Black World: Spring Issue II

FEBRUARY 2024

ONE NATION

SPRING ISSUE 3

BLACK WORLD BLACK HISTORY MONTH EDITION

Celebrating 50 years

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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STUDENT ARTICLES

EDITOR’S NOTE

Black World looks at everything from the lens of the African diaspora, and our motto, “Know thyself,” while echoing a European in Socrates, takes on a new quality when attributed to Black people, a group that has been mischaracterized, dehumanized, and framed throughout history. We encourage members of the wider, “Black world” to know themselves, because in knowing oneself, one gains the ability to see through the lies of the white supremacist power structure.

Oluwatunmise Akinfeleye

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ALUMNI INTERVIEW

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BEST ALBUMS OF 2023

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POETRY & ART

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CREATIVE WRITING

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PRESIDENT Oluwatunmise Akinfeleye VICE PRESIDENT Oluwatoyin Kupoluyi TREASURER Philip Austin

WRITERS & EDITORS Ayanna Hunter, Jordan Mayers, Damilys Santana, Jazela Wright & Edward Yeboah

SECRETARY Gisselle Coatl

SOCIAL MEDIA TEAM Toni-Ann Beckford & Brianna Chavez

GRADUATE ADVISOR Audrey Fernandez

WEB MASTER Jeremy Galindo

ASSISTANT SECRETARY Cameron Williams

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Naomi Idehen

EVENT COORDINATOR Jahnovia Wheatley

CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Riccardo S. McClendon (Student Life)

PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICERS Anthoni Haynes & Karega Atkinson

Dr. Laura Lindenfeld (Stony Brook School of Communication and Journalism)

PHOTOGRAPHERS Sophia Camulaire & Andrew Candio

DESIGN Sumaiyah Khan

VIDEOGRAPHERS Meloseri Dumnoi & Christopher JeanPierre

BLACK WORLD KNOW THYSELF EST. 1974

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David Onilude

Taylor Cassidy

ashoka.org

forbes.com

BLACK YOUTH LEADERS WHO ARE MAKING THEIR MARK

JORDAN MAYERS MANDLEY 3

From Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to Frederick Douglass to Maya Angelou, countless black leaders have risen throughout history— poets, civil rights activists, and political leaders. In recent years, many Black leaders have continued to rise, more specifically, young Black leaders. Now more than ever, black youth leaders are making a difference in various unique ways.

Taylor Cassidy felt frustrated with the lack of Black history education in middle and high school. In 2020, she decided to help this issue by creating a web series called “Fast Black History” on TikTok. She educates her audience about Black history through shorts on her account which has gained 2.3 million followers. Taylor Cassidy is making Black history heard and seen, one video at a time.

In 2020, Davida Padi—Social Media Strategies and PreLaw student wanted to address the lack of mental health resources for Black girls. She founded the website “Eve’s Corner” which provides workshops, therapy assistance, access to mental health resources, and scholarships for Black girls. This website is a great resource for Black girls to start learning about mental health and how best to take care of themselves.

Martese Johnson

nbcnews.com

David Onilude, a software developer, started an initiative to help his community use technology in Nigeria. In 2020, this initiative turned into a non-profit organization called Tech Now Global. Tech Now Global is a nonprofit organization that is designed to remove digital illiteracy in marginalized communities by providing skills, resources, and support for them to become digitally literate.

Martese Johnson experienced police brutality during his police arrest in 2015. This encounter with caught on video and later became a hashtag #JusticeforMartese.

He started sharing his experience on his college campus. He continues to speak out about racial justice and fighting for Black lives. He recently graduated from the University Of Michigan Law School and is working to help civil rights cases.

Davida Pati

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eves-corner.org

Our young Black leaders are the ones who will rise and help lead the way into the future for the younger generation same as Black heroes, Martin Luther King Jr. and Maya Angelou, did for their younger generation. The difference? Now when you rise and do good it's more recognized before you die and not after.

ANTHONI HAYNES

PILGRIMAGE IN THE LAND OF MANY WATERS MY RETURN TO GUYANA 11 YEARS LATER

Often, we use the term ‘pilgrimage’ in a religious context; however, we don't necessarily align the term with a spiritual or sacred meaning. Last year, I decided to embark on my pilgrimage to a land sacred and spiritual to me, Guyana. For those who may not be familiar, Guyana is a small country in South America, bordered by Brazil, Venezuela, and Suriname. Although in South America, Guyana is classified as part of the Caribbean due to its cultural, economic, historical, and political ties. I am a first-generation GuyaneseAmerican, and both of my parents were born in Guyana.

On my trip, I traveled with my younger sister, Camryn, and a friend of my mother, Ms. Yvette, who lived in Guyana years ago and is an honorary Guyanese. This was going to be my sister's first time in Guyana.

As we landed in Guyana, I saw lights glooming from above. When we landed, the first thing that I noticed was the smell and the heat. One noteworthy difference that impressed me was the airport itself – fully renovated and modernized, and you no longer had to walk on the tarmac to get to the terminal. When we left the airport, we spotted our driver, Tevin, waiting to take us to our Airbnb in the capital city, Georgetown. As we left the airport, I noticed the big ‘Welcome to Guyana’ sign and thought, "Oh my God, I'm finally home.” I began taking in everything; even the drive from the airport felt like a culture shock and a flashback to the last time I was in Guyana, 11 years ago. I passed so many familiar sights while also observing numerous different homes, shops, and hotels. When we got to our Airbnb, Tevin unlocked the gate and handed us some Guyanese Chinese food.

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One of my favorite memories from my vacation in Guyana was the beautiful Guyanese mornings; hearing the roosters crow and the birds chirp, smelling the fresh tropical air, and feeling the sun kiss my skin was a sensation like no other. On our first day, we embarked on our first adventure in Guyana – a tour down the Essequibo River. The Essequibo River extends from the Atlantic Ocean southward into the Amazonian rainforests. Touring Guyana, a small women-owned tourism company based in Georgetown, conducted the tour. We met our tour guide in the city and then drove to Parika, a port village on the Essequibo River, where we had to pick up our boat. On the drive, I remember looking out on the West Coast Demerara and thinking to myself, "This is where I come from," seeing the things that I missed and loved about Guyana and what I didn't see in the US, such colorful and beautiful homes, the farm animals, the street vendors, the shops and so much more. I saw Hindu temples next to mosques and Christian churches. I was just so impressed by the uniqueness of it all. Our first stop on the tour was Fort Island, home to the Dutch Heritage Museum – a heritage site dedicated to recollecting Dutch colonial history in Guyana. The museum was built on Fort Zeelandia, which served as the capital for the colony of Essequibo. In the museum, we explored the old fort ruins, church, cannons, and 17th-century artifacts that colonists used. The museum was fulfilling to me because it taught me about my history. On the very ground we stood on, Dutch colonialists traded and enslaved Africans and then attended church. I was grateful because Guyanese history wasn't taught to me in school, so the fact that my sister and I got to absorb some knowledge on our trip was invaluable.

We also visited Fort Kyk-Over Al, a Dutch settlement.

This tour marked my first experience of visiting a waterfall. Guyana has over 400 waterfalls, and Baracara Falls is just one among many. Baracara was a saving grace because not only had we covered a lot of ground on foot, but it hadn't dawned on me that we were in a humid rainforest. Baracara was so tranquil. The calm tannin waters, flowing down from the Pakaraima Mountains, provided a soothing touch to our skin, and my sister and I bonded over our first waterfall experience. The scenery was beyond picturesque; here, you had this mini paradise with vines and lovely tropical vegetation on top of a serene waterfall that led into a stream. Our last stop on the tour was the town of Bartica, renowned as the gateway to Guyana's interior.

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On my second visit to Guyana, I had the opportunity to unwind at a unique spot called Pandama Retreat & Winery, a small eco-lodge located 30 minutes outside of Georgetown and owned and operated by Tracy. My experience at Pandama was just so beautiful. I felt that being there was why I came to Guyana. It felt like the Garden of Eden, just a natural tropical paradise, and I couldn't help but be so in love with its serenity and tranquility. Seeing the greenery, hearing simple things like birds chirping, and being able to smell and breathe in fresh organic air that hadn't been polluted was a blessing. I can never forget that smell. What was also replenishing was being able to swim in the black water creek; because Guyana is so lush and thick in rainforest vegetation, whenever leaves and plants die and fall into the water, they release tannins and minerals which dye the seas. So when swimming in black water, you are essentially swimming in nature's tea. The creek water gave life to me. I felt both awake and relaxed simultaneously; as if any harmful elements within me were washed away by that water.

I lay in the hammock and soaked up the beams of the tropical sun., thinking to myself, "This is life.” Something that amazed me was the testimony of the retreat's owner, Ms. Tracy Douglas. Ms. Tracy moved to Guyana from the US in 2007 with her late husband Warren, a Guyanese national, and thus Pandama Retreat & Winery was born. Ms Tracy's wisdom and sentiments were encouraging and something that I needed to hear because, at that time, I was at a low point in my life. Her story got me going. In addition to owning the retreat, she makes her own wine, which is delicious. Pandama gave me the natural and spiritual longing that I was longing to get out of my vacation in Guyana.

We spent the next three days in and around the capital city of Georgetown, where I was able to fully immerse myself in Guyanese culture. Guyanese culture is a unique blend of African, East Indian, Indigenous, Chinese, and European influences, which was more apparent in the people. For example, our driver Tevin and his son were of mixed heritage, with Tevin’s parents being East Indian and African, and his son having an Indigenous mother. The various cultural influences were also evident in the cuisine we enjoyed during our stay, from curries to dhal puri, Guyanese Chinese food, egg balls, pine tarts, and more. Georgetown was in stark contrast to the Essequibo region and Panadama for several reasons. For starters, it was much faster-paced and louder than its rural counterparts. You could hear sounds from the packed Stabroek and Bourda market square, the colorful street vendors, and the sounds of the minibusses. On every corner, there was a vibrant, lively energy that was contagious. Coincidentally, I even passed my mother's birthplace, Georgetown Hospital.

Recently, Guyana discovered and began oil production, leading to rapid development, particularly in the cities.

So many things changed drastically in the eleven years that I was absent. We saw a lot of new roads, homes and buildings. One evening, like many Georgetown residents, we flocked to the seawalls, to lime and gyaff with each other and cool off from the Atlantic breeze.

We visited my cousin in Linden, a town south of Georgetown. When I last visited Linden, it was in 2007.

It was a town on the eve of development and a former mining town. Linden is different from Georgetown with a more residential feel, surrounded by nature, and featuring sandy, hilly terrain. It also had several lakes, including Kara Kara, a beautiful clear-water oasis that we were lucky enough to see during our visit.

Some may ask why I call it a pilgrimage, and to that, I say because Guyana gave me nature and adventure, gave me a connection to my roots, gave me culture, and fun, and most importantly, gave me life and a feeling that I still can't describe. Seeing my people's beautiful faces, colorful homes, and unique sounds, and experiencing tasty cuisine was a feeling like no other.

The 11 years that I was away from this land saddened me because it was the one thing missing from my life, and there were times I thought to myself, what if I never return? Guyana is not just the land of my mother and father or even my grandmother and grandfather, it is always home. To the land of many waters, I say thank you.

On our second to last day in Guyana, we embarked on a journey to see the pride of the nation, Kaieteur Falls, the tallest single-drop waterfall in the world. To get there we had to take a small plane from Eugene Correia International Airport outside of Georgetown and fly into the heart of Guyana. I'm not going to lie; when I saw the small plane we had to get on, I thought, “hell no, can we walk there?”, but I sucked it up and said, “Why not”. The plane itself was a little shaky but was pretty decent. As we took off, I was so fascinated to see the city turn into farmland which turned into forest. The more we ascended into Guyana, the more we could see how Guyana was 80 percent rainforest. Looking down, everything looked like broccoli, but it was thousands of miles of pure, unspoiled land, which was truly astonishing. We flew through the Iwokrama rainforest and the Pakaraima mountains. I was so in awe as I could see the vastness of the earth; finally, there she was, the crown jewel of Guyana, a wonder of the world, located right in the heart of the country, Kaieteur Falls.

We viewed the falls from three different angles, led by a tour guide. After a 10-minute walk, there it was – the majestic Kaietuer. Pictures cannot do Kaieteur justice; this waterfall was heaven on earth. Millions of gallons of water rushing and flowing off the edge, falling 741 feet, was somewhat scary, yet so serene and beautiful at the same time. As the water fell, it would come up as mist, creating a breathtaking sight. When I got to the second or third angle, I sat down and gazed at her in awe. Oh my God, I've made it here. It's so amazing. I'm at the tallest single-drop waterfall in the world and in my land.

At that moment, Guyana and I had become one; this land was mine. Many Guyanese, including my family, are in Guyana or abroad. I had never experienced this treasure before, and I felt blessed to see it firsthand.

What was even more interesting about Kaieteur was the folklore behind it. The falls were named after a Patonoma chief named Kai, who sacrificed himself to save his village from destruction.

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HOW AFFIRMATIVE ACTION AFFECTS THE COLLEGE ADMISSION PROCESS JORDAN MAYERS MANDLEY On June 29, 2023, The Supreme Court ruled in favor of vetoing the use of race and ethnicity as factors in college admissions in a 6-3 vote.

This ruling entails prohibition of colleges considering a student’s application based on their race. However, there is a loophole. According to “Supreme Court Affirmative Action Ruling Prompts College Diversity Essay 'loophole'” by Jeremiah Poff, Education Reporter, “Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in the June opinion that college admissions officers were not prohibited from "considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise."

With the vagueness of this, colleges were left to create opportunities for applicants to express their experiences with race, discrimination, and background.

Supreme Court Justices

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The college's solution to this problem is changing and adding supplemental essays that ask about applicants' experiences that allow them to include how race impacted them throughout their lives.

Some colleges that have utilized this method are Boston College, University of Maryland, and Sarah Lawrence College.

According to “How the Supreme Court Ruling is Affecting College Application Essays By Princeton Consulting”, “Boston College poses the question: “In her November 2019 Ted Talk, ‘The Danger of a Single Story,’ Chimamanda Ngozi Adichi warned viewers against assigning people a ‘single story’ through assumptions about their nationality, appearance, or background. Discuss a time when someone defined you by a single story. What challenges did this present and how did you overcome them?”

supremecourt.gov

The University of Maryland also posed a similar question in the same article. “Because we know that diversity benefits the educational experience of all students, the University of Maryland values diversity in all of its many forms. This includes (but is not limited to) racial, socio-economic, gender, geographical, and sexual orientation.

We are interested in hearing about your own individual life experiences. In a few sentences, will you please describe how you have learned, grown, been inspired, or developed skills through one or more components of diversity” Sarah Lawrence College takes a more direct approach. According to “Application Essay Gains Importance Following Affirmative Action Ruling,” “Referencing the court's ruling, the college asks students applying this fall to draw upon "examples from your life, a quality of your character, and/or a unique ability you possess" and "describe how you believe your goals for a college education might be impacted, influenced, or affected by the Court's decision."

All of these colleges have started using this strategy for minority students' experiences with race to feel heard and valued in their college applications this school year.

This is just the start of colleges responding to the Affirmative Action Ruling.

Only time will tell the true effects of this ruling on colleges and the admission process. What we do know is that minorities have to work ten times harder now on their supplemental essays to be accepted into these colleges in an already tedious and sometimes stressful application process. This is not a new story for minorities in the U.S. and surely they will rise to the occasion.

UN I

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THE POWER OF COMMUNITY BLACK AND BROWN

AFRICAN S TUD EN TS

ORGANIZATIONS AT PWIs OLUWATOYIN KUPOLUYI

As a freshman at Stony Brook University, I'll never forget the overwhelming mix of excitement and nervousness that consumed me as I stepped onto campus for the first time. Like many college students, I was eager to dive into the world of higher education, but I couldn't shake the feeling of uncertainty that lingered in the back of my mind.

As a Black student navigating a predominantly white institution, finding my place on campus felt like a daunting task. I longed for a sense of belonging, a community where I could connect with others who shared my experiences, my struggles, and my dreams.

Little did I know, my journey would lead me to discover the vibrant and welcoming world of Black and Brown student organizations.

From the moment I set foot on campus, I made it my mission to search for a community that would embrace me for who I am and empower me to thrive. I attended club fairs and searched social media in hopes of finding that sense of connection.

At PWIs like Stony Brook University, Black and brown students often find themselves navigating unfamiliar ground, a landscape shaped by centuries of systemic inequities and underrepresentation. Black and brown student organizations serve as lifelines, providing a sense of belonging and solidarity in spaces where diversity may be lacking. Whether through cultural celebrations, educational programming, or social events, these organizations offer a platform for students to connect, engage, and uplift one another.

From fostering academic success to advocating for social justice, the impact of these communities extends far beyond the confines of campus, shaping the paths of countless lives.

The history of Black and brown organizations on PWI campuses is a testament to the resilience and determination of generations past. From the earliest days of integration to the present day, students of color have fought tirelessly to carve out spaces where their voices could be heard and their identities celebrated.

Today, the legacy of these pioneering organizations lives on, as Black and Brown students continue to build upon their achievements and push for progress. From hosting cultural showcases and heritage months to providing mentorship and resources, these organizations remain essential pillars of support for students of color at PWIs like Stony Brook University.

But the impact of these organizations extends beyond the campus gates. Through partnerships with local communities, collaborations with alumni networks, and engagement with broader social justice movements, Black and brown student organizations are driving change and making a difference in the world around them.

So how can you get involved and become a part of this vibrant community? Whether you're passionate about social justice, cultural heritage, or academic success, there's a place for you in the world of Black and brown student organizations. From attending events and meetings to joining leadership teams and committees, there are countless opportunities to make your mark and be a force for positive change.

At Stony Brook University, organizations like BSU, ASU, LASO, and CSO are always welcoming new members with open arms. So don't hesitate—reach out, get involved, and be a part of something bigger than yourself. Together, we can continue to build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

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ALUMNI INTERVIEW: NYAHALAY TUCKER CAMERON WILLIAMS

Nyahalay Tucker graduated from Stony Brook University in 2006.

CW: Nice to meet you.

What was your first experience coming to Stony Brook? What did you take from your experience here?

NT: I made lasting friendships with people I still consider close friends with today. We became friends while living in Greeley dorm and being part of EOP. We had a head start in getting to know each other during the summer.

I graduated from Stony Brook University with a degree in Africana Studies. I first came into college yearning to study business however, I took one class and I instantly knew I wanted to make this my major.

I was very active on campus and was very proud of being a firstgeneration American, to get my college degree.

What made me capable of persevering were my friends. At times gave tough love, but it was still love.

CW: What made you want to study Africana Studies?

NT: My original aim was to pursue Africana Studies to become a professor. Despite my strong desire for a career in academia, I didn't immediately secure a position in that field.

However, my friends informed me about an opportunity to work at an airline. Taking advantage of this chance, I gained the opportunity to travel extensively.

Subsequently, I became involved with the New York Teachers Union and have been serving as a public school teacher since 2008.

CW: Reflecting on your time at Stony Brook, what was something you learned about yourself?

NT: I learned most from my path that I can do anything while powering through my life.

CW: What parts of campus life were you involved in?

NT: I participated in two organizations during my time at SBU—The African Student Union and the Caribbean Student Organization.

I discovered ASU through a meeting flyer, and given my Sierra Leonean heritage, I decided to give it a try. In 2003, I even won the “Queen of the Motherland” pageant, sparking my interest in joining the executive board.

I eventually became a cultural officer alongside a close friend.

Additionally, I was involved in CSO, where my interest in modeling led me to participate. I took part in four plays during Black Womyn’s Weekend and actively led various aspects of the event throughout my time at Stony Brook.

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CW: Who was most supportive for you at Stony Brook?

NT: I was someone who would put myself out there no matter what.

There are a lot of people who gave me a lot of guidance and support but my roommates, Sara and Nana Onani were significant. There were a lot of friends who helped me when I needed them most, and there were so many people who made my experience so positive.

I will add that, during my time apart of Black World, Dr. Cash was welcoming to submissions and encouraging us to write.

As part of an Africana Studies class, we had the opportunity to submit pieces to the newspaper.

CW: Did you innately have leadership skills or did you develop them?

NT: Within EOP, there was a significant presence of Black Students. We took intentional steps to ensure Black representation in student government.

Effective leadership requires individuals with a clear vision and unwavering commitment to actively engage in leadership roles. Passivity is not an option, and it’s crucial to instill these values within your organization. It’s incredibly important to see the Black community in tune with one another and showing support for each other.

CW: What did you learn from being a student leader on campus?

NT: I have learned to give myself grace and learn to balance being a leader and not a tyrant. It’s a lifelong thing to learn all these skills throughout your life. You don’t want to be seen as blunt or aggressive which only came out of me when producing these fashion shows which I am normally characterize as shy. I was able to adjust because I knew what I wanted.

CW: What did you learn about other's cultures?

NT: During my time in CSO, I learned a lot more about Caribbean culture.

I didn’t have plenty of friends growing up around Caribbean culture, outside of Jamaican culture. This exposed me to different cultures and countries while at CSO. I learned more about Black people in Latin America which I didn’t realize was a thing at the time. I was able to try different foods.

I was also able to show people about my culture.

CW: What was crucial to your success at Stony Brook?

NT: I gained insights into the significance of perseverance and the importance of having a supportive community, or tribe. Reflecting on my experiences as an 18 to 20-year-old, I recognize the profound impact of having a community and the ability to express the power and voice within me.

“I recognize the profound impact of having a community and the ability to express the power and voice within me.”

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Mansa Musa

wikipedia.org

Mary Ann Shadd Cary

thecaribbeancamera.com

Nelson Mandela

britannica.com

WHERE WE’VE BEEN AND WHERE WE’RE GOING

AYANNA HUNTER

There is a saying by Maya Angelou that goes, “If you don’t know where you’ve come from, then you don’t know where you’re going.” While I think it is important to highlight the Atlantic slave trade as a significant moment in Black history, often times that is all that is spoken about in the American education system.

Though there have been many negative moments in Black history, I don’t believe the totality of our history is despair and misery. If the popular saying is true and our past (or taught past) truly tells us our potential futures, what are we predicting for the futures of Black children? I think it is crucial to present the historical achievements or positive aspects of Black history just as much as we relay the negative. I’ve gathered a few key historical moments of Black achievement and prosperity. I intend to present to you what was so that we as a community can garner more hope for what will be.

From 1312 C.E - 1337 C.E, Mansa Musa ruled the kingdom of Mali and became one of the richest people who have ever lived. He expanded trade in Mali, making it one of the wealthiest kingdoms in Africa.

From 1791 - 1804, a rebellion was led by enslaved people in Haiti against the French who had control over the colony. By 1804 Haiti had gained independence and become the first Black-led republic.

Mary Ann Camberton Shadd Cary was born in 1823. She was the first African-American woman newspaper editor and the second AfricanAmerican woman to earn a law degree in the United States.

Hattie McDaniel became the first Black person to win an Oscar in 1940.

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The civil rights movement took place from 1954 to 1968. It arose with the goal of abolishing legalized racial segregation and discrimination in the United States. As a result of the civil rights movement, Black Americans in the South were granted the right to vote, discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, or national origin in certain public places was prohibited, public facilities and schools were desegregated, and more.

In 1994, Nelson Mandela became the first non-white head of state in South Africa when he was elected as president. He was an anti-apartheid activist who fought for equality for South African people.

Kofi Annan began his first term as secretary-general of the United Nations in 1997. During his time there, he issued a “Call to Action” in 2001 to address the AIDS/HIV epidemic and proposed the Global AIDS and Health Fund.

In 2008 the first Black president and first lady of the United States, Barack and Michelle Obama came into office.

Kamala Harris became the first Black and Asian woman vice president in the United States in 2021.

Kofi Annan

ft.com

BEST ALBUMS OF 2023 OLUWATUNMISE AKINFELEYE

Ganger - Veeze

Jugg Season - Jay Critch

nu genesis - Deko

Veeze enters a new realm of popularity with this sophomore album. Laden with witty lyrics and facescrunching instrumentals, “Ganger” is a warning to all upcoming rappers that Veeze is the rap game’s newest gatekeeper.

The “Hood Fav” returns with another batch of smooth flows about everyday life as Brooklyn’s favorite trapper, paired with hard-hitting 808s and instrumentals of the “Plugg” genre. While Critch indulges us with a classic melody every now and then, this album is almost strictly bars. Expect clever lines about those who can’t step to him and his path to the top.

Hip Hop’s #1 Japanophile bursts onto the scene once again to deliver a mix of hyperpop and rap that he presciently titles, “nu genesis.”

Producer of popular Migos songs, “Slippery” and “Walk it Talk it” Deko continues on his campaign of using his talents to create what he wants, pursuing his vision.

With anime-inspired guitar riffs, brain-scratching melodies, and uplifting quotes interspersed throughout, nu genesis is a transformative experience for the open minded.

Standout songs: Not a Drill, Boat Interlude (feat.

Lil Yachty).

Standout songs: Handle, Chanel and Paris.

Standout songs: leaving shibuya for once, just sayin.

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Metamorphosis Infinity Song Infinity Song solidifies their reputation as a group that cuts zero corners and pulls just as many punches with their second studio album, “Metamorphosis.”

This album can feel like a pleasant spring breeze at times, and a heavy downpour at others. In this project you’ll find heartfelt guitar strums, emotionally charged lyrics, and impeccable singing ability.

Standout songs: Hater’s Anthem, Pink Sky.

Pretty Girls Love Slizzy Cash Cobain

Campaign Blue Benji Blue Bills

The pioneer of New York’s newest sound: Sexy Drill, delivers once again with Pretty Girls Love Slizzy.

Every classic gets sampled here, whether you want it to or not. The salacious lyrics that would make even the most dauntless of Gen Z cover their ears, combined with the infectious jersey-club inspired beats that force you to move make for a listening experience like no other.

At first glance, Benji Blue Bills may seem to be nothing special, just a runof-the mill average trap artist.

Upon closer inspection of his album, “Campaign Blue,” however, the truth is clear: Benji Blue Bills is an insanely talented poet. From his unorthodox flows and poignant lyrics, to the cloud-rap inspired beats found throughout the project, it is clear to anyone paying attention that this man is a creative force to be reckoned with.

Standout songs: Took A While, Slizzy Gods.

Forward - Jordan Ward Jordan Ward is not only an excellent singer; he is dedicated to his craft.

Forward is a statement by Ward that says he has improved upon his already stellar sound. Ward gets personal on this album, sharing traumatic experiences from his youth in songs like “THINK TWICE”, but still keeping things light and poppy in other sections, while maintaining a setting grounded in reality in songs like “SIDEKICK.” Standout songs: FORWARD, SIDEKICK.

Standout Songs: Coming Home, On Fire Sundial - Noname The self-proclaimed “socialism sister” gives us exactly what we needed with Sundial.

Introspection, activism, and heavenly harmonies mixed with breezy instrumentation and heavy hitting bars. Noname has never been a stranger to criticizing herself, but this neo-soul album is almost an indictment of her own character, and every second of it is sonically pleasing.

Standout songs: beauty supply, potentially the interlude.

Burning Desire - MIKE

New Jazz - Lunchbox

MIKE is the greatest rapper of all time, dead or alive. You would be saying that too if you listened to his last three albums, and his most recent, “Burning Desire,” only serves to strengthen that claim.

MIKE weaves intricate and meaningful inner beliefs into absolutely phenomenal poetry, all on the most soulful, catchy, experimental beats you’ve ever heard. MIKE makes the type of music that makes you wonder how he’s been rhyming the same sounds for so long, only to go read the lyrics and realize he’s been subtly telling a story the entire time, not just rhyming words. MIKE is more than a musician. He is a philosopher. With lines like “Idle minds turn into demons when they run around” and “My display of brutal art I ain’t think the s*** would stick,” it’s safe to say MIKE does not intend to dumb his content down for anyone, and is truly trying to reach the listener without compromise.

Burning Desire is a dark romantic comedy that follows MIKE as he is possessed by an African mask and struggles with love, family, and his increasing fame. It is also album of the year.

Harlem native Lunchbox defines a new genre of the same name as his album with New Jazz. This man is honestly the king of earworms. Every song he makes has the capability to burrow deep into your mind and lay there dormant, waiting to resurface days later when you’re parking your car or ordering a sandwich. His visceral melodies laid over instrumentation that seems to sing itself makes for an undeniably addictive project. So why is it called New Jazz?

The instrumentals are made with synths and other digital sounds that seem to mimic a saxophone.

Combining these sounds with the rap scene’s modern hi hats, claps, and snares makes Lunchbox’s music appear to many to be the “new” Jazz. I am a believer.

Standout songs: Who Dat Is, Feel Things.

Standout songs: U think Maybe? - feat. Liv.e and Venna, Billboards with Anuoluwapo “Sandra” Majekodunmi, Snake Charm, plz don’t cut my wings feat.

Earl Sweatshirt.

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Atlantis Oluwatoyin Kupoluyi I never learned to swim I remember attending classes at the local YMCA for weeks at a ago but I never got a grasp of it as if my spirit was warning me of the souls that water can hold that the bottom of an ocean is murky for a reason that the darkness was fed by corpses so it can expand across the Atlantic that the deep ocean is an living rebellion that houses people who refused to be muffled who kept their languages and fed it to the sea that houses resilience that the ocean calls the language of no it’s own for that is what it’s children speaks that the ocean doesn’t cross the shoreline because it’s shackled to the darkness that the spirits of the people who’s bodies lie chained in that darkness are not righteous in their fury as if they don’t scream through their hurricanes in the only language they have left but are people in oceans really dead are un found bodies considered corpses for water travels planting people in places undiscovered who borrow words from the tongues of the the people who took the key to their freedom creating something that they can call their own

POETRY Setting Moon Nmesoma Marian Ubanede Leaving me here alone Promises that will never be fulfilled Laughing back then on the call Your voice breaking at every turn Now I hate you because you left Your eyes closed as you sleep Never to open, never to return I still call your number But those calls will never be returned The reason why I hate you is because now you are gone Six feet deep and our wait is over December 2023 and I still miss that laugh The years go by and I still look for you On the streets, is that your scent?

People go by and none of them like you How do the stars still shine How do the oceans still flow How can the world move on When its brightest angel is gone How do I go on living With the void of your presence A presence that stills the chaos A hug that takes the pressure Like an emotional blanket Like a bracelet, I never take off.

Sinking into despair, I go on With a mask as bright as the moon And a lifetime away Is the smile that would have stilled the chaos.

Death is peaceful Death is pain Death is undeserved for your resting eyes.

for kingdoms can grow in water does the myth of Atlantis not exist for a reason of people who built a city of riches out of nothing roots can grow upward from a murky ocean and grow into a tree a land born from rebellion with people who don’t understand the language of no but only speak yes

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I never learned how to swim maybe the water reminded me too much of a people who choose death over enslavement

Damilola Oseni

In My TV Oluwatoyin Kupoluyi i used to think that people lived in my television in a far away land i wasn’t allowed to touch my mom used to say not to get too close to the tv. That it will suck me up and take me away that if i touch the glass screen my skin will melt through and my palms will have nothing to grasp on to that the images that i see won’t be recognizable and i'll somehow become disconnected from myself i'll fall into a void in which you have to be paper bag white to escape that your chocolate skin will be melted down into something softer……. lighter a void that I was beyond scared of unwilling to pay the price of seeing something that has yet to make proper sense

I used to think that people lived in my tv for the mirrored glass never reflected me it was instead filled with strangers who seemed to be more favored than me that the glass was a shield like wall protecting the mirror world from me from foreign from alien from go back to your country you don’t belong here that our void is only for people who’s homes were born here not planted here maybe the void doesn’t know that you can’t shake hands and smile at people through a wall that our stories deserve to be reflected to another side of a mirror but I couldn’t help but compare myself to every other reflection in the mirror maybe they shine brighter than me maybe I’m the one taking up to much space maybe they aren’t the strangers but I am instead

that i will learn how to fight out of the claws of relaxer that will fight my curls into perfection, into straight, into type 1 hair that I will learn how to free myself from hands seeking to tame my hair to file down its sharp edges and make it gentle enough to fit in hands that run cast iron comb through holding freedom between its teeth to release me from my naps to hot comb burn my hair into straight into fitting in with the people living in the tv that when i fall into this void i will lose my words that they will be twisted into shapes i will be unable to comprehend that my native language will be stripped from my tongue the words that once slipped smooth off now tripped and stumbled through my teeth that the void seems to have a standard that I can’t fit into that each letter pronounced in my words must be articulated properly must fit into the box that is American that the void spits out words that it can’t filter out words that does not align to its standard 17

Persistent Amnesia Ayanna Hunter In Gaza, people are dying and we seem to have lost our sense of compassion We seem to forget Since October 7th, a number of 10,000 has increased But we must not have taken it seriously Still uncompassionate We must not have taken it seriously We argue about a situation that has opposing views and strong beliefs That emits propaganda and mistruths We desire to understand: What is the truth?

A situation occurring since the 1900’s and we’re still unsure?

Forgetting that we’ve marked this down in history textbooks before Again and again We must not know When Natives in the United States were forced to migrate A trail of tears we failed to sympathize with then But vividly describe with pity now We can’t forget When Black Americans were forcefully captured and relocated from West Africa to the United States Made to work Then freed Then beat Then protest In which a president of the United States proclaimed said people as follows: “thugs” and “anarchists” We must have forgotten.

The exodus of Palestinians in which they were displaced from their homes We must have forgotten Now there is “war” Defined as engaging in military operations between opposing sides We must not know

Privileged Enough Oluwatoyin Kupoluyi black kids aren’t privileged enough to not learn their history to not learn the past of their ancestors as they are ghosts that constantly haunt them they have to learn that being black in America is not only a privilege but also a responsibility black kids aren’t privileged enough to not learn their history to not learn about how their people were brought to a foreign country against their own will and sold for loose change to not learn how they broke away from their chains and made a place in a country not made for them to not learn how they stood together in a castle built to crumble to not learn how they grew from concrete into beautiful roses

maybe lawmakers are privileged enough to believe that it was too long ago that they have washed their hands of the sins of their nations but closing your eyes to the past will not wash the blood from your hands away and I believe that black history is not just our history but it’s American history It’s their dirty laundry hidden under sloppily made beds but I believe that by not teaching racism we are avoiding exposing young minds to the truths of their country and those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat it

black kids aren’t privileged enough to not learn about 1963 about marches on Washington led by a King about kids chased by dogs and sprayed down by hoses black kids aren't privileged enough to not sit in classes and think about Ruby Bridges to not think about the Little Rock Nine to not eye the worn-out textbook and wonder if this is what they fought for to not eye the metal detectors that fore-shadow the future that is expected of them so maybe white kids are privileged enough to close their eyes to black pain to be excluded from classes that teach about MLK to be too young to learn about slavery and segregation to be blind to the blood on their nation's flags

Damilola Oseni 18

untitled Anonymous to be black and queer is to stay in the darkness of your closet for it is more comforting than the light outside its to hide in the corners of your mind to be nigerian and queer is to hide yourself to whisper words to your lover only in darkness it is to mourn family that is still alive its to pretend to lie, to walk in shoes and live a life that's not yours it's to shift in discomfort when asked about marriage its to imagine a wedding where I walk down an aisle alone it's to live life knowing that you will never be accepted you always hear stories of how people come out to their families, but never how they came out to themselves the week she realized she likes girls she wanted nothing more than to tell her parents to sit in between her mothers legs as she braids her hair and sing praises to talk about her skin that matched hers, to admire out loud about her beauty to secretly confess about the way her voice makes her heart skip a beat the week she realized she likes girls her pastor preached a sermon and her 13-year-old self has never felt so ashamed

the week she realized she likes girls her pastor preached a sermon and her 13-year-old self went to the bathroom to mourn to bury in the toilet her guts to imagine her sins were also being buried with them the week she realized she likes girls her pastor preached a sermon and her 13 year old self cried tears gathered below her lashes and she was quick to wipe them the week she realized she likes girls her pastor preached a sermon and for the first time her 13 year old self was silent during prayers the anointing oil that went around no longer comforted her but instead burned the week she realized she likes girls her pastor preached a sermon the week she realized she likes girls she wanted nothing more but to tell her parents the week she realized she likes girls she watched her parents nod along in agreement heard them raise their voices to say "Amen" the week she realized she likes girls she mourned

the week she realized she like girls she learned how to live in darkness behind locked doors learned how to love when you can't see the person your loving the week she realized she likes girls she learned how to lie how to pretend to be like other girls to giggle on the playground about the nearest blue eyed boy the week she realized she likes girls she pushed it away pretended her honey brown eyed girl was no longer existent wiped her mind clean of memories of her buried her affection away hid it in the darkness of her closet the week she realized she likes girls when people ask, she says she only like boys when people listen she will whisper stories of soft lips of love only shown in darkness of childhood puppy love of the girl she left behind when she locked her closet

the week she realized she likes girls she wanted to scream it to the world to tell everyone about the honey brown eyed girl who made her smile to tell everyone how she made the world go quiet like it was just them to tell everyone that love exists, that it lives in their interlaced fingers in whispered conversations about the future

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STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY TAKES A STAND: VOICES OF SOLIDARITY IN THE ISRAEL-PALESTINE CONFLICT

BLACKWORLD The Israel-Palestine conflict has been a longstanding issue that has ignited passions and raised voices on a global scale. While the conflict may seem miles away from Stony Brook University’s campus it was brought to the forefront recently as students gathered in a peaceful demonstration to show solidarity with Palestine. On a Wednesday afternoon, a diverse group consisting of hundreds of students and faculty gathered in front of the Stony Brook Union to add their voices to the ongoing debate surrounding the IsraelPalestine conflict. The event, organized by the Muslim Student Association advocating for peace, was aimed to raise awareness and promote open discussion about the issues at stake. The demonstration featured an array of signs, slogans, and guest speakers, reflecting the complexity of opinions surrounding the conflict.

Participants held banners reading “Your Silence is Violence” and “Is an Israeli Child’s Life Worth More than A Palestinian Child’s Life”. One of the event organizers, who chose to remain anonymous for their own safety, explained different ways we can continue to help and educate others.

The gathering allowed for a range of voices to be heard, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue in addressing this complex and sensitive issue. One protest organizer and speaker shared with the rapidly growing crowd, “We will not be silenced by those who advocate for what is a blatant ethnic cleansing. These are not men and women you’re killing, these are children. And today we are the children of the mothers and fathers…” He goes on to share with the crowd the horrors happening in Palestine and the history of it. The peaceful nature of the protest was clear as participants engaged in dialogues with one another and shared their personal stories and perspectives on the conflict. A short prayer was even led at the beginning and end of the protest. Campus police were also present to ensure the safety of all attendees and to monitor the demonstration. Their presence was largely peaceful, intending to maintain order and prevent any potential disruptions. The protest served as a reminder that the Israel-Palestine conflict, although distant, continues to resonate with students even on a college campus.

It highlighted the need for respectful discourse, understanding, and empathy to work toward a peaceful resolution to this global issue. As the protest came to an end, the participants dispersed, leaving behind signs and echoes of debate. The event was a powerful testament to the power of open dialogue and the willingness of students and community members to engage with global issues, even when far from the conflict itself. It remains to be seen whether such dialogues will contribute to lasting change in Palestine, but the commitment of the participants to dialogue is evident, and it stands as a hopeful symbol for future generations.

“Silence is compliance. So keep sharing on social media.

Keep talking to your friends and family. Be more updated and educated on the situation.” Guest speakers at the event were students who shared their personal experiences and perspectives on the conflict.

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EXPERIENCES

OF BLACK FRESHMAN AYANNA HUNTER

Last week, I confessed to a friend of mine that going to school at Stony Brook University (SBU) was like viewing this huge friend group that would never let me get too close. As a recent college freshman, I will be honest, I had a specific vision for what I wanted my college experience to be like. I will be even more honest and state that Stony Brook has not yet met my expectations.

Now, there are a few things that I am in control of, like my participation in Stony Brook’s activities, the actions I take to make friends, and the effort I put into my schoolwork. Since the start of my journey here at SBU, I have made it my most imperative mission to be more extroverted than I have ever been. I joined clubs, I made the first move to say hello, and I smiled so hard at my teachers that it almost became permanent. However, in my efforts to be more outgoing, I did not account for one uncontrollable factor. I am Black in a predominantly non-Black space. At this time I want to clarify and say that it is the microaggressions I have experienced, not more obvious acts of hatred and contempt, that have made me feel like a silent viewer rather than an active college student. In my ideal situation, my race does not and should not hold a great deal of power in the interactions I have with others. But to my shock, it has. This shock felt more than painful. I felt betrayed that the fantasies I was told of what my college life would be like did not match up with my reality. These feelings woke a curiosity in me born from a desire to know if I was the only one. Did any other Black freshman feel too different? Did any other Black freshman have their expectations crushed? More optimistically, were there Black freshmen who were enjoying their experience at Stony Brook University? I interviewed a few students to find out.

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Ayanna Hunter (AH): Can you please say your name, major, and year?

Jaida Palmer (JP): Hi, my name is Jaida Palmer, I’m a freshman and my major is political science.

AH: How would you describe your experience as a new student at Stony Brook so far?

JP: I would describe my experience as not the best.

It’s been really hard to transition, coming from a place that was more city-like to a really small college town.

Also, being Black in a PWI (Predominately White Institution) is a bit challenging. I do think there should be more resources for us in the Black community here, but it is a PWI so I’m not really expecting much from it.

I would just say when you come here just keep in mind you are coming to a PWI and the struggles that can come with it.

AH: What are some of the struggles you are facing right now?

JP: I think some of the struggles I face… I wouldn’t say I face outright racism, but I have definitely come across some microaggressions with actions and words. I think if you’re coming to a PWI, definitely expect that. You’re gonna get some microaggressions from people. This is not as serious, but I have struggled with the food. Here [seasoning] is a little bit lacking. I struggle with accessibility to hair products. Even that.

Sometimes it’s a struggle to get off the campus because the buses run so not frequently. So, that’s a struggle for me too. I’ve struggled with not finding a Black community on campus, but there have been times when I thought I found Black friends or even people who I’ve been interested in in a romantic sense, but they were not really down for [to date] Black people.

AH: How has that made you feel?

JP: It’s made me feel kind of isolated and it’s kind of made me question if I really wanna stay here for the next 3 or 4 years. Right now I’m just trying to stick it out because I don’t have the ability to transfer until this spring semester ends. But, it’s definitely made me question if I really want to spend the next 3, or 4, years here and if it’s really worth it.

AH: How is your experience connecting with your roommate?

Ayanna Hunter (AH): Can you please state your major and year?

JP: My experience connecting with my roommate, I mean, me and my roommate have been friends for a long time, since middle school so it really hasn’t been that bad. She’s also Black too so it’s easy to relate with her on certain things, well most things. So it really hasn’t been that bad, but I’m happy I did definitely find a Black roommate because I think I would have struggled a little bit more or it definitely would have been a bit more awkward had it not been somebody who was Black or knew the Black experience.

Anonymous: I’m a freshman and an astronomy major.

AH: With other members on your floor, what is that like?

JP: I think that sometimes it can be a little uncomfortable. There’ll be times where I’ll come out in my bonnet or my hair is not the best looking and I do kind of get a side eye or a little look and [I feel like], you should really just treat me like anybody else. Yes, we might have different routines or different ways of things, but we’re all human at the end of the day and if I come out in my bonnet, I’m just trying to protect my hair. That’s all I’m trying to do.

AH: How has the presence of cultural clubs on campus made you feel?

JP: I mean I’m happy that we even have Black organizations on campus because we don’t make up that much percentage on this campus already, so it’s good that when I do, when I can, I can find a community on campus.

“...we don’t make up that much percentage on this campus already, so it’s good that when I do, when I can, I can find a community on campus.”

AH: How would you describe your experience so far at Stony?

Anonymous: I’d say it’s a very weird experience, I’m still used to being in high school, but now I’m like here where a lot of the people I remember are not here.

Only a slight minority of those people are here now… In high school, right, I always felt like everybody was looking at me weirdly, but now here, no one’s making a big deal out of it and it’s like, I like that but at the same time it’s a little hard to get used to the whole no one cares attitude. It’s a bit nice and also a bit annoying to deal with. I have sometimes felt a bit isolated here because it’s like, I’m living with all the queer people in GIH and it’s like we’re all shunted off to a completely different area. And even in GIH, I feel like I’m the only one that looks like me there. The majority of them are East Asian or just straight-up white and it’s like I’m the only [one of my race] there… I can’t even join any of my cultural groups that relate to my ethnicity because I’m worried, there are some people that I know on campus, but they don’t know that I’m trans. So, if I join them, I don’t know what might happen, if they might tell my family and stuff. So it’s a bit of a mix of, it’s relaxing and also really stressful.

AH: If you could sum up your experience being on campus/forming as a freshman in one word, how would you do that?

Anonymous: Confusing. A lot is going on and I’m just standing in the middle thinking, what?

AH: What do you think could be done by other students or by faculty and administration that could make your experience on campus less confusing?

Anonymous: I think people can just be a lot more open-minded. It’s crazy to me that people come to college, yet somehow stay ridiculously close-minded which then makes it more annoying to have to deal with said person. Sometimes I run into people and I’m thinking, oh these are nice people, and then they say something so microaggressive or just straight-up racist and it’s like, how and why did you think that?

People really just gotta understand, what would someone who isn’t me think about what I’m saying, cause a lot of people can’t think about anyone who isn’t themselves.

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AH: Have you had any experiences at Stony that have made you feel you weren’t welcome here?

AJ: Kind of. In some of my classes, when I say stuff or have takes on things going on in class because I use more colloquial language, sometimes it’s not taken as seriously. But when other students say the same thing, but I guess in a more, “proper” way, it gets more regarded with the professors.

AH: Outside of class, have you had any other experiences like that?

Anaya Jagun

AH: How has your experience been as a freshman so far?

Anaya Jagun (AJ): I would say compared to what I hear my friends going through at other schools, it’s kind of better because I was in EOP so I met most of my friends through the summer program so now I have a community around me. So, I’m not having to go through that awkward part of making friends because we’re kind of all forced to be friends.

AH: How has BSU impacted your experience?

AJ: It let me know that there were a lot more Black people than I thought on this campus because I feel like when I came here originally thinking we were gonna be a lot. Not a lot, but there were gonna be a couple of sparse people you will see every now and then. But, now I see Black people almost every day. It’s like at home, kind of.

AH: How has BSU made you feel?

AJ: With BSU, everyone’s being candid about how they feel about the situations going on, especially going to school here where it’s not really for us, but we are here.

So, it helps with that feeling.

AH: Could you explain more about that feeling?

AJ: You know how right-handed people have righthanded scissors, but there are not a lot of left-handed scissors. So, basically, being Black on the Stony Brook campus is being left-handed and using right-handed scissors. Like, you’re using it, but it’s not really meant or designed for you to use. It’s meant for other people to benefit from. So, you’re kind of awkwardly stumbling through using it

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AJ: Sometimes when I’m walking around campus, people kind of look at me like what am I doing here. I’m doing the same thing you’re doing here; paying my tuition.

AH: Do you think you’ve found a community here at Stony?

AJ: I really do believe I have.

BLACK THREADS ON A BLOODY KUFFIYEH

HOW BLACK AND PALESTINIAN LIBERATION ARE INTERWOVEN SB4PALESTINE

A wall standing in Bethlehem, in the Occupied West Bank, has street art sprayed all over it. Many are political messaging against Israel, but one stands out: a portrait of George Floyd. To the eye, a mural, but to the Black and Palestinian communities, a mutual symbol of solidarity that stems from a history of oppression and resistance.

Going further back, Palestinians who faced militaristic abuse from the IDF taught Ferguson protestors in 2014 how to fight against tear gas, a tactic used by both the police in America and the IDF in Palestine.

The parallels don’t end there, the same NYPD which is larger than most military forces in the world, has an office in Kfar Saba, a city in Israel.

The Black national struggle and the Palestinian struggle are interwoven; linked together on the basis of defiance against U.S. imperialism and finance capital. If one were to analyze the specific historical episodes that laid the foundations of a given nation’s capitalist development, one would see that they are etched with history’s worth of monstrous dehumanization and barbarity.

environment and economy suitable for capitalist development so early in its formation. And it was all backed by Western powers who deemed it a worthy investment to control the Middle East.

In conjunction with Israel’s ethnonationalist immigration policy and acceptance of foreign capital from imperialist countries (primarily the U.S.), Israel’s political economy is contingent on the liquidation of Palestinian existence. Following the ongoing genocidal campaign, close to 30,000 Palestinians have been murdered and millions displaced from their homes. Hundreds of thousands more face the imminent risk of death from imposed starvation and lack of water, destruction of their homes, and disease alongside the endless bombing and the ground assault.

Despite the persistent calculated attempts to erase their existence and identity, the Palestinian spirit of perseverance endures.

“The Black national struggle and the Palestinian struggle are interwoven; linked together on the basis of defiance against U.S. imperialism and finance capital.”

The formation of Israel rested upon the mass expulsion of Palestinian millions. Known as the 1948 Nakba, it is a day of remembrance for the mass expulsion and ethnic cleansing that took place across Palestine. It was a zionist period of immense pride in carrying that time-honored tradition in the western imperialist canon via the ruining of natural fauna, the demolition of homes, and the indiscriminate killing. This expulsion facilitated the creation of an 25

Similarly, the Black American experience can be chalked up as the perseverance of an oppressed people forming an oppressed nation within an imperialist bloc in the face of racist robbery of Black labor and lives that built the foundation for U.S. capitalist development and imperialism.

American Black slavery necessitated expansion to maintain itself in the wake of growing Northern capitalist competition.

Hence Native Americans and Chicanos experienced white settler seizing of territorial land through essentially genocide, such as that of Andrew Jackson’s 1830 Trail of Tears and the stripping of half of Mexican territory during the Mexican-American War (18461848). American slavery itself proved to be incredibly profitable meanwhile, for both the southern landed gentry who would amass incredible economic and political power over their respective territories and the American empire as a whole. For instance, the Missisippian planter-class would enjoy incredible profits from the cotton industry, which would become America’s leading export by the mid-1800s and supplied most of the world’s cotton. And Black slaves, in spite of making up 12% of the population-would be roughly responsible for one fifth the growth in commodity output per capita for the United States as a whole between 1839 and 1859— between 18.7 percent and 24.3 percent.

The downfall of American slavery following the American Civil War did little to improve the objective conditions of the Black proletariat living in the American empire.

Former institutions developed during the times of slavery - slave patrols and forced labor contracts simply adapted into their more modern forms: the modern police state and increased incarceration of Black people under black codes.

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In between the Era of Reconstruction following 1865 and the Civil Rights Era of the 1960s, black struggle to maintain bearable conditions for survival and social uplift was met with ferocious white settler chauvinism and incredibly violent settler state reprisals. One can refer back to the Tulsa Race massacre of 1921, in which that brief experiment of black capitalism under white capitalist society was met with sharp reprisals in the form of white mobs killing over 300 Black citizens, the national guard assisting in the arrest of over 6,000 Tulsan residents, and no more short than at least a couple of turpentine balls dropped from the sky via planes and onto fleeing Black people and neighborhood blocks.

It is not then, out of coincidence that one can tie the brutality enacted upon the Black proletariat through systemic racism and white chauvinists here in the states to that of IDF soldiers routinely terrorizing Gazans and those Palestinian in the West Bank. The fact that American NYPD officers are combat-trained certified in TelAviv and Israeli guns that are regularly tested on civilian populations in Gaza before being shipped off to America shouldn’t be lost in this respect.

To draw historical parallels of settler violence inflicted upon both Black people and Palestinians is a long and painful process to the point of mental and spiritual exhaustion. But to those who seek to assume a principled position against the settler genocide, against systemic racism, and against the general capitalist tendency towards imperialism, it is entirely necessary for one to perform a deep historical analysis into the interconnectedness of both the global intifada and Black liberation struggle.

FROM SOCIAL MEDIA TO GHANA HOW TOPICALS’ BRAND TRIP CHANGED CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT OLUWATOYIN KUPOLUYI

Picture this: a group of TikTok and Instagram influencers, bathed in the golden glow of the Ghanaian sun, laughing and exploring the vibrant streets of Accra. This isn't just any vacation, it's a brand trip like no other, organized by the skincare company, Topicals. But beyond the breathtaking scenery and Instaworthy moments, this journey marks a pivotal shift in the way brands interact with their customers and the communities they serve.

Topicals' decision to organize a brand trip to Ghana wasn't just about showcasing their products in a different location, it was about forging authentic connections and amplifying diverse voices. In the midst of the festive frenzy known as Detty December, a different kind of celebration unfolded: a journey of discovery, connection, and cultural immersion with Topicals in the heart of Ghana. Detty December, a term coined in Ghana to describe the month-long festivities that culminate in a joyous celebration of music, food, and culture, provided the perfect backdrop for Topicals' immersive experience. Against the backdrop of pulsating rhythms and infectious energy, the TikTok influencers and Topicals team members found themselves swept up in the vibrant spirit of Ghanaian hospitality.

From exploring local markets to participating in Ghanaian traditions, the TikTokers immersed themselves in the rich tapestry of Ghanaian culture, sharing their experiences with their followers every step of the way. Through candid vlogs, heartfelt reflections, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, they invited their audience to join them on this transformative journey and see the world through their eyes.

From exploring bustling markets to savoring traditional delicacies, Detty December offered a window into the soul of Ghanaian culture, a celebration of life, community, and shared humanity. For the TikTokers, many of whom had never set foot on African soil before, it was a chance to broaden their horizons, challenge stereotypes, and forge meaningful connections with the people and places they encountered. But Detty December wasn't just about enjoyment, it was also a time for reflection. As the influencers shared their experiences with their followers, they sparked important conversations about representation, identity, and the power of cultural exchange. By inviting their audience to join them on this journey, they opened hearts and minds to new perspectives and possibilities.

Detty December served as a catalyst for Topicals' ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion in the beauty industry. By centering the experiences and voices of Black creators and communities, Topicals set a new standard for authenticity and representation. As they continue to amplify diverse voices and champion underrepresented perspectives, they are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Detty December wasn't just a brand trip. It was a journey of celebration and connection, a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the importance of embracing diversity in all its forms.

But perhaps the most impactful aspect of the trip was the opportunity for genuine connection and dialogue between the influencers, Topicals team members, and the local community.

By engaging with local artisans, entrepreneurs, and activists, the TikTokers gained valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of life in Ghana, fostering empathy and understanding in the process.

Moreover, the brand trip sparked important conversations about representation, diversity, and the role of brands in fostering positive change.

By centering the experiences and perspectives of Black creators and communities, Topicals set a new standard for inclusivity in the beauty industry and challenged other brands to follow suit.

In a world where authenticity reigns supreme and consumers crave genuine connections, Topicals' brand trip to Ghana serves as a shining example of how brands can leverage their influence for positive change. By prioritizing diversity, representation, and meaningful engagement, Topicals has not only redefined customer interaction but also set a new standard for ethical and inclusive marketing practices. And as other brands take note, we can only hope to see more journeys like this that celebrate the beauty of diversity and the power of community.

With that being said, Topicals please invite me to your next brand trip!

voguebusiness.com

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THE FUTURE OF AI ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES JORDAN MAYERS MANDLEY

Artificial intelligence has been around since the 1950s, but it didn't create any buzz. It is ingrained into our society, as part of our everyday life. Almost a year ago, that changed.

On November 30, 2022, OpenAI launched Chatgpt. Open AI was also responsible for DALL-E 2(AI art generator) in April 2022. Chatgpt can generate essays, proofread papers, give summaries on books, generate scripts, etc. DALLE- E 2 produces realistic artwork based on textual description. These new AI inventions sparked Nationwide attention in the US and started a series of discourses about AI, where it was taking us, and the effects it may have on our society.

Naturally, there has been debate over how colleges should handle AI moving forward. It is an ongoing discussion that is still developing because some colleges are starting to put things in place to manage AI. Here are three ways that colleges are managing the AI crisis.

Some colleges have decided to implement AI into their course curriculum. According to “The Future of Higher Education – The Rise of AI and ChatGPT on Your Campus,” “University of Rochester: Jonathan Herington, an assistant professor in the Department of Philosophy, used ChatGPT as part of an assignment this semester. He asked students to co-write an essay with the chatbot on a question that would challenge the technology’s capabilities, such as citations from obscure texts or knowledge of readings published after 2020.” Similar to that, the University of Columbia is offering a virtual AI boot camp that helps you build skills to use AI effectively.

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Some colleges are using policies to regulate AI. The American University of Armenia made a note about AI in its cheating policy.

According to “How colleges and universities are responding to AI now,” “Cheating. Cheating includes but is not limited to: 6.4.2.1. using or referring to notes, books, devices”, “or other sources of information, including advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT, in completing an Academic Evaluation or Assignment, when such use has not been expressly allowed by the faculty member who is conducting the examination.” The Hofstra University in Long Island also stated something similar in their policy.

“Use of generative artificial intelligence tools (e.g. Chat GPT) must be consistent with the instructor’s stated course policy.

Unless indicated otherwise in the instructions for a specific assignment, the use of Chat GPT or similar artificial intelligence tools for work submitted in this course constitutes the receiving of “unauthorized assistance for academic work,” and is a violation of the Hofstra University Honor Code.”

Colleges are trying their best to maintain academic integrity through the technological advancements of the world.

Some colleges have utilized many strategies to help their faculty learn how to implement AI efficiently in their classroom and utilize it in a more effective way moving forward. Colorado State University has developed a website to help its faculty. According to “ The Future of Higher Education – The Rise of AI and ChatGPT on Your Campus”, “The Institute for Learning and Teaching (TILT) has developed a new website called Artificial Intelligence and Academic Integrity.

Academic Integrity Program Director Joseph Brown and TILT staff developed it to provide faculty with short-term strategies for ChatGPT, as they continue to monitor the availability of technology-based solutions already in development.” Auburn University also took the initiative to educate its faculty on the inner workings of AI. According to “What Will Determine AI’s Impact on College Teaching? 5 Signs to Watch”, About 600 faculty members at Auburn University signed up for a self-paced course created by its teaching center that covered the basics of teaching with AI, and that included a discussion of course redesign and how to partner with students.”

Colleges are still in the process of developing their responses to AI. According to unesco.com, “A new UNESCO global survey of over 450 schools and universities found that fewer than 10% have developed institutional policies and/or formal guidance concerning the use of generative AI applications.” As you can see, there are still many discussions and meetings to be held before all universities have a plan on how they will individually use AI. Think about AI in your colleges.

How do you want AI to be utilized here at Stony Brook? Do you think AI needs to be regulated, embraced, or both in higher education?

NAVIGATING INTERSECTIONALITY THE JOURNEY OF BEING BLACK AND A WOMAN

OLUWATOYIN KUPOLUYI

Picture this: a young Black woman navigating the complexities of college life, each step echoing with the weight of her intersecting identities. This is not just a story of one individual, but a narrative shared by countless Black women who walk the tightrope of race and gender every day. As a Black woman, I've learned firsthand that the intersection of these identities brings with it a unique set of joys, triumphs, and challenges. From the subtle nuances of everyday interactions to the deeply ingrained stereotypes that permeate society, being both Black and woman is a journey filled with highs and lows, laughter and tears, resilience and resistance.

One of the most pervasive challenges that Black women face is the phenomenon of microaggressions—those subtle, often unintentional, forms of discrimination that seem to chip away at your sense of self-worth and belonging. From the seemingly innocuous comments about our appearance to the dismissive gestures that undermine our expertise, microaggressions are a constant reminder that our identities are often viewed through a lens of stereotypes and misconceptions.

For example, the stereotype of the "angry Black woman."

This stereotype not only erases the complexity of our emotions but also perpetuates the myth that Black women are inherently aggressive, confrontational, and unapproachable. As a result, we often find ourselves walking a tightrope, constantly policing our

words and actions in an effort to avoid being labeled as "angry" or "difficult."

But the truth is, our anger is valid. It stems not from some irrational outburst but from a deep well of frustration and pain, a response to centuries of systemic oppression and marginalization. As Audre Lorde famously said, "Anger is an appropriate response to racist attitudes, as is fury when the actions arise from racist attitudes."

Our anger is a powerful force for change, a catalyst for action, and a reminder that we will not be silenced or sidelined in the fight for justice and equality.

Yet, despite the challenges we face, being both Black and woman is also a source of strength, resilience, and empowerment.

We are the descendants of queens and warriors, trailblazers and freedom fighters, whose courage and determination have paved the way for us to stand tall and proud in our identities.

But finding our voice in a world that often seeks to silence us is no easy feat. It's a journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and self-advocacy.

A journey that requires courage, resilience, and unwavering determination.

For many of us, finding our voice begins with learning to speak our truth, to name and confront the injustices that we face, both individually and collectively. It means standing up to microaggressions, challenging stereotypes, and refusing to be silenced or diminished by those who seek to undermine our worth and our humanity. But finding our voice also means recognizing the power of community, the strength that comes from standing shoulder to shoulder with our sisters, lifting each other up, and amplifying each other's voices. It means building networks of support and solidarity, creating spaces where we can share our stories, celebrate our achievements, and uplift each other in times of struggle.

And as we find our voice, we also find our power: the power to effect change, to shape narratives, and to create a world where black women are seen, heard, and valued for who we truly are.

Audre Lorde

oprahdaily.com

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collage by sumaiyah khan