19 November, 2015
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Students across 5cs protest racism By Evelyn Gonzalez ‘18 & Maureen Cowhey ‘19 Staff Writers With Alexa Muniz ‘16 & Pam Ng ‘16 Guest Contributors
On Wednesday Nov. 11, CMCers of Color called their community and allies to action to demand more support for marginalized students at Claremont McKenna College. Their action took place on the porch of the Hub Cafe, where former Dean of Students Mary Spellman had originally planned to hold office hours. At the demonstration, CMCers of Color listed their grievances, shared personal experiences with institutionalized racism at the College, restated their demands to the community at large, outlined their efforts of the past eight months, and publicly called out former Dean Spellman and President Chodosh to make a formal commitment to follow through with these demands of the previous months. A separate event focusing on advancing Black students occurred on Thursday Nov. 12. On this day, over a thousand students gathered in front of the Honnold/ Mudd Library to march across the Claremont Colleges in the #MillionStudentMarch. This mass action was in tandem with similar marches on college campuses all across the nation calling for free tuition, more resources for marginalized students, and solidarity to the Black community. As the timing coincided with incidences of anti-black racism both nationally and globally, specifically at Mizzou, Yale, and in South Africa, the march for the Claremont Colleges, organized by Black students of the consortium, was in solidarity specifically with Black students’ struggle. The event called for students of color at the 5Cs and their allies to wear black
all day in order to mourn the violence and oppression that Black students experience in many educational institutions and throughout society. According to the event’s Facebook page the march was to show that “we will not stand by as countless institutions and administrations fail to act in the face of gross injustice. We refuse to be your silent, respectable markers of diversity.” That same afternoon of the Claremont #MillionStudentMarch, Scripps students used the momentum created by both the CMCers of Colors’ demonstration outside the Hub and the march to put pressure on Dean Charlotte Johnson at her extended office hours. They utilized this time in order to express their own concerns about the current campus climate and recent racist incidents. Students wrote demands in an effort to hold the administration accountable for not only supporting the efforts of CMCers of Color, but to also acknowledge the many ways Scripps, too, is complicit in institutional violence and the silencing of marginalized students. In particular, students pointed out the lack of accountability on the administration’s part to publicly acknowledge and follow through on the requests that leaders of SCORE Clorgs presented earlier this semester at the Board of Trustees meeting on the needs of their communities -needs which have been discussed time and time again. Their hope was ultimately to have Dean Johnson sign the demands without conditions that would change their intended meaning and impact.
CMCers of Color leads demonstration protesting administration’s lack of support Photo courtesy of Emily Wang CMC ‘19 and The CMC Forum
Those demands drafted were as follows: Dean Charlotte Johnson, We as a community ask that you honor the following list of demands: 1. Active/formal commitment to solidarity with CMCers of color by pressuring their administration to meet the demands proposed (attached) on the terms of of color. THis formal commitment must use explicit language that will not erase the oppression of people of color, meaning that the words “racist,” “racism,” and “institutional violence” should be present. 2. We demand a letter to the community that explicitly acknowledges that a Scripps student was involved in the racist cultural appropriation that happened. a) State how Dean of Students held this student accountable, so that people know that DOS will hold students accountable for racist incidents, as well as the process of which it happens 3. We demand semesterly written progress reports on all recommendations that Scripps Students of Color recommended at the Board of Trustees report back a) For example isfaculty/staff training. We expect a written letter out to the community that acknowledges all of these demands within the next seven days. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely,
5C students protest racial injustices in the #MillionStudentMarch Photo courtesy of Emily Wang CMC ‘19 and The CMC Forum
Inside This Issue:
Page 2 - Remembering Morgan Malkovich Service held for friends, faculty, and family of Scripps student
Members of the Scripps community
Page 2 - ScamFest 2015
Relive the best moments of this year’s SoCal a capella festival.
1030 Columbia Avenue | Claremont, CA 91711 | Box 839 email: scrippsvoice@gmail.com | Volume XIX | Issue Five
Dean Johnson made some changes in language to the demands and an amendment to section 2a since she is not at liberty to discuss specifics about students cases, and agreed to speak generally about the ways in which students are educated and held accountable for racist incidents. Throughout the night, the Scripps community helped support students that were in it for the long haul. Hot drinks were provided by the Motley (which also provided a safe space for student of color at different times throughout the week), Admissions lent out sleeping bags to keep students warm, and Scripps students brought assorted snacks and food for everyone to share. Alexa Muniz ‘16, who was involved with the demonstration, said, “It was a beautiful collective effort of the Scripps community and just the beginning of what needs to be done.” At the end of 2.5 hours of talking to numerous students, Dean Johnson emerged from her office, signed demands in hand, and acknowledged the multitude of students that were there in support of this initiative. The following day, Friday Nov. 12, Interim President Amy Marcus-Newhall signed a second list of demands after students of color and allies worked with her for 2.5 hours. Both President Marcus-Newhall and Dean Johnson will be releasing official statements in response to these interactions by Friday, Nov. 21. These movements are more than isolated events-- they illustrate the power that student solidarity and organization can have to fight for change within various institutions.
Page 5 - Busting it Open: Thanksgiving Edition Check out what SCORE has to say about the problematic holiday
2 • News
claremont shades hosts 20th annual By Maureen Cowhey ‘19 Staff Writer
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n Saturday, Nov. 7, the a capella group, Claremont Shades, hosted the twentieth annual Southern California A cappella Music Festival (SCAMFest). Twelve different acapella groups from across California participated in the event, which coincided with the twentieth anniversary of the Claremont Shades. The Claremont Shades were responsible for putting on the show, organizing everything from the outside groups to the production. SCAMFest 2015 was held in Bridges Auditorium at Pomona College, and over 2,000 students, family members, and community members attended the night of acapella. The lineup featured some of the best a capella groups from throughout California--including all eight groups from the Claremont Colleges and four groups from outside the consortium. The festival featured Bruin Harmony and the ScatterTones from UCLA, the Spokes from UC Davis, and four-time International Championship of Collegiate a cappella champions the SoCal VoCals from University of Southern California. The Claremont Shades, the Claremont Colleges’ first co-ed a cappella group, opened the festival with their rendition of the song “Retrograde” by James Blake featuring soloist Sitoë Thames (HMC ‘19). The Shades, formed in 1995, have toured all over the country and have produced five albums, which are available on iTunes and Spotify. Each proceeding group had the opportunity to perform two songs. Bringing both energy and theatrics to the stage was the 5C co-ed group Mood Swing. Dressed in their signature black and yellow, the Mood Swings riled up the crowd with a mash-up of the classic Black-Eyed Peas hits “Let’s get it Started” and “Rock that Body.” The performance peaked with a rap solo from Amit Maor (CMC ‘16). The group followed up with the pop hit “Rather Be” by Clean Bandit.
SCAMFest UCLA’s ScatterTones took the stage, serenading the crowd with Seal’s classic “Kiss from a Rose.” Having performed across the country and as backup for Taylor Swift, the ScatterTones knew how to please an audience. They brought the energy up again with a mashup of two of the greatest pop hits: “Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars and “PYT” by the great Michael Jackson. Performing songs from some of music’s most powerful women, Women’s Blue and White stood out as one of two all-female groups. They opened with Beyonce’s “Ego” and followed up with “Nobody Love” by Tori Kelly. The Claremont Colleges’ newest a cappella group, One Night Stanza (previously Kosher Chords or K Chords), performed Florence and the Machine’s “Shake it Out” and a mashup of “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark” by Fall Out Boy and “Bulletproof” by La Roux. The Spokes, an all-female group hailing all the way from UC Davis in Northern California, thrilled the crowd with another Beyonce song “Diva,” and Marian Hill’s “One Time.” Their performance was energetic and brought a deafening round of applause from the audience. Wearing every shade of green and hats that read “ASS,” Claremont’s own After School Special provided an exciting ending to the first half of the show. Dividing into dueling groups, the After School Specials got the crowd going with Nick Jonas’ “Levels” and James Arthur’s “Recovery.” Bringing acrobatics to the stage as well as suggestive male dancing, Claremont’s own Men’s Blue and White surprised and pleased the audience again this year in their act. Performing Calvin Harris & Disciple’s popular hit “How Deep is your Love,” the men danced on chairs as the audience cheered increasingly louder. Halfway through their second song, “Dance for You” by Beyonce, the group surprised the crowd with a shirtless circus hoop performance by Harrison Goodall (PO ‘16). The audience erupted into applause and the men bowed as they received a standing ovation. The 5C coed group, Midnight Echo, performed
Remembering
morgan malkovich By Evelyn Gonzalez ‘18 Feminism Columnist
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n Friday, Nov. 6 at 4:00 pm, students, staff and faculty gathered in the Margaret Fowler Garden to celebrate the life of Morgan Malkovich ‘18. In order to honor Morgan’s Hawaiian identity, the garden was embellished with pink flowers which lined the walkways and elegant white chairs that faced a screen which presented photographs of Morgan with her family. A table was set up with pens that displayed Morgan’s name and note cards on which to send well wishes for both Morgan and her family. Individuals from the Scripps community stepped forward to share their sentiments and reminisce about the wonderful memories they had created with Morgan. Sonia De La Torre-Iniguez, who worked closely with Morgan, shared that “While her stay here was short-her impact was tremendous. Morgan was a giver and perhaps the greatest gift she gave to Scripps was the grace of her spirit. She had an infectious kindness that filled a room with warmth. Her smile imprinted in the hearts of those that had the pleasure of knowing her. Most significantly, Morgan approached the world with understanding and empathy and in the most subtle way challenged us to critically think about our engagement in the world around us. She was a quiet force of good-will to be reckoned with and I am thankful for the many ways that she reminded me to engage in each moment in life to the fullest with compassion and grace.” Near the end of the ceremony, De La Torre-Iniquez gave Morgan’s family ti leaf leis on behalf of the Scripps community. These leis symbolize admiration, appreciation and respect. In order to forever tie Morgan to the Scripps community, these leis were draped into the fountain in Margaret Fowler. As the leis were placed in the water, they intertwined with one another to form a heart, a beautiful symbol of Morgan’s presence. Many students had shared classrooms, knowledge, laughter and friendship with Morgan during her time at Scripps and shared memories that displayed Morgan’s
“Dancing with my Future Husband,” a mashup of Olly Murs “Dance with Me” and Meghan Trainor’s “Dear Future Husband” as well as “Run to You” by Pentatonix. According to their statement in the program, Midnight Echo identifies as a “wild pack of wolves that roams the Claremont Colleges.” Bruin Harmony, UCLA’s all-male a capella group also pleased the crowd with their coordinated dance moves, hip thrusts, and theatrics that accompanied their rendition of Andy Grammer’s “Honey I’m Good.” Slowing down the pace, they performed a soulful delivery of the classic Michael Buble hit “Feeling Good.” No stranger to the spotlight, the SoCal VoCals from USC brought down the house with their own rendition of “Levels” by Nick Jonas. The group, having performed on multiple television shows and for celebrities from Queen Latifah to Seth Macfarlane, looked confident in their complex choreography and harmonies. The finished off their set with the song “You Go Down Smooth” by Lake Street Dive while the lead vocalist ran off the stage and into the crowd. The second-to-last act of the night was Claremont’s 9th Street Hooligans, performing a set of Jason Derulo songs including “Want to Want Me” and “Wiggle.” Bringing comic relief to the stage, the group harmonized to the lyrics “You know what to do with that big fat butt” while proceeding to show the crowd how to wiggle. The Hooligans succeeding in bringing both laughter and “booty back” in their performance. Finishing off a successful night of a cappella were the hosts, the Claremont Shades. They closed with the song “Let me love you” by Mario and Lianne La Havas’ “What you don’t do.” The annual event is one of the biggest and most anticipated a cappella festival in Southern California.
Residential Life Presents
#TreatYoSelf [To Some Great Sex]! By Evelyn Gonzalez ‘18 Feminism Columnist #TreatYoSelf [to some great sex], put on by Residential Life, was a week-long series of events that combined fun and educational activities surrounding the topic of sex.
Queer Sex Night Monday, Nov. 9 Hosted by Family, Residential Life and the Tiernan Field House Peer Health Educators, the events included snacks, open conversations and discussion about queer sex, a raffle and demonstrations on condoms, dental dams, and budget friendly strap-ons.
BeHeard Forum on Consent in Our Lives Tuesday, Nov. 10
Consent focused crafts with Scripps Advocates for Survivors of Sexual Assault Wednesday, Nov. 11
The Pleasure Chest raffle & Q&A in Balch Auditorium Postponed until a later date so as to not take away from the seriousness and imporance of protests and national events
Lecture by Andrea Richie “Policing Gender, Policing Race Policing Sex”
Photos courtesy of Laurna Malkovich
best qualities, that of warmth, intelligence and kindness. Helen Thomason ‘18 shared the impact that Morgan had on her: “Morgan’s smile shared with us will not be forgotten. I am grateful to say that knowing Morgan changes the way I will go through this time at Scripps. I will carry Morgan’s memory with me through those Denison doors at graduation and into the rest of my life.” Morgan was and forever will be apart of the Scripps community, and for that we are entirely grateful.
Thursday, Nov. 12 According to the event’s Facebook page, this lecture focused on “exploring the ways in racialized policing of low income communities of color operates along the axes of gender and sexuality, and envisioning an expansion of current conversations about policing, safety and justice to center the lives of women of color targeted by discriminatory policing practices.” De brief afterwards in the student union was canceled in favor of creating safe spaces.
Public Lecture with Donna Freitas Monday, Nov. 16 A critique of hook-up culture.
19 November, 2015 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XIX • Issue Five
News • 3
The Scripps Voice Staff Editors-in-Chief Lucy Altman-Newell Elena Pinsker Advisor Sam Haynes Design Editors Monica Acosta Abigail Gilcrest Jenny Lee Copy Editors Rachel Miller-Haughton Ashley Minnis-Lemley Business Manager Lily Comba Webmaster Jocelyn Gardner Columnists & Staff Writers Ali Bush Natalie Camrud Maureen Cowhey Madeleine Edwards Sophie Fahey Kandace Fung Taylor Galla Jocelyn Gardner Diva Gattani Evelyn Gonzalez Joelle Leib Kaya Mark Jay Marks Erin Matheson Natasha Pinon Grace Richey Sasha Rivera Sydney Sibelius Talia Speaker Isobel Whitcomb Vloggers Abigail Metsch Caroline Nelson Lily Yang - Director Photographers Tyra Abraham Jessica Eu Suzette Guzman Anita Ho Annalise Ko Jessica Padover Layne Wells Comments and letters can be submitted by emailing scrippsvoice@gmail.com or by visiting our website at www.thescrippsvoice.com. Please review our guidelines online before submitting feedback. The Scripps Voice is a student forum and is not responsible for the opinions expressed in it.
LASPA CENTER presents
Evolutionary Leadership webinar By Sophie Fahey ’17 Staff Writer
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n Thurs., Nov. 12, the LASPA Center for Leadership invited students to an Evolutionary Leadership webinar. This webinar was put on by the Institute for Evolutionary Leadership whose goals include “developing and supporting leaders who redesign the world to make it more just, sustainable, and flourishing” (webinar). “Lisa Watson [Director of the LASPA Center for Leadership] receives newsletters [and] emails from Leadership Learning Community that advertises various webinars people can participate in and other advertisements from other agencies,” said Lindsey Martinovich, Assistant Director of the LASPA Center for Leadership, explaining how LASPA learned of the webinar. “Webinars are an extremely effective way for myself, Lisa, and all of the Scholars in Action [LASPA’s student staff] working for the LASPA Center to hear from experts in this field and learn different leadership theories and techniques so that
we can bring these lessons to the larger Scripps community in our everyday work,” said Martinovich. This webinar, titled “Evolutionary Leadership: How to Redesign our Communities, Institutions, and Societies to Make Them More,” was presented remotely by Manuel Manga and Fyodor Ovchinnikov. The talk was divided into two parts. The first part, presented by Fyodor Ovchinnikov, was titled “Why Evolutionary Leadership?” Ovchinnikov began the talk with a quote from Mange, stating: “Most leadership programs are designed to run our modern world more effectively—the same world that is not working for all humanity and its ecological systems.” This means that most leadership programs only teach for the world as it is, instead of thinking about how to improve it. Ovchinnikov emphasized that “there is no lack of tools; what we need is navigation [of the tools available to leaders].” The second part of the talk was delivered by Manuel Manga and was titled “Competencies of
Evolutionary Leaders.” Manga began his presentation by describing the difference between leadership and evolutionary leadership: “Leadership is the capacity to mobilize oneself and others to take effective action towards a vision or goal ... Evolutionary leadership is the capacity to mobilize oneself and others to consciously and effectively redesign our worldviews, cultures and institutions for a more just, sustainable, and flourishing world.” Manga also believes that society today is designed by the industrial age, and that ours needs to become an ecological and sustainable world. Some examples Manga gave of evolutionary leadership and sustainable practice were the shift to wind and solar energy in Germany, Brazil’s new transportation system and the high speed train California is building to reduce reliance on cars. To find out more about the Institute for Evolutionary Leadership, visit www.evoleadinstitute.com. Look out for more events like this from the LASPA Center for Leadership in the future.
ATHLETE PROFILE:
Erin Matheson
Photos courtesy of Erin Matheson ‘18
By Kaya Mark ‘18 Staff Writer
Major: Biochemistry Hometown: Golden, CO THE SCRIPPS VOICE: When did you first start playing soccer? ERIN MATHESON: I have played soccer since I was five years old. TSV: Why did you decide to join the Claremont FC Women’s Soccer Club? EM: I joined this year because I missed soccer and being on a team while in college. TSV: What’s your position? EM: I either play center defense or outside midfield! TSV: What is your favorite soccerrelated memory? EM: I traveled to Munich and Copenhagen with my soccer team in
8th grade to play in a tournament. We got second place and were able to tour around Germany and Denmark. TSV: Tell me a bit about your captains. EM: We have two captains, both Scripps juniors [Ella Kim ’17 and Hannah Huston ‘17] who are very committed to making our team a cohesive unit recognized by the administration. TSV: Do you get along with your teammates? Is there any sort of team bonding that you do? EM: The team is great! We have representation from all 5Cs and eat dinners after practice and games together. TSV: Do you have any pre-game rituals or anything you do for luck? EM: Personally no; I just like a
good old-fashioned jog, stretch, and touches! TSV: What does a typical practice look like? EM: A typical practice consists of warm-up, passing drills, small sided scrimmage and then open it up to large scrimmage. TSV: What was the most eventful game this year? What happened? EM: Up until last weekend we were undefeated! We lost to University of San Diego. We will be back on track with our game this weekend, though! TSV: If people want to get involved with the club team, what do you recommend they do? EM: Come to one of the practices! We are very welcoming and in the spring there will be open tryouts for more people who are interested.
5 November, 2015 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XIX • Issue Four
4 • Features
opinion poll
THE RESULTS:
p u k o ho re
32%
feel that it inevitably comes with partying in college and is not specific to the Claremont Colleges
29%
hate it; it’s unhealthy for everyone involved
u t l cu
29%
Don’t like it but find their ways around it
4%
don’t feel strongly about it one way or another
where do students stand? By Taylor Galla ‘18 Opinion Poll Columnist
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his week, I want to discuss something that affects everyone, regardless of how often they go out, drink, or participate in Claremont’s weekend festivities: the 5C hookup culture. I define this as the phenomenon that most sexual interactions between students are in casual hookups, rather than committed relationships. It’s evident, it’s unhealthy, it’s perhaps fun and it’s not necessarily specific to Claremont. However, there are some specific facets of Claremont’s environment that I believe reinforce the hookup culture—I will discuss these in more depth later. Like other prominent aspects of our institution’s social environment, the hookup culture affects everyone, no matter how often you go out. One hears about troublesome experiences, wild encounters that a friend experienced or how one gross and sweaty party was full of people making out, and when you do go out you will probably come in contact with it in one way or another. As there is a spectrum of participation in hookup culture-- from partiers to those who would rather cuddle up to Netflix on Saturdays-- there is inevitably a spectrum of opinions about it as well. I also want to preface this by saying that I am a straight woman, and my experience and knowledge of hookups that do not include exclusively straight people is very limited. I want to acknowledge my bias and apologize for not including everyone that takes part in this culture in my discussion, but due to my limited knowledge and utter lack of experience, I feel that I cannot accurately portray and talk about the experiences of LGBTQ+ folks. However, I hope that despite the lack of this information, there are still parts of this article that everyone can find relatable. In this week’s poll, I asked the question: “How do you feel about the 5C hookup culture?” with the responses breaking down as such: out of the 59 responses I received, 2 people (3%) chose the “Other” option with comments that I will discuss later, 2 people (3%) chose “I like it and have fun,” 4% chose “I don’t feel strongly about it one way or another,” and the top 3 responses were “I hate it, it’s unhealthy for everyone involved” with 29% or 17 votes, “Don’t like it but I find my ways around it” with 29% or 17 votes and lastly “I feel that it inevitably comes with partying in college and is not specific to the Claremont Colleges” with 32%, 19 votes. These responses surprised me, as I honestly expected more people to like the culture, and more people to not have strong opinions about it overall, as I think way fewer people go out than people realize. However, there are many parts of these responses that I find fascinating, such as the fact that essentially a third of the people who responded committed to saying that they absolutely hate the culture and find it unhealthy for everyone involved. I was unsure about offering this as a response, because it is full of extremes, but
the responses show that people feel it. This could potentially be because of its detrimental emotional consequences, the damage people see done to their friends by it, etc. Yet despite this hatred, the culture persists. There are several reasons as to why this could be— is it that our world, even our progressive, predominantly- young world at the 5Cs mirrors the misogyny of the real world that favors men? There are exceptions, but college hookups in which a man and a woman are involved tend to favor the men in terms of enjoyment and fulfillment. This is purely
“
Hookup culture is a system that fuels off of insecurities and a socialized lack of sexual intimacy between not just people romantically attracted to each other, but people in general in college.
”
anecdotal and not evocative of a larger pool, but with the majority of my friends who participate in the hookup culture, much more often than not the girl builds up expectations and seeks fulfillment from the attention from essentially a stranger— and ends up orgasm-less and cringing every time she and her previous hookup make awkward eye contact in the dining hall. I recently read an article (http://www.alternet.org/sex-amp-relationships/ orgasm-gap-real-reason-women-get-less-oftenmen-and-how-fix-it) about how college hookups perpetuate a sexist favoring of the guy to get what he wants and that girls feel that they can’t ask for what they want without seeming bitchy or demanding. It mirrors the reality I experience in classrooms, dining halls, in hallways, bathrooms, etc., where women simply feel that they cannot take up the space they need. They seek the attention and sexual fulfillment from guys at parties and expect to have fun— and some do, but for many, the rush of getting that initial attention at the party is the last truly positive aspect of the hook-up experience. This is a sad reality, and begs the question that I can’t stop asking myself—why would anyone participate in party culture? To put it bluntly, it’s a system that fuels off of insecurities and socialized lack of sexual intimacy between not just people romantically attracted to each other, but people in general at college. Although many go to parties seeking someone with whom a profound connection can grow, the idea of a party hookup does not evoke this level of intimacy. They are seen as the release of a sexual impulse and nothing more, no strings attached and no feelings to be shared. Although outside of these party situations many people, in fact I would argue most people, are searching for “the one” so to speak, but our predominant way or socializing on the weekends is entirely counterproductive to this goal. In an effort to continue to try to understand the experiences
3%
like it and have fun
3%
chose the “Other” option of others, let’s turn to some comments this article received. One of the most notable ones stated that the hookup culture can be freeing in many ways, as there is no expectation of a relationship after you hook up with someone; however, they also described the difficulty in providing consent, and beyond that an enjoyable hookup for your partner due to the presence of alcohol. They described how “[T]here are plenty of one-night stands that are lacking in consent because both parties may be inebriated. I also think it makes consent even more difficult to do when the parties may lack a knowledge of wants and needs of their hook up. Consent is already difficult so random hook ups can make it even more awkward and difficult.” Many points in this quote are extremely valid. Along with the list of other very negative repercussions that come with the hookup culture, including emotional damage, lack of intimacy and feeling repression, sexual assault is definitely another possibility. When there is the presence of alcohol, on a legal level one is not able to give consent under the definition of consent held by Scripps College as well as the larger Claremont Consortium. In addition to this, decision-making while under the influence becomes even muddier, adding to the risk factor in terms of trusting one’s feelings, trusting the individual and having the courage to ask for what you do or do not want. So, one sees that the hookup culture contributes to a lot of potential risks both during and after the hookup in terms of one’s feelings, which are, contrary to what our campus culture tells us, okay to feel. Hooking up with someone does not have to be glamorous or totally fulfilling, and does not have to result in some great story to share with all of your friends. More often than not, I think, few to none of these things happen. For those who enjoy it and find it empowering to go out and get what you want without having intimate feelings involved, I applaud you. I simply do not have that strength or courage to risk my own feelings. But, for other people who have resonated with some of the points I have made in this article, I want you to know that you do not have to participate in this culture because you feel like it’s part of the college experience. When you look back on your years here, do you want to look back and see a lot of awkward, negative experiences you endured while trying to live up to someone else’s ideal of what you should be experiencing? Or do you want to have carved your own path, protected yourself and waited for something that was totally worthwhile? I can tell you firsthand it’s not and should not feel like a necessary part of partying in college— and while I totally get that the positive attention is nice, it can stop there without rushing into anything, and one can wait for something more significant to come along.
19 November, 2015 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XIX • Issue Five
Features • 5
“busting it open:”
thanksgiving edition
By Sasha Rivera ‘19 Staff Writer
T
hanksgiving is widely known in the United States as a holiday based on family bonding and a giant feast usually involving turkey and pumpkin pie. However, this day has a very dark and violent history that is often erased and retold in ways that make it seem as though it was nothing more than a happy sharing of resources between the Pilgrims and Native Americans. “Busting it Open: Thanksgiving,” an event which took place on Nov. 8 in SCORE, aimed to address the popular holiday narrative and reveal the gruesome truth behind the event. “The whole point of having these ‘Busting It Open’ sessions is to host dialogue about issues that are commonly overlooked,” said Katarina Figueroa ’19, a SCORE intern and one of the facilitators of the event. “My goal with being on this committee is to encourage Scripps students not to look the other way, but to come together to acknowledge these issues.” Others involved with organizing and hosting the event included Bemnet Gebrechristos ’19 and Kohsheen Sharma ’18. Attendees were mainly prospective students; this event gave them the opportunity to experience life and discussions at Scripps College. The event began with the facilitators asking the audience to draw their perceptions of the Thanksgiving holiday. Many drawings were of the different traditional foods and of family tables, while others depicted the violent historical interactions between Pilgrims and Native Americans. After the participants shared and discussed their drawings, the facilitators played a video commonly shown to elementary school students to teach them about Thanksgiving. They and the prospective students discussed the problematic elements of the video and the erasure of the truth about Native American-Pilgrim relations. Next, a second video was shown—one that described the historical events accurately. It revealed how the Native American tribes had suffered immensely from European diseases, and that any treaties made were not respected by the colonists, who still attacked those tribes and others that did not agree to the pacts. In addition, the “Day of Thanksgiving” was established by Governor John Winthrop after the Pequot War, in which over 700 Pequot men, women and children were massacred. For the Wampanoag people, Thanksgiving Day is referred to as the National Day of Mourning
United American Indians of New England protesters recognizing National Day of Mourning. Photo courtesy of popularresistance.org
and is an annual protest to make known the genocide and oppression of Native Americans then and now. After viewing these videos, the audience was split into smaller discussion groups where the prospective students answered complex questions about Thanksgiving, the whitewashing of history and cultural appropriation. These conversations were meant to be a small-scale simulation of the Core 1 discussion classes. Afterward, the groups rejoined into the original large group, where wider discussion of these topics was held. The facilitators brought up the questions, as well as recent events and issues relating to cultural appropriation, such as which Halloween costumes fall into the category of cultural appropriation, and derogatory school mascots. “Listening to what all of the prospective students had to say about the issues presented is always great to me,” Figueroa said. “They were all incredibly confident and well-spoken with their words, and really added to the dialogue we were aiming for.” SCORE also held a “Busting it Open: Columbus Day” event in October, with the similar objective of standing up against the whitewashing of history, revealing the historical violence against indigenous people and discussing how this relates to current events and society. These events have been particularly in sync with the topics of Core I lectures and discussion classes, focusing on the erasure of Native American history, colonialism, imperialism and the oppression these people face today. The conversations about cultural appropriation have also been very relevant to the more recent incidents at the Claremont Colleges. Keeping these discussions alive through classes and SCORE events helps educate students about inclusivity and how to approach problematic incidents. “I feel that all events where students (especially students of color) can show up and come together to talk about issues that affect them to this day are successful in their own right. We are hoping to have at least two ‘Busting it Open’ events each semester, with the possibility of three if time and interest allow,” concluded Figueroa.
thanksgiving stay-cation spending the holidays on the 5c campus
By Kandace Fung ‘19 Staff Writer
B
Later that evening, Scripps will also host a dinner event: Friendsgiving Feast! Join your RAs and friends for a delicious meal! Don’t worry; even if most of your close friends have left campus, making new friends and bonding with them can be just as wonderful of an experience. To view who else is attending this celebration and to sign up, click the Google doc form link in the Facebook event—just type in “Friendsgiving!” on the search bar!
etween the mischievous fun and spookiness of Halloween and the merriness and sweetness of the winter season, the Thanksgiving holiday reserves a spot in the middle in the month of November. Although some may not celebrate or know of Thanksgiving, a national holiday, it lies on the fourth Thursday of November each year. Celebrated mainly in the U.S. and Canada, it’s a holiday of giving thanks; in the past, it was primarily to give thanks for the blessing of the harvest and of the preceding year. In modern times, many people now think of it as a day for giving thanks and celebrating their loved ones. No matter where you’re from, it never hurts to have a day to be a little extra thankful for the people and the things you have.
Aside from officially held events in the area, there are always fun options to make the most out of your oncampus Thanksgiving stay! Have a movie night with new and old friends; watch old classics, new films, Harry Potter or Star Wars marathons, or even binge-watching an entire Korean drama. Take the initiative to start up a conversation with people you don’t necessarily talk to as much as you would like to— you never know, but this could spark a new, intimate relationship and help you make another great friend!
While many students and faculty, domestic and international, leave campus to go home, there are still fun events to attend on and near campus during the Thanksgiving break! At 8:00 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning, the Sunrise Rotary of Claremont will host its 8th annual Turkey Trot in the streets of Claremont Village and the Claremont Colleges. Many families, friends and individuals get together to have fun and become energized! Prizes and awards are given out for certain goals achieved throughout the 5K Run/Walk. For more information and to sign up, go to this link: http://www. claremontsunriserotary.org/TurkeyTro5KRun.cfm
Whatever you decide to attend or do, don’t forget to do what you enjoy and feel most comfortable with! Appreciate the little extra time to rest up, and don’t forget to take care of yourself! In these last days leading up to a much-needed break, stay strong! Be thankful for what has been given to us, and always listen to each other and try to understand your classmates, acquaintances, and close friends. Popular Korean drama (or K-Drama) “Boys Over Flowers.” (The best way to spend your Thanksgiving break.)
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Photos courtesy of Claremont Sunrise Rotary and dramafever.com
19 November, 2015 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XIX • Issue Five
6
SPOTL
2
nd favorite holiday
42 places called “Plymouth” israel $312 spent on just Thanksgiving weekend Sukkoth
U.S.A.
(Christmas is 1st)
8 places called “Cranberry”
39 million travelers 50 million viewers of Macy’s Parade
This is also known as the “Feast of Bo or the “Feast of Tabernacles.” This ho starts five days after Yom Kippur, wh usually falls in late September. This h commemorates the fact that Moses an followers lived in huts before making the Promised Land. To celebrate, tent erected with fruits and vegetables insid families gather to enjoy meals toget
thanksgiving
51.15
million turkeys consumed
248 million turkeys raised each year
around the world
Korea Chuseok
Chuseok is a Thanksgiving celebration that occurs on the 15th day of the 8th month on the lunar calendar, which is when the brightest full moon of the year. It usually occurs sometime in September or early October. Families prepare meals from the year’s harvest, and place all the food out on a table as thanks to their ancestors before eating. After they eat, they go visit their ancestors’ graves and clean up weeds that may have grown there, a ceremony referred to as Beolcho.
By Jay Marks HMC ‘19
Thanksgiving isn’t just celebrated in the United States. Although the event was coined by the Pilgrims and Native Americans in 1621, similar events occur all over the world.
Liberia thanksgiving
Celebrated on the first Thursday of November, this holiday is very similar to American Thanksgiving. Since Liberia was founded by freed American slaves, their holidays often mimic those in the United States. The only significant difference is that Liberians eat mashed cassavas instead of mashed potatoes.
Germany Erntedankfest This “harvest festival of thanks” is celebrated in early October as a rural and religious celebration. It’s typically marked with a church service and a meal of rooster, goose, or turkey.
India Ladin This holiday, translated to “the Litany of the Virgin Mary,” is a celebration of God’s grace (Christian religion). Every year, a community member who feels that they have received God’s grace sponsors the event. Believers gather at an altar that’s decorated with flowers and vines and sing hymns and prayers.
19 November, 2015 • The Scripp
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ps Voice • Volume XIX • Issue Five
8 • Features
PARIS conference TALKS CLIMATE change & action By Isobel Whitcomb ‘17 Environmental Columnist
B
eginning on Nov. 30, delegates from 195 countries will meet in Paris for a two-week long climate conference. The goal of the conference, to limit global warming to a total of two degrees Celsius above pre industrial-revolution levels, is nothing new. Two degrees Celsius has long been the maximum rise in temperature considered safe by climate scientists, environmentalists, and other leaders concerned about global warming. However, previous attempts to stick to this goal have been lackluster at best. At the last major conference, which took place in 2009 in Copenhagen, Denmark, country representatives failed altogether to come to any kind of agreement. So what will be the difference between the upcoming conference and the 20
other climate talks which have taken place since 1992? According to French politicians organizing the talks, this year’s conference is unprecedented because they expect it to result in the first ever universal binding contract on climate change. The sense of urgency surrounding the Paris climate talks, reflected in France’s insistence on writing a binding contract, reflects changing attitudes around the world to the threat of global warming. A recent international poll found that the number of people worldwide who believe that climate change is a “very serious” problem has risen substantially. When a similar poll was conducted in 2010, 37% of U.S. respondents agreed that climate change is a very serious problem. In the latest poll, this number had risen to 45%. Meanwhile, in Sub Saharan Africa, India, and Latin America, the number of people concerned about global warming is at an unprecedented high. For example, over 70% of respondents in Brazil, Burkina Faso, Ghana, the Philippines and Uganda rated themselves as “very concerned” when asked if they felt that climate change would personally harm them during their lifetimes. According
to climate scientists, the prevalence of natural disaster in recent years is precipitating these changes in attitude. From the California drought, to wildfires raging across both North and South America, to devastating floods and hurricanes, global warming feels more real than ever before. “It is no longer a distant, far-off problem,” said Dr. Mann, a professor of climate science at the University of Pennsylvania. “It is very real, and as a result, a growing majority of the population is demanding action.” It appears that with the Paris climate talks in the near future, action is finally being taken. In contrast with the mentality of the past two decades, which has been one of caution and hesitance to make any sudden changes, leaders in Europe have declared their hopes that the product of this conference will not only be binding but “ambitious” as well. This acknowledgement that solving global warming can only be possible with widespread change, as opposed to small personal changes such as “driving less,” is close to unprecedented. However, all the talk of legally binding and ambitious changes appears to be coming from European leaders, particularly those running the conference in France. How realistic are these ideals
on a global scale? Unfortunately, the idea of a binding contract is not taking hold in many other parts of the world. The U.S., China, and India have all formally declared their unwillingness to participate in such a contract. While these countries all plan on participating in the conference, the nature of the contract is becoming a major point of contention. In addition, no one is actually sure how to go about enforcing such a contract on an international scale. What would be the consequences of breaching a contract? And who would do all the enforcing? Countries in favor of a binding contract hope that such questions will be decided at the conference. If the Paris climate conference of 2015 could have one slogan as of now, it would be “don’t get your hopes up too high.” Most politicians and climate scientists agree that not only is the concept of a universally binding agreement unrealistic, but we will almost certainly be unable to stop global warming before it reaches the threshold of two degrees celsius. As of this year, we have already passed the one degree threshold. However, the general consensus is that with attitudes towards global warming changing worldwide, and with the new willingness of a few major world powers to make radical changes, we are moving in the right direction.
self-care and science with prof. GRETCHEN EDwards-GILBERT By Erin Matheson ‘18 Science Columnist
P
rofessor Gretchen Edwards-Gilbert is a Keck Science Faculty member. She participated in the LASPA Center for Leadership’s “Up For Discussion” panel, “Steps to Becoming a Woman Leader in Science” on Monday, Nov. 2, and offered a distinct perspective on self-care in an involved and rigorous STEM career. Self-care is important in all phases of life--and especially relevant in college juggling classes, extracurriculars, work, and the social scene. Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services has a five week waiting list, suggesting Scripps and 5C students, including STEM majors, need to prioritize their self-care. Edwards-Gilbert offers sage advice on balancing everything from her scientific achievements to projects to daily life. “Self-care is a learning process and I can’t say I have been a particularly good model for how to do it well,” said Edwards-Gilbert, but she has figured out a methodology that works for her. For her, regular and varied exercise is critical. Edwards-Gilbert also has “a great support system, from colleagues with whom I can rely on for guidance and sharing experiences, to an identical twin whom I speak with almost daily.” Professors such as Edwards-Gilbert, similar to many Scripps students, struggle to find a balance. For her, taking care of everyone else and work obligations have always come before self-care, but now that Professor Edwards-Gilbert is in treatment for cancer, she has been forced to adjust and practice self-care. Edwards-Gilbert said, “I hope that I can take some of what I have been learning while ill and apply it to when I am well again,
incorporating self-care into my routine.” Exercise and eating right are very important for overall well-being. When students are overwhelmed with the amount of work they have to do for classes, for extra-curricular activities, and for their jobs, they should step back, reevaluate their schedules, and see where they can squeeze in even 30 minutes of some type of exercise, suggests Edwards-Gilbert. The best is to put it on their schedules so it is part of their routine. Keeping a balanced diet is trickier, since many studies have shown that people are hungrier and hungrier for not as nutritious food when they are tired. The other key to self-care is to learn where the sources of support are, which will vary for each person. “You might have a friend with whom you can vent about stress, or you may find a professional resource, such as a therapist or chaplin, more helpful. You may find having alone, quiet time most valuable,” suggests EdwardsGilbert. “The important thing is to take the time to figure out what works for you, and then add the self-care to an already busy schedule.” Edwards-Gilbert, who studies how cells regulate gene expression in her research lab at Keck, does have a very busy schedule. Seven students, including a CMC alumn lab technician work in the lab. She uses the model eukaryotic organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae, or budding yeast for her two research projects. One project looks at how organisms respond to stress, specifically phenol stress. Cells have to be able to respond to stress or they won’t survive, and not much is known about how these common phenols affect cells. Some of this work is collaborative with Keck Professor Irene Tang’s lab. Another area of research examines gene expression, specifically how cells modify RNA through processing
steps to create a mature RNA molecule that the cell can use. With these two research projects, Edwards-Gilbert is a very busy woman who demonstrates she knows how to manage her packed schedule. Mistakes in these steps are associated with many human diseases, and understanding how proteins achieve the correct processing is critical to understanding how mistakes may occur. Edwards-Gilbert’s lab focuses on a specific protein that uses energy from ATP hydrolysis to unwind RNAs or RNA-protein complexes. Edwards-Gilbert is a very accomplished woman, and her advice on self-care can go a long way when it comes to Scripps student’s well-being.
19 November, 2015 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XIX • Issue Five
mental By Jocelyn Gardner ‘17 Mental Health Columnist & Webmaster
Features • 9
health in a sis i & care cr
A
s you undoubtedly know, a lot of things have been going on in Claremont in the past couple of weeks, and I feel like it would be ridiculous of me to overlook this. Both blatant and implicit racism, prejudice, appropriation, silencing and overall oppression of groups on all the campuses have been happening for a long time, and last week there was incredible activism. In addition to the unrest at many college campuses, there were also tragedies across the globe-- tragedies that were also wound up in oppression. (There were attacks stemming from extreme, violent oppression, and there was a shameful handling of “news” in the media even for tragedies like the natural disasters in Japan and Mexico. If you didn’t know about those, you see my point…) On our campuses, (hopefully) most of us believe that when it comes to people, there is no “mold.” There is no “typical,” and there should not be stereotypes. But there are, and they are messed up beyond explanation. I don’t need to tell you this! But I do want to say that no matter how you identify, you are a person, and you have the right to take care of yourself and feel respected and validated. This is why I’m strongly advocating for self-care—for everyone. What is happening on this campus, on the 5Cs, and across the country and the world affects everyone. There is an inevitable connection, even if you live in a cave made of homework (e.g. me), even if you’re not a person of color, even if you don’t feel a part of this community and even if you haven’t been following the news. But I’m not here to preach. I’m here to remind you that you have options in taking care of yourself and those around you, if you want to. These options vary greatly, and I’ve included more resources at the end of this article, so don’t be discouraged if at first you don’t see options you’d like. 1. Monsour Usually, people recommend Monsour if you are looking to address mental health. I’ve been informed that Monsour has a waiting period of five weeks, and it is completely fine to not even want to go to Monsour regardless. However, there are definitely options that don’t involve waiting (or counseling/therapy/etc.), and what will help is very different for everyone. Despite the five- week wait, if you are in the midst of a crisis and need an emergency appointment, I’m sure you’d be able to go. Don’t let the waiting period deter you from seeking help for yourself or someone else! If you or anyone you know is in crisis, please call Campus Safety: (909) 607-2000 2. Talk to someone Luckily, there are many other ways to practice self-care and find support. For example, find someone you trust and speak to them. There are so many people you can talk to: peer mentors, RAs, roommates, hallmates, friends, CLORG leaders, professors, advisers, administrators, family, people from high school, etc. 3. Accept your emotional state Let yourself have your emotions, and if you don’t feel any now, that’s also fine. Just know that down the road, they might suddenly emerge, and it helps to be aware of what’s going on so you aren’t taken off-guard. Having a sense of community or solidarity with someone else can make a world of difference. (Side note: this is also another reason that in this time, it is important to honor any requests for people to have a safe space. It might seem like people are leaving you out, but they’re just having the space they need to support each other.) 4. Communicate with professors Let your professors know what’s going on with you—I’m sure they’d be supportive and would agree that your wellbeing is more important than your school work. Even if they don’t, the support systems for students, namely the Dean of Students staff, would back you up (e.g. emailing your profs, setting up temporary accommodations). If you don’t know what to say, just be honest with your professors: communicating honestly is best thing you can do. You might not be sure you even need to miss class or have an extension on an assignment yet, but it is always good to be proactive and precautionary in such cases. Some examples of what you can ask for are excused absences, taking breaks, having extensions on assignments, making up a test and meeting outside of class. Everyone’s been doing a lot of self-advocating, advocating for others, and learning. At the same time, we’re also students. Don’t let your identity as a student come before your wellbeing. Ever. School should always be secondary to your safety. 5. Online resources The internet is full of things that will piss you off, but it also has many things that can validate you or get your mind off things. Do what makes you feel good: looking at pictures of pugs, reading feminist articles, taking buzzfeed quizzes, watching Netflix, reading about people experiencing similar feelings, etc. Chances are, if you want it, you’ll find it out there. I’ve included a few resources at the end of this article specifically relating to self-care that I found online. Just be cautious of the fact that the internet also has the potential to expose you to more negative content, whether that’s ignorant comments, trolls, posts about the horrors going on in the world, and information about oppression. This brings me to another tip: 6. Unplug If scrolling through your Facebook feed or YikYak is only going to make you feel bad, try taking a break from tech. Being connected to what’s going on is a good thing, but like any good thing, too much of it turns it into a bad thing. Give yourself even just fifteen minutes on “airplane mode” and see how you feel. 7. Go outside The sun does wonders. Getting some fresh air alone or with a friend can give you a boost-- try a short walk to the mailroom or to pet the dogs that frequent Seal Court on afternoons. 8. Take care of your body It sounds trite, but make sure you’re taking care of your physical needs. Drink plenty of water, get some sleep, stretch, breathe, make sure you aren’t hungry, and try to let go of tension in your muscles. Take care of your eyes by turning on lights and taking breaks from screens. Take a refreshing shower; do your nails; drink some tea… there are so many possibilities. 9. Affirm yourself Remind yourself that you deserve to feel okay if you want to! It’s a right, not a privilege. As much as many of you might focus on other people, often the best way to help them is to help yourself, first. Tell yourself, “Good job!” “You can do this” or anything else that you know you’d appreciate hearing. It goes a long way and helps you stay motivated. 10. Do something! Take 30 minutes and do something that you know will help you decompress. For some, it feels good to see tangible progress, so something like cleaning up an area of your room or your desktop can help. Or, you can knock out some smaller assignments or break large ones into small steps so you can check off items quickly on your to-do list. If that will only stress you out more, do something completely different that you like, such as watching a tv episode, going to the pool, writing to a friend abroad or working on something artistic. 11. Know your limits If something feels bad or overwhelming, by all means, try to get away from it. Resources: 12. Remember: YOU COUNT! Feeling the emotional burden of the suffering of so many people is no small deal. Again, so much has been going on, and you do not have to feel the full weight of that every waking moment. Allow yourself time for yourself-- “you time.” It might seem trivial, but it really goes a long way in preventing burnout, which can manifest even months later. I don’t feel that I can say much else about all of these current events (i.e. Paris, Beirut, Baghdad, Kenya, Japan, Mexico…), but I have some final thoughts related to campus activism. For people not involved in the activism on campus, it might be hard to understand what’s happening, but the most important thing you can do is keep an open mind. It’s hard to judge an action, a person, something you heard, etc. in a split second. Remember that the big picture will not always be visible in a small, contextualized moment. For example, the events on campus are not isolated incidents that suddenly sparked the events of last week, but a culmination point of deep, underlying tensions that have been boiling below the surface for a very long time. You might not know what’s going on yet, or how you feel yet, and that’s fine. In addition, this time of semester combined with all of the events on campus and around the world can leave you feeling very isolated, but please try not to rule out allies before you even give them a chance to help. As an ally or potential ally, talking to people can help you understand what you are feeling and what is happening. It is vital for allies to have a community as well. Some people say, “but this doesn’t involve me!” when in fact, this DOES involve them. As this is occurring on our home campuses, we must be involved. If we want to have a community, and if we want progress, we must combine the two: there won’t be progress without community, and there won’t be a community without progress.
fabianswriting.tumblr.com/post/69798253522/selfcare-list-how-to-take-care-of-your-self www.thefeministwire.com/2014/04/self-love-andself-care www.tumblr.com/search/self%20care%20list selfcarereminders.tumblr.com becauseiamawoman.tumblr.com/ post/92562154148/making-your-own-self-care-kit bisociations.tumblr.com/post/101249343368/selfcare-101-25-small-and-no-nonsense-ways-to selfcarezine.tumblr.com selfcarezine.tumblr.com/post/131641278818/41awesome-mental-health-resources-when-you-cant self-care-kit.tumblr.com
19 November, 2015 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XIX • Issue Five
10 • Features
Lindsey Aaronson ‘18 with Kaya Mark ‘18, staff writer
Hometown: Chicago, IL What are you majoring in? How did you choose your major? English. I love to read and I love to write, and while in my mind I thought perhaps I would pursue the major in college, it wasn’t until I started taking a Jane Austen literature seminar at CMC with Audrey Bilger that I really realized what I wanted to do. I love the intimacy of being in a literature class and the deep discussion it brings about, and I think studying English goes beyond simply reading and writing in a lot of different ways. For example, from reading some of Austen’s works I have learned to pick apart her social commentary and view it through the lens of a 21st century reader. What are you involved in on campus? I am a consul member for OTL [On The Loose, the 5C outdoor club] and a Jumpstart team leader [both 5C groups]. What is OTL? OTL, short for On the Loose, is the outdoor club of the Claremont Colleges. We serve the entire undergraduate Claremont community. We do a whole range of things from leading trips, to training other trip leaders, to hosting biweekly get-togethers for all nature-lovers or anyone who wants to get involved, called “shindigs.” Currently we are looking for new people to be on the consul, which is the OTL leadership. If individuals want to get involved, what should they do? Shoot us an email at otlstaff@gmail.com, check out our website (otl.pomona.edu) or talk to me, Caitlin Gaylord, or Talia Speaker! What is your favorite drink at the Motley? I dig a cappuccino with an extra shot of espresso anytime! Do you have a “happy spot” on campus? Recently I’ve been spending some time in Margaret Fowler. It’s so quiet and lovely, and a good place to journal, cat nap, or just zone out. What about a place off-campus? For somewhere close to campus, I like to go to Mount Baldy. There are a lot of neat little nooks and crannies you can find up in those mountains. There’s a cold stream that’s super nice, and the hikes up there are fun as well.
queer
corner By Jay Marks HMC ‘19 LGBTQ+ Columnist
Q
ueer students at the Claremont Colleges are lucky, in the sense that we have an abundance of resources available to us. However, the same level and quality of resources are not necessarily available to high schools in the area. That is what inspired the Queer Resource Center (QRC) to start the initiative to provide those resources to high schools. The program is called Leadership and Engagement in Gender and Sexuality, or LEGS. Queer college students and allies sent in applications this fall to the head mentors, who then selected eight to be LEGS Mentors.
Photo courtesy of Lindsey Aaronson ‘18 What is a word of wisdom you have for this year’s first years? Lots of things come to mind! The first thing I would say is do what makes you happy, take care of yourself and follow your gut. It’s so incredibly easy to go through the motions of college because you feel like you have to, and it’s important to sometimes pause, evaluate what you’re doing and how you’re feeling and make sure you’re on the track that is right and healthiest for you. Nobody really talks about how difficult the first year of college is, but I would encourage first years to talk through hardships— not for the sake of complaining, but for the sake of just telling others how you feel. I think navigating the first year of school is probably a lot easier when you feel in touch with your emotions, as cheesy as that sounds, and I think that can be a lot easier if you are freely communicating with your friends. I would also say don’t feel like you have to join six clubs and play two sports and have a rocking social life if you don’t want to. It’s okay not to be overscheduled!!!!! Cannot stress that enough, and maybe it’s because I came from a really high-pressure secondary school environment where you had to do a thousand things at once to fit into the trope. That said, try to find something non-academic to fulfill you. Classes are great, but they aren’t everything.
What is the number one place you want to live in the world? British Columbia! *sigh* If you could be any animal, what animal would you be and why? I would love to be a giraffe so I could truly stick my tongue up my nose. I can sort of do that now but it would be a hundred times better if I had the tongue of a giraffe!! Finally, what is one of the funniest memories you have had at Scripps? Last year, I took care of the chickens at the Pomona farm second semester. One day I was in the coop and the wind blew the door of the coop open, and like ten chickens ran out. I started running around after them, trying to scoop them up, and I don’t know if you’ve ever tried to catch a bunch of chickens in a short period of time but they are speedy little demons. I was alone at the farm and couldn’t get ahold of the manager, so I called two of my friends, who sprinted from Scripps all the way to the Pomona farm (which is quite a haul) and helped me recapture the chickens. Moral of the story: true friends will chase chickens with you!
HIGH SCHOOL OUTREACH PROGRAM The LEGS mentors had their first training on Sunday, Nov. 8 at the QRC. The four-hour training consisted of educating the mentors about California laws as applicable to queer students, understanding how intersectionality affects identity, and how to connect with the queer high school students. The second training took place on Sunday, Nov. 15 at SCORE. The training was hosted by Torie Weiston, a mentoring and education scholar, and focused on qualities that a mentor should strive to have, as well as how to support mentees and guide them in the right direction. The LEGS program includes initiating contact with local high schools’ administration and students. The program strives to provide resources for queer students who would otherwise be unable to access support and education about their identities. The LEGS Mentors strive to come from an intersectional point of view, understanding how oppression and privilege on various axes affect queer identity. Although this is not directly affiliated with LEGS, one of the initiatives that its members will be focusing on
besides connecting with queer students at local high schools is countering Sebastian Bryan. Bryan is a preacher who goes to Los Angles County high schools to preach that gay people are going to hell, etc. He stands on the sidewalk outside of the schools, making it illegal for school officials to get him to move or request police assistance in doing so, since technically he isn’t trespassing. On the days he is preaching, Bryan posts the location he will be preaching at on his Facebook page. In addition, he brings a camera with him so that he can film his talk. The LEGS program wants to counter Bryan’s preachings. Head mentor John Contreras wants to go farther, not just showing up at a preaching to counterprotest, but to strike back before Sebastian can get in another preaching. The plan is to have a demonstration involving students of the school, encouraging them and others that being queer is okay. The application period for this round of LEGS mentors is closed, but stay tuned for more information on the QRC website, http://colleges.claremont.edu/qrc.
19 November, 2015 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XIX • Issue Five
Features • 11
By Ali Bush ‘19 Staff Writer
Bechdel
test ENOUGH
FILM
Why the is not
passing of this test by no means indicates that it is a a romantic storyline that feminist manifesto. A common loophole that allows doesn’t “compromise [a many films to pass this test are conversations that female character’s] sanity or eing both a feminist and a cinephile, I was occur between two women that are often written common sense.”[2] excited to learn about the Bechdel Test a few by male screenwriters about something frivolous These revisions prove that the phenomena the years ago, a standardized way to analyze films or demeaning to women, such as shopping or Bechdel Test has grown to be has lost its significance with a feminist lens. Then, I soon learned that the makeup. However, the surprisingly large number and potential to remedy representations in film. For Bechdel Test is simply not enough to tackle issues of films that don’t pass this test does expose the many, passing the Bechdel Test is a film’s stamp of unbalanced representation in film today. lack of female characters in film, but of feminist approval, and the obsessive process of To kick off “Halloweekend” the Bechdel Test poses many categorizing films loses sight of Bechdel’s initial on Scripps’ campus, a more complexities. For intention: a more equal and true representation group of 5C students example, only a small of women in film. As Huffington Post writer Anna “...Additionally, the test fails to address organized and held p e r c e n t a g e o f Waletzko so perfectly puts it “feminism, like movies, the lack of many identities that are equally a screening of award-winning is nuanced, and that’s what the Bechdel Test a Halloweenmovies pass the lacks.”[3] Although Alison Bechdel created this themed episode important to represent, such as characters of different test while many model merely to serve as a punch-line in her comic of Friends and female-centric strip, it has obviously gained more significance and races, classes, sexualities, ages, body types, and analyzed the films, such as it is simply not enough. Society’s fascination and gender identities...” episode through Gravity (2013) and obsession with categorizing films as Bechdel or the lens of the popular, The Girl With the Dragon non-Bechdel, and the complete disregard of films yet flawed Bechdel Test, in Tattoo (2011) fail to pass the that don’t pass the test are detrimental to the way order to start a dialogue about women test. Surprisingly, films that promote misogyny we look at film. The Bechdel Test limits our analysis in television and film. First engineered by Alison and male dominance, such as the much-dated of film to gender representation, which is a no doubt Bechdel in her 1985 comic strip Dykes to Watch From Russia with Love (1963) and extremely serious issue that must be addressed in Hollywood; Out For, the Bechdel test was designed to examine male-centered All About Steve (2009) somehow however, the test also blinds us from the lack of representation of female characters and their pass the test. other intersecting identities that also desperately relationships with each other in films. In order to Additionally, the test fails need more representation in film pass the Bechdel Test, a film must 1) have two to address the lack of and television. Although named female characters 2) that speak to each m a n y i d e n t i t i e s the Bechdel Test is “...For many, passing the Bechdel Test other 3) about a topic other than men. In theory, a that are equally entirely too onefilm that passes the Bechdel Test contains multiple i m p o r t a n t t o is a film’s stamp of feminist approval, and the dimensional to “strong” female characters that do not simply exist represent, such ruly assess obsessive process of categorizing films loses sight tintersectional to be saved by heroic males or to prop up male as characters counterparts. The group discussion that followed o f d i f f e r e n t of Bechdel’s initial intention: a more equal and true feminism in film, the screening shed some light on the flaws of the races, classes, it does do some Bechdel Test. For example, although the particular sexualities, ages, representation of women in film...” good: it questions episode of Friends that was screened passed the body types, and gender the veracity of identities Bechdel Test, characters ardently adhered to binary identities. It is clear that the represented in films and starts gender roles and the focus of the episode revolved Bechdel Test most often grants its stamp of conversations about the flaws in the movies and around heterosexual relationships of an all white approval to movies that contain white, able-bodied, TV series that we all love. cast. This event opened the door to discussion heterosexual cis women. With these flaws in mind, about the imperfections of the Bechdel Test many revisions have been made to the initial Bechdel [1] http://womensissues.about.com/od/filmindustry/fl/Is-theand society’s recent fascination with this flawed Test, such as the Racial Bechdel Test which tests Bechdel-Test-Still-Relevant.htm mechanism. [2]http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2014/01/07/the_ the number of characters of color that discuss In recent years, scholars have come to realize a topic other than a white person.[1] Similarly, bechdel_test_needs_an_update_we_ve_set_the_bar_for_female_ that the Bechdel Test is entirely too one-dimensional activist and writer Roxane Gay offers amendments representation.html to truly measure equal gender representation in to the test, such as inclusion of “women of color, [3] http://www.huffingtonpost.com/anna-waletzko/why-thefilm. Furthermore, it has become clear that a film’s transgender, and queer women,” or inclusion of bechdel-test-fails-feminism_b_7139510.html
B
GEARING UP FOR
By Natalie Camrud ‘17 & Diva Gattani ‘17 Fashion Columnists
W
inter is coming, and while it might not be as cold as Winterfell, shorts and skirts will no longer cut it. But don’t worry, sixty degrees can be a lovely temperature if you know how to dress for it. I will now divulge my favorite winter clothing combinations, from your head to your feet!
Let’s start with shoes.
Birkenstocks and socks are great, but sometimes you have to give in and actually wear closed-toe shoes. Dansko clogs, the winter Birkenstock, are a winter essential for many students on campus. They are warm, extremely comfortable and waterproof (gotta prep for El Niño). The easy-access design are what made them a favorite of mine. You can slip into them quickly when you’ve shut off your alarm a million times and then have to run to your class.
Okay, next up is overalls. I know
WINTER
what you’re thinking, didn’t I own a pair of those with Mickey Mouse on them when I was six? Yes, you probably did, but overalls aren’t just for children. Many brands, such as AG Adriano Goldschmied, Topshop, Madewell and Paige, are bringing back overalls this season and for good reason. Overalls are great for staying warm when you’re on the go, and are quite versatile. They can be paired with a myriad of garments. For example, if you’re like me and you’re always cold, try layering a turtleneck underneath for extra warmth.
Another winter essential is jackets.
This seems like an obvious option, but many people (myself included) neglected to pack a jacket in August because it was 100 degrees and they couldn’t imagine a future in which Claremont would ever be cold. If you don’t already have one on campus, be sure to bring one back if you’re going
home for Thanksgiving. Whether you choose denim or wool or leather, etc., the options are endless. It’s always fun to go find a large, cozy, vintage one at a thrift shop; my most prized possession is my purple suede bomber jacket, complete with shoulder pads, that I discovered for $1 at a thrift store at home. Wrapping a large blanket around yourself is also a fine substitute.
And finally, hats!
I feel that a warm, woven beanie is such a cozy winter essential. Your head stays warm and you can cover your hair, since it’s now become way too cold to shower. The sun is setting at 4:30, y’all, you deserve to have a nice, warm scalp. Now that it’s finally cold, head to the Motley in your glorious clogs, grab a Bowl of Soul and hunker down in your jacket of choice until winter break arrives.
19 November, 2015 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XIX • Issue Five
12 • Flyer
passive content:
CALL OUT
CULTURE
How do you decide when to call in and when to call out? It is difficult to decide which tactic to use, it is very situational but some things to think about are: What type of space are you in? Is there an opportunity for meaningful discussion? What power dynamics exist between you and the person you want to call in/out? What is your objective? What is your capacity to educate? It is important to note that there are pros and cons to each tactic. Neither is inherently better than the other. No person is deserving of receiving one form over the other; that choice is completely on the person doing the calling in/out. What do you do when you are called in/out? 1. Don’t tone police. It is NOT your right to dictate how someone should react to their oppression. Also, tone doesn’t translate well over Internet spaces, so try to focus on WHAT was said and don’t get caught up in HOW it was said. 2. Don’t demand a detailed explanation. You’re basically asking the person to justify their call out. It’s exhausting and often this is just a way to try and derail, start an argument, or discredit the other person. Many resources are available online for you to educate yourself. #UseTheGoogle 3. Don’t get defensive. A call out is not all about you as a person. If you do feel defensive, lean into your discomfort and ask yourself, why do I feel this way? 4. Don’t take it personally. Calling out is not a personal attack. If someone calls you out, they’re trying to teach you something. Calling out is a way for people to educate others on how systems of oppression operate on a day to day, individual level. 5. Don’t attack/lash out at the person who’s calling you out. Recognize that it takes a lot of courage to speak out against systems of oppression and…(look at #6) 6. Don’t assume the person calling you out is just “looking to get offended”. Nobody enjoys calling other people out. To call someone out, people often have to mentally prepare for serious repercussions, like actual violence for example. Calling someone out might mean starting an argument, during which many people will side with the oppressor by default (especially if you’re privileged over the person calling you out). 7. Understand that being oppressive is not the same as being offensive or hurting feelings although they are linked. The damage you’re perpetuating is part of a larger system of oppression.
What is calling in? Calling in is when someone addresses an oppressive behavior privately or independently. It takes a bit more patience on the part of the person calling in and shows a willingness to engage in a more intentionally educational manner. Calling in is a useful tactic to use within communities you are a part of and have a certain foundation of trust in. What is calling out? Calling out is when someone brings public attention to an individual’s or group’s oppressive behavior. It is very direct in its aim to get the person to stop their oppressive behavior and lets others know that the person was being oppressive, which allows them to hold that person accountable for their actions. Calling out often favors connecting an individual action to the larger systemic systems of oppression.
8. Realize that impact is more important than intent when it comes to whether you were oppressive or not. It doesn’t matter what you meant to do because it had an impact on someone that needs to go acknowledged. 9. Recognize the power dynamics that are in place between you and the person calling you in/out. 10. Understand intersectionality. Just because you are oppressed by classism doesn’t mean you lack white privilege, for example. Everyone can fuck up, everyone will fuck up. Nobody is immune from needing to be called out. Everybody needs to work on allyship. 11. Know that being privileged means being oppressive, but you can work to reduce the ways that you are oppressive. 12. LISTEN. Practice active listening. It may be difficult, but it is crucial in order to be a better ally and avoid being as oppressive in the future. Don’t talk over people sharing their experiences with you. Amplify their narratives when possible. 13. Genuinely apologize. Privately to the person calling you in/out and publicly when necessary. Consider all of the above when you form your apology. 14. Work on oppression reduction and being the best ally you can be. The point of calling you in/out is to draw your attention to how you’re being oppressive, so that you can work to change it. If you made an oppressive joke, there’s probably oppressive thoughts in place (conscious or not) that led you to think the joke was appropriate. Everyone has to unlearn the oppressive things they’ve absorbed from an oppressive society. We are all taught ways to keep marginalized people in their place, but the good thing is that we can identify these things in ourselves and change. *The above is a slightly modified version of a list created by Franchesca Ramsey. Brought to you by SAS Senate (Alexa Muniz ‘16, Rohma Amir ‘18, Natalie Knops ‘19, Desiree Santos ‘19) and Scripps Res Life (Meli Móntez ‘16). Resources: http://blog.franchesca.net/post/58330894471/how-to-deal-with-beingcalled-out http://everydayfeminism.com/2015/03/calling-in-and-calling-out/ http://everydayfeminism.com/2015/01/guide-to-calling-in/ http://everydayfeminism.com/2014/09/called-out-acknowledging-oppression/
#PRAYFORPARIS 19 November, 2015 • The Scripps Voice • Volume XIX • Issue Five