The Corsair Fall 2024 - Issue 2

October 9, 2024 | Volume 127 Issue 2 | Santa Monica College

EVERY COPY OF THE CORSAIR IS FREE, EACH COPY AFTER IS 25¢ | SANTA MONICA COLLEGE, STUDENT-RUN NEWSPAPER SINCE 1929

Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Wolf Managing Editor Sophia DiDio Photo Editor Jake Crandall Design Editor Alexander Albao Copy Editors Phoebe Huss Katie Easterson Arts & Culture Editor Liz Corona News Editor Eva Love Jopanda

Jake Crandall | The Corsair Los Angeles Metro buses unable to continue their route due to protesters marching in downtown Los Angeles Calif., during a protest held by the Palestinian Youth Movement as the one-year anniversary approaches of the ongoing war in Israel and Gaza, on Saturday, October 5th, 2024.

Multimedia Editor Tarelle Butts Opinion Editor Isabel Lopez Luna Social Media Editor Karina Movsesova Sports Editor Adriana Brady Digital Editor Karen Lopez Newsletter Editor Antionee Jones

Mary Funsten | Corsiar Jenn Freeman performs in "Is It Thursday Yet?" at the Eli & Edythe Broad Stage in Santa Monica, Calif., on October 3, 2024. The solo dance, accompanied by live music and home videos, reflects Freeman's experience following her diagnosis with Autism Spectrum Disorder at age 33.

Corsair Staff Mary Funsten, Rebecca Villagracia, Alexander Lopez, David Rivera, Carmen Talavera, Gregory Hawthorne, Diego Kersh, Fernando Herrera, Jeffrey Berrios, Adriana Brady, Jenitcy Franco, Amelie Galzy, Jamie Garcia, Matthew Gonzalez-Valenzuela, Abiel Keli, Lilian Le, Isaac Lee, Catherine Lighton, Denisse Lopez, Brianna Minor, Jenna Tibby, Genesis Avila, Alexandra Gorgij, Isabel Lopez Luna, Zephira Marquez Franco, Karina Movsesova, Liam Rush, Macy Vargas, Chrissy Washington

Front Cover

Faculty Advisors Sharyn Obsatz Journalism Adviser Gerard Burkhart Photo Adviser Samantha Nuñez Social Media Adviser

Cal Fire member stands in the middle of a cloud of smoke after cooling down a hot spot on the grounds of Table Mountain Camp in Angeles National Forest near Big Pines, an unincorporated community in Los Angeles County, Calif. on Sept. 12, 2024. ( Danilo Perez | The Corsair)

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Santa Monica College holds a memorial with over 1,200 Israeli flags, each representing a victim from October 7th, at Santa Monica College, in Santa Monica, Calif. on October 7th, 2024. (Jake Crandall | The Corsair)

Back Cover

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Finding our Feet A month has passed since the publication of our inaugural issue, and many large strides have been taken inside the Corsair newsroom. What was once a group of strangers has rapidly become a well-oiled machine, where apprehension and anxiety have been replaced by collaboration and confidence. As the staff has gotten our feet underneath us, we’ve started to spread our wings and venture outside of our comfort zones.

That said, it has not been all sunshine and rainbows. On the contrary, there have been many bumps in the road, but what gives me confidence is everyone’s willingness to come back and try again. I’ve been extremely impressed with our staff’s ability to balance being defensive of their work with not taking criticism personally. Anyone who has ever put themselves out there creatively understands how difficult that is, especially considering our relative inexperience as journalists.

Mary Funsten | Corsair Islam Bashirov of the Santa Monica Corsairs men’s water polo team, passes the ball while he is being guarded by Caleb Hogle of the Palomar Comets. Santa Monica Corsairs mens water polo team played against the Palomar Comets on Friday, September 27, 2024 at Santa Monica College, Santa Monica, Calif.

This mentality is what has allowed us to flourish as a newsroom and for the staff to establish themselves individually. In my experience, the best teams are ones in which there are no lone wolves, all the members are willing to sacrifice their individual success for that of the collective. Though it has taken us some time to trust each other enough, the collaborative effort during production day is an incredible step in the right direction.

After six weeks working together in the newsroom, I think it’s fair to say that the talent we possess is off the charts. We’re finally getting our feet underneath us, and it’s only a matter of time before we’re off and running.

Jeremy Wolf Editor-in-Chief

Rebecca Villagracia | The Corsair

Carmen Talavera | The Corsair

Santa Monica College’s midfielder Jacibe Martinez (25) passes the ball on Oct. 1, 2024 at the Corsair Field in Santa Monica, Calif. Santa Monica College women’s soccer defeated Bakersfield College 1-0.

Santa Monica DB Logan Polk (4) intercepts a ball from SAC’S Offense and is congratulated by DB Devin Williams (7) on Sep 28, 2024 at the Corsair Stadium in Santa Monica, Calif.

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A woman with a yellow shirt watches a rally for October 7th hosted by Bring Them Home Now LA.

Photos by Jake Crandall / The Corsair

One Year and Counting Jake Crandall | Photo Editor Katie Easterson | Copy Editor Ariella Kohanoff | Staff Writer

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he days leading up to October son was taken hostage during the Octo7, 2024 celebrated the one year ber 7th attacks. While presenting the flags, anniversary of the attack on Israel Sherman stated, “Thank you for inspiring by the Palestinian terrorist group, the American people, and I would like to Hamas. On that day a year ago, Hamas give you this flag that has flown over the took 254 Israelis hostage as a result of the American capital as a symbol that Amerconflict between the two countries. ica stands with Israel and stands with the Bring Them Home Now LA hosted their hostages until everyone is returned.” third rally on Oct. 6, continuing their calls Shonda Isom Walkowitz, a Jewish prefor Hamas to release the hostages. Rabbi “Netanyahu and Sinwar Yossi Eliforti began the event with the Magen Am prayer. Attendees were encouraged have the same target, that to wear yellow to show their support for the the fighting will go on. This hostages and their families. The rally was is the only way for both of held at the corner of Burbank Boulevard and Balboa Boulevard. The event featured them to survive.” a crowd full of American and Israeli flags, including a small school bus sporting nuschool teacher at Temple Judea, spoke merous flags. The event hired the private about organizing an event in the valley for security company Magen Am, a Jewish, Bring Them Home Now LA. After thanknon-profit organization licensed to provide ing the crowd for showing up, she stated, armed security services.

