THE BLUEPRINT:
A S p e l m a n S p o t l i g h t P u b l i c at i o n Vol. 2, No. 2
A Look at What’s Inside: Beyond the Race pg. 3 “You Can’t Repeat the Past” pg. 3 #GIRLBOSS pg. 4 Deep Conditioning pg. 4 For the Love of Hip Hop pg. 5 NeoSoul Concert pg. 5 Body Image and the Physical Body pg. 6 Food On My Mind pg. 6 Overhyped, or Helpful? pg. 6 First Look pg. 7 Spelman Chose Me pg. 7 A Toast to Jazzman’s pg. 7 My Spiritual Journey pg. 8 Pearls of Wisdom pg. 9 Spiritually Grounded pg. 10 Women in Sports Spotlight pg. 10 “Discovering Perspective” pg. 11 Spelmanite at Sea pg. 12
Intellectual Framework for the Freethinker
You are #NotMyFather: November/December 2014
Spelman Students Respond to Cosby Allegations By: Teri Davis C’2016, Madyson Crawford C’2016, Veronikka Gittens C’2016, Ayanna Spencer C’2015, Christine Slaughter C’2015
Three members of the KuumbaWe, the women of the KuumbaSheftall Collective released a vine under Sheftall Collective, are neither in solidarity the hashtag #NotMyFather to voice our with Bill Cosby nor with the Aku Kadogo’s frustration with Cosby. Until statement in the Washington our video, there was no Post article about her student nor institutional position as Cosby Endowed response to the relationship Professor in the Arts in light between our institution of the allegations. We feel and the Cosby family. We the need to further address released it in response to the core issue at hand: the TMZ article that falsified misogyny, rape culture Spelman’s unwavering on our campus, and the allegiance to Cosby. The tendency to protect abusers Cosby during rather than the victims. article was headlined commencement 2006 “Spelman College--We Still The Kuumba-Sheftall Have Your Back,” taking the college’s Collective began when the Toni Cade silence on the matters as full support of Bambara Scholar/ Writer/ Activist Cosby. Collective was hosted in the Women’s Our insistence on social media that Center on Spelman’s campus. After Bill Cosby is #NotOurFather is rooted hearing their stories of resistance, we in the longstanding legacy of women began to meet as our own collective, supporting accused male rapists under gathering all the Black feminists we knew. We have grown so much. This letter the disguise of respectability politics. We resist the patterns of silence that render is our first step in spreading our will and rape survivors voiceless, while protecting defending what’s right.
Editorial
the image of their rapists. The vine is a statement that showed how we were able to separate the real Bill Cosby and the fictional Cliff Huxtable. We understood the father figure on television is not the abuser in real life. We also understand that this is bigger than Bill Cosby; we no longer have interest in protecting bigots, abusers, patriarchs nor rapists. On the same day that our vine and the TMZ article went up, Dr. Beverly Tatum, President of Spelman College, sent an email to the student body detailing the college’s refusal to comment on the allegations. Tatum closed her email confirming Spelman’s place to fight against sexual violence, but also urging students to “read all new media critically.” On December 14, Tatum released a subsequent statement, stating that the college has suspended the Cosby Endowed Professorship program until they know that “the original goals can again be met.”
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Ferg”US”on: An Example of Millennial Protest Culture
By: Ko A. Bragg C’2015, Editor-in-Chief
Current Events Editor Lindsey Burgess, and Editor-in-Chief Ko Bragg, traveled to Ferguson the Friday after Darren Wilson was ruled free from any indictment charges. They went to experience the protests first-hand, and they documented their findings on Twitter and Instagram under the hashtag #BPinFerguson. They will continue to share commentary on Ferguson and the protests stemming from outrage with police violence around the world. Ferguson is our moment. It belongs mostly to the young, African-American community. It lives in the city streets and spreads virally through our virtual spheres of social media. Moments often incite movements. Conversely, millennials, or those who grew up in the 2000s, often allow movements to dissolve into moments. Meaning, we share our rage on social media, until we get the
“Die-In” inside mall in St. Louis area Photo source: Ko Bragg
kind of amnesia that people seem to get when they remember (ironically) that life can be pretty comfortable as is. Then, the very threat to humanity that enraged people in the first place, just becomes a point on a timeline in Black, unjust history. The way we fight back looks different now; protest culture has changed. This generation was fostered in online chatrooms and instant message threads, so it’s no wonder that Twitter is one of the biggest motivating forces in this movement. As outsiders, Lindsey and I were able to be at every major protest just by following a few key individuals on Twitter. The police often arrive on the scene at the same time protesters trickle into the meeting locations. The St. Louis County Police Department has an active twitter account, and with #Ferguson often trending, it is never hard to find the action. In Ferguson, there are three distinctive protest cultures emerging right
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CAMPUS LIFE & Events ...continued from page 1 The Cosby family’s philanthropy shall not and will not silence those of us who take the claims seriously. Our clip sought to vocalize that we take the rape allegations against Cosby very seriously. The current visiting professors are now to be referred to as Spelman College Distinguished Visiting Scholars, instead of Cosby chairs. It is no coincidence that multiple women have come forth with allegations against Cosby. As we excuse the need for “proof” when individuals are murdered by police, we must also consider how we can apply this to women who have been harassed, sexually assaulted, and raped. As a campus, we must stand in support of our sisters who have spoken out against the acts of Bill Cosby. When the Cosby chair reminded us that “people forget easily,” in a Washington Post article, we could not let her problematic and dismissive tone shape the public narrative of the college. It is unfortunate that her comments spread to speak for an entire institution of freethinking women. Here is her statement: “I’m not worried about being the Cosby chair,” said Aku Kadogo, Spelman’s Cosby Endowed Professor in the Arts.
“It’s not a worry to me. It’s a difficult time entrenched in campus culture, it can be extremely difficult to enact change, but for him. But it ain’t the end of the world. If that does not mean we will stop trying. Hillary can run for president — she went It does not mean we allow for others to through all that rigmarole. People forget silence our voices. It does not mean that easily.” We cannot forget that many women an organizations such as TMZ, built on falsities and gossip, have the authority on this campus are survivors of sexual to inaccurately speak for all of us. It harassment, assault, and rape. These acts strip women of does not mean that one visiting bodily autonomy, freedom of faculty member can speak for movement, and human rights. us. In case the media will not Sexual assault paint the portrait follows you for the accurately: rest of your life. We must begin to women of see ourselves as Spelman College do not stand in vessels of truth. solidarity with Bill No court of law Cosby. can invalidate the truth women We must hold our possess. The women’s college many injustices accountable that happen to and on our bodies and dismantle the patriarchal can no longer be norms and ignored. We must Aku Kadogo, current Cosby Chair behaviors on this protect ourselves campus. Students have always had power. if no one else, not even our institution, seems invested in our protection. Students led the Civil Rights Movement. When male supremacy is deeply Students are currently leading the
ABOUT THE BLUEPRINT: Chief Editors
Section Editors
Ko Bragg, Editor-in-Chief Ayanna Runcie, Managing Editor Jasmine Ellis, Associate Editor Erin Gloster, Copy Editor
Lindsey Burgess, Current Events Mia Anderson, Health & Wellness Tyra A. Seals, Religious & Spiritual Life Chonise Bass, Religious & Spiritual Life Clarissa Brooks, Arts & Entertainment Sofia Walton, Fashion & Beauty Kalin Tate, Online Ansley Carlisle, Online Courtney King, Campus Life Tyler Lee, Business & Finance Taylor Curry, Food & Drink Adrian Thomas, Opinions
Business Team Corinne Walker, Public Relations Director Nyla Nation, Event Coordinator Eboni Ellis & Achaia Moore, Social Media Marli Crowe, Advertisment & Distribution Manager Nandi Howard, Photographer
Advisor Kimberly M. Ferguson, Dean of Students
How to Reach Us
Email: spelmanpaper@gmail.com
Thanks to all of our contributing, staff, and featured writers.
THE BLUEPRINT: Mission Statment It is the mission of The BluePrint to serve as a profound forum that fortifies understanding, unity, and advocacy throughout the Spelman and greater AUC community. The BluePrint strives to produce innovative, fair, and creative journalism that helps its readers understand the nation and world through the lens of African-American and Black Women.
THE BLUEPRINT: A Spelman Spotlight P u b l i c at i o n
movements across the country against, the criminalization and murders of black men AND women. While we fight for our brothers and sisters who are being murdered, we must also fight for our sisters and brothers, and genderqueer family who are being victims to a vicious form of violence; sexual violence. We are making “a choice to change the world” by standing up. Silence cannot and will not be the answer. You, as a part of the Spelman College collective can promote solidarity, heal, and create true change. We charge you to live a life of intellectualism. Indulge in tears, love, and creativity. We would like to close this off with an important quote from Audre Lorde, a black feminist who has written essays, poems, and texts centralizing safe spaces for all women: “Caring for myself is not selfindulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” In love and solidarity,
The Women of the Kuumba-Sheftall Collective
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ARTS & Entertainment “You Can’t Repeat the Past” Beyond Race:
A Film Review of ‘Beyond the Lights’ By: Ansley Carlisle C’2018
“It’s not a black film,” actor Nate Parker proclaimed during a press conference for his most recent movie, “Beyond the Lights.” Instead Parker and writer and director Gina PrinceBythewood, who also wrote and directed “Love and Basketball” and “The Secret Life of Bees,” insist that this is a “love story” about “self identity.” Influenced by PrinceBythewood’s own troubled relationship with her mother, the story is based on the character Noni Jean, played by Belle actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw. A rising pop starlet, Noni nearly commits suicide as a result of her mother’s obsessive pressure for her to succeed. However, when officer Kaz Nicols, played by Parker, saves Noni’s life, the two fall in love instantly and ultimately help each other to discover their own identities and life purposes. Race was a non-issue throughout the movie, and frankly it bore far too little resemblance to The Bodyguard to even be compared to the 1992 film. The label “black film” must then refer to the nearly all black cast. Indeed, this is true of “Beyond the Lights”—most of the cast is black. Having a film with a black cast isn’t radical. In fact, a slew of recent films popularly deemed as “black movies” such as Think Like a Man, Best Man Holiday, About Last Night, and Addicted are not black culture or history “themed.” Yet, they are still labeled as “black films.”
Compared to movies such as 42, Dear White People, Belle, and 12 Years a Slave, all of which deal directly with issues of racism, “Beyond the Lights,” and other movies casted with African-American actors are not race films by association. For the most part, the only link between the former group and the latter is the race of their lead characters. Essentially, these films have nothing to do with each other and—at the root—that is Parker and Prince-Bytheway’s point. Naturally, no artist wants her work lumped into a general or ill-fitting category. When race becomes a category for artwork, the content and art become secondary. For talented artists like Prince-Bythewood and Parker, such efforts to categorize their work are ignorant and insulting. This isn’t a “black film.” This is a love story about self-identity. It features refreshing, genuine talent from dazzling actors. In portraying the beautifully real story of a woman finding herself, is changing film. It also has an amazing soundtrack including songs by Nina Simone and Beyoncé. See this movie that happens to feature many talented black people on Friday, November 14.
Chris Brown Drops his new album “X” By: Jeremie Davis C’2016
No matter how many times Chris Brown may appear in the “bad light” of the public eye, it seems to always make it up with his first love--music. In September, Chris Brown released his sixth album entitled: “X.” Prior to releasing the album, he dropped four singles in hopes to increase the anticipation for the album. However, they did not perform well on the charts. The four singles were: “Fine China,” “Love More,” “Don’t Think They Know,” and “Loyal”. “Fine China” only reached No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Love More” reached No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100, where as Loyal reached No. 9 on the charts and has been the most successful song on the album thus far. It actually took 2 years for to release “X”, mainly due to Brown’s rehab and community service. So this album really needed to make up for the fact that the singles did not perform as well as Brown’s music normally does. The album is a compilation of 21 songs, which is his longest album ever. The first song on the album is “X”. Now at first listen, most assume that this song is about Rihanna. Wrong. The song focuses on the downfall of his public image, especially when it came to the domestic abuse towards Rihanna. In the beginning of “X” he mentions the common adage: “You’re only as good as in the company you keep”, basically implying that the constant negativity in the press may be due to the people he hangs around. The song then goes on talking about how he was blinded for a while, unable to discern what was real from what wasn’t real. The best part of the song is
when he says “I Swear to God I’m Moving On” and the beat drops into this dubstep/ Jersey Shore beat. After the second song, “Add Me In,” everything starts sounding the same. As Brown stated in a recent interview with Fuse, “X” was designed to be his “most personal album” he has ever done. Self expression is good, and in Brown’s case he may have needed to let out everything he’s been holding in for the last few years. However, while this may have been therapeutic, it wasn’t an excellent production. Brown had a plethora of artists on the album, which can be good and bad. It’s a good thing because everyone loves a good duet/collaboration. It was a bad thing because on certain songs Chris was being upstaged, as the song “New Flames” featuring Usher and Rick Ross. “When I heard New Flames, I honestly thought the song was by Usher,” Imani Stubbs C’2018 said. “But then I realized it was Chris Brown.” Another thing that put him in good light is his collaboration with the women on his album such as: Jhene Aiko, Nicki Minaj, Brandy, and Ariana Grande. By these ladies agreeing to be featured on his album, it helps boost his character and hopefully stray away from the negativity of the Rihanna situation. Just as Chris Brown is trying to rebuild his image, he has to rebuild his music--to the public, his music is a reflection of who he is. Overall, this album was good, but it could have better. Sometimes you can get lost on the road to self-discovery, that is what Chris has to do. All the fans can do is stay loyal.
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BUSINESS & Finance
#GIRLBOSS,The Power is Within HER By: Hali Larkins C’2016
There’s nothing better than being your own boss. Sophia Amuroso, founder of one of the top fashion retailers, Nasty Gal, has learned that and more on her journey to success. In her book #GIRLBOSS, Amoruso expands upon her journey, secrets, embarrassments, failures, victories, and valuable lessons in an effort to inspire other women in the world to reach their full potential and become their
own boss! Amoruso began her journey as an entrepreneur while working a nine-to five checking in and checking out student CDs at an arts school. It was during this time that she sold her first item on eBay.com. She made profit off a book she had actually stolen. After seeing that she was successful in that business endeavor, Amoruso took her passion for vintage fashion to eBay and began acting as an indepdendent eBay retailer. Amoruso lost interest in this endeavor, realized her potential, and took a risk. In 2008, she branched away from eBay and launched her site, Nasty Gal, specializing in vintage, fashion forward, and bold clothing. Today, Nasty Gal accumulates almost $140 million annually and serves customers in 150 countries. From
eBay retailer to CEO of a million dollar vintage organization, Amoruso funded all of her activities with personal financial resources. It was not until 2012, when she decided that she needed help expanding the business, that she partnered with Danny Rimer of Index Ventures. Rimer also invested in Asos, Net-A-Porter, and Farfetch. Amoruso’s financial partnership with Rimer was the first time that she utilized outside resources to fund the Nasty Gal venture. Amoruso has extended her female entrepreneurial expertise in her book #GIRLBOSS to women throughout the throughout the world. While Amoruso acts as a high profile role model in a world where there aren’t many, the anomalous microcosm that is Spelman College is home
to many female role models of entrepreneurship. Spelman Juniors Ariana Braizer, Faith Daughtry, and Jasmine Valencia are experienced business owners and full time students. Braizer founded Funky Junk Accessories LLC. in the fifth grade and has worked as an established jeweler specializing in handcrafted earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. Daughtry launched her own company, FAITH ANJEL LLC., which showcases and sells merchandise, accessories, and jewelry for women. Valencia launched a professional makeup artistry company, Make Up by Valencia, in 2013 and her work can be seen on students in the Atlanta University and throughout the Atlanta community.
FASHION & Beauty
Deep Conditioning By: Sofia Walton C’2018
deep conditioning The perfect and simple processes. They solution to dry, brittle hair is deep deeply penetrate conditioning. the hair to really Although conditioner is moisturize and important to apply to hair, it strengthen the hair, should not be applied to the scalp. and they are pretty Applying conditioner into the scalp fun to do! This creates clogged pores, prevents treatment works best scalp circulation and causes limp with a plastic cap and hair. left on for 20 minutes. Great for Deep conditioners come in all hair types! many formulas for different hair types, such as thick, thin, oily, colortreated, dry, frizzy, among and endless list of other combinations. Curl Junkie Hibiscus & Specialty conditioners range from Banana Deep Fix Moisturizing reconstructors that volumize hair Conditioner ($20.00) to color treated conditioners that deep condition. Thus, picking the This deep correct formula for an individualsCurly Beauties Read on! conditioner has specific hair type is a necessity banana extract for a “good hair day.” Check out that helps soften some selections below: hair and rich oils that help smooth and protect the hair shaft. This hibiscus extract Jessicurl Deep Conditioning has moisturizing properties, and Treatment ($16.95) this creamy conditioner smells delicious! Heat treatments are the apex of
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For over worked, chemically processed hair! For only a three minute routine, this Aussie product deeply penetrates damaged hair with natural Australian aloe for the best results.
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DevaCare One Condition ($17.95)
This conditioner is the one-stopshop for who are more relaxed about their hair. DevaCare One Condition is a leave-in deep conditioner that provides maximum moisture for healthy hair.
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Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Deeeeep ($7.00)
For over worked, chemically processed hair! Neutrogena Triple Moisture Daily Deep Conditioner ($4.96)
This conditioner is a quick one minute rinse that is proven to hydrate and moisturize even the most over-processed and severely dry hair.
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CAMPUS LIFE & Events
For the Love of Hip Hop: A Recap of the Homecoming Hip Hop Concert By: Corrine R. Walker C’2018
Flashing lights, roaring crowds, and amazing artists-this years’ Homecoming Hip Hop concert was definitely one of a kind. The building was full of some
of the South’s finest new artists. Opening up the show was Atlanta’s own, Rich Kidz, a fairly underground group of young men who set the tone on the Forbes Arena stage with their cultivating energy. Next up was another Atlanta native by the name of Que. He opened his performance with his hit record entitled “OG Bobby Johnson.” Que definitely had the crowd energized and excited, but nothing compared to the “Turn Up Boys”, Rae Sremmurd. These two young men, ages 19 and 20, have the two of the hottest songs played on the radio this season, No Flex Zone and No Type. Their energy on the stage kept the crowd engaged the whole time between running across
NeoSoul Concert By: Nandi Howard C’2017
Tuesday, October 14th was the real Butler followed shortly after, “kick-off” of Spelhouse Homecoming having already made a mark within the 2014. Dressed to impress, the Atlanta AUC, holding the title as Mr.Spelman, University Center was ready for all he was an instant sensation on that the night had to offer. Artists stage. Noted for his sultry voice, within the AUC were Butler performed a able to showcase their variety of pieces, both work as opening acts covers and some of his to the acclaimed Elle own work. Both Seniors Varner, who would later eventually wrapped up mesmerize the crowd. their performances by To start off the collaborating together, night, V-103’s very own Middlebrooks playing Sytonnia opened the saxophone alongside show by introducing Butler, who sang. Morehouse seniors, Finally, Elle Varner Jonathan Middlebrooks took the stage, and Jonathan Middlebrooks Photo source: Nandi Howard and Mike Butler to the from the start of her stage. Middlebrooks, performance to the already being known for end, she had all of King his capabilities with the Chapel on their feet. saxophone, swooped Gabrielle Serene Varner, many of the ladies in known to the world as King’s Chapel off of their Elle Varner, was raised feet as he sang a few in the city of Angels songs off of his newest otherwise known as Los musical production, The Angeles. Varner signed Polymath EP and also his to MBK/J-RCA records own renditions of tracks in 2009. She dropped her Mike Butler by Miguel. famed album “Perfectly Photo source: Nandi Howard
stage and jumping on speakers. This performance was the perfect up to the main attraction of the night, the artist everyone was waiting for: Future. The lights turned down, the DJ started playing a few of his songs, and Future came out and owned the stage. In his twenty to thirty minute performance, there was no dull moment. Performing many hit records and award-nominated features, there was no way any fan could get bored during his set. He catered to everyone, engaging his female crowd during the slow, love songs, while still keeping the guys’ attention with his hardcore Hip-Hop records. Future was undoubtedly a great choice to headline this event. A
special thanks is in order to all of the artists who came and put on a great show. This was one to remember!
Imperfect” in 2009, with hit records such as “Refill” and “Only Want to Give to You”. Elle Varner alleviated all of our preconceptions about her work as an artist, as she fulfilled not only our ears, but also our hearts with her impeccable voice. Opening up with her hit “Only Wanna Give to You” from her debut album, she quickly
her entire performance her passion filled the space in the chapel. Her personality exuded as she took her fans’ phones to take selfies, displaying how personable she is. As her very last act, when the audience thought her performance had come to an end she performed her most famous hit, Refill. All she said was “Can I get a refill?” and the crowd
Elle Varner Photo source: Nandi Howard
got the crowd out of their seats. She also gave us two new samples off of her latest album, “Four-Letter Word”. After finishing each song people would shout “Refill!” The anticipation continued to build as she performed throughout the night. Varner gave us a sample of a new song “Don’t Wanna Dance”, off of her recent album, which sounded like a hit. Throughout
expressed their eagerness to hear her hit song. If concert attendees did not love her before Tuesday night, they began to love her then. The Neo-Soul Concert was one homecoming event everyone should have attended because it set the tone for the rest of homecoming and was just a great night.
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HEALTH & Wellness
Body Image and the Physical Body By: Mia Anderson C’2014
Body image plays a huge role in the lives of the American female and especially for the woman of African descent. Healthyplace.com reports that 90% of women overestimate their body size. When you look in the mirror, do you like what you see? Why do many of us think we’re fat? Simple, more people and advertisements advocate thinner frames that many Black women do not have. Dr. Janet Taylor, featured in ABC News’ “When Being Curvy Hurts”, says that we, as Black women are not represented in the media; what we do see is typically a very thin Black woman
Food On My Mind By: Courtney Roberts C’2018
Are you that person that seems to crave one snack after another? Without a doubt, you know you are full, but there’s a tingle inside, bugging you for more food? Food cravings, they’re all in your head according to Elaine Magee, MPH, RD at Webmd. com. A food craving by definition is an intense desire to consume a specific food. Certain parts of the brain such as the hippocampus and insula serve the purpose of memory and sensing pleasure. Research from the Monell Chemical Senses Center proves that these regions are triggered while experiencing food cravings. Magee points out that food cravings can stem from levels of stress. Research shows that food cravings have a way of calming us; therefore, they occur to fulfill our emotional needs. Practically everyone endures the pressures of constant food cravings, even avid gym-goers such as Spelman student Kennedy Edwards C’ 2018. “I have cravings all the time,” Kennedy said. “Sodas, chocolate, and greasy foods are my ultimate
weaknesses. “However, to replace those unhealthy cravings, I drink ample amounts of water to cut down on the number of snacks that I intake. I eat fruit instead of candy to satisfy my sweet tooth.” If Kennedy’s ideas don’t work for you, Webmd.com also suggests that you chew on a piece of gum, take a walk, or eat smaller meals on a regular basis.
Ultimately, we are bound to experience that one food craving every now and then, even if we apply these helpful tips to our regime. After all, we cannot control our minds and natural human tendencies. Therefore, it is in our best interest to monitor what is being consumed and to remain full of healthy foods.
or an overweight Black woman not taken seriously-- the comedic relief of a show. Even with albums like Nicki Minaj’s “Anaconda,” supposedly encouraging curves, the curves there are still unrealistic for many. We find ourselves in this valley between tiny and thin and very voluptuous, which leaves little support for many of the realistic body types possessed by Black women. For those of us who are seeking weight loss, this severely construed body image, fueled by advertisements and media portrayal, may be the reason why we are unable to lose weight. Dr. Kelly McGonagall, a Stanford lecturer notes, “If you focus on selfcriticism, you’ll be like a laser on it.” The trick is not to insult your current body shape. If you would
rather see more muscle in your arms think, “I want firmer biceps”, rather than “I hate my flabby arms.” Tearing yourself down acts much like the media, it works against you. Most importantly, we should remember to try to envision ourselves with the figure we want. It does us no good to keep comparing ourselves to the icons of pop culture; those are not our bodies, and chances are even at our most curvy or petite sizes, we will not look exactly the same. We have to start loving ourselves to maintain or alter our weight. Without positive body image our efforts are pointless, as many of us will pedal backwards from our goal. Find your support outside of the media and begin to love the body you have. Never mind the stereotypes placed on it.
Overhyped, or Helpful?:
Flu Shots By: Mia Anderson C’2018
Many people shun the recommended flu shot each year in the U.S proclaiming, “The shot gave me the flu” or “I never get it, I don’t need a shot now.” WebMD says people don’t seem to understand the severity of influenza. True, the flu is more deadly for children under two and adults over 65, but don’t think for a second young adults are immune. To say that you haven’t gotten the flu, therefore, you shouldn’t need a flu shot now, is pretty irresponsible. Influenza lands around 200,000 people in American hospitals each year. You don’t want to be one of them--you have places to go, things to see, and people to meet, not to mention very few absences to use. On a campus our size, you want to be sure your immune system is prepared for anything that may end up at Spelman. Viruses travel quickly here. Think of it as a favor to yourself
and your sisters— get the shot. Since we aren’t immune what about those of us who got it after the shot? Chances are you didn’t. You probably contracted another virus going around, a cold, mimicking flu symptoms, but not at all the true disease. Flu feels terrible…. Really terrible….It causes body aches and very high fevers that will force you to remain in bed; it’s unlike any cold. The deal with flu shots is, flu shots protect the flu, and even then they can only fight flu within the first 48 hours of contraction. Either you caught the flu before having the shot or more likely you caught another virus floating around. Either way it’s better for you to get the shot before you begin feeling unwell. Despite your apprehensions, it is in your best interest to get the vaccination, or even the nasal spray if needles aren’t your thing.
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OPINIONS First Look:“Addicted” By: AJ Thomas C’2015
Best-selling author Zane’s provocative thriller, “Addicted,” is full of suspense and eroticism. From illicit sex scenes to shocking discoveries, Zane creates fantasy worlds of sexual intrigue that ensnare her audiences. Fans of Zane’s “Addicted” will thoroughly enjoy this film adaptation and new audiences will become major fans of Zane’s storytelling. Though the movie is not as explicit as the novel, the perfect blend of sex, mystery, and realism are sure to keep audiences enthralled and entertained. “Addicted,” stars Sharon Leal, Boris Kodjoe, Tasha Smith, William Levy, and Tyson Beckford in featured roles. Boris Kodjoe, William Levy, and Tyson Beckford provide eye candy and offer up steamy scenes of sexual encounters with the main character. The story centers on successful businesswoman, Zoe Reynard (Leal), and her husband, Jason (Kodjoe). Zoe has the life that most women can only dream of: a successful business, a loving husband, two beautiful children, and a helpful mother—what more could a girl ask for?
Zoe wants more—and that is exactly what she gets. She makes her fantasies reality and embarks on dangerous liaisons as her addiction quickly causes her life to spiral out of control. Shocking discoveries will rock audiences and leave them gasping for breath. “Addicted,” begs to ask, can one woman’s quest to have it all destroy her life or become her redemption? Check out our website for interviews by Zane and Kat Graham about their experiences with making this provocative film.
Spelman Chose Me By: Maiya Roye’ C’2018
My senior year of high school, I made up my mind to attend a predominantly white institution. I came to terms with the fact that I might be the only black person in my classes, and I was perfectly okay with my decision. It was during Spelbound, when I knew that Spelman College was where I needed to be. When I first arrived, I was extremely nervous, but when my family and I drove through the gates we were greeted by so many smiling faces that all of my nerves were put at ease. After a few hours on campus I began to warm up to the idea of coming to Spelman. During the Sister Jam, I met people from across the country, from different backgrounds, and with different views, yet when we got together everything felt so in sync. Something inside told me, “You belong here,” and I knew at that moment that I would be spending the next four years of my life at Spelman. After getting a taste of the Historically Black College or University (HBCU) life I couldn’t be happier with my decision. The feeling of togetherness has solidified that decision even
FOOD & Drink A Toast to Jazzman’s By: Taylor Curry C’2015
Throughout the years, the Jazzman’s Café at Morehouse College has been a fixture for the Spelman community. Students, visiting parents, and alumni of both colleges from far and wide ventured to the little coffee shop for a pastry, a homemade salad, a giant sandwich, or a steaming paper cup filled with chai tea. However, the era of coffee stained orange couches and homework riddled with rings of condensation from an ice-cold smoothie have come to a close. In keeping with the spirit of Homecoming and the celebration
of what once was, The BluePrint ventured out to discover what various members of the AUC community will miss most about Jazzman’s Café. Labronz Smith has been dishing out coffee, tea, and sugary sweets at Jazzman’s since it opened in 2005. After nearly ten years of working with the coffee chain, Smith has many memories. Surprisingly, Smith says he doesn’t have a favorite drink but will miss Jazzman’s iconic smoothies. He says what he’ll miss most about Jazzman’s café is the one night each week where AUC students from
various schools would convene in the café, and watch as their fellow students recited poetry and spoken word, which was known as both Poetry and Open Mic Night. Spelman alumna April R also refers to Open Mic Night as her favorite memory at Jazzman’s and claims white hot chocolate to be the best drink in the house. “They had delicious food too! Great salad wraps and baked goods.” Ayanna Runcie, a senior at Spelman College recalled that, “everyone congregated there,” and continued with a chuckle, “it was the first ‘SpelHouse’ meeting place!” Agreeings with Runcie’s sentiments, Morehouse Alumnus Anthony Roberts agrees that
more. Although not being allowed off campus for 10 days during New Student Orientation Week wasn’t too appealing, it gave my Spelman sisters and me a chance to bond. I’ve attended predominantly white schools and though I rarely experienced racism there was always this feeling of inferiority between myself and the white students. I never felt any intellectual difference, but they were always praised for their hard work, even if it was a group effort. Here, that feeling is diminished because the expectations and opportunities for students are equal no matter the student’s race. The best part of my experience has been the amount of pride, love, and respect that I’ve gained not only for my HBCU, but all HBCUs in general. They educate future doctors, lawyers, teachers, etc. in an environment that strengthens them as a student and person— something that many other colleges and universities don’t do. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my experience at an HBCU thus far, and I can’t wait to make more memories.
Jazzman’s “used to be packed out.” There’s no doubt that the sense of community the Atlanta University Center boasts was strengthened by a common meeting place like Jazzman’s. A place where students could energize themselves with a cappuccino, settle into an intellectual debate surrounded by laptops and patched up couches, munch on a crisp Caesar salad in between classes, or catch up on the latest gossip with a smoothie in hand. So here’s to Jazzman’s and all the memories and foamy beverages this coffee shop brought us. Who says you can’t toast with coffee?
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decided to change my perspective and thank God for His correction because it show how much He loves me. Through this process, I am reminded once again how muc need Jesus and how grateful I am to call Him my Savior. The BluePrint
Over the past four years, I have felt pressure to have my relationship with Christ lo identical to those around me. As a result, I had a judgmental mindset and often felt isolated. However, I am grateful to say that I am no longer stuck in that mindset.
RELIGION & Spiritual Life
My Spiritual Journey
So allow me to reintroduce myself. My name is Jasmine Monét Ellis and I am a Christian. I am free from the opinions of others and finally in love with who I am becoming. My personal relationship with Christ is just that...personal.
I struggled to write this article. When I first decided to share my testimony regarding my relationship with Christ, I was apprehensive, but up for the challenge. However, as the weeks progressed, I found myself becoming increasingly uncomfortable about sharing my story. No stranger to attending church, I started singing in the Children’s Choir at Siloam Baptist Church in Norristown, Pa. at the tender age of four years-old. My grandfather, or “Pop-Pop” as I affectionately call himdecided that I should sing in the choir after hearing me sing the theme song for Dr. Laura Schlessinger’s show, “New Attitude” by Patti LaBelle, on the radio. Fast-forward, five years later, I was baptized at the age of nine. As the years flew by, I served in several ministries at my home church until my senior year, when I graduated from Methacton High School. Upon arriving to Spelman College, I immediately made the decision to audition for the Sisters Chapel praise and worship team, Manifest, after seeing them at the Parents Service during New Student Orientation Week. Connecting with the Christian community in the Atlanta University Center was my main priority so I was delighted when I was extended the opportunity to worship with the Manifest on Sundays. In addition, I joined Reading Every Action with Christ Thinking (REACT) on Morehouse College’s campus
I am a humanBy:and amM.guaranteed toEditor make mistakes. Regardless, I serve a loving a Jasmine Ellis C’2015, Associate forgiving God who loves me despite of my flaws. after attending their first Bible study on campus. Picture: By my junior year, I no longer served in Manifest and REACT. However, I still wanted to participate in an on-
an easy decision, especially considering it is all I have known for so long. My senior year, so far, has been less than “a walk in the park.” In fact, it seems to be more like
“Pop-Pop” and Ellis after worship service at Siloam Baptist Church
Caption: “Pop-Pop” and Ellis after worship campus ministry so I joined a constant marathonservice up hills Pinky-Promise Spelman. This fall, I decided that it was time for me to take a break from serving as a leader in the ministry. Truthfully, I had my own questions regarding my personal relationship with Christ and knew that I was not in the right place spiritually to lead anyone else. Deciding to step away from ministry all together was not
that get steeper the longer I travel. I am truly relying on God to get me through in this season of my life, which I am learning to accept. God continues to carry me as I kick and scream about everything that I have no control over in my life. This process has forced me to completely lean on God and trust Him through my uncertainty.
Truth of the matter is, I am still growing and I won’t always get everything right. Proverbs 3:11-12 says “My child, don’t reject the Lord’s discipline, and don’t be upset when He corrects you. For the Lord corrects those He loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.” As God shows me the errors of my ways, the perfectionist inside of me cringes. However, I refuse to submit to the enemy and speak negative words against myself. Instead, I have decided to change my perspective and thank God for His correction because it shows me how much He loves me. Through this process, I am reminded once again how much I need Jesus and how grateful I am to call Him my Savior. Over the past four years, I have felt pressure to have my relationship with Christ look identical to those around me. As a result, I had a judgmental mindset and often felt isolated. However, I am grateful to say that I am no longer stuck in that mindset. So allow me to reintroduce at myself. SiloamMyBaptist name isChurch Jasmine Monét Ellis and I am a Christian. I am free from the opinions of others and finally in love with who I am becoming. My personal relationship with Christ is just that...personal. I am a human and am guaranteed to make mistakes. Regardless, I serve a loving and forgiving God who loves me despite of my flaws.
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RELIGION & Spiritual Life
Pearls of Wisdom Throughout editions of of The BluePrint, the Religious and Spiritual Life section will have a feature that offers advice from members of our own community. In this space, we will give students, faculty, and staff a chance to share inspiring words to the broader student body.
Do you have any words of wisdom that you’d like to share?
“Change is inevitable. Your college years are about exploring new things and learning about yourself. Embrace the change, learn from it, and enjoy the ride.” — Symone Johnson, C’ 2017 “One of my favorite sayings when I’m looking to be encouraged is, ‘Everything will be alright in the end. If it’s not alright, it’s not the end.’ We think that when we are going through something and it’s uncomfortable, it’s hard for us in the midst of adversity to see goodness. But, I believe that God always ends on a positive note, so if it’s not positive, it’s not the end of your situation.”
— Mr. Harold Bell, Director of Career Planning and Development
“Take a new route. Often times we become fixated in doing things a certain way. In life, it’s okay to try something new, something in a direction that’s unfamiliar. What you may find is that it’s just as safe, more enlightening and filled with pleasant surprises that give you a new perspective.”
— Dr. Rosalind Gregory-Bass, C’92 Director of the Health Careers Program
Do you have a favorite scripture? “I love Philippians 4:13, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’. I find inspiration with that quote and I always seem to come to it in hard times or times of struggle. “ — Symone Fowler-Canty, C’ 2018 “My favorite scripture is Jeremiah 29:11, ‘”For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”’ It always reminds me when I start to freak out about life and what direction my life is going in or when I experience failure, that at the end of the day, God has everything in his control and I will be okay.” — Camrie Hendking, C’ 2018 If you have any advice to contribute, please feel free to email us! spelmanpaper@gmail.com
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RELIGION
& Spiritual Life Spiritually Grounded By: Karimah Noble PED Scholar, C’2015
Imagine this: You are in the computer lab, minding your own business, and one of your Spelman sisters receives a phone call on her cell phone, which she answers. Normally, you might be a tad annoyed considering there are signs posted everywhere that read “PLEASE DO NOT USE CELL PHONES IN LABS!” However, since she is speaking in a relatively low tone, you acquiesce. Being privileged to her entire conversation, something strikes you as uniquely beautiful about it, and as much as you try not to, you find yourself listening. The first thing you notice is how comfortable and engrossed she is in conversation. It is as if she and the person on the other end of the line are the only two people in the world. Sprinkled throughout her conversation are clear signs of a spiritually grounded young lady. She tells her phonemate about a scholarship for which she is excited about applying. She is eager to write her essay, the crux of which will focus on reinterpreting one of the Psalms. Phrases like, “To God be the glory” roll effortlessly off her tongue. Before ending her conversation, she has only one request: “Pray for me,” she beseeches. The sincerity in which she asks-- the sheer genuineness-- makes you want to stop what you are doing, get down on bended knee, and send a prayer up on her behalf. This may sound like a fictitious, toogood-to-be-true tale, but I assure you it was my experience not long ago. I left the computer lab feeling encouraged, but also in deep contemplation and introspection. I wondered how this young lady maintained such strong spirituality. How did she manage to keep herself grounded? Surely the same negative influences that many students face and fall victim to knock on her door as well, do they not? Surely she is subject to the same distractions as the next student, correct? How is it, then, that her focus is on reinterpreting Psalms and magnifying the Creator’s praise, while others are on the next “turn up”? In all likelihood, the answer is twofold. Clearly her parents laid a strong foundation. There is little doubt that she was raised in a home that placed
great value on spirituality; however, this can probably be said of many Spelman students. If polled, most of the general body would probably attest to being raised in homes that recognized a higher power in their lives. Whether Christian, Muslim, Jewish, or Jehovah’s Witness, the great majority of Spelman students presumably were raised on some spiritual or religious footing. And so, this young lady would not be special in that regard. What, then, sets her apart from others? The answer is simple: application and choice. Possessing and applying are separate and distinct. If one possess a knowledge, but does not apply it, what value is there in that knowledge? Likewise, if one possess a spiritual foundation, but does not apply it in one’s life, where is the value derived? Applying whatever spiritual foundation one possess in real world experience is, in fact, where value is derived. When a young, newly independent college student (like yourself) is placed in a situation that forces her to make a decision that will either stifle or advance her growth, and she chooses the latter based solely on the understanding that this choice will enrich her spiritual well being, those are the moments that value is extracted. Being unwilling to compromise one’s moral integrity- regardless of the circumstances and friends involvedis the mark of a spiritually grounded person. Ultimately, that is what impressed me about my chance encounter with this young Spelmanite. I admired her choice. At a time in her life where she is free and independent of parental regulation, she has made the choice to lean on her spiritual foundation and allow it to govern her activity. Call me naive, but I choose to believe that “computer lab girl” is not a rare breed. She is not a needle in a haystack; she exists on every campus in the AUC. And contrary to popular opinion, there is a such thing as maintaining one’s spiritual grounding while enjoying the college experience. It is all a matter of choice. And as the saying goes, “We make our choices, then our choices make us.” As such, it behooves us all to choose wisely.
SPORTS
Women in Sports Spotlight:
U.S. National Fencer,
Ibtihaj Muhammad By: Samiha Sherif C’2015
28-year-old New Jersey native, Ibtihaj Muhammad, is an American sabre fencer, sports ambassador, and member of the United States fencing team. Muhammad began fencing at the age of 13, after she and her mother came across a fencing practice in the Columbia High School cafeteria. She began fencing épée, a heavy thrusting weapon where the entire body is a target, then switched to sabre, a light cutting and thrusting weapon which targets the entire body above the waist, except the weapon hand, a few years later. Now, she is ranked 11th in the world in women’s sabre fencing. Muhammad attended Duke University on an academic scholarship, where she earned dual degrees in International Relations as well as African and African-American studies. She is also a three time NCAA AllAmerican honoree (2004, 2005, 2006) and 2005 Junior Olympic champion.
Muhammad has won numerous medals as a member of the U.S. national fencing team, including the gold medal at a women’s saber team event at the 2014 World Fencing Championships in Russia. Her interests include politics, photography, language, football, culture, and religion. Aside from her hardware, she is also known to be the first Muslim woman to compete for the United States in an international competition. In addition to being a professional fencer for the U.S. national team, she is an entrepreneur pursing her passion for fashion. She is the founder of Louella by Ibtihaj Muhammad, an online shopping site for affordable modest clothing. Currently, Muhammad is training for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. “When most people picture an Olympic fencer, they probably do not imagine a person like me,” Muhammad said on her Team USA online profile. “Fortunately, I am not most people. I have always believed that with hard work, dedication, and perseverance, I could one day walk with my U.S. teammates into Olympic history.” Muhammad stated that through fencing she has learned “how to aspire higher, sacrifice, work hard and overcome defeat. “I want to compete in the Olympics for the United States to prove that nothing should hinder anyone from reaching their goals -- not race, religion or gender,” Muhammad said. “I want to set an example that anything is possible with perseverance.”
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TALES FROM ABROAD
“Discovering Perspective” “Discovering Perspective” by Jordan Daniels C’2016
By: Jordan Daniels C’2016
Imagine this: You just woke up, your class begins in about an hour and a half. You brush your teeth, wash your face, and begin to get dressed for the day. On your way out you grab something to eat and lock your door. You begin the long walk to the subway. You glance at your phone and start to pick up the pace. You have an early class and there’s going to be a guest lecturer, you know you’ll be docked points if your late. You finally make it to the station and tap your Pasmo card to enter the train platform. As soon as you walk up to the platform the train appears. “Great!” You’re thinking, you’re going to make it onto the early train and you’ll get to class on time. Until the train pulls up and you see at least 100 people smashed together into one train car. You glance at the other train cars. Each one has an overflow of people crammed into it. And then you realize that you and the other five people standing next to you on the platform, are going to be crammed into the same train car as well, because its the only way for you to make it to class on time. This is the life of a student going
to college or work in Tokyo, especially that morning, you hope your back Imagine this: if you have early classes (during sweat isn’t seeping through your shirt rush You hourjust 7- 8:30am) lateclass classes theanperson behind you, you woke up, or your begins inonto about hour and a half. Youand brush (during rush hour 5:306:30pm). The desperately hope that the train doesn’t your teeth, wash your face, and begin to get dressed for the day. On your way out firstgrab timesomething I realized to that waslock going to door. come an abrupt you eatI and your Youtobegin the longstop walksotothat the you be spending the first 45min. of every don’t bump into the person next to subway. You glance at your phone and start to pick up the pace. You have an early morning being smushed into a train you. class and there’s going to be a guest lecturer, you know you’ll be docked points if car I thought I wouldn’t survive. But Getting on the train every morning your late. You finally make it to the station and tap your Pasmo card to enter the that’s exactly how I get to school and and evening used to be the absolute train platform. my internship every morning. worst part of my day, but after taking As soon as you walk up to the platform the train appears. “Great!” Your In the beginning it was hard. You a moment to think about the people thinking, your going to make it onto the early train and you’ll get to class on time. have absolutely no personal space around me, I began to understand Until pulls pressed up and you at least 100 smashed into one and the yourtrain literally up see against thatpeople nobody WANTStogether to be packed into train car. You glance at the other train cars. Each one has an overflow of people the person in front of you and behind a train car. But that this situation has crammed it.you Anddon’t thenstink you realize that you and the other people to standing you. Youinto hope and that to take place for5people get where next to you on the platform, are going to be crammed into the same train car as on you remembered to put on deodorant they need to go. Japanese people
...continued from page 1 now: the daytime protestors, the nighttime protesters, and the unheard. These protests have been going on for over 100 days. As we were there on Black Friday, many of the protests spread to the mall, which forced numerous closings on one of the biggest retail shopping days of the year. According to Nielsen, Blacks have over a trillion dollar buying-power. In the echos of the failed indictment, the purpose of protesting Black Friday was to show that #BlackLivesMatter. There in the mall, it was easy to join the movement because the mall-security allowed the protests to happen. Despite a clear National Guard presence, no protesters were in any pressing danger. There is a clear “hipster movement” happening among those who we saw running through the mall and city streets during the daytime to snapchat and document the hype. However, the protests in Ferguson at
Police respond outside of Ferguson PD Photo source: Ko Bragg
night were radically different from the ones at the mall on Black Friday--although there are some people who did both. Nightly, protestors have been gathering outside of the Ferguson Police Department. They carry signs. They scream angry, frustrated chants. Then they proceed into the street, at which point everyone is subject to arrest. Although the street was soon
blocked off by National Guard Humvees, the protesters were still accused of “obstructing the flow of traffic.” The protesters lined up facing the policemen and guardsmen. After two warnings, the policemen charged the protesters. They sprayed pepper spray just inches away from protesters’ eyes. People were trampled, and ultimately
the train don’t start freaking out or cringing when they see that the train is overflowing, they get on, get off, and go on about their business. I have concluded that as an American living in Japan, taking the time to step into another person’s shoes and viewing a situation from his or her perspective is the first step in adjusting to a new culture. Often when confronted with awkward or uncomfortable situations we get so caught up in our own feelings of discomfort and distress that we don’t take the time to view our situation from another perspective. This experience has taught me to get out of my selfish bubble, become more aware of my surroundings. I would like to think that I am a global citizen. And as a global citizen I want to be able to adjust to the culture around me. Accepting the cultural differences and making an effort to understand them can bring about a total change in attitude and reaction. I don’t think I’ll ever get used to riding the train in Japan, but I can say that I am slowly but surely adjusting to the experience. Want to see and hear more about my time in Tokyo?! Follow me on Youtube @ http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=EiEagc4Zi1w 15 were arrested that night. In seconds, helicopters flew in, the police presence nearly tripled, but the protests kept going-they still do. On the other side of town, which was unreachable from the hours of 5pm--7am because of a curfew, the frustration never stops, day or night. The police started enforcing a roadblock of the street that was burned immediately following the Wilson verdict. It is the street where the untouched, open and operating Ferguson Market & Liquor still stands. That’s the business Michael Brown allegedly robbed just before his fateful hour. The road block also obstructs the entrance to the Canfield Green Apartment homes, outside of which Michael Brown took his last breaths in the middle of the street. The very location where he was left for 4.5 hours is now marked with a memorial of teddy bears, t-shirts, and other memorabilia brought from all over the nation. “This is Mike Brown Apartments from
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TALES FROM ABROAD
Spelmanite at Sea: Tobi Shannon’s International Voyage By: Tobi Shannon C’2016
As a young woman who had just finished her first semester of her second year of college, I was blessed to be able to go on the Semester at Sea Winter Voyage for the 2013 Winter Break. This winter voyage was the first time that I traveled to Latin America without my family. I felt liberated and I felt that I was able to explore my surroundings without limitations. It was eye-opening for me to be seen as another student studying abroad, and I know that I matured more because of it. We visited the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico. I feel as though the different countries we explored, as well as their cultures, are so different, yet so similar to the American culture. Depending on which city one travels to in Latin America, it is apparent that many of the values of American society are embedded in those cities. A specific and noticeable similarity is the courtesy and hospitality that Americans show to their guests. In Colombia for example, the people are as accommodating as they can be. They are helpful and you can stop almost anyone on the street to ask for directions or for a recommendation to a good restaurant, provided you can speak a bit of Spanish. Another
...continued from page 11 now on--Mikefield,” said Damien White, resident of Canfield Green. White had
Brown memorial at Canfield Apartments Photo source: Ko Bragg
similarity is the pride that both Americans and Dominican people, for example, take in their countries. Although the similarities are apparent between the States and Latin American countries, there are
also large differences that one must get adjusted to. For those who do not speak Spanish very well, it would be very hard to get around, especially in rural towns in some of the countries. Another cultural difference is the
gathered a steady audience around him. He quoted Tupac lyrics, and spoke crudely about how he feels about the intersection of race and police violence. Though White’s voice is loud, he still represents the “unheard” protest movement. After about an hour his legs got tired, but he still wanted to talk about the solidarity movement in Canfield-CopWatch. After training, the program gives participants body cameras, walkie talkies, and other gear so that they can survey their own neighborhoods. In short, they police the police. They feel as though they have to protect themselves. “The police don’t police down here no more,” White said. “...Copwatch--that’s who’s watching for Canfield now. We have body cameras and everything. You try to hurt one of us or do anything, we’re on it. “It’s guys like us that are in the
streets everyday watching out, putting our lives [out there], leaving our families unattended, to make sure black people aren’t getting hurt…We don’t want no attention, but the people know who we are out here. The people know we’re out here...they know what we stand for... They[the police] are trying to eliminate us.” If Americans at large continue to believe that Black men deserve death before justice, our men will be eliminated. Not all will be taken down physically, the ramifications injustice has on the psyche kills spirits. Our pleas for help as a nation are drowned out by statistics of black-on-black crime. Black mothers’ fears for their sons lives are mocked with the growing rate of black men in the prison industrial-complex. Black America has repacked its bags for an uphill journey, but we can’t turn back
hygiene and health precautions that the Spanish-speaking people do or do not take. With food in the markets and delis, they usually leave everything out in the open. In the United States, gloves are a given in each and every place that handles food, and food sellers must comply to health codes set by each state and the FDA. This is not the case in Costa Rica, for example, and one should not be surprised if their food has been sitting out in the open on the street for a while. As a student traveling to each Latin American country, I was able to explore my surroundings. The freedom we were given as we docked at each port was refreshing, and I was able to get a feel of the culture as opposed to feeling like I was on a chaperoned field trip. Many students, like myself, were studying abroad for the winter voyage, and I was able to meet many people from different places. I liked that we were able to take classes on the ship when we were at sea, because I still felt as if I were being productive and not just on vacation. My goals as a student have changed. I would like to return to Latin America as an adult, most likely to Brazil or Colombia, and possibly live there and have a career there in nonprofit work of some sort.
until we find a sustainable way to fix the justice system. We can’t stop until we can indict America’s justice system on charges of identity fraud.
White paces in front of Brown Memorial Photo source: Ko Bragg