argued, “That a rap artist wrote lyrics seemingly Donald Morton, reflected on the conclusion of the case, embracing the world of violence is no more reason to rationalizing, “It doesn’t seem fair to me. You don’t go ascribe to him a motive and intent to commit violent acts arrest Bob Marley for shooting the sheriff. It’s not ok.” than to … indict Johnny Cash for having ‘shot a man Police continue to draw conclusions or claims from the in Reno just to watch him die.’” At the end of the day, lyrical expression of musicians. Rappers Vonte Skinner freedom of expressions remains freedom of expression; and Antavio Johnson have faced accusations and charges no matter how violent the lyrics made popular by public for their lyrical expression as well. demand may be, unless the lyrics pose a direct threat In 2003, the Supreme Court discussed rap music as to the common public, they are still protected by the “statements where the speaker means to communicate a Constitution under the First Ammendment and should be serious expression of an intent to commit an act of unlawful regarded as such. The New York Times

Emily Rossi ’17 Entertainment Writer

Community

The Rise of Nationalism in the EU

Homecoming 2015 Schedule of Events Friday 11:30am

Emilio Ergueta ’16 Columnist

50th+ Reunion and 1748 Society Luncheon to Celebrate the Classes of 1965, 1960, 1955, 1950, 1945, and 1940 Dupont Country Club

5:00pm

JV Volleyball vs. Tatnall School West Gym

6:00pm

Varsity Volleyball vs. Tatnall School West Gym

6:30pm

True Blue Donor & All Alumni Reunion/Awards Reception Library Learning Commons

Saturday 8:00am Homecoming Service Project MS/US Campus 8:30am

Smith McMillan 5K Run/Walk Help us celebrate the 20th Anniversary! MS/US Main Entrance

9:30am

Alumni Registration Jones House

10:00am Meeting for Worship honoring current and past faculty/staff with 15 or more years of service to WFS MS/US Meeting Room 10:00am Varsity Field Hockey vs. St. Andrews School Field Hockey Field

11:15am JV Field Hockey vs. St. Andrews Field Hockey Field 11:30am

Homecoming Lunch (until 2:00pm) Baseball Field

12:00pm

Self-guided tours of the MS/US Campus (until 2:00pm)

12:00pm Kids’ Corner (until 2:00pm) West Gym 12:00pm Varsity Soccer vs. Smyrna High School Mellor Turf Field JV Soccer vs. Smyrna High School

2:00pm Varsity Football vs. St. Andrews School (Halftime show by the 4th-8th grade band) 8:00pm

Upper School Homecoming Dance West Gym wilmingtonfriends.org

Wilmington Friends Homecoming Banner 2014

How Donald Trumped the American Media Lindsay Weber ’17 Columnist

11:00am Meet new Head of School Ken Aldridge

1:30pm

In the wake of the migrant crisis sweeping the European continent, one voice has been heard louder than all the others: the voice of the far right. It is the voice of profound discontent with the influx of new people, it is the voice advocating for national unity, it is the voice remembering the good old days, and it is one that is present in every country in the European Union and is growing louder every day. From Denmark to Hungary, Germany to France, the last five years have seen astronomical growth in the success of “nationalist” far right parties. Each country is slightly different, but there is a common thread. In France there is a wide array of political parties. The country has always been extremely “left leaning” by American standards with the central two parties being the “Liberal Party” and the “Socialists.” Only one party can really be classified as “far right” and that is the Front National. In the last three years alone the party has reportedly doubled its membership to over 80,000, but how has this happened? The FN have spent the better part of a decade changing their image in order to legitimize themselves. While twenty years ago the head of the party, Jean-Marie Le Pen, was caught on camera doing mock nazi-salutes and claiming the holocaust was “a minor detail of history”, now the leadership has changed. It is Le Pen’s daughter, Marine Le Pen, who has rebranded the party into a nationalistic, anti-EU, anti-immigration party. This new FN got over 6.4 million votes in the 2012 national election, and the highest votes of any party in the 2014 municipal elections. Most French people see her and her party as a welcome change to the old parties. While living in France, my host parents even told me that they supported the FN because they thought it was a way to show their discontent with the main parties. After the second world war, nationalism all but died out in Germany. Many Germans, horrified by the effects of the Nazi regime, saw nationalism as the main factor for their rise to power. When Germany was divided into East and West, nationalism reached its lowest point ever,

where many Germans didn’t even publicly display the flag. However, national pride was restored in the most unexpected way: on the soccer field! In the nail biting 1954 World Cup Final, the West German team beat Hungary, ending their 4-year 31-game unbeaten streak. At the end of the match the German national anthem was played, the first time it had been played at an international sporting event since World War II. The team received a hero’s welcome upon coming home, with crowd-lined streets of cheering Germans waving flags. Even within renewed pride in their country, the Germans still shy away from the far right. In fact, the movement is to some extent illegal: laws prohibit Nazi references, marches and symbols, and phrases as well as xenophobic statements. Still the far right exists. There is a party called the National Democratic Party of Germany, which has been through repeated efforts to ban it. The party technically has never had enough votes to be represented in the German Parliament, it has a delegate in the European parliament and members in many local parliaments. Although they are only a small dog, they still have a loud bark. NPD pamphlets are distributed all around the country warning the internal and external “dangers” to the country. One morning at school, I remember being accosted by kids my age handing flyers out. Not thinking much of it, I just kept walking and went to class. Later that day I heard these kids were young party members handing out booklets of information warning of the “threat of immigrants to the German way of life” and ran away after the police was called. You may be asking yourself, how does this affect the United States, and what do a handful of European elections mean to us? We live in a world where everything is becoming increasingly connected, where the rhetoric of one anti-immigration politician in the UK finds itself cited in the speech of a candidate here at home, or broadcasted in giant letters on Fox News. These movements are fundamentally changing the political landscape of Europe, and they cannot help but affect us. If all that still does not convince you, remember: the last time these parties took power in Europe, there was a world war.

No matter your opinion on real-estate mogul and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, there is no denying that he has been successful in making headlines during the past few months. It is hard to know where to begin with some of the controversy he has stirred up. He has been the target of many jokes recently, but some people have genuine fears about the possibility of Trump becoming our next president due to his status on recent pollings. Many people are paranoid that Trump is “winning,” even though the election is not off the ground at this point; the polls going on currently are essentially based on name recognition. It is true that he is ahead in many of the Republican polls, but even winning the Republican nomination is nowhere close to guaranteeing him the presidency. The primaries begin in February. It is important to differentiate this from the actual presidential election itself. This is strictly for the Democratic/Republican nomination. In my opinion, we as level-headed Americans don’t have too much to worry about. The entirety of Trump’s campaign up until this point has essentially just been him making ridiculous remarks and causing controversy, thereby making headlines and making sure that he’s all over the news. Perhaps his stances appeal to some strong conservatives, but once the real election is up and running, it will become even more clear how unqualified Trump is to be a president. When Trump first decided to run for president in 2012, he told Rolling Stone magazine in an interview that he was running “for office in a country that’s essentially bankrupt, and it needs a successful businessman.” This may seem ironic, considering Trump Entertainment Resorts filed for bankruptcy the year before he made this statement. He began his career at his father’s already extremely successful retail company, and is not necessarily what you would call a typical “self-made businessman.”He has not had a difficult life, and although Donald Trump has seemingly had everything in his life handed to him, this presidency will not be one of them.

The inflammatory remarks Trump has made during his time in the public eye have been excessive, to say the least. In particular, his stance against immigration has been causing great controversy. He has announced on more than one occasion that he plans to deport every single undocumented immigrant in the US: an infeasible process estimated to cost around $114 billion dollars and take 20 years. When grilled on exactly how he plans to accomplish this, however, he was trumped. His extreme stance on immigration is ironic at best, considering that his mother is a Scottish immigrant and his paternal grandparents are both German immigrants. The way Trump stereotypes Mexican immigrants as rapists and drug dealers reflects a significantly larger problem within the right wing community’s stance on immigration. Mr. Trump has suggested, following an alleged murder committed by an undocumented immigrant in San Francisco, that a large majority of Mexican immigrants are felons that should be deported from the country. However, the Immigration Policy center has released a report that directly states: “the available evidence indicates that immigrants are not only less likely to end up behind bars than the native-born, but that immigrants are also less likely to commit criminal acts to begin with.” The fact remains that immigrants, especially those who are undocumented, have more to lose than gain in committing crimes. The idea that immigrants are somehow a threat to our national security is not only rooted in racism, but is dangerous to immigrants coming to US seeking new opportunities and a fresh start. Donald Trump’s viewpoints reflect a troubling right-wing viewpoint that threatens the right of immigrants to come to our country. Trump’s extreme right-wing standpoint appeals to a small minority of a sheltered, close-minded population of American people. However, his backhanded, hypocritical right-wing “policies” – if you could call them that; it appears that he doesn’t even have a plan behind most of the presidential pledges he’s made – don’t resonate with the majority of Americans. Trump is causing controversy now, but in my opinion, has no real chance of winning the election. The Whittier Miscellany Homecoming 2015