Black Lives “The Ugly Side”

by Shemiya Allen/EGO

PHOTOGRAPHER // Tiren Causey

We say Hands Up I can’t breathe Don’t shoot But yet you still shoot No exaggerations This is the clear truth

Life is great here in America Until it’s not safe here in America Children are not even promised to hit 18 It’s not because of health issues or spiritual destinies But it’s because of a kinetic projectile consisting of copper and other things That take away our princes and princesses who were meant to be kings and queens But I guess life is great here At least when they put the bullet in you They call the ambulance I just wish they would’ve given love a call and hung up on hate in advanced The beauty in being black in America Everyone wants to copy our culture But when we engage in what we created We are loud, ghetto and ratchet But if you imitate our greatness Then we are the creators of your classiness Black is beautiful Black don’t crack But when it all boils down Black don’t have blacks back Because black spends too much time stabbing each other in the back Putting bullets in each other’s neck Maybe that the reason the rest of the country chooses to give no respect Nah that’s no excuse Dear Officers You see those parents holding their sons’ bodies? How would you feel if that were you? It’s the leaders faults as well The proof is on the cameras So why in the hell I mean why aren’t these cold blooded killers in a cell Temporary leave with a check So you’re paying these folks to put bullets through our necks This is a cold world But I can’t explain how it truly feels Because it’s a tad bit safer being a black girl But I’m tired of wondering if when my brothers come in contact with you will they die Show me the beauty of this country I’m tired of the messed up side When we ride the elevator with you, you clutch your purse Not taking into consideration how much that hurts When we visit the grocery store, we’re watched closer than a person of lighter pigmentation But yet we’re wrong if we call you racist When we get pulled over in a traffic stop the gun is cocked before they even leave their car This is why we don’t get very far When we reach for our License We die Do you understand my title now? This is the ugly side

by Brittany J. Patterson/EGO

History is defined as “the past events of humans.” Have you ever wondered about the history of some of Southern’s oldest campus buildings? The namesakes of T. H. Harris Hall, T.T. Allan Hall, and John B. Cade Library, among others, deserve proper recognition. Each building, along with the person it honors, holds a unique place in the history of not just Southern University and A & M College, but also Louisiana.

The most popular place on campus is the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union. As you walk inside, you should pass two pictures of Denver Smith and Leonard Brown in the hallway. Have you ever heard the story of that tragic day on November 16, 1972? Along with several students, these two young men protested for a better Southern University when they were fatally shot. One died at the scene and the other at the hospital. Unfortunately, the shooter was never identified. (When will it end? Much of the time has not changed as we thought it has.)

The next most popular place on campus is the John B. Cade library. John Brother Cade was born on October 19, 1894, in Elberton, GA. He served in WWI in 1917. Dedicated to serving Southern University for 23 years, Cade was an author, dean, and archivist on the bluff. John B. Cade authored three books and conducted interviews with exslaves with his students. These interviews are housed in the John B. Cade library’s Archive collection, “Slave Narratives”. He is also credited as being the first principal of Southern University Laboratory School.

Across from the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union is T. H. Harris Hall. It houses several administrative offices, the English and Philosophy department and many others. Born Lee Marcus, Harris changed his name to Thomas H. Harris. During his time officiating as the State Superintendent of Education, he accomplished many successes including a system of financial support for all schools. His namesake is honored throughout the state of Louisiana.

The Isaac Greggs Band Hall is named after Isaac Greggs, also known as “Doc”. Greggs was Southern University’s band director for over 36 years before retiring in 2005. During his service, the Human Jukebox gained popularity and performed at 6 Super Bowls, four Sugar Bowls and three presidential inaugurations. Greggs was inducted into the Louisiana Black History Hall of Fame in 2013.

Higgins Hall is dedicated to Professor Rodney G. Higgins, who formed the Political Science as well as other Social Science Departments at Southern University. He was department chair from 1946 until his death in 1964. The department produced several dominant figures in the profession. There is also an award dedicated in his honor called the Rodney Higgins Best Faculty Paper.

T. T. Allain Hall is the last building on what is known as the “Strip”. It houses the Business, Math, and Foreign Language departments. Theophile Terrence Allain was born a slave in Baton Rouge, LA before growing up and becoming a successful businessman and politician. As a politician, he helped Southern University by seeking to establish it as a State supported Black school.

As you pass by or walk in these buildings, know that these namesakes fought for all students to have the right to receive a higher education here at Southern University. Walk with your head held high and remember that you are making history every day. What will be your legacy?

The Southern University EGO Magazine was created in 2005 for students by the students, releasing content to showcase our views and opinions. The magazine is a significant part of the university and it’s famous for giving students the platform to speak their veracity. Ego has had several game-changing editor-in-chiefs over the years and they’ve all contributed admirably to the magazine. We decided to highlight their success as indomitable young black journalists.

by Ti’Ja Taylor

the EIC from 2019-2020. Hamilton is a native of

Tulsa, OK. She decided to come to Southern because she wanted to go to an HBCU coming from an all white high school. Hence, Southern felt like the right choice especially with all of her family being from Louisiana. She graduated with a degree in Mass Communications with a concentration in Broadcast Journalism. She watched the two previous EICs, Alliyah and Jamillah. “It was really cool to watch them initiate and lead the creative process in putting together a magazine that not only showed everyone’s creative abilities but also putting together a magazine that represented the beauty that black people have and to use the magazine to touch on sensitive topics.” Her love for magazines came from EGO. The magazine opened her mind to the process of creating a full blown publication and it enraptured her, as tedious as it seemed. “It was always cool to watch Jermaine put everything together, EGO definitely inspired me to love magazines.” Her favorite magazine was the homecoming theme because she loved the design and photography. Hamilton explained that, “student media allowed me to be a part of an authentic organization because it became a second home for me and I will always love EGO and student media for that.” Hamilton has hopes to build her portfolio and either start her own business or work for a publication. Her favorite quote is, “comparison is the thief of joy” because it’s easy for her to compare herself to her other peers. The advice she gave to future EIC’s was,”don’t sleep on yourself and your ability to lead! Jamillah the EIC before me would always tell me that and it really stuck with me, because if you aren’t confident in yourself and what you’re doing, it’ll show in your work ethic and trust in the process.” She encourages future EIC’s to trust in the theme and vision it will all come together. We admire the past EIC’s of Ego Magazine and express gratitude for their dedication towards the magazine.

Jamilah Stith was the EIC in 2018-2019. She’s a native of Washington D.C., and she majored in Secondary English Education. After graduating, she got her Master’s of Education at Johns Hopkins University. She works as a 9th and 10th Special Education English teacher in the D.C.area. Stith credited her predecessor Aliyah Moore for encouraging her to take the job. Stith stated, “She believed in me & motivated me to pursue the magazine as a creative outlet. I had so many ideas that I couldn’t contain them!” Her love for magazines came from her dad. He created zines using everyday materials.” I always wished I was old enough to make them, so when I got to college I did, “stated Stith. Stith’s favorite magazine was the last magazine one (Spring 2019) she made and the Spring 2016 issue. The magazine concept was a flipped magazine, one side was for the ladies and the other for the gentlemen. She shared how it was such a dope creative process to experience. Stith explained how EGO turned her whole college experience around. She was homesick and depressed her sophomore year. Surprisingly on one of her walks back to Shade Hall, she picked up a random Digest and saw the ad for EGO. She was able to meet people with the same interest as her and got a chance to leave her mark on campus. “On the slick, EGO changed my life,” she stated. The phrase that inspires her is “You know the angels in heaven done signed my name,” notably sun by renowned gospel recording artist LaShun Pace. She feels that the phrase means “what’s meant for you, is yours. Go earn that glory.” The advice she gave to future EIC’s was, “ learn something from every position you earn. Write down all your ideas but never give the best ones up until you can do it justice. My favorite piece of advice is: Rule with an iron fist, velvet glove. You’ll figure it out!”

by Jenna Bernard/EGO

African Americans, and the African diaspora, have built this country to the flourishing peak that it is today. Our ancestors have paved the way for our generation, fighting tooth and nail, so we can have the freedom and luxuries we have today, peace, joy, education, comfortability, and so much more. Now, our generation has to pay it forward when handed the baton.

Calia Marsai Martin, often referred to as Marsai Martin, is a perfect example of carrying out her ancestors’ wildest dreams. She’s a black actress who plays Diane Johnson, the witty younger sister on the hit comedy show Black-ish. Marsai starred in and produced the Emmy Award-nominated comedy, Little at the ripe age of 17, breaking the record as the youngest Hollywood executive producer to work on a major production. The groundbreaking actress has acclaimed 10 NAACP Image Awards as well as a Screen Actors Guild Award under her belt.

On top of being a trailblazer for young Black women in film, her nail cosmetic line Mari by Marsai recently hit the shelves this month, in addition to her own production company, Genius Entertainment, developing a new series with Disney soon.

To believe that almost a century ago, Black people young or old weren’t allowed to be actors and actresses. We were only commodities and cattle to be sold or to be mocked by white society.

Marsai is opening doors for young Black girls and women to reach for the stars. To be so young, successful, and ambitious is inspiring the Black community as a whole because we don’t see accomplishments like these publicly broadcast due to the racial ambiguity in our society. This sets the tone for the Black community and the younger Black generation to make an impact and give your all in anything you do. Reach for the stars and you will see the moon.

by Kynnedi Jackson/EGO

e are living in the era of social media. The demand of staying connected with each other has grown significantly since 2019, and living through a global pandemic has strained the ability to be social as we once knew. The impact that social media has on youth is amazing. There are several influencers who have realized just that.

TikTok influencers such as Lynae Bouges, Kahlil Greene, Nakia Smith, Young Prince, and many more use their platform for the greater good. Taking fun everyday trends turning them into history lessons about our culture that seem to be left out of the history books.

There are many black influencers using their platform to share their passions. Starting with La Tavia Roberts, a senior AMTX Major from Atlanta, GA is a fashion influencer and youtuber showcasing her styling skills on all of her platforms.

Then we have Annika Robinson Junior English Major Shreveport, LA. She uses her youtube platform to enlighten students about college life at Southern University.

Also, Mariah Clayton (Miss Louisiana USA 2020) uses her Instagram and Tiktok platforms to showcase women empowerment and self care.

The last mentioned is Jackie Aina, an influencer with over 3 million subscribers. She uses her platform to promote makeup tips and help women discover how to better their makeup application routines.

This may seem silly, but you would be surprised at lives that have been affected throughout the years, and the inspiration that is brought when these videos are viewed. Everyday Black TikTok is growing. You never know what you’ll learn through the means of social media.

We all have a voice, but how we use that voice is what really matters. Many trends have gone viral over the years, and through some of those trends, lessons were taught and awareness for different issues arose.

Here at Southern University we have several influencers, whether it be YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, or another platform. Imagine if every influencer took the time to use their voice to teach a lesson or bring awareness to the black community. Think about how much of an impact it would make in Jaguar Nation. I challenge everyone to be the change. Use Your Platform as Your Voice!

Ivy Lo is an RnB with a mixture of Neo-Soul singer and songwriter from Monroe, Louisiana. Ivy Lo’s name inspiration comes from her mother Ivy. The up-and-coming star explained how she’s always been drawn to music, but she got deeper into music when she was asked to join the Southern Jazz Band as a vocalist at Southern University. She then met someone who had connections to a studio and was invited. And that’s how she started where she started recording music, and later her first EP.

She recently signed with EstaBrook Road Records, where she now has the platform to make a larger name for herself. Ivy Lo is inspired by some of the greats Snoh Aalegra, Jill Scott, Jhene Aiko and Ashanti. That all has been an instrument in cultivating her beautiful gift.

She has a compelling songwriting process that includes a journal, a light, and a clean room. “I can allow my creative juices to flow when I have these three things intact. Once done, I feel as though my creative process functions like machinery, I hear a beat and the lyrics write themselves.”

Ivy Lo is a full-time artist and student, knowing that balancing her music career and school keeps her occupied. When things become overwhelming for her, she takes time to get herself together. Whether through a quick trip, going out, or being with her loved ones.

Her motivation is the endless thought of making it big. “I believe in myself, and I know I have others who believe in me too. All anyone ever needs is the ability to believe, in order to keep pushing for something they truly want/desire.” Ivy Lo has a long line of Southern alumni in her family. Her father graduated from Southern Law School and her mother pursued her degree at Southern. She has a sister currently enrolled in Southern’s nursing school, along with a brother who was in the Human Jukebox Band. Ivy Lo felt that it was only fitting that she attends Southern as well, and get a taste of the HBCU atmosphere.

Ivy Lo has been creating music for almost a year now. Her first single was released on June 19th. Which was the first song she recorded in the studio, titled “Outta Town”. She expressed how the song was a hit, and everyone loved it. That song was the true start of her very own music career.

Ivy Lo’s advice to aspiring artists is to stay consistent in making music, writing lyrics, and going to the studio. “Tune out the negative comments, haters, and focus on perfecting your artistry craft. This is how the opportunities will come to you. I can say this from experience.”

Be sure to check out her new single “Sip N’ Vibe” on all platforms.

by Tiffany Williams/EGO

The Black Panther Party was founded in 1966 by Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale. This political organization was created to fight police brutality against African Americans. Many saw this group as a gang, but those in the black community saw them as leaders. They urged for blacks to get into politics and change the world from the inside for the better. This political organization became a target by the FBI. The FBI looked at them as an enemy towards the U.S. government. The Black Panther Party was known for violence yet sought peace for their community.

Thurgood Marshall was a well-known lawyer that fought for the justice of blacks that have been wrongfully convicted by the court system and those that were accused of a crime they didn’t commit. In 1961 Marshall became a part of the Supreme Court. He had the same passion as “The Black Panther Party” but took a different approach and fought within the court system. His path had its ups and downs, dealing with racism not only from whites but from the justice system itself. Yet, that did not stop him from saving lives and giving hope in a peaceful manner.

Kentravious Coleman is a young advocate that’s ready to transform the community. A 22-year-old senior political science major from Alexandria, LA, Coleman has a strong desire to serve his community and make significant change. He has evolved into a young progressive pushing toward a better future for young people, driven to change the mindsets of young people while devising plans to make effective progress in improving the district.

Outside of various roles within SGA and Men’s Federation, Coleman also was president of Leaders of Tomorrow, an organization with a mission to transform disadvantaged youth by empowering, redirecting, and leading by example. In 2019, Coleman ran for Louisiana state representative because he saw a need in our community for proper representation and inclusion instead of division. He plans to run again in 2023, mentioning how the people need to be represented properly.

“Own nothing but control everything,” stated Coleman. He knows he can control how things get done. By having good people pushing towards real action.

Charles J. Barjon II is a senior, history major at Southern University A&M College. He is from Cerritos, California and prefers to go by his baptismal name, Haile Moses Selam.

When asked, “What made you become an activist?”, Selam said, “Reality.” He felt that it was necessary for him to become an activist considering the black community isn’t what it should be and that black lives are being lost every day by either cops or one another.

Selam said he was raised to make a change and to stand up if something was wrong. When Haile came to Southern, he felt no one was bothered by the perception of the community, so he ventured out and found like-minded people within the 771 Alliance (a student-led organization that seeks to educate people in the fight for Environmental Justice.)

Through his leadership and the equal labors of the general body members of The SU 771 Alliance (Sierra Club at Southern University) the organization has lobbied not only Aramark and the university herself but also the Student Government Association to make changes as it pertains to waste management, recycling, and social awareness.

PHOTOGRAPHERS // Amber Swayzer | Isaac Armstrong

by Ti’Ja Taylor/EGO

The city of Baton Rouge is full of many hidden art gems. The gems are located in some of the most unique places. The Walls Project is a non-profit organization that focuses on community reactivation since 2012. The Walls Project has done an outstanding job at creating a public art experience for communities to appreciate. There are endless murals in the city that symbolize the trials Baton Rouge has overcome.

The first one is titled ”MLK Festival of Service in 2018”, located at 8212 Scenic Hwy, Baton Rouge. This mural is a street away from our university. The mural is black and white with an enormous size Dr. King and Malcom X standing side by side as a unit.

The second gem is in the heart of South Baton Rouge on 2655 Plank Road. It’s titled “One Rouge: Drawing the Line” by Langston Hughes. The mural is painted on the St. Vincent De Paul Thrift Store. With lilac purple words on the outside saying, “love thy neighbor as thysaelf.” Accompanied by a Black women and men holding clothing in their hands, along with paintings of our people holding hands. The mural represents unity in the community if everyone would stand together, love each other, and support those in need.

The third gem is a jaw dropping mural located at 1116 S.14th St. titled “One Rouge: Drawing the Line in 2020”, by Bryson Boutte. This mural has three different parts. The first section represents the high taxes we had to pay to whites for rent and our people decided to build locally. The middle showcases waste, cost of living, and the number of homes for sale. It’s painted in a way that the head and body is just standing on top of these issues in a way that it’s taking over the man’s body. The other section is celebrating the Lincoln Museum of Black cinema.

These murals were created by artists that felt inspired to create art for residents, visitors, and natives to see pieces of history in Baton Rouge. These murals hold value about matters that must be remembered. All these gems hold an important meaning behind our history. As you drive in the city, take time to look at your surroundings. To take in these invigorating murals recognizing our Black history.

by Douglas Taylor Jr./EGO

If you are looking for the perfect “Workout Guru”, look no further than on Southern University’s campus as Gerald Broussard III fits the criteria. Gerald Broussard III is a Junior Mass Communications major from New Iberia, Louisiana. His name holds weight around the Southern University campus as he is a part of not only the Collegiate 100 organization, but also the E-Sports team, as well as the Southern University’s US Army ROTC program.

After graduating high school from West Gate, (located in New Iberia), Gerald’s journey on becoming a profound fitness trainer would begin during his transition to Bethany College, (located in Lindsborg, Kansas), as their future Quarterback.

Throughout the recruiting process, Gerald would often be turned down as coaches would tell him, “You don’t have the look, but we know you can play.” Soon after, Gerald would step back from playing football and later transfer to Southern University seeking a fresh start. Gerald exclaims, “I never really worked out as hard as I should’ve when I played football.” He then began researching the fundamentals of the very things he lacked during his sports expedition and ultimately turned the discouraging words coaches gave him into motivation.

Today, Gerald is known as “The Man” when in discussion of physical fitness. When asked what his mindset was after transferring to Southern University, he said, “I thought to myself, maybe I need to do what these other guys did.” He started posting his workout routines online and soon he would have a solid foundation towards training those in need around not only the Baton Rouge area, but all over the world as well. Gerald eventually launched his own fitness label entitled, “Duke Hova Fitness” broadcasting various routines on Instagram as well as YouTube. With the willingness to never give up, Gerald Broussard III turned his downfall into a success as he not only maintained a better state of health for himself, but also for those who are seeking guidance within the workout spectrum.

On this spread we wanted to recognize all our honorable mention photos. These are pictures that we just couldn’t keep to ourselves. Our photographers’ visions truly came to life in all the pictures. Which is why we decided to share them with our readers. So, you all could love them as much as we do.

by Keenon Glover/EGO

With Mercury ending its retrograde in the sign of Capricorn on February 3rd, the swift planet goes directly into Aquarius on February 14th, 2022, with the sign of revolution and futurism influencing our daily operations. Electrifying the air with creativity and experimentation, this time will show our strengths and get us out of our shells. For students, this will be especially felt, inspiring us and bringing us together in new and improved ways. Find your sign to get your forecast for this semester!

● Aries: Your forecast is: Bright and sunny, drink some water and keep cool! (Seriously, please listen, Aries. Not time to be hardheaded.) ○ Don’t be scared to lean into your leadership, even if other people might not get your ideas at first. Be open to the perspective of others, while giving your own as well, and watch how teamwork makes the dream work. Pay attention to what example you’re setting.

● Taurus: Your forecast is: Perfect time for harvest, what seeds have you been planting? ○ You’ve been thinking about the future lately, but let’s make sure you’re actually investing in it too. It’s time to build your network and be more responsible, as that’ll help you get the guidance and resources you’ll need for your goals. Social media can really be helpful in this process, too.

● Gemini: Your forecast is: Road trip weather, pack your Shein swimsuits and bring your sunscreen! ○ It’s time to expand your horizons and get a new outlook on life, both physically and mentally. Visiting a place you’ve never been before might just be the artistic exposure you’ve been needing. While enjoying yourself, make sure to take in some lessons from the area and people. You might learn something!

● Cancer: Your forecast is: Temperatures in your heart are dropping below 0°, stay warm with those you love. ○ Try not to self-isolate as often as you do, it can be really warming to have some level of vulnerability and connection to others. If you need help, say it, those around you who really care won’t mind. You can say that nobody helps you, but ask yourself if you give that opportunity.

● Leo: Your forecast is: Heavy showers, it’s best to stay inside and get more familiar with those around you. ○ Make sure to be open and honest in your communications, especially with those closest to you. Relationships - romantic or platonic - are about seeing the soft side of each other and appreciating that. The people you love can’t accept you if you never open up, so let them see that side that you tend to hide.

● Virgo: Your forecast is: Perfect time to take a dip in creativity, stay cool and go with the flow. ○ Your creative juices are flowing, and you’ve been really interested in picking up a new trade or hobby. Don’t critique yourself out of doing this, you’re more talented than you realize. Collaborating with your closest friends can even make this experience more comfortable for you.

● Libra: Your forecast is: TV is cool, but it’s the perfect weather for a night out with friends. Let’s see where the streets take you… ○ Try to find some entertainment outside of the media, as your wide social circles offer a level of happiness you can only get from those you trust. While it might be tempting to binge-watch Euphoria and BMF all semester, you’ll have more fun when you’re living out the episode of your own interesting life.

Universal ● Capricorn: Your forecast is: Green showers, blessings are raining and flowers are blooming! Dance in the rain, but don’t slip up. ○ Before spending all your financial blessings in 5 minutes, put some money in stocks or your savings account. Try investing in and supporting small businesses, appreciating their dedication to their craftsmanship. It’s important to learn appreciation for steadily growing wealth, instead of get-rich quick schemes.

● Scorpio: Your forecast is: Is it hot in here, or is that just Scorpio.? Let’s talk it out over a drink (non-alcoholic, if you’re under 21.) ○ Avoid letting your emotions get the best of you, and allow yourself to engage in more healing conversations with others. Holding grudges can hold you back, and takes away the opportunity for growth and learning. When you’re ready, have that meaningful talk you’ve been needing with those closest to you. I bet you $10 you won’t regret it!

● Aquarius: Your forecast is: Clear skies for the moment, though I’m seeing a storm threat in the near future. ○ It’s important to stay true to yourself during this time, as you’ll be experiencing inspiration from all corners of life. You may feel a little disconnected from your usual life, but don’t stress. Any unexpected change is exactly what you need to grow into your best self.

● Sagittarius: Your forecast is: Lightning in the clouds and in your mind, stay charged up! ○ You might feel like an energy surge is flowing through your brain, leading you to think even bigger and farther than you already do. While you should definitely embrace this and express yourself, make sure to have some downtime when necessary. A bubble bath and movie night alone might be what you’ve been needing.

● Pisces: Your forecast is: A little bit of thunder, but it sounds much closer than it actually is. Don’t stress, you’ll weather the storm. ○ You may be feeling anxious about the future lately, particularly with the idea of being independent. Ask those around you for advice, because nobody has ever gotten to where they are in their lives completely on their own. Trust in yourself, and know that, “I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.” (Maya Angelou)