STUDENT LIFE & FASHION
BEYOND THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS
WE ARE THE MAIN CHARACTER
FLAMENCO
WHERE TF THE FUNCTION?
Best events,parties, and kickbacks of Spring 2025
One Voice, a Nation Ignited: On Injustice, Apathy,and the Cost of Silence School Shootings, Forgotten Victims, and a Country That Won’t Listen
FASHION AS A FORM OF POLITICAL RESISTANCE AND IDENTITY
MISSION STATEMENT
Dear reader,
I have made good on my promise from last issue and here were are again for B3 Issue 2: Ctrl Alt* Delete. In this issue something core to B3 is being showcased and that is how we as Black people are not a monolith. By expressing ourselves as the beautiful multifaceted tapestry that is Black existence, we show that we are the main character. This issue also marks a pivotal moment for B3 as we expand, bringing on a new photographer and even having access to studio spaces. I hope as you read through the magazine, you see our dedication to raising Black beauty to the highest degree and a hunger to continually improve. Above all else, I hope you are able to see yourself in this magazine as the truly beautiful people you are.
01 Y2K
Section Start, Pg #4
Ghetto Wild Flowers, Roderick Jackson II Pg #10
Fashion as a Form of Political Resistance and Identity, Kaleb Hargrove, Pg #16-17
02 Y2K
<Continued>
Section Start, Pg #18
Flamenco , Kaleb Hargrove, Pg #24-25
Playlist Recs, Tarik Archer, Pg #30
03 PUNK
Section Start, Pg #32
Beyond Thoughts and Prayers, Kaleb Hargrove Pg #36-37
04
PUNK
<Continued>
Section Start, Pg #44
Where TF The Function, Tarik Archer, Pg #50
Community Spotlight, Lael Thomas, Pg #56-57
An abbreviation used to refer to the turn of the millennium and the associated computer bug that was predicted to occur when computers misinterpret the year as 19 instead of 20.
GHETTO WILD FLOWERS
By: Roderick Jackson II
Little black boy, are you to thank for the events transpired here today?
Back street, bottom of the bottom boy, socks holier than thou brown from playing, you grew up so fast, right before our very eyes, little black boy, don’t wipe you’re face, enough of running races, ripping through stables, chasing stallion after stallion after stallion after…
You have to remember that gold is too, in your nieces smiling, your nephews handshakes, a cousin who’s crowding your personal space because she loves you!
Family, you know the true medallions!
My little light leaks through the shades,waking me once more, my brown skin gleams against it reminding me of my identity,
I pray I find myself closer to you, this is what I’m here to do, take the baton as far as I can, and pass it, this is God’s Gift to me.
Resilience, Restitution, now let us REJOICE
We ain’t nothing but ghetto wildflowers blooming as we see fit, bounded by NOTHING !
FASHION AS A FORM OF POLITICAL RESISTANCE AND IDENTITY
By: Kaleb Hargrove
This shit goes back to the Greeks and Romans with togas representing democracy and freedom felt by the citizens within their borders. Fashion is also a tool for
social change and reflects the minds of the populous. Thinking about legendary designers like Christian Dior and Coco Chanel who utilized their designs to express their political beliefs and challenge the status quo. Chanel began designing androgynous styles which worked to challenge gender roles and Dior worked to create hyper feminine styles which glorified the femininity.
1970’s punk roach craze
1960s youth-quake - reject conservatives accept liberalism
Giorgio Armani and Calvin Klein - Raise awareness for AIDs disease and support those affected
Fashion brands utilize symbols, colors and designs to convert political messages - How do we connect this to Y2K and Punk styles?
Fashion can express political beliefs
Gucci 2018 pre-fall collection has shirts saying “My body, my choice”
Fashion Brand Activism - Fashion brands take a stand against political issues, impact can be significant and raise awareness about important issues bringing attention to marginalized groups
Punk Fashion - pushed boundaries, challenged norms and carved it own place in history
Punk emerged as a response to social and economic unrest. Dissatisfaction among working-class youth. High unemployment, rising inequality, and political disillusionment creates fertile ground for rebellion.
Punk stands against conformity, materialism and traditional values
Pivotal figures Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwood in London introduced ripped t-shirts and bondage trousers through their boutique SEX. They were unapologetic, rebellious and raw. This created a epitome of the punk aesthetic.
Ripped clothing, safety pins and chains symbolized a rejection of consumerism and a refusal to adhere to the polish, massproduced fashion of the time. Punk made the personal political, using clothing as a canvas for dissent.
DIY creations, imperfections and striking elements combine to create individualized looks through empowerment of anticonsumer values.
Androgyny became the hallmark of punk fashion, as men and women alike adopted leather jackets, combat boots and spiked hair. This is the epitome of rejection of gender-roles, traditionalism and conformity to the status-quo. In essence, this style provides an alternative to the traditional lifestyle of a working class citizen which emphasis personal empowerment and individuality.
Punk-Made
When reading through this magazine filled with Black Beautiful Beings* its important to understand the meaning behind each of our models fashion choices. From the baggy jersey’s to the tailored skirts and gold accessories every piece serves a purpose. As a collective, B3 understands the importance of our contemporary moment and, as such, we are conveying our beliefs and purpose through clothing. To begin, let’s discuss the ethos of Punk as a fashion style. Undoubtedly, Punk-rock aesthetics are deeply rooted in a culture of rebellion, anti-conformity and unapologetic rejection of the status-quo; but why? The history of Punk-rock is one of political unrest and economic instability. In an attempt to change the world for a better future, the youth of the 1970’s began transitioning from the traditionalism of conservatism to the freedom of liberal ideals.
This basis of rebellion manifests into DIY-tailored outfits with unconventional accessories like chains, safety pins and patchwork. For this issue, we noticed a similar state of society from the 1970’s and wanted to scream out at the top of our lungs that we will REBEL. Black styles are diverse in their expression but one commonality among them is a history of resistance. This is no different from Y2K styles manifested through the black lens. When discussing the basis of Y2K as a style (and its subsequent revival) it is important to understand core ideals. Y2K is an attempt to anticipate the future through metallic pieces, unconventional patterning and extreme individualization. Once again, a style which attempts to break away from the status quo by establishing its own identity through stargazing beyond the stars and into the future. Coupled together comes a alternative* style which always deserves its highlight. By combining these styles we wanted to accomplish a couple of things: showcase the diversity of black styles, create a culture of rebellion, look towards the future to evolve, and find the next black cultural renaissance. Punk fashion speaks to the rebellious heart which lies within every black person born in a society which deems them less than. Y2K speaks to the metaphorical heart of the rebellious. Hope and optimism pumps through the veins of the courageous. For those who push the boundaries of creativity, who yearn to push the needle forward and express their political beliefs through their creation this magazine is for you. You find beauty in moments of instability, you create meaning through the art which flows and nothing stops your internal rebel. CTRL - ALT- DLT.
< Continued >
Otherwise unacceptable by native speakers of a language
Don’t stand out*
FLAMENCO
By: Kaleb Hargrove
Hey guys! I don’t know if you’ve noticed but the building we’re standing in is on fire! The windows are actively being closed, the doors are being shut and the building is falling apart from the inside out! Over the crackling flames and cracking support beams I can hear our elected officials outside arguing over whether our burning is “constitutional”. They are trying to determine if this act of arson perpetuated by one man is just. Well, I can make a clear observation, as the affected party, that I am INDEED on fire and suffering third degree burns. I am INDEED trying to escape but the doors and windows are being barred shut! I am looking around and everyone is acting like they can’t
feel the flames but I know they can. There are so many being affected by this scalding inferno. I am watching so many succumb to the flames and hearing nothing but deliberation from the outside. How much more must we suffer, burn and boil before our pain is recognized? How far are the crimes of one man allowed to proceed before he is convicted? When will enough be enough? Oh, they slid a letter under the door. Let me read it, *ahem*, “Don’t worry, we have all of you in our thoughts and prayers, I’m sure someone will come to help you soon…”. I see, I suppose we truly are all on our own.
If you aren’t living under a rock then I’m sure you are aware
of our “presidents” first 100 days. I wrote in the previous issue about our need for unity (if you haven’t read it go read it its tough) and this is especially true now. Americans are fleeing from government issued Militia trying to I.C.E. Innocent’s and ship them to slave camps across the world. The dismantling of D.E.I.A. (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility) which benefited more than just African Americans but every American in this country. The attack on the education system while we are in a literary crisis for our youth and vulnerable populations. The government issued increase in taxes and prices of product in our stores. These are just a couple of our current ailments facing our population. If it is not already obvious this is not simply an attack on blacks or Latino or poor or disabled but on ALL of us. This is a case of Wealthy few vs. the populous. Stand strong in your numbers because we have been delivered a clear objective.
“Don’t worry, we have all of you in our thoughts and prayers
I’m sure someone will come to help you soon…”
THE PLAYLIST
By: Tarik Archer
Let’s get this one right. Music is for the people. And we the people, make the music. Tap in for an undeniable vibe by us, for us.
Both modern and even a few throwbacks to give you exactly what you need for CTRL+ALT=DLT.
Start with Alt-Rock & Punk Grit (Big Energy Launch)
Start with Alt-Rock & Punk Grit
(Big Energy Launch)
Rock Star – N.E.R.D
ESTELLA – KennyHoopla
Say It (To My Face) – Meet Me @The Altar
Antagonist – Nova Twins
Alt-Rap & Experimental Start to Creep In
PANIC!!! – Paris Texas
Lightweight – DE’WAYNE
Familiarity – Teezo Touchdown
Three Heads – Jean Dawson
Vibey, Genre-Fluid Cool Down with Lyrical Sharpness
NISSAN ALTIMA – Doechii
Janice – Detahjae
Do Me Like That – The Paradox
BIG FEELINGS – WILLOW
Nasty– PARTYOF2
Early 2000s & Club
Nostalgia
Cut In Smooth
Tambourine – Eve
Got Money – Lil Wayne
Milkshake – Kelis
No Scrubs – TLC
Soulful & Retro Finish
Soft – Lucky Daye
It Ain’t Over Til It’s Over – Lenny Kravitz
Warrior – Sate (Epic closer: heavy but empowering)
Spotify Link
Punk
A diverse and widely known array of music, ideologies, fashion, and other forms of expression, visual art, dance, literature, and film. Largely characterized by anti-establishment views, the promotion of individual freedom, and the DIY ethics, the culture originated from punk rock
BEYOND THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS
By: Kaleb Hargrove
There are moments of tragedy that can bring a nation to tears. Tragedies like innocents being maimed and slaughtered for no reason beyond hate. In response, we create days of remembrance for the souls lost in such moments. For every rotation around the sun, we are reminded of a past of massacres. We applaud at barrels of tea tossed into riverbeds over citizens who have died for our country’s “peace”. We are reminded of the unjust bloodshed of 9/11. But, like clockwork, we forget about the concealed 911’s pulled from the belt loop of mass murders. We forget the 911 calls from students inside classrooms begging for help. We forget the screams of 14-year-olds as life is extinguished from their body. We forget the holes left in the bodies and families of first-generation college students fighting for a better future. We are blissfully unaware of the 911 + 43 school shootings that have occurred in our country since 2017. The bullet riddled bodies of children and young adults seeking education are utilized for national sensationalization and easy topics for prayers over tonight’s dinner. We pray for the safe travels of the souls we consider to be lost without realizing we are just as astray. For all the blood that has splattered on ABC flyers and small desks nothing has occurred. Children died.
die. We live in constant fear of our youngest being caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Just to be added to cemeteries which our politicians forget to visit on their trips to golf courses. How do we pray for lost souls when we are just as blinded and astray?
College students
There is no moment which radicalizes someone more than walking through UF’s Reitz student union when you check your phone and see that in FSU’s very same building families and friends are seeking cover from bullets flying in their student union. You are reminded, yet again, that the world has forgotten about your welfare. The only safety they fight for is the one that clicks from semi to full auto. Your importance was lost among the conversations, not actions, about gun reform. FucKkk a thought and prayer. Fuck an Amerikkka which forgets the most vulnerable. Fuck a country who places monetary gain above the heads of dead children. There is no
act more disgusting than being turned from a student into a victim and survivor. For those from South Florida who were witness to their second school shooting, our heart goes out to you. For Tiru Chabba, Husband and father of two, your unjust death will not go in vain. For Robert Morales, dining services employee and former coach of Leon High school, your death will not go in vain. If you’ve made it this far let’s make a quick pinky promise. Read the following out loud, “I promise to never forget the innocent lives lost to school shootings. I recognize that waiting to fight for change after lives have been lost is ineffective. I promise to fight to prevent more lives to be lost before it is my mother, father, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, niece, nephew, son or daughter. I believe in a safe and just future, I just have to work for it”. As you read through this magazine most articles have a clear and concise purpose. Not this one. We just wanted to say FUCK SCHOOL SHOOTINGS and FUCK A “THOUGHT AND PRAYER” thank you for listening.
“How do we pray for lost souls when we are just as blinded and astray?”
Toning down expletives, asterisks are often used to replace letters
Asterisks are used as “violation marks” in tableau cells to denote a violation of a constraint
Asterisks can be used in textual media to represent *emphasis*
*BE YOU
A word marked with an asterisk could mean either “unattested” or “impossible”
Punk ***
< Continued >
WHERE TF THE FUNCTION?!
By: Tarik Archer
Results are in! These are the moments we live for, and the memories we carry with us. Welcome to the Best Moves of the Spring ‘25 semester, voted on by YOU the BlackUF community through Fizz. This semester saw the return of staples students wait year round for as our classes come to close. These events have become synonymous with forgotten nights, unavoidable recaps, and most of all the celebration of success!
3. Thirsty Thursday’s
A Return to form. A staple. Grad weekend started off with a ‘BANG’ with the return of Thirsty Thursdays in City Food Hall. After “The Social” was shut down and replaced with “MacDintons” there has been a giant drink filled hole in our weekends together. Luckily with patience and the right planning, we got to experience the sensation at least one last time. A great way to start off a weekend that would result in endless graduations.
2. Natty After Party
What happens when you mix a watch party, a national championship, and the entire black community? You get a moment that can NEVER be replicated. In addition to that, you get a timeless Natty After Party. It didn’t matter the age, sex, or location, everyone popped out to celebrate our Alma, and even to the least school spirit it was a Great Day to be A Florida Gator.
1.Ape Escape~2025
The COLDEST WOODSER was back and better than ever! Out of every party thrown this semester, nothing even comes close to the heavily awaited, Ape Escape. Multiple Buses! Multiple Parties! All coming to one location, in order to create a sense of adventure and euphoria that has yet to be matched in the spring. Between the bus rides, DJ’s, and the mechanical bull. It’s no surprise that Ape Escape stands above all the rest.
What Was The Best Move Spring 2025?
Bar graph made from the responses of over 800 UF students collected on FIZZ.
FISS AFTER PARTY
PLAYAS PARADISE
THIRSTY THURSDAYS
NATTY AFTER PARTY APE ESCAPE
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
By: Lael Thomas
Recently, I unfortunately had a friend who was incarcerated. Despite growing up together our paths seemingly diverged for no “real” reason. While I can sit here and dive into all the possible reasons why, what I have come to understand is that obsessing over the past is not useful, however focusing on the future is where the most change happens. This is why this issue’s community spotlight goes to James Miller and his organization Mirror Image Leadership. Hailing from Alabama A&M University with Bachelor of Science in Animal Science with a minor in Chemistry, his path took an unconventional turn when we went to Howard for his Masters in Divinity. Consequently, the courses of life lead him to Mirror Image Leadership where he serves as the executive director.
One of the key things about this program is how they approach the students they work with. Instead of viewing them as “high risk” or “low-income”, they view them as they are, children in need of help and guidance. This approach I believe provides them with a space to grow and develop without stigmas about who they are. Furthermore, their threefold exposure program allows their students to be exposed to various levels of their community from the local level all the way to the international. This level of involvement is key to the youth of our community
James Miller, Mirror Image Leadership
and people like Mr. Miller and organizations like Mirror Image Leadership. With our youth consistently overlooked in the public school system and in the world at large; organizations like Mirror Image Leadership create spaces for growth and development for the future. It makes me think back to my incarcerated friend. Would he have benefited from a program like this? I’m sure he would.
MODELS
Xavier Adams
Tabitha Bishop
Jasmine Byrd
Carlasia Collins
Sutton Crouch
Angelo Fils-Aime
Lisshamah Gercilus
Jaida Graham
Kaleb Hargrove
Sarina Hobbs
Tristin House
Damian Jamel Wilson
Tatiana Joseph
Madison Pinder
Christopher Supre
Zaniya Tolbert
Corrine Venius
Makayla Woods
pg. 4, 10, 11, 12, 14
pg. 32, 34, 36-38, 39
pg. 4, 8, 9, 10
cover, pg. 19-23, 33, 42-43
pg. 45, 47, 50
pg. 5,1 0, 12-13, 15-16
pg. 44, 46-48, 51
pg. 34, 37, 39, 41
pg. 28
pg. 45, 47, 49, 51
pg. 44, 47, 51, 54-55
pg. 33, 35-36, 38, 40
pg. 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 17
pg. 18, 24, 26-27, 30, back
pg. 18, 24-25, 28-29
pg. 44, 47, 49, 51
pg. 45, 47, 49, 51
pg. 45, 51, 53-54
@adamandsteve06
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STAFF
Executive Head and Lead Stylist
Assistant Director, Project Manager, Editor, and Photographer
Director, Issue Creative Director, Photographer, Model and Stylist
Design Director, Graphic Designer, Layout Designer and Social Media Manager
Graphic Designer, Layout Designer and Photo Editor
Photographer
LAEL TARIK KALEB JASMINE SIMEON ANTHONY TATY
Hair stylist @createdtocreate
Dear reader,
If you have made it this far, I am glad that you enjoyed the magazine. Once again, I want to thank you for taking the time to read the magazine, but as usual I must give my thanks to the team that works hard at putting this all together.
I want to give a special shout out and thank you to Kaleb for serving as our Creative Director for this issue. He has done a tremendous job organizing the photoshoots and the magazine overall. Furthermore, I of course can never forget Tarik who does it all from photography to marketing. Simeon and Jasmine who consistently rise to the challenge of taking what’s in our heads and making it an actual visual piece. I would also like to give a shoutout to Anthony, who is our newest photographer. Consequently, none of this would have been possible without the work and collaboration of this team.
I am not a very sentimental person, but seeing the growth of B3 starting as a joke in the back of a friend’s car to becoming a genuine presence in the Black student community at UF has made me beyond proud. I look forward to greeting you guys again in Issue 3.
Till next time, LJT