“This is called Jewish pride, baby… I taught Rep. Brad Sherman, a Democratic conat Temple Judea right down the street as gressman of 27 years representing Califor- a Jewish preschool teacher, my kids now nia’s 32nd congressional district, presented are graduating college, and I was so upset an American flag flown over the United when I saw what was going on the camStates Capitol to the Cohen family whose puses. That’s why when I saw when we met 3 | October 9, 2024 | The Corsair

Jess at the one in Culver City, I was like, you need to bring this to the valley. The valley needs to be heard, and the people need to know that we support Israel, and we support our hostages coming back now. Bring them home now,” spawning cheers and subsequent chants of “Bring them home now.”

Rev. Zedar Broadus, former head of NAACP SF Valley Chapter and the L.A. County Commission on Human Relations, gave a speech against a yellow sign on a tree reading “Bring them home now,” on his lifetime in the valley and how he saw it come together in times of joy and tragedy, based on three things: faith, hope and charity. He told the crowd that no matter what religion or background they come from, they’re all there because they had faith in each other, and today is a testament to that faith. ended his speech by stating, “Let them go. And in love and in hope and our faith, we know by the grace of the good Lord, By his divine Lord, we will see them home soon.”

Nate Looney, Director of Community Safety and Belonging at Jewish Federation

hostage deal.”

Speaking to Debbie Paperman one of the organizers of Bring Them Home Now LA, after the rally spoke on what the one-year she became teary as she began to speak,

“I can’t imagine not having my loved one for a year.”

She told the story of a friend who discovered his cousins missing on October 7 only to find out that they were murdered at the Nova Music Festival. She wants the city to recognize the hostages, eight of which are American, and stand with them.

Contributions by Katie Easterson | Copy Editor Ariella Kohanoff | Staff Writer

A women looks on at a memorial for the hostages taken on October 7th, 2024 at Santa Monica College in Santa Monica, Calif.

North America, recounted his experience on October 7th a year ago, waking up on Shabbat to numerous calls and texts about the attack taking place. Speaking about the tragedy and paying his respects to the families, he spoke on the Jewish people’s resilience and ability to overcome adversity. Mr. Looney discussed his experience visiting the Nova music festival site as part of a mission to bring LGBTQ leaders to bear witness in Israel, stating, “We went to send a message to our Israeli family that we have not forgotten about you, regardless of whatever you see or hear on Social Media.

There are Zionist LGBTQ folks in America” Yehuda Cohen, father to the hostage Nimrod Cohen, told the story of his son’s capture. Nimrod Cohen was a soldier in a tank team where two of the members were killed and Nimrod and his commander taken hostage after being overwhelmed by combatants on Oct. 7. Yehuda Cohen called for action, stating, “What we need, what Israel needs is action, and action is more to be focused on what needs to do. I mean, ‘bring them home now’ is something very general, something that could happen, would happen, hoping will happen, praying will happen. This is not enough, and we are desperate. What we need is actually a clear call for a hostage deal. We need a hostage deal. This is the only way my son will be released. This is the only way the life of my son will be secured. Of course, this is the only way all the other hostages, living and deceased will be released, and we call him for a hostage deal that will come along with the ceasefire. Of course, that’s what Hamas wants, but we want it as well. People in Israel are dying wounded.”

Mr. Cohen went on to talk about how he

believes America and Netanyahu do not have the best interests in mind, and how on both sides of the conflict leaders are relying on these wars to keep them in power.

He believes that a ceasefire will be good for the Israeli nation, but not the government, which is why they have not accepted, but it is the only way to bring his son home and the Israeli government is responsible for that role. A car drove by shouting Free Palestine during his speech, drawing “Fuck Yous” from the crowd. Mr. Cohen ended his call for action by stating, “ The only way that my son’s life can be secured again and the rest of the hostages is a hostage deal that will come along with a ceasefire, and we need pressure on my Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to leave it all and go for a

Joseph Dahan carrie a Torah throught the crowd at a memorial event remembering October 7th hosted by Eyal Dahan.

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(Photo by Jake Crandall) A Torah is carried through the crowd after being signed during a Mitzvah at a memorial event remembering October 7th hosted by Eyal Dahan, on October 6th, 2024 on Roxbury Road and Pico Boulevard, in Los Angeles Calif.

A man attending a memorial for October 7th, at the Museum of Tolerance, examines artist Tomar Peretz’s work in Los Angeles Calif., on October 6th, 2024.(Jake Crandall | The Corsair)

REMEMBERING OCTOBER 7 On Sunday, Oct. 6, the Museum of Tolerance held a ceremony to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the Oct. 7 attacks, which featured three perspectives of those affected by the attacks and a candlelit vigil.

Jake Crandall | Photo Editor Andre Kozlov, who was taken hostage by Hamas for eight months speaks at a memorial for October 7th, at the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles Calif., on October 6th, 2024.Photos by Jake Crandall | The Corsair

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he Museum of Tolerance held a commemoration for October 7th on Sunday October 6th in partnership with Jewish organizations with the likes of The Jewish Federation Los Angeles. The Museum of Tolerance was established in 1993 by the Simon Wiesenthal Center, a human rights organization, to educate the public on racism, antisemitism, and prejudice with a primary focus on the Holocaust.

The Jewish Federation Los Angeles is a charity that makes up one of the 146 groups of the National Jewish Federation organization, with the goal “to create safe, joyful and connected Jewish life in Los Angeles, Israel, and around the world.”

The event began at 7:00 p.m. Guests were welcomed into the museum displaying artwork from Tomar Peretz, a speaker at the event, and an assortment of appetizers including cookies in

the shape of yellow ribbons, a symbol of solidarity for the hostages in Gaza and their families.

The first hour of the event was marked by guests walking around and speaking to each other, while organizers finished setting up the ceremony outside.

At 8:00 p.m., the main program began. Jim Burk, CEO of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, welcomed the crowd, and played a video featuring a survivor of Oct. 7 and a survivor of the Holocaust sharing their similarities and struggles with atrocities they have faced with being Jewish.

Burk went on to speak about the difficulties of the atrocities on Oct. 7 and the lack of support for the Jewish community in the wake of the attacks.

Mayor Bass was welcomed to the stage next, speaking on the effects the attacks had on the citizens of Los Angeles while continuing her prayers for peace

Candles are placed around the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles Calif., for a memorial for October 7th, on October 6th, 2024.

and safety as conflicts continue to escalate in the Middle East. Joined by the new Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Jim McDonnell, Bass stated, “We are committed to ensuring that the Jewish community feels safe here at home in L.A. at a time when you may feel frightened. We stand together tonight with you, those here with you, (we) reflect with you, and offer you our support together as Angelinos and as Americans. May the memories of those lost be with us.”

Dorel Meiri, major Sergeant of the paratrooper reserve unit in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), spoke next on his service in the military upon heeding the Call of Duty after the events of Oct. 7.

As a first-generation American born to Israeli parents and workCandles are placed around the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles Calif., for a memorial for October 7th, on October 6th, 2024.

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ing as a real estate agent in Los Angeles, he spoke on his deep ties and love for his homeland. Youth visits to Israel led him to serve in the IDF before being released in 2020. After the events of Oct. 7, his reserve unit entered Gaza on the first day of Hanukkah; spent 70 days inside fighting Hamas and attempting to rescue hostages; and was the last reservist unit to leave Gaza at the time.

Meiri went on to state, “Today serves not as a day of mourning, but as a day of honoring and cherishing the memories of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Their selflessness, commitment, and valor symbolize the essence of Israeli resilience and enduring spirit of our nation. May their memories be a blessing, and may their sacrifice never be forgotten.

May we continue to stand united in remembrance, in solidarity, and eternal pursuit of peace and freedom for all. “

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass speaks at a memorial for October 7th, at the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles Calif., on October 6th, 2024.

Tomar Peretz, an artist and former IDF soldier, spoke next on his experience working for the Israeli’s primary non-governmental rescue recovery organization.

He was tasked with removing the bodies and body parts from the Nova music festival where an estimated 260 Israeli citizens were killed. Peretz spoke on the toll the events took on him, his desire to make sure his children never experience the same events, and his struggles with isolation from those who have not experienced his traumas. He found himself engrossed with his artwork, collaborating with others who had experienced similar traumas as a form of expression and healing with others.

Andre Kozlov, who was taken hostage by Hamas for eight months, then took the stage.

Kozlov previously lived in Russia but left to escape after the war began in Ukraine before moving to Israel. Kozlov spoke about his experience, stating that when taken hostage, “the only one goal I had that one day was to survive.

I was sure that I would do this;

then came months of captivity. I At 8:36 p.m. a canhad nothing but memories… I knew dle-lighting vigil was held with a only one thing, every day could be moment of silence, commemomy last. Maybe I'll die tomorrow, rating the exact moment of the maybe I'll die in 15 minutes. Maybe attack on Israel one year ago.

I’ll be here for a couple of years.”

The speakers, organizers, mayHe lived by or, and others the mantra, addressed a “You are alive crowd of news “the only one goal and it's the cameras and only thing attendees as I had that one day that matters.” they gave a was to survive. I was closing prayer Kozlov credited the and sang trasure that I would motivation ditional Jewish do this; then came that kept him songs. Burk going as beacknowledged months of captivlieving somethat during thing better the ceremony ity. I had nothing was coming, itself, Israel was but memories…” and that this fired upon with was not the rockets from Andre Kozlov said last chapter of Hezbollah. The his life. He spoke on being endless- event ended with attendees placly grateful for the chance to hear ing candles around the ceremony.

“I love you” from his friends and =After the event, Burk told family again when he was rescued. the Corsair he felt that the event He still repeats the mantras that succeeded in its goals to comhe told himself in captivity and memorate the lives lost and the “sends” them to the 101 hostagsuffering from one year ago while es, many of whom, he states, are showing the perseverance of the trapped underground.

Jewish community. Commenting

on the takeaways from the speakers at the event, he felt it helped those understand the events of Oct. 7 better than any pictures or videos, stating, “That’s why you could hear a pin drop in that room.”

Speaking to Jennifer Pollak, a native Angelino and psychologist in attendance, listening to the testimonies “kind of revived the feelings that I felt initially after October seventh and caused me to reconnect with the pain, the overwhelming sadness, and the worry for those hostages that are still being held by Hamas in Gaza.

It was an opportunity to feel connected to a community, the larger Jewish community, but also to the larger Los Angeles community, to feel that everyone together was remembering all of the horrific things that started on October seventh and are still ongoing.” She continued that it feels overwhelming and shocking that after a year the hostages had not been released, and to consider the experiences they must be enduring.

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Bridge Fire Burns Over 54,000 Acres Firefighters batltle devastating flames in the communities of Wrightwood, Piñon Hills, and Mount Baldy.

Jake Crandall | Photo Editor

On Thursday, the Bridge fire’s impact expanded when the Mount Baldy Village evacuation order was expanded from San Antonio Heights to Wrightwood and farther east, and to Cucamonga Peak, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff ’s Department.

The National Guard and local law enforcement have evacuated residents and established perimeters blocking access to affected areas.

On Friday, “firefighters made great progress on the ground, aided by aircraft to attack the fire aggressively 24 hours per day. Crews continued to be engaged with structure defense in the communities of Wrightwood, Piñon Hills, and Mount Baldy,” according to a statement released by the

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). Conditions were favorable as firefighters flanked and backed the blaze to Mt Baldy Road, holding the line on the west side of the road to protect the communities of Mount Baldy Village, including the Icehouse Canyon area.

Thirteen structures were destroyed in the Wrightwood area. Infrastructure was also affected, and at least 20 additional homes were devastated in Mount Baldy. The Bridge Fire is currently at 37% containment, with 11,560 structures threatened, and nearing 55,000 acres burned. Three firefighters have already been injured in the blaze.

Speaking to local residents, Michele Olson of the

Mount Baldy community spoke on the frustrations of enduring the effects of these fires at the Mount Baldy Lodge restaurant, a gathering point for firefighters and local residents who did not evacuate. Olson said, “Another fire happens and then they never get the answer to the last fire, but every time there’s people that leave unattended campfires or people with charcoal barbecues and they come up here - that’s arson. If they leave it, and they dump their coals out and walk away, that’s arson. There’s a big problem with people not taking care of the surrounding area.” Olson never fully evacuated but sought shelter at a local ski resort during the worst parts of the fire.

Upong being asked why she and others didn’t fully evacuate she said, “Well, they asked us to leave, but they can’t force us to leave. We can stay; they physically cannot pull you out of your house. If you want to stay in your flaming burning house that’s your choice. I have cats to feed in the village.” Multiple pets were seen roaming the streets around the empty homes and fire crews, as many residents were not able to access their homes after evacuation orders and the enacted perimeters blocked access to their homes.

Olson commented on this situation, stating “You know, I’ve got people that I’m in contact with asking me to please check in on their animals, so I’ve been doing that.” The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Photos by Jake Crandall / The Corsair Alberto Antolin from Cal Fire engine 2554 works the hose fire combating the blaze along Table Mountain Campground, preventing it from being destroyed, early on Friday morning September 13, 2024. The Bridge Fire has already burned 5200 acres while fire crews reach 5% containment.

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Cal fire crews from Engine 1769 fought a blaze along Highway 2 near Wrightwood, California on Thursday, September 12, 2024. The Bridge Fire has already burned 5200 acres while fire crews reach 5% containment.

A car burnt down from the Bridge Fire on Bear Canyon Road, in Mt. Baldy California, on Thursday, September 12, 2024. At least 58 structures were damaged or destroyed by the bridge fire.

Photos by Jake Crandall / The Corsair Andriy Anchuk from Cal Fire engine 2554 takes a moment to stare into the fire while combating the blaze along Table Mountain Campground, preventing it from being destroyed, early on Friday morning September 13, 2024.

Edison electrical workers worked to restore power along Highway 2 near Wrightwood, California, on Thursday, September 12, 2024 after the Bridge Fire damage.

Multiple residents at the lodge Southern California to fight also voiced frustration with the the recent surge in fires. Misty local fire department for not Calvo and Matt Carazolez, taking more preventative acpart of fire engine 2561, who tions against fire, and with the had previously been fighting lack of support from Governor the Park Fire, drove 10 hours Newsom. down from Chico to join the On Friday morning, fight. They explained that fireMountain High Resort employ- fighters are currently working ees turned on snow-makers to 24-hour shifts on and 24-hour combat flames and help save shifts off, sometimes workthe ski resort buildings. Fireing 48 hours on call if needfighters continue to clean up ed. They expressed optimism hotspots as they flare up and about the current state of the hold the fire lines, as crews fire’s condition while fightcontinue to make “great proging back a blaze on a hillside, ress.” On Saturday, fire crews which saved Table Mountain deployed dozers and hand Campground near Big Pines. crews, strengthening existing Angeles National Forest held and new fire lines with addia public meeting on Monday, tional backup secondary lines, September 16 at Lytle Creek while also fighting a new blaze Community Center, 14082 that began in the Lytle Creek Center Rd., San Bernardino, area.

CA at 7:00 p.m. The meeting 2,622 personnel have was posted on the Angeles come together to fight the NF Fire Info YouTube channel Bridge fire. At least 32 engines, revealing that most of the 15 water tenders, 10 helicopters, North Eastern and Southern 28 dozers, and 36 hand crews flanks have been extinguished have come together to fight as firefighters make progress this fire. Fire crews from across around the eastern and westCalifornia have come to ern edges.

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Photos by Jake Crandall | The Corsair The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation also known as Orange Shirt Day is on Monday, September 30th, when people wear an orange shirt to show support and awareness for the suffering of indigenous people who were forced to attend residential schools. Photo Illustration taken on September 27th 2024, in Los Angeles Calif.

Silence to Strength Indigenous Scholars Club Spread Awareness on Upcoming Orange Shirt Day Jenna Tibby | Staff Writer

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he National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, or Orange Shirt Day, is this upcoming Monday, September 30th. According to Sequoyah Thiessen, a Santa Monica College (SMC) student and the President of the Indigenous Scholars Club at SMC, it is a day about commemorating Indigenous ancestors who suffered through the Residential Boarding Schools: the survivors, their families, and the ones who didn’t make it out.

Thiessen, who is Ojibwe, is working with the club to spread awareness about the day, as well as taking time to remember their Native ancestors who attended these schools.

Residential Boarding Schools were government funded schools throughout Canada and the United States and run by various Christian denominations. They started in the 1800s and existed for over 150 years, the last school closing in 1996. More than 150,000 Indigenous children attended them

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in the United States and Canada during that time.

These schools were created as a way to take away Native culture. In a speech from 1892 Captain Richard Henry Pratt, who founded the Carlisle Indian Industrial School which was one of the most prominent residential schools in the United States, said “Kill the Indian in him, and save the man,” when speaking about the purpose behind these programs.

“You would have your hair cut. You would not be allowed to speak your language” Seqouyah Thieesan said. They would also change the names of the kids to further separate them from their heritage. “That’s actually how my grandma, who helped raise me, got

her name, Angie. Angeline.” Thiessen said, “She doesn’t even remember the name that she was given before that.”

The Indian Act, amended in 1920, made attendance mandatory, and “parents could be jailed if they refused to hand their children,” according to CBS News.

Daniele Bolelli is a professor of Native American History at SMC and has a master’s in American Indian Studies from UCLA. When talking about the program, Bolelli said, “It’s a program of complete cultural wipeout in which you as the parent, or you as the kid, have absolutely no choice in this process.”

Tuberculosis ran rampant due to poor conditions at these schools and abuse was a common

“You would have your hair cut. You would not be allowed to speak your language”

practice. The curriculum taught the kids to become workers of a lower class, such as farmers or homemakers, hindering their education further. Many Indigenous children died in these schools due to the terrible conditions, and researchers are investigating potential unmarked gravesites at boarding schools across the nation.

“Orange Shirt Day” stems from Phyllis Webstad, who recounted her story of attending one of the schools when she was 6 years old, where they took her clothes when she arrived, including her orange shirt. She said, “The color orange has always reminded me of that and how my feelings didn’t matter, how no one cared, and how I felt like I was worth nothing,” according to the Orange Shirt Society.

Today, the day is now a national holiday in Canada but Indigenous people throughout the United States also observe the day.

More than 523 residential boarding schools existed across the United States before 1969.

Thiessen said how important it is to have clubs like the Indigenous Scholars to connect with the culture the schools tried to destroy.

“A lot of people don’t realize the severity or even just the generational trauma,” She said, “Like the loss of language part. That’s the reason why I started this club. When you walk around campus and you see all these other students connecting with each other in their language, it’s actually kind of painful when you realize that even if you did know your language fully, the chances that you could speak it with somebody else in your community are really low.”

According to the Indigenous Language Institute, only about 150 Indigenous languages are still spoken today compared to more than 300 pre-colonization.

Thiessen led the Indigenous Scholars Club in creating posters to spread awareness of the day. “What it’s about for me is just having awareness because a lot of people aren’t... I don’t think that they understand the severity of the boarding schools,” She said. She wants everyone to remember that this is not that far in our past, there are still many Indigenous people alive today that went through the boarding school system.

The club’s Vice President, Aisa Ortiz, is also fighting for their history to be told. Ortiz is K’iché from the Mayan people on her dad’s side and Apache and Tepejuan on her mom’s. She said she realized how much she missed her culture when she saw pictures of people from her tribe for the first time.

“There were specific features that

I was like, oh, my God, that looks like me,” she said.

Since the club was founded last spring, more than 70 people have shown interest, and they have made a point to welcome all Indigenous communities. “It really warmed my heart that a bunch of different girls saw representation,” said Ortiz, “they saw they’re not the only ones here from another foreign place.”

Though both the Canadian and United States governments have taken some steps to account for the trauma endured in these schools, Bolellie notes the real impact is not with something symbolic, but with action. He said, “I think on a practical level there are obviously real issues that Indigenous communities want to address, like the whole theme of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women. Put the gigantic effort into further investigation into cracking down on some of that.” This refers to the movement that brings awareness and calls for action to the large number of murdered and missing Indigenous women in recent years.

These schools have also had a lasting impact on indigenous cultures. “A lot of times to get through something, you kinda just had to swallow it,” said Thiessen. She said her Grandma rarely spoke about her time at the school, and Ortiz noticed the same behavior with her Mom. It was how their ancestors coped, but the impact did not disappear.

Ortiz said, “Alcoholism and substance abuse are really

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation also known as Orange Shirt Day is on Monday, September 30th, when people wear an orange shirt to show support and awareness for the suffering of indigenous people who were forced to attend residential schools. Photo Illustration taken on September 27th 2024, in Los Angeles Calif.

prevalent on the reservations and in Indian communities.

But that’s because we forget to realize that these are generations and generations of mourning.”

According to the American Addiction Center Native people, “experience much higher rates of substance abuse compared to other racial and ethnic groups,” The 2014 White House Report on Native Youth also showed suicide and PTSD rates as three times that of the general public.

Thiessen and Ortiz are working with the members of their club to heal as a community and continue spreading all the wonderful parts of Indigenous communities that persist. On the day, they plan to wear orange to show their support and lead an ancestral prayer with

the group. “It’s almost like a moment of silence, but in a day. I’m gonna take it easy that day. I’m gonna really be kind to myself that day. And, I think just the ancestral prayer is really important just to acknowledge the ancestors and tell them that we understand them and we see their pain,” Thiessen said.

They encourage anyone who wants to wear orange on Monday, Sept. 30, to show their support and awareness of what went on in the residential schools, as well as everything that still needs to be done.

“I’m here.” Ortiz said, “I’m not forgotten, and my people don’t have to live in the shadows. And it’s possible for them just as much as it is possible for me. Because that opportunity and dream are constantly stolen.”

Photos By Jenna Tibby | The Corsair The Indigenous Scholars club in Santa Monica College (SMC) creates posters to support and bring awareness to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation known as Orange Shirt Day at SMC Humanities and Social Science building, in Santa Monica, on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. Orange Shirt Day honors the children who never returned and the survivors and families who were sent to residential school.

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Palestinian Y October 7th A By: Phoebe Huss, Copy Editor

Jake Crandall | The Corsair A protester holds a Palestinian flag above a crowd of protesters during a protest held by the Palestinian Youth Movement at Pershing Square in Downtown Los Angeles Calif., as the one-year anniversary approaches of the ongoing war in Israel and Gaza, on Saturday, October 5th, 2024.

On Oct. 5, two days before the first year anniversary of the Oct. 7 massacre in Israel, the Palestinian Youth Movement (PYM) hosted a march in Downtown Los Angeles. Almost every speaker at the event defined their purpose, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and total arms embargo against Israel. Another emergent purpose was the unification of the movements working in collaboration for this cause.

Prior to the official meeting time of 2 p.m., early birds assembled in the northeast corner of Pershing Square.

Attendees prominently dressed in green, white, red, and black, doubly referencing the flag colors of Palestine and Lebanon. Many donned black and white keffiyehs, or scarf headdresses. Many protesters were masked.

Immediately apparent was the coalition. A rumored 50 associations, movements, and groups joined PYM in the square. Representatives from the organizations socialized, recruited, and networked. Leftist outlets distributed their newspapers, including the Workers’ Vanguard and the New York (War) Crimes. Fringe speakers traded off on the mic, rallying energy and defending their home organizations. One speaker advertised his as a “good company for fighting apartheid.”

Signs ranged in severity, from “Health Care, not Warfare! Books not Bombs!” and “Zionism = Death” to “Stop Following the Bourgeois Electoral Bullshit… Start Following @BobAvakianOfficial.” Novelty T-shirts included such lampoons as “The Anti Genocide Social Club” and “I Hate a Neutral Ass Bitch;” others wore band tees. The area and occasion was prime for capitalization. For-profit vendors lined the streets selling parody T-shirts and paraphernalia.

Lots of different ideologies,” remarked a protester.Remaining anonymous, the protester brandished a handmade sign reading “Let the UN do its JOB, stop abusing veto.” He denied affiliations with any organization.

Youth Movement Commemorates Anniversary With Downtown Circuit The Palestinian Youth Movement, held a protest in downtown Los Angeles as the one year mark of the ongoing of the Isreal and Middle East conflict approaches.

“I’m here to bring my my sign and share my opinion…don’t know if the other side will be so popular,” he said, covering a roughly lined geographic map on the poster.

Shortly before 2 p.m., a small group centered the square, crashed a drum, and unleashed the first of endless call-and-response chants upon the assembly. The audience amassed, echoing the chants hastily. After generating significant energy, the leader closed his chant and urged the audience to take to the streets.

By 2:23 p.m., the street on the southbound side of Pershing was full, barricaded from 5th to 6th and confirmed closed online by LAPD’s Central Division. PYM speakers forwarded the crowd on a yellow truck, bellowing chants for the audience’s repetition. Out of earshot, the back of the crowd contributed to the noise with a differing chant in a contrasting rhythm.

“Our people will never submit to the tyranny of Zionism. We will rise in our demand of our full liberation… and refuse to die quietly in the face of a 17-year-old siege,” said a PYM speaker.

“We know liberation is imminent and return is inevitable.” Applause roared.

PYM welcomed speakers from across the coalition, including the American Indian Movement (A.I.M.). The speakers condemned a year of “deception from the Biden administration,” and drew connections between the situations in Gaza and the diaspora of Korea, as well as the displacement of Native Americans. In moments of solemnity, the current of energy trickled to the sides and back of the ensemble, while silent audiences listened, enraptured, their colossal flags nodding in the wind as soundless appraisal.

Between speakers, the audiences immediately relaunched their chanting and drumming. Mirroring instantly, the crowd crackled spontaneous calls of “Justice is our demand - no peace on stolen land!” and “There is only one solution - intifada revolution!”“How many kids have we killed today?” echoed children on bite-sized megaphones.

One woman perched a babydoll, beheaded and bloody, on her shoulder; another wore a white dress covered with the names of martyrs. A truck carried giant watermelon slices, the famous emblem of the Palestinian flag, smothered in fishing nets. At 3:23 p.m., the marching began down 6th Street. For the first time, the chanting assumed total unity in rhythm.

Nadia Mehanna, a PYM representative, acknowledged the faltering of the current. “I think it’s normal in organizing to see the fluctuation and the ebbs and flows. I think what we’re seeing now is a re-energization of the masses.”

Apexing at 4:06 p.m., the protest crossed at 1st and Main, beholding the LAPD Headquarters and Los Angeles City Hall.

“There is no amount of criminalization that will allow us to abandon our struggle,” said the PYM speaker.

“We cost the city thousands of dollars today because we shut down the streets for Palestine.” We need to start pushing more towards direct action, pushing more towards getting companies and universities (and) getting the city to divest from Israel, from genocide, from apartheid.”

In an inquest on methodology, protesters and speakers alike expressed disenchantment with electoralism. “Reject pro-genocide candidates… throw them out,” said a speaker; “whether it’s Trump or Harris, we won’t tolerate genocide,” stated another. Ryan Bernales, card-carrier for the Revolutionary Communists of America, rejected both Republican and Democratic parties, admitting defeat, “Until the working class realizes the power they have.” Mehanna commented, “I think the people that came out today know that the ruling class doesn’t support their interests.”

At approximately 4:10 p.m., Alex Guillen, a 26-year-old resident of Los Angeles, was seen spray-painting “Free Palestine!” onto police headquarters.

The drum heartbeat swelled.

The common time was punctured with crotchet triplets, accompanying cries of “Resistance is glorious!”

Marchers weaved around cars forced into park, their horns berating indistinguishable annoyance and support. Occasional drivers extended their fists or laid their horns to the beat of the chants to affirm supportive intent.

“We also give our thanks for the humanity that has been shown here today, the solidarity with our brothers and sisters” Downtown architecture, ramshackle buildings and prolonged drum thunder fostered a physical echochamber. The temperate weather, ranging in the eighties Fahrenheit, magnified among the thousands of marchers.

Drones captured footage and established ceilings from the skies and bees frolicked in the sprawling colors of the flags. A few climbing masked marchers draped flags over traffic lights.

Drums hammered ceaselessly, paired with every possible rhythmic iteration of the words “Free” and “Palestine.” For 40 minutes, the march progressed northeast.

Jake Crandall | The Corsair A Palestinian flag carried by Pro-Palestinian demonstrators stretches down the street in downtown Los Angeles

Danilo Perez | The Corsair Palestine supporter with green hijab marches through the streets of Los Angeles for the one year of ressitance on Oct. 1, 2024 at Los Angeles, Calif.

Jake Crandall | The Corsair Vehicles unable to move during a protest held by the Palestinian Youth Movement, protesters march through the streets and block traffic in Downtown Los Angeles

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Danilo Perez | The Corsair Palestine supporter stands on a traffic light pole holding a Palestine flag after the one year of ressitance march on Oct. 1, 2024 at Los Angeles, Calif.

Jake Crandall | The Corsair A woman pushing her child in a stroller, looks up at protesters who climbed onto the top of the Los Angeles Police Department headquarters sign in downtown Los Angeles Calif., during a protest held by the Palestinian Youth Movement on Saturday, October 5th, 2024.

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Protesters march down the streets of downtown Los Angeles Calif., during a protest held by the Palestinian Youth Movement as the one-year anniversary approaches of the ongoing war in Israel and Gaza, on Saturday, October 5th, 2024.

Jake Crandall | The Corsair

Drawing to an end, the drumming tightened and the chants simplified to “Gaza! Gaza!” Mics cracked, voices hoarse through dehydration, but the decibels remained astronomical.

As the march reapproached South Hill Street, a Highway Patrol car pushed in discordance. A flood of sentiment erupted from the protesters, lauding the patrollers with jeers of “LAPD KKK” and gesticulations. A legal observer from the National Lawyers Guild stated the patrol were responding to an arrest unrelated to the protest.

By 5:13 p.m., the group of marchers refilled their initial formation, welcomed with bells and whistles. At a cohesive stand-still, the national flags re-entered airspace. The final PYM speaker ended confidently: “It is very clear the Zionists have failed to crush the resistance of the Palestinian and Arab people.”

A.I.M. speaker concluded the fest with a prayer: “We give our thanks, Creator. We also give our thanks for the humanity that has been shown here today, the solidarity with our brothers and sisters, our relatives in Palestine and beyond, in Lebanon, in this particular area of the Earth that is in such turmoil right now. …For their spirits, we sacrifice a little today. We march a little today, we sweat a little today, Creator. We give our thanks for that opportunity to do so.”

Around 6:20 p.m., Guillen was apprehended by the LAPD and arrested for felony vandalism.

“Today we came out here in the streets of downtown L.A. to commemorate one year of genocide and one year of resistance,” said Mehanna. “We know it’s our role and responsibility here and… a lot of us are out here today to create a crisis in imperialism and the political establishment.”

Reflecting on the significance of the anniversary, Casanova stated, “We’re coming up on a year of this genocide and this ethnic cleansing, so it’s just a marker to remind us… (to) reinvigorate everyone and re-energize the fight.”

Photo by Mary Funsten Jenn Freeman performs in “Is It Thursday Yet?” wears a headlamp shade on her head at the Eli & Edythe Broad Stage in Santa Monica, Calif., on October 3, 2024. The solo dance, accompanied by live music and home videos, reflects Freeman’s experience following her diagnosis with Autism Spectrum Disorder at age 33.

Is it Thursday yet?

An inside look at Jenn Freeman’s latest dance performance By: Katie Easterson, Copy Editor

years old and finding herself the most empowered she’s ever been, and that whole process is extremely exciting for her.

When talking about the challenges with being diagnosed, Freeman said, “I am very aware of the challenges of finding an adult who’s getting diagnosed because most of the psychologists and practitioners are working with children, and all of the testing for autism has been created for children, so I’m aware of those hurdles.” She added, “I got lucky because when I was watching a film, I had the epiphany that I might be autistic.”

For her favorite part of the creative process, Freeman said, “I think for me it’s having something to focus on because usually my processes are– can be years. I mean, the process of making the show is years– almost three years. So I think just, like, the deep dive, I really love that. I love, like, stepping foot into something and having the like, the pull to know that you’re going in the right direction, but you never really know where you’re headed.” Freeman added, “I just love being inside that journey of discovery alongside a group of people. I feel like we’re all in it together and we’re changing together and we’re learning together.”

When it comes to letting spontaneous moments happen in the creative process, Freeman said, “I really value play, and I value spontaneity for sure. Some of my favorite moments and work have been born from a place of spontaneity. I think for me, it’s a tricky push-pull because like, I do also value structure and Photos by Mary Funsten boundaries. It’s like a fine line, right?”

Jenn Freeman performs a solo dance in the dark, accompanied “Is it Thursday Yet?” is a performance that inspires anticipaby live music at the Eli & Edythe Broad Stage in Santa Monica, tion. One that focuses on the freedom of expression, movement, Calif., on Oct. 3, 2024. and creativity that follows Jenn Freeman’s life. A story that other neurodivergent people could find comfort in, knowing eginning Oct. 3, Jenn Freeman’s latest dance performance that they’re not alone in finding themselves. The use of colors, that follows her autism diagnosis was showcased at The sounds, and movement that is effortlessly intoxicating and rich.

Eli and Edy BroadStage.

“Is It Thursday Yet?” is an original theatrical-dance perforJenn Freeman performs in solo dance, accompanied by live music mance featuring live music, dance, and home video footage and home videos, she reflects her experience following her diagnothat explores Jenn Freeman’s perspective of life after being disis with Autism Spectrum Disorder at age 33. agnosed with autism at age 33. The themes of this production, including collaboration, artistry, reflection and self-discovery, explore the freeing sensation of dance and the complex mind of Freeman.

Ilaan Mazzini, the director of programs and activations for BroadStage, explained to the Corsair what themes stood out to her in “Is It Thursday Yet?” and what the most important elements of a successful performance are from her perspective.

“Well, I am a dancer. I come from a dance background, so anytime I see someone sharing their story through movement it’s very enticing, and you know, I think BroadStage is really paying attention and is interested in topics that are on top of people’s minds or are in conversation, whether that’s social justice pieces or neurodiversity, and you know, how we as a community can be inclusive and how that can be represented on stage.”

In regard to the most important element of a successful performance, Mazzini said, “that what they’re hoping to share lands with the audience, but at the same time gives space for the audience to have their own experience.” She added, “You know, I have a long history as a dancer, and I think this piece has a bravery to it, a real full embodied experience.”

One of the most rewarding moments for Freeman is being able to stand on stage and take up space truly as herself – that taking up space as yourself can be a meaningful act. This performance is so powerful for Jenn because it’s an outlet for her to be vulnerable through an art form she loves. Freeman is 38

B

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Robert Berman Gallery Presented Hacking the Timeline at Santa Monica College Center for Media & Design, in Los Angeles Calif., on Thursday, September 19, 2024, with (L-R), Professor Pascaline Morincome from the University of Jules Verne (Far Left), Pietro Rigolo Associate Curator for Modern and Contemporary Collections at the Getty Research Institute (Left), Joel Ferree an Art-Tech of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art ( Right), and Melanie Lenz, Curator of Digital Art, at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, England (Far Right). The panel discussed the study and presentation of contemporary art regarding issues involved with cataloging the diverse history of digital media and Electronic Arts.

Hacking the Timeline By: Liz Corona, Arts & Culture Editor In an era where digital innovation shapes our cultural landscape, the panel discussion titled Hacking the Timeline: Integrating Digital Art Within Mainstream Art History brought together leading experts to explore the intricate relationship between digital art and its rightful place in the canon of art history. Hosted at the Santa Monica College (SMC) Center for Media & Design, this inperson event featured Dr. Pietro Rigolo, curator of Modern & Contemporary Art at the Getty Research Institute; Joel Ferre, director of LACMA Lab; Melanie Lenz, curator at the Victoria and Albert Museum; and Pascaline Moricome, professor at the University of Jules Verne. Walter J. Meyer, chair of the Art Department at Santa Monica College (SMC), welcomed attendees and set the stage for the discussion.

Moderated by Michael J. Masucci, the discussion delved into the challenges and opportunities of incorporating the rich, diverse history of digital, media, and electronic arts into mainstream narratives. With Santa Monica’s Mayor Phil Brock in attendance, the panel addressed critical questions about cultural awareness, the role of institutions, and the key figures who have championed art.

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Santa Monica College hosts panel discussion on integrating digital art into mainstream art history

This event was part of Robert Berman Gallery’s contribution to the Getty initiative Pacific Standard Time: Art & Science Collide, co-sponsored by Santa Monica College, L.A. ACM SIGGRAPH (the Los Angeles Chapter of the Association for Computing Machinery’s Special Interest Group in Computer Graphics), and the DNA Festival Santa Monica, along with 18th Street Arts Center, EZTV, and Bergamot Arts Center. The night shined a spotlight on the importance of preserving and advocating for digital art in out ever-evolving society Digital art is not just a new medium, it's a revolutionary force reshaping our understanding of creativity and culture in today's world. Incorporating digital art into the canon of art history is essential for several reasons. It recognizes the significant impact of technology on artistic practices, which reflects how society has evolved and challenged traditional beliefs of authorship and originality.

Understanding these changes helps us appreciate the dynamic relationship between art and technology.

Digital art also highlights diverse voices and perspectives that are often overlooked in traditional narratives. By acknowledging these contributions, we enrich our understanding of artistic innovation.

Robert Berman Gallery Presented Hacking the Timeline at Santa Monica College Center for Media & Design, in Los Angeles Calif., on Thursday, September 19, 2024, with (L-R) Micheal J Masucci one the founders of the EZTV Museum and serves as a Commissioner on the Santa Monica Arts Commission ( Left), Professor Pascaline Morincome from the University of Jules Verne (Right), discuss how different types of tools were developed by arts as digital technology began to progress and the importance of preserving these inventions.

As Masucci said, “It’s not about taking anybody out; it’s about adding people in.” This sentiment emphasizes the need to expand our definitions of art to create a more inclusive history that represents various experiences and backgrounds.

Digital art has opened up a realm of possibilities for many artists, providing new channels for expression. We see this in movies like Coraline and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, in video games like Zelda, and even in social media platforms like Instagram. These mediums showcase how digital art, along with virtual reality and AI, advocates for more diverse voices. It also helps preserve artistic work while fostering collaboration and creative engagement across communities, lowering barriers to creating and sharing art.

During the concluding remarks, Masucci captured the essence of the discussion by reflecting on the nature of history itself. He noted that history is shaped by those who advocate for its preservation, emphasizing that it is formed by the choices of those who decide what is worthy of remembrance.

This perspective reinforces the necessity of including digital art in our collective cultural memory.

The discussions at the event highlighted how important digital art is in our lives today, reminding us that these stories deserve a place in art history. Embracing digital art not only helps us understand different artistic styles but also strengthens our connection to the diverse voices that shape our culture. By recognizing the value of digital art, we take a meaningful step toward a more inclusive view of creativity.

This view celebrates the many experiences that make us unique and allows every artist to be seen and heard.

This journey toward inclusivity is about expanding our understanding of art and honoring the vibrant stories that unite us.

For more information about the event and to explore other related events, please visit DNA Festival Santa Monica.

Photos by Jake Crandall | The Corsair Robert Berman Gallery Presented Hacking the Timeline at Santa Monica College Center for Media & Design, in Los Angeles Calif., on Thursday, September 19, 2024, with (L-R) Micheal J Masucci one the founders of the EZTV Museum and serves as a Commissioner on the Santa Monica Arts Commission ( Left), Professor Pascaline Morincome from the University of Jules Verne (Right), discuss how different types of tools were developed by arts as digital technology began to progress and the importance of preserving these inventions.

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Corsair Football Falls to Santa Ana Dons The Corsairs football team started off strong in the beginning but lost their way in the second half.

Photos by Carmen Talavera Santa Ana DB Joey Fox (7) picks up the punt and runs down the field to give his team points on the scoreboard on Sep 28, 2024 at the Corsair Stadium in Santa Monica, Calif.

“I think we didn’t come out as strong as we should have,” running back Jevan Dorbor said. “The defense gets good plays but our offense needs to be more consistent.”

Karen Lopez | Digital Editor

O

n Sept. 28, 2024, the Santa Monica College Football team (2-2) played at home against the Santa Ana College Dons (3-1) at the Corsair Field.

During the first quarter, the Corsairs scored a touchdown as quarterback Micheal Cruz completed a pