Tuesday, February 19, 2019
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Volume 72, Issue 4
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Knowledge is Power
TODAY IN BLACK HISTORY
SU’s Quiz Bowl team places 2nd at National Qualifying Tournament; secures spot in National Competition Alesha Bethea
The Southern Digest
Southern University’s Quiz Bowl team attended the National Qualifying Tournament in Texas and brought back a sizable trophy this year. Competing against schools like Texas College, Xavier University, Prairie View A&M College, etc., Southern’s quiz bowl team fought their way to a respectable second place win. This win guarantees their spot at the National Championship Tournament in California which will take place April 13-17. At the National Championship Tournament, teams all across the country will have the opportunity to compete for the chance to win a seventy-five thousand dollar scholarship for their school. Southern’s Quiz Bowl team expresses their excitement about competing for such a large prize to the Southern Digest. Joyner Deamer, a senior civil engineering major, reveals to the Digest, “I was excited for the opportunity to be able to go to California and now that we’ve made that a reality, I’m looking forward to that in the future.” Considering this is Joyner’s last year competing, it’s no wonder he’s so excited to finish his final semester off strong by competing in the big leagues. Since a team is only as proficient as its coach, it’s a good thing Southern’s Quiz Bowl team has such an experienced one. Deadra James Mackie, the campus coach for the Honda Campus All Star Challenge Quiz Bowl team, has been coaching for
Courtesy: SU Quiz Bowl
ten years and counting. She intends for this year’s team to go all the way. Mrs. Mackie boasts to the Digest, “...I’d like to make sure that we bring the seventy-five
thousand dollars back home...The team members do have a deep commitment See QUIZ page 3
FEBRUARY 19 •
On this day in 1919, the first Pan African Congress meeting is held
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On this day in 1940, legendary singer Smokey Robinson was born
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On this day in 1942, the Tuskegee Airmen were initiated
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On this day in 1992, director John Singleton became the first black nominated for the Academy Award for best director and best screenplay for “Boyz N The Hood.”
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On this day in 2002, Vonetta Flowers became the first black gold medalist in the Winter Olympics game, for the two person bobsled event
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Rapper Prince Markie Dee born Mark Anthony Morales, Brooklyn, New York. He was a member of the Fat Boys, a pioneering rap group.
Building on the Bluff Gabrielle Hutchinson
The Southern Digest
“I go sit at The Bluff when I have a lot on my mind. The scenery is beautiful; I put some music on and it puts me in a better state of mind,” freshman from Baton Rouge, Kenneth Linson, shares. The sentiment is shared and contractors were set to begin constructing a brand new alumni center and student housing this summer on a 5-acre plot of Scott’s Blue owned by the Southern University Alumni Federation. The apartments are said to be available for SUBR students as well as students of the Southern University Law Center, who currently have no campus housing See BUILDING page 3
The Southern University Alumni Federation posts signage for the new Center for Alumni and Economic Development (Khidhr Al-Mustafa/DIGEST)
www.southerndigest.com THE OFFICIAL STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY AND A&M COLLEGE, BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA
The Career Services Center will sponsor its Spring 2019 Career Exploration Day on Wednesday, February 20, 2019. This event will be held in the F. G. Clark Activity Center on the University campus from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
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SUBMISSIONS POLICY
The Southern DIGEST welcomes letters from readers commenting on current issues and other matters of general interest to the SU family and public. We set aside this space to publish these letters for others to enjoy. This newspaper is not responsible for individual opinions expressed on its editorial and commentary pages. The Southern DIGEST reserves the right to edit any contributions and or reject them without notification. Authors are encouraged to limit the length of submissions to 300 words. Letters should not include libelous statements. Offensive and personal attacks will not be permitted. The DIGEST will not print “open letters” addressed to someone else. All contributions must be type written, signed and must include the author’s address and phone number. Unsigned letters will not be printed. Southern University students should include their majors, hometowns and year in school. When referring to specific DIGEST articles, please include the date and title. All materials should be directed to the editor in chief of The Southern DIGEST, P.O. Box 10180, Baton Rouge, La. 70813. Materials may be delivered by hand to the DIGEST office located in Suite 1064 Harris Hall or can be e-mailed to digest@subr.edu.
EDITORIAL POLICY
Staff editorials represent the opinions of the author and the majority opinion of the Southern DIGEST Student Editorial Board, which is comprised of the student staff of editors and columnists. The Southern DIGEST provides an open forum to educate, inform and enlighten the students, faculty and staff at Southern University, Baton Rouge, La.
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Briefs Tutoring Center for Student Success offers free and friendly academic tutoring to SU students seeking to improve or maintain their knowledge base in Math, Chemistry, Biology and Nursing classes. Our centers offer assistance Monday – Friday from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. The learning centers are located in Stewart Hall, Room 155 and Pinchback Hall, 1st Floor. Traffic and Parking Friendly Reminder via the Director of Traffic and Parking: Please ensure all parking tag decals are visible in vehicles, which includes: laying flat on dash or hanging from mirror. If you have more than one tag i.e. commuter decal and handicap, please make sure both are visible. If you are faculty in a reserved spot, please be sure your number matches your parking spot. High School Preview Day Spring High School Preview Day will be held on February. 23 at 1pm in the F.G. Clark Activity Center. Art Gallery The Visual and Performing Arts Gallery is hosting “Exploring the Mediums until February 28 on Mon.-Thurs. from 10am-4pm. From 10am-4pm. Career Services Spring Career Exploration Day will be held on February. 20 from 10am-3pm in the F.G. Clark Activity Center. Computer Science SU Dept. of Computer Science is hosting 50 Years of Computing from February 21-Feb. 23. SU Agricultural Center Small farmers from throughout the state will gather at Southern University’s Felton G. Clark Activity Center from March 14-16 to attend the 9th annual Louisiana Small Farmer Conference. Call to Visual Arts Students are invited to submit artwork for the SUBR Campus Wide Invitational
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Student Art Exhibition Visual Arts Gallery/Frank Hayden Hall Spring Semester March 14 – April 11, 2019 SU Land-Grant Campus The Southern University Ag Center and College of Ag will host its 25th Annual Black History Quiz Bowl on Thursday, February 28 at 3 pm in the 3rd floor auditorium of T.T. Allain Hall. All SU students, groups and organizations are encouraged to participate. Teams can signup at www.suagcenter.com or in room 102 of Fisher Hall. The deadline to sign-up is February 21. For more information, email owusu_bandele@ suagcenter.com. School of Nursing Applications for admission to the School of Nursing are now available online at subr.edu. The deadline to apply is March 1, 2019. Wesley Center at Southern University The Wesley Center at Southern University will have worship service on March 31, 2019 at 3:00 pm. This one hour service is open to all students and community residents. For more information feel free to call us at 225-772-5445. Intramural Sports To all students that signed up for indoor soccer, we will have a meeting to pick teams on February 27 at 5:00pm in the Rec Center. Please be on time so that we can get everyone on a team. For more information, please contact Coach Tanner@ 771-3212. Shell Scholarship Are you majoring in Engineering or Geosciences? Find out how you can apply for a $5,000 scholarship from Shell for the 2019-2020 academic year!
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scholarships: the Shell Technical Scholarship and the Shell Incentive Fund. The Shell Technical Scholarship is for full-time students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree in a specific technical major. The Shell Incentive Fund is for fulltime students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree in a specific technical major and who belong to particular under-represented minority groups. For additional details about the application process and requirements for each scholarship, visit www.shell.us/scholarships. The application deadline is March 15th, 2019, so don’t delay! If you have any further questions, please contact Shell Careers at careers@shell.com. Tennis Jags will play against Alabama State at Southern on February 22 at 9am. The Lady Jags will host Alcorn State at 9am on February 23. Southern will take on ArkansasPine Bluff on February 24 at 1pm at home. Baseball Jaguar baseball will hit the road this weekend to face Northwestern State in Natchitoches, LA February 22-24. Basketball Men and Women’s basketball will host Alabama A&M on February 23. the women play at 3pm and men’s game tips-off at 7:30pm. Basketball Men and Women’s basketball will host Alabama State on Monday, February 25. the women play at 5:30pm and men’s game tips-off at 7:30pm. Softball Lady Jags will host Fairleigh Dickinson on February 22 and 24. Time is TBA.
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The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Call of Duty: Search for Director of Student Life complete Paris Duncan
The Southern Digest
“You are born an expensive original, don’t die a cheap copy, ” are a few words spoken by Southern University’s new Director of Student Leadership and Community Engagement, Ms. Tiffany Freeman. The leadership position is responsible for the oversight of a multitude of activities all over campus, one being serving as the main advisor to Student Government Association. As director, she will oversee student organizations, Greek life, and
“You are born an expensive original, don’t die a cheap copy.” community service. Tiffany has an undergraduate degree in Business Marketing and a master’s in Higher Education Administration from the University of Pennsylvania. As a leader, when asked
FREEMAN how she was inspired to help others through leadership, her response was as follows: “We have to go all the way back to when I was in undergrad. I went to Prairie View A&M University and was a Panther advisor. This position helps freshman students through their transition from high school to college. They saved me, so I felt the need to be a part of an organization to help save others.” Tiffany has acquired a wealth of leadership skills and positions including becoming the Secretary for the Program of Board at PVAMU, Director for the Program of Board, to becoming the first undergraduate student advisor. In grad school, Ms. Freeman found what she calls her “philosophy” in her field, leadership skills, and discovered how she wanted to perfect her game as an advisor. “My love for always advocating for my peers.”
Tuesday, February 19, 2019 - Page 3 BUILDING from page 1
QUIZ BOWL from page 1
options. According to an update by the Alumni Federation, a housing committee has been formed to execute the project’s progress and, “move forward as expeditiously as possible toward the SUAF Center for Alumni and Economic Development goal.” That statement was published in May 2018 and construction has yet to begin. “The committee’s immediate goal is to perform due diligence to show that the land is indeed safe,” the federation states. The designated land was previously owned by a chemical company, so the committee stressed the importance of surveying the area before moving forward. In the meantime, one can enjoy the adjacent, public-friendly area of Scott’s Bluff for a picnic, fishing, or some solitude with a view. “I saw the pictures online and it kind of looks like the levee,” sophomore nursing major, Tyliese Clay, shares. “It definitely looks nice. It’s going to attract more students and it adds to the scenery. Who wouldn’t want to live on the water?” To get a picture of how more life on The Bluff could look, visit the Southern University Alumni Federation’s website and view the “About” tab.
to the game and that’s what I appreciate because they place this competition as a priority...just like some of the other sports are priorities to other students, this is a priority to...the students that are apart of the HCASC club.” With hopes and morales high for the more experienced members of the team, it’s important to shed some light on those members who are prospective players for the upcoming semesters. They’ve got big shoes to fill and high expectations to meet once the senior players graduate. Jordan Wilson-Smith, a sophomore animal science major, who joined Southern’s quiz bowl team earlier this semester, informed the Digest, “I’m excited to see what happens and how we progress as a team after [the seniors] leave and see the growth in all [of] the other members of the team.” From the veterans to the newcomers, everyone’s excited to see what Southern University’s Quiz Bowl team is capable of in the near future. There’s no shortage of talent on this team so a first place win at the National Championship Tournament is well within reach. For those students who would like to see the quiz bowl team in action, they will be competing in the 25th annual Land Grant Campus Black History Quiz Bowl competition in T.T. Allain on February 28 at 3 pm. Come get a glimpse at what some of Southern’s greatest minds have to offer and don’t forget to congratulate them on their recent win.
Sports southerndigest.com
Page 4 - Tuesday, February 19, 2019
The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
It’s Lit: The Lady Jags Continue Their Hot Streak in
9th Inning Fireworks spark Jaguars win over GSU in Andre Dawson Classic Debrandin Brown
The Southern Digest
The Southern Jaguars baseball team took on the Grambling Tigers in the annual Andre Dawson Classic on February 16 at Wesley-Barrow Stadium in New Orleans, LA after 6-3 win over FAMU the day before. The game featured a closely contested matchup between two very solid SWAC teams, the Jaguars and the Grambling Tigers, who had both won their opening matchups to start the season. Tied with a score of 5 at the bottom of the 9th inning with 1 out, Southern’s own Coby Taylor, a junior infielder, stepped up to the plate and hit a homerun to give Southern a win in walk-off fashion. “We talked about it before he came to the plate. I knew that he wanted to be that guy... I told him, ‘They’re going to throw you away. If you can stay through one here, you’ll get it, and sure enough, that’s exactly what happened,” said Head Baseball Coach for Southern, Kerrick Jackson. After the Jaguars improved to 2-0 on the season after their second straight walkoff vs Grambling in the Andre Dawson Classic on Saturday afternoon, they also recorded a victory over Alcorn at Maestri Field on Sunday, February 17 to remain undefeated on the season. The Jags will look to keep up their winning ways going forward to next weekend’s triple header vs Northwestern State (0-2) starting on Friday afternoon in Natchitoches to start off a lengthy road trip. UP NEXT: 2/22 - 2/24
at
Friday: 6:00PM Saturday: 2:00PM Sunday 1:00PM JAGUARS
the SWAC vs Arkansas Pine Bluff Sydney Brown/Debrandin Brown The Southern Digest
The Southern University Lady Jaguars (9-3 in SWAC, 12-11 overall) played an away conference game vs UAPB (1-11 in the SWAC, 4-15 overall) on Saturday, February 16 at UAPB as they looked to extend their dominance in the SWAC. The first quarter saw the Lady Jags shoot a poor percentage from the field at only 21%. Both teams shot 21 and 28% from the field respectively, and combined for a total of 15 turnovers in the first quarter. In the second quarter, the Lady Lions shot an astronomical 72% from the field, holding the Lady Jags to 4-19 from the field on 21% shooting. This poor shooting stretch by the Jags led to the Lady Lions taking a lead going into the final minutes of the half. Outscoring the Southern bench 19-6 in the second quarter, UAPB smothered
FINAL
(WOMEN’S BASKETBALL)
56 - 45
Southern’s offense in the second quarter of play. Although the Lady Lions led 29-18 going into the half, both teams managed to limit themselves to a combined 8 turnovers in the quarter. The third quarter saw the Lady Jags come out with intensity and fire that was seemingly missing in the first half of play. The Lady Jags held UAPB to 15% shooting, going 2 of 13 from the field in the third quarter. Recording 6 steals and 4 blocks, the Lady Jags defense suffocated the Lady Lions in the third quarter. Unlike the first two quarters which were tightly contested, the third quarter saw Southern come out on a hot streak, shooting 8-15 from the field. Knocking
down two three pointers in the third, the Lady Jags outscored UAPB 24-9 in the 3rd quarter of play. The Lady Jags went into the fourth quarter leading UAPB 3230. In the fourth quarter the Southern bench outscored UAPB 11-3. Recording 14 points off of turnovers, the Lady Jags built their lead in the final minutes of the fourth quarter, leading by as many as 14 points. After the Jaguars pulled away during the course of the fourth quarter, Southern ended the contest with a final score of 5645. The leading scorer on the night for Southern was Taneara Moore with a total of 13 points on 55% shooting. Looking forward to their next big matchup, the Lady Jags will head back home to play Alabama A&M on February 26 in the F.G. Clark Activity Center to start off a three-game home stand.
A look backwards and forwards: HBCU Stars in the NFL
(DIGEST ILLUSTRATION)
Garland Johnson
The Southern Digest
Days before national signing day, Madison Prep defensive back Bertrand Carrell committed to the Southern University over FBS powerhouse LSU. His decision to choose Southern is somewhat of an anomaly among top ranked high school players. However, in years past, HBCU’s have given the NFL notable players who have made significant contributions
to the game. While there are many HBCU players currently on NFL rosters or practice squads, there are a few that are regarded as stars, in-terms of accolades and accomplishments. Chicago Bears running back Tarik Cohen attended college at North Carolina A&T, leaving as the MEAC’s all-time leading rusher. He made an immediate impact for the Bears, being named First-Team All-Pro in
his second year. According to the Chicago Sun Times, Bears Offensive Coordinator Dowell Loggains called Cohen, “The best offensive weapon on the team.” One of the keys to the New Orleans Saints offensive success is Left Tackle Terron Armstead. Hailing from Arkansas Pine-Bluff, he was named to to the Second-Team All-Pro in 2018, and helped guide the Saints to the 2018 NFC Championship game.
One of the most tenured HBCU stars in the league is Arizona Cardinals safety, Antoine Bethea, attended Howard University and was drafted in the 6th round of the 2006 NFL Draft, since then he has been name to three ProBowls and was a Superbowl champion in his in his rookie season. Other recent NFL HBCU See HBCU page 3
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SU TRACK TEAM (GIRLS 4x4)
Girls 4x4 placed 3rd overall in the SWAC Indoor Championship in Birmingham, Alabama on Friday, February 15. (Courtesy SU Track)
DEMONS
Triple Header Weekend
Sports southerndigest.com
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Tuesday, February 19, 2019 - Page 5
Of Authors and Athletes; Black Boy Fly Debrandin Brown
The Southern Digest
Martellus Bennett, an NFL tight-end, has had a success riddled and critic silencing career since entering into the National Football League. After the black community was shaken by the deaths of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling, Bennett made it known however that more was on his mind regarding the topic of black people in America than there was with him winning his first Super Bowl, which he eventually did in 2016 with the Patriots. The result of Bennett’s feelings on the matter was a poem that he wrote that was featured in The Players’ Tribune. “We must lace up our shoes to do more than run another sprint, dunk another ball, or rap another lyric. We must lace our shoes and run toward freedom….cheering on those on their way to the finish line,” wrote Bennett in his original letter/poem. “I just felt like I needed to write something for the black kids who had to see or are witnessing these things,” said Bennett on his reasons for writing and putting out his
letter in The Players’ Tribune. “[When we were growing up], we didn’t have access to as many things that were happening in the world. Now you see all these things.” Two years later, Bennett along with his publishing agency, the Imagination Agency, released Bennett’s original writing as a book under the title, “Dear Black Boy.” In his book, Bennett gives tips and encouragement to the young audience to not be afraid of stepping outside of cultural and societal norms in order to achieve their dreams. In an interview with The Root, Bennett spoke on the percentages of black people in the NBA and NFL, who are the majority by far in whichever metrics you would choose to look at. With more than half of the NFL and NBA being black, but with less than 7% black people in the technology industry, Bennett spoke on his desire for black children to aim higher than a career in professional sports. “We don’t have a lot of stories that are just for us, that are ours, that we can relate to,” said Bennett in regards to the lack of representation black people have in non-
Courtesy/Theroot.com
athletic and entertainment industries. “We can be so much more than athletes and rappers. It’s refreshing to see people who have voices in our community using them the way [Bennett] is,” said Joshua Williams, a therapeutic recreations major from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. In Bennett’s case, starting his own publishing and entertainment company, Imagination Agency, were the steps he wanted to take in 2014 in order to make his post-football dreams for himself come true.
“There’s no one to champion creativity for black youth as far as films and animation, and there’s nothing wrong with focusing on it,” said Bennett. While Bennett knows that he cannot achieve such a broad goal of changing how young black kids approach their futures, he is confident that if he can inspire the generations after him to be writers and creators, then they’ll be the ones to ultimately, “change it for us all.”
A New Season from the Eyes of Garris Debrandin Brown
The Southern Digest
Head softball coach for Southern University, John Garris, has held his position as HC since the 2014 softball season. Since the beginning of his tenure, Coach Garris has led Southern softball to one of the most winningest in GARRIS the school’s history. An alumnus of the University of Alabama, Coach Garris has led the Southern softball team to a SWAC tournament appearance every year under his leadership. Looking towards the 2019 season, Coach Garris will be looking for even more success even with the departure of key Jaguar graduates such as Kierra Suttles, a 2-time SWAC All-Conference catcher who led the nation in home runs per game during her senior season. Suttles graduated from Southern in May of 2018. Despite the loss of veteran experience and leadership in one of their best
players, Coach Garris has had no shortage of success in finding skilled players who want to play for the Jaguars. “We think that we have some of our junior college players who are brand new here that can contribute some leadership for us. We also think that we have some returning players [like Aubrion James], who is one of the top players in this league.” said Coach Garris. James was heavily recruited by Garris in her high school days, and with his guidance, the junior pitcher has developed into one of the best pitchers in the SWAC, and perhaps in the country after being named to preseason Second Team All-SWAC. “She certainly epitomizes the “leadby-example” [mentality] that you may see in an athlete. People talk about it, but if you want to see it, go see her.” says Garris about his star catcher. One of the biggest positives that Garris spoke on during media availability earlier in the month, was the versatility he believes this team can play with. With their high school recruits and junior college signees, Southern softball has no shortage of versatile athletes that can be plugged in at multiple positions
and spots on the pitcher. “I spoke with the coaches yesterday, and one of the main things mentioned was that we had a lot of versatility and we can play a lot of people in a lot of spots, and that’s a nice advantage to have.” said Coach Garris. When asked about expectations for his program this season, Garris admits that he hopes teams come in underestimating them because of some of the talent the Jags have recently lost. Should this be the case, then Garris believes it to be all the best for his squad. “It’ll allow us to [hopefully] sneak up on some people. More importantly, it can allow us to set our own standard where we expect to be, and we’re going to set it high.” said Garris when asked his thoughts on the upcoming season. “We’re going in there to compete every time we play, whoever the opponent is. And when the SWAC rolls around, there’s only one champion. And that’s what it’s all about.” continued Garris. The Jags will be taking on Fairleigh Dickinson for their first of scheduled home game during the 2019 season on February 22 on Jaguar Field.
HBCU from page 4 stars include Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Eric Weems, Robert Mathis, Marquette King, and Isaiah Crowell. Hall of Fame wide receiver, Jerry Rice, attended Mississippi Valley State from 1981-1984, he was then selected in the first round of the 1985 NFL Draft, and went on to become the NFL’s alltime leader in career receiving yards, touchdowns receptions and catches. According to ESPN, Deion Sanders said, “I didn’t play in an era with some other players, but I did play in the same era as Jerry (Rice), and he is the greatest player I have ever played with. Shannon Sharpe attended Savannah State University and went on to have a prolific Tight Ends in NFL History. He was named to 5 All-Pro Teams, 8 Pro Bowls and 3 Super Bowl championships between the Denver Broncos and the Baltimore Ravens. After football he transitioned into a life of broadcasting and is currently on the sports debate show, Skip and Shannon “Undisputed” on Fox Sports 1. Aeneas WIlliams enjoyed a 15 year NFL career, which contained many All-Pro, and Pro Bowl seasons. He completed his college career at Southern University and was named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014. Hailing from Grambling State University, Quarterback Doug Williams holds the distinction of being the first African American signalcaller to lead his team to a Super Bowl win. He now holds and executive role as the Senior Vice President of Player Personnel for the Washington Redskins. Currently a familiar face on Good Morning America, Michael Strahan enjoyed a legendary career as a defensive lineman for the New York Giants. According to the Hollywood Reporter Strahan said, “He made a smooth transition from football, to television.” While he got a late start in football, Texas Southern offered him a scholarship and he eventually went on to have a Hall of Fame career. The late running back, Walter Payton, ran with the Chicago Bears on his back and for most of his NFL career. The Jackson State product was named NFL MVP in 1977, multiple All-Pro and Pro-Bowl seasons along with a Superbowl ring in 1986. While it is more of a rarity to find NFL stars in today’s Historically Black college, we should never forget the immense talent that these school have produced.
Photos of the Week southerndigest.com
Page 6 - Tuesday, February 19, 2019
The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Miss Junior, Alacia Brew, passes out candy to students spreading Valentines Day love on Thursday, February 14 in Smith-Brown Memorial Union. (Adriana Trosclair/DIGEST)
Southern University female faculty, staff, and students hold signs in support of the #MeToo movement protest held just outside T.T. Allain on Wednesday, February 13. (Diamond Butler/DIGEST)
Members of the Student Government Association, Donald Dunbar and Iman Smith pass out t-shirts on Thursday, February 14 in the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union. (Diamond Butler/DIGEST)
Freshman, Melanie Medina, celebrates her victory as the 2019 Miss Thicker than a Snicker with the 2018 Miss Thicker than a Snicker in the University Event Center on Wednesday, February 13. (Tyler Thomas/DIGEST)
Freshman, Melanie Medina, celebrating her victory as the 2019 Miss Thicker than a Snicker in the University Event Center on Wednesday, February 13. (Tyler Thomas/DIGEST)
Southern University Law Center students enjoying the Law of Attraction event in T.T Allain on Friday, February 15. (Jaila Lavender/ DIGEST)
Student Government southerndigest.com
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Tuesday, February 19, 2019 - Page 7
Arts & Entertainment southerndigest.com
Page 8 - Tuesday, February 19, 2019
The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Welcome to the Space Jam: SGA shows appreciation to the Juniors and Seniors Leah Williams
The Southern Digest
The junior and senior classes kicked off their annual appreciation week on Sunday, February 10. This year’s theme was Space Jam, and the week began with “In His Name I Play,” a church service at Rose Hill Church on Acadian Thruway at 12pm. “Jags vs. J-State,” led the week, which entailed the women’s and men’s basketball teams facing longterm rival Jackson State in the F. G. Clark Activity Center on Monday. The women lost 52-59, and the men won 7667, with the game doubling as the annual breast cancer awareness event as well., Student attendance increased as the men’s game neared, but students like Jacque Oubre, a senior from New Orleans, La., attended both games. “Both of the games were really good games, I’m mad the women didn’t win though. I don’t know why more people don’t come to the women’s game, they played a really good game. But, congrats to
Don Cheadle sports political shirts as he hosts ‘SNL’
AP News Now
courtyard, as members of the Student Government Association (SGA) gave out cake and ice cream to students inside of the Union,
NEW YORK (AP) — Don C h e a d l e delivered some political messages along with jokes AP FILE as he hosted Chris Pizzello/ Invision AP, File “ S a t u r d a y Night Live” for the first time. The actor sported a T-shirt that said “Protect Trans Kids” as he introduced musical guest Gary Clark Jr. And in closing Saturday’s show, Cheadle wore a jersey with the former Soviet Union’s initials on the front, while the back bore the name “Trump” and the number 45 — as in the 45th U.S. president, Donald Trump. Trump tweeted Sunday
See SPACE JAM page 9
See CHEADLE page 9
Members of the Student Government Associaton (SGA), hand out t-shirts to juniors and seniors on Thursday, February 14 inside the the Lake Front room of the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union. (Diamond Butler/DIGEST)
the men for the win,” said Oubre. Tuesday was “Bowling Night with the NAACP” in the Smith-Brown Memorial Union Bowling Alley at 7pm. The Southern University Chapter of the
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) celebrated their Founders’ Day by hosting this event with the junior and senior classes. Pretty Wednesday’s usual crowd gathered in the Union
What Men Want: Movie Review Ella Dodor
The Southern Digest
What Men Want is a brilliant romantic comedy starring Taraji P. Henson, with a heartwarming ending that will leave the viewer wanting more. Southern University sophomore, psychology major, Lillian Davis accentuates, “It was lengthy, but overall a good movie. Taraji did great as well.” With such a title, one can almost anticipate what the movie is about, but the story is so much more than just that; it engages the viewers and prompts thoughts about the deeper issues that are being portrayed. In this comedy, Henson plays an accomplished woman working at a sports agency where she is surrounded by men at all time. After being accused of not knowing how to connect with men, she cannot help but to focus on what goes on inside of a man’s head. What makes them behave the way
they do? Ali Davis, played by Taraji P. Henson, grew up with only a father figure with whom she developed a strong relationship. Throughout the movie she struggles to understand what it means to trust other people, while gaining insight on what goes on in a man’s mind. This opportunity, shows her that what a person thinks is not necessarily what they desire. The values and issues that are underlined in the movie, are issues that are commonly believed to be a thing of the past. It is the story of a girl who knows her worth, yet still must prove her worth in a world full of men. Richard Brody from The New Yorker conveys this in his brief description, “What Men Want is the closest thing I’ve seen lately to a retro comedy, one that, though set in the present day, could as easily belong to the world of twenty years ago, not in its sociological details but in its tone and mood,” he writes. The sparks between the two
This image released by Paramount Pictures shows Taraji P. Henson in a scene from “What Men Want.” (Jess Miglio/Paramount Pictures via AP)
incredibly attractive actors, Taraji P. Henson and Aldis Hodge, fill the movie with a compelling and passionate love story that keeps the viewers intrigued, but this would not be a love story
without the epic heartbreak scene. Katie Walsh, a viewer, describes the movie saying, “Henson is a gifted actress and physical comedian. She manages to hold together
“What Men Want” with the sheer force of her powerful charisma, but the film around her is harried, messy and woefully underwritten.”
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GOOD HAIR:
SPACE JAM from page 8
Learning about your Roots: A lesson in Black hair history Rocelyn HAmilton
The Southern Digest
The history and culture of black hair dates back to the 1400s, when the first documented slave trade occurred. Slaves wore elaborate hairstyles, but were soon forced to shave and cut off their hair, stripping them of the last piece of their identity as a way to control them. As Africans became more enslaved, they had to assimilate to European culture, causing their grooming traditions to disappear as well. The texture of their hair became compared to “wool,” and soon the intricate styles became harder to maintain. Because of this, slaves during the 1800s turned to using bacon grease, butter, and kerosene as a means of conditioning, cleaning, and managing their
hair on a day to day basis. It was during this time that aesthetics began to determine the worth of slaves; those with lighter skin, and straight hair had higher prices at auctions than those with dark skin and kinky textured hair. This is where the idea of colorism began to present itself. The term ‘good hair’ was then introduced and began to be a requirement to exist in environments like churches, schools, and business networks. “Good hair” refers to the prestige that comes with having looser textured hair, as black women who had their hair styled like white women were looked upon as more attractive than those who did not. In 1845, the first hot comb was created by the French, as a method of straightening kinky hair. By the 1900s, Madam CJ Walker came onto the scene developing a line of hair care
products catered to black hair. Walker revolutionized the press-and-curl style and became the first American female self-made millionaire. Braids, a go-to style that can be worn in many different ways, also has a history of its own. A long-standing cultural tradition, braids were used to identify what tribe a person came from in African cultures. They were also an indication of one’s marital status, wealth, the power one might have, and their religion. But as more and more people, including women, were captured into slavery, traffickers cut their hair off as a way of stripping their culture. As women endured the struggles of slavery, braids became less intricate and more practical and functional. Many African women would braid rice or seeds into their hair as they traveled through
the Middle Passage, on their way to enslavement, or even in their kids hair while being separated so they could have food to eat. Braids became functional as women needed their hairstyles to last for a week while working. Braids also served as maps for those escaping to freedom and a way for slaves to communicate without their masters knowing. Black hair has a deep and rich history with roots that go back to West Africa, reflecting the extremely unique black culture. The evolution of black hair and culture continues to grow today as many women are embracing the variety of styles from box braids to twists and dreadlocks that are weaving their way into being celebrated throughout the African American community.
CLASSIC BLACK MOVIES
ROCELYN HAMILTON/DIGEST
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Friday Coming to America The Color Purple Malcolm X Roots Love & Basketball The Wood Harlem Nights The Help The Hate U Give
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Boyz In the Hood Juice Life Fruitvale Station New Jack City The Five Heartbeats Boomerang House Party Soul Food The Great Debaters
but the latter part of the night was what many students were anticipating; the Miss Thicker than a Snicker Pageant. This year’s pageant theme was “The Curvaceous Girls Club,” based upon the popular reality show Bad Girls Club. Seven contestants competed for the title this year. Freshman, political science major, business minor, Melanie Medina, took home the crown as the 2019 Miss Thicker than a Snicker. Southern alumna from Beaumont, Texas, Zephani Daigle, attended the pageant to revisit a “crowd favorite” event from her undergraduate experience. “That pageant is, and has always been lit. I’m still in Baton Rouge so I had to make sure I came through,” said Daigle. Thursday morning breakfast, “Dunkin Donuts,” was a donut giveaway in the Lake Front Room of the Union at 9am, followed by the junior and senior class T-shirt giveaway from 12pm-2pm. The celebrating of Valentine’s Day created a bonus for Thursday, as Miss Junior, Alacia Brew, gave away chocolate covered roses in the Union, expressing that she wanted to spread the love on campus. Brew posted on Instagram, “Yesterday, I got the opportunity to spread some love on Valentine’s Day by giving out goodies and chocolate. You never know what simple act of kindness can brighten up a person’s day.” SGA concluded the week encouraging students to participate in a community service with the Big Buddy program of Baton Rouge. CHEADLE from page 8 there’s “nothing funny” about “SNL.” Saturday’s show also featured Alec Baldwin reprising his role as Trump. The Republican president called the show “tired” and criticized TV networks for what he called “total Republican hit jobs.” Cheadle earned an Academy Award nomination for 2004’s “Hotel Rwanda.” His other films include “Traffic,” ‘’Crash” and some “Avengers” movies
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The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Get to Know Your Black Health History Gabrielle Hutchinson
The Southern Digest
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Among the many inequalities the African American race faces compared to others, health and wellness are ones not often discussed. Our race has made strides in society, but trends in health have been stagnant, and awareness of this trend has been on the rise. In particular, the African American race is encouraged to pay close attention to our lifestyles regarding weight and health habits such as smoking, drinking, and dietary intake. According to Genetic Hormone Reference, a consumer health website from the National Library of Medicine, “Some genetic disorders are more likely to occur among people who trace their ancestry to a particular geographic area.” Many of us have a family health history or personal case of chronic illnesses -- two of the most common being high blood pressure and diabetes.
Some illnesses commonly found in the black community are simply hereditary; one may be genetically prone to a certain condition. Other illnesses can be avoided or prolonged with the right adjustments in lifestyle and eating habits. For example, simply reducing the amount of sodium in one’s diet can drastically lessen the effects of hypertension and there are a number of ways to keep it under control. Advice like this, however, is often learned too late, and making the changes needed can be especially difficult in Louisiana where large meal preparation and over-indulging are parts of our culture. That is why in recent years there has been an increase of awareness of health in the African-American community. The goal is no longer treatment and management of chronic health conditions; we have the knowledge and tools to do those things. Instead, the goal is
FILE - In this Oct. 4, 2005 file photo, a man smokes a cigarette in Euharlee, Ga. According to a report by the American Cancer Society released on Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, cancer deaths have dropped for all Americans, but the rates have fallen faster in blacks than whites. Experts say the main reason is that smoking rates fell more dramatically in blacks in the past 40 years, and that’s paying off in fewer deaths now. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
prevention of life threatening conditions, and it can be reached by practicing and encouraging better eating and living habits. This is not simply eating more fruits and greens, but also taking care of mental health and managing
stress appropriately. Historically, we are among the leading demographics who suffer from strokes, heart attacks, heart and kidney disease, and numerous other complications associated with them.
This month, take a moment to acknowledge the history of African American health and healthcare. Start asking questions to your families and healthcare providers about your own health history and what you should look out for.
Returning to Africa: Is it Worth the Hassle? Hannah Marie
The Southern Digest
It’s 2019 and from slavery to now the progression of the African American people has been extraordinary. Being that it is Black History Month, we celebrate what makes our culture so pure and the people who have shaped our history through the times of each struggle we have had to endure. A recurring topic within the culture is the idea of reconnecting to our roots. Modern day Ghana has begun this idea of remembering important people and events in the history of the African Diaspora by establishing a celebration, “Black Migration,” to allow the African American people explore our roots beyond of what we know, acknowledging both those who perished during the journey to the Americas and to those who have survived. Now some people may be skeptical of the idea of
returning to Africa, seeing that it would provide no importance to them or their cultural ways, nor will it give them the closure they may be seeking. What makes this idea interesting to others is the reconnection to their original people from the many years of separation to learn of a life they never had but is still apart of them. This event in Ghana involved various ambassadors, US Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Stephanie Sullivan. Sullivan stated in the article, Year of Return: AAAG Ghana launches Black History Month 2019, “As we celebrate Black History Month, we recognize both the challenges and achievements of African Americans. This week at the US Embassy, we had an amazing Black History Month programme held by our staff as we recognised that Black History is American History. Black migration in the United States, as well as globally have created important
DIGEST ART
connections that have both challenged and inspired us.” This opportunity hasn’t been overly recognized by all African Americans, as there have been some figures in the culture who have made efforts to try and enhance the relationship between the two cultures, one figure
being rapper, Akon, who has been working ensure equality as it relates to technological advances. Being able to trace back our heritage is significant, and to be able to experience what we once could have been is an opportunity that should not be passed up.
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The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926 Kennon Glover |18| Los Angeles, California As lighter skinned Black people, our identities can often become unnecessarily complex in our little Black world. Although it is undeniable that there is an immense privilege that comes with being on the lighter spectrum of Blackness, we must also understand that Blackness is a spectrum. We often hold very monolithic views of how Black people appear, and this only causes more confusion on the conversation of race than we already have. Black may be a color, but the identity of Black people goes beyond our color. The fixation on color is so intense in the mind of Black people, that we attach entire preconceived personality traits based on how much melanin our skin contains. There is a strong notion in the Black community that associates darker skin with masculinity and lighter skin with femininity. This concept is extremely damaging to all members of the Black community,
Tuesday, February 19, 2019 - Page 11
Two perspectives from two different walks of life and these effects are extremely apparent. Black men will often seek out women just on the basis of them being lighter skinned, and then degrade women the same color as themselves. In the case of Black women, they often entertain and enable this system by insisting that Black men who are lighter than them are inherently feminine. We have seen these prejudices displayed towards stars such as
Where else am I supposed to stay? Kiyanna Givens
The Southern Digest
Southern University needs more off campus housing closer to campus. At Southern, we have three different choices that are directly on or near campus. We have the University Apartments, the residential halls, and the Palisades right across the hump. Some people may ask, “Why do we need more if we already have the Palisades and the University Apartments?” Don’t get anything misconstrued, nothing is wrong with the housing that we already have, but to be able to have some type of choice in the matter goes a long way. What if I didn’t want to live at any of those? My only freaking option is to live in Tiger Land right next to Louisiana State University and pass by their big, beautiful stadium every morning on the way to school. I go to Southern University, I should not have to pass through LSU’s campus and be reminded everyday of all their wonderful amenities and buildings just to get to my school. Can we get a Jaguar Land or a Jag Land? The commute from LSU’s side is not that bad, but sometimes being closer to the school makes a huge difference. I have to catch two buses to get to school on time because I live on that side. This means in order to get to
school for an 8am, I have to get up at 6am or I will most likely be tardy. While LSU has their own bus route that runs through LSU‘s campus, and it stops throughout the entire Tiger Land area. That means they can get to class in a matter of minutes. I did some asking around, because I wanted a viewpoint from a commuter that has a car. Tremelle Carney, a sophomore that studies mass communication at Southern University that drives to school everyday. “It’s obvious that it takes 25 minutes to get to school and too much gas is wasted, but if we had nicer options to live in closer to school, things would be easier,” Carney says. Let’s be honest...the school is old, and so are the apartments. I still love my HBCU and all, but when it comes to where I’m going to be residing for four years, I need to be comfortable. Being comfortable allows me to feel more tranquil and relaxed. I like to set the environment when I’m working on academic assignments. That way, I can focus on school work without worrying about the lights going out, or random alarms in the middle of the night. Hopefully one day we can develop something like a Jag Land and get better housing closer to campus.
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Serena Williams and Drake, both having been attached to sexist and homophobic caricatures. Although we may often perceive these stereotypes as humorous, we have to hold ourselves responsible for what imagery and ideologies we pass onto younger generations...and what was passed onto us. Alesha Bethea |19| Michigan: As a dark skin black girl, I have to say it...we are mad
slept on. People love to assume that we’re either too aggressive, masculine, or just straight up undesirable based solely off of our skin tone. In fact, as a dark skin black girl, virtually the only time you’ll hear a compliment is when people fetishize having chocolate babies with you. How ironic! No matter which way you tip the scale we’re always being reduced down to our skin tone. God forbid we be anything more
than the hostile dark skin girl or the chocolate baby maker. It’s a lose-lose situation. Also, what is people’s obsession with masculinizing dark skin and feminizing light skin? Two people could exhibit the same behavior but if one is dark skin and the other light skin then their behavior will be interpreted differently. Where’s the logic? Make it make sense, Lord. This toxic colorism makes dark skin girls feel the need to work two times harder just to be considered feminine by the general public. It is 2019. Having to explain or exaggerate your identity for acceptance is dead. Being dark skinned doesn’t make you any more or less masculine than any other person of any other skin tone. In fact, it doesn’t make you at all. Let’s recap, being a dark skin girl doesn’t make me macho nor does it make me your perfect surrogate. Moving forward, let’s try looking at people’s character instead of their complexion, shall we?
Why can’t students use these trash cans? Leah Williams
The Southern Digest
I just really and truly want to know, who raised y’all? Why are y’all like this? The way I was raised, if you have trash, you throw it away. Granted, there aren’t any recycle bins on campus, and if there are I sure have never seen them, but THERE ARE TRASH CANS EVERYWHERE. Any building you go to, I promise you there is a trash can either outside or inside of the building. Why don’t y’all use them? People are so quick to complain and say Southern looks dirty and raggedy, but I KNOW y’all are the same people that just drop your trash anywhere. If the trash can near you is full? Go to another one. It’s common sense people. Y’all should have some by the time you get to college. But I guess the keyword in that sentence is “should”, everyone isn’t able though. Also, the few janitorial staff members that we do have can’t be everywhere at once. They can’t change every trash can in every area of campus right away when it gets full. That’s not realistic. And they should definitely not have to clean up the buildings and the ridiculous amounts of trash y’all leave on the ground. We are adults. Can we treat our campus like adults? After every major Pretty Wednesday, y’all leave the union a mess on the inside and out. After Homecoming and
Springfest, or even just after a home game tailgate, y’all leave trash all over the place. It doesn’t make sense. In the back by the dorms, I’ve literally seen people throw trash bags out of their dorm window just to avoid walking downstairs to the nearest dumpster. That’s a whole different kind of trifling right there. Does whoever raised you know you’re like this? Would you do this at home? I hope not, but for some of y’all, the answer is most likely yes. I know I grew up extremely spoiled, but I also was taught to clean up after
myself. I guess some of y’all can’t say the same. It’s just crazy because small children can clean up after themselves and throw their trash in a can. And to all those people that don’t go to Southern that y’all bring up here for events, you need to check them about throwing trash all over the place. They might not care about our campus, but as students at one of the most well-known HBCUs and the ONLY HBCU system in the country, we should care the most. Get it together, and do better Jaguar Nation.
This photo was taken on the morning of Thursday, February 14 in the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union courtyard after Pretty Wednesday. (DIGEST FILE)
Trash left in the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union courtyard after Pretty Wednesday. (DIGEST FILE)
Career Services southerndigest.com
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The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
THE CAREER FAIR
SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY CAREER SERVICES CENTER WWW.SUBR.EDU/CAREERSERVICES
CAREER DAY TIPS
CAREER SERVICES ********************** CONNECT TO YOUR FUTURE
Wednesday, February 20, 2019 How To Prepare • Review the list of companies in attendance and determine the companies you want to target. • Prepare your elevator speech and be able to state your interests, skills, strengths, etc. in under three minutes.
What To Bring • Multiple Resumes: You will need a copy of your resume for every company or organization with whom you plan to speak. • Portfolio/Briefcase: To store your resumes, pad, and pen as well as the literature and Business cards you will accumulate.
What To Wear • Professional Dress: If you are going to the career fair from class, take the time to change to professional attire. Remember, you are selling yourself. You also want to make a good impression. • Dress in business attire: A suit is appropriate for both men and women, as is a shirt and tie for men and a blouse and skirt/dress slacks for women. • Pick up the DRESSING FOR THE INTERVIEW tip sheet in the Career Services Center.
What To Do When You Arrive • Survey the layout of the room and locate your target companies. • Quickly walk around and take note of how the company reps are engaging with the students. Know what type of student the company is looking for and pay attention to the questions being asked. • Pick up additional literature for your target companies and review it briefly while waiting to speak to the representatives.
TODAY
What To Do When It’s Your Turn • Smile, shake hands and introduce yourself. Ask the company representative about his/her company to get more information. • Answer questions enthusiastically making eye contact regularly. • Listen carefully, answer clearly and offer your resume if you are interested in the company. • Ask for a business card and thank the company representative for his/ her time.
After Your Career Fair Interview • Capture quick notes about your conversation. • Put the card and literature away and head to your next company. • Follow up on company instructions from Career Fair.
After The Fair • Send thank you letters to the company or organizations you would like to pursue. • Watch for posting on JOBS4JAGS and apply to the posting on time. • Attend company sponsored events on campus and visit the Career Services Center.
Career Services Center T.H. Harris Hall Suite 1100 (225) 771-2200 Office (225) 771-3272 Fax www.subr.edu/careerservices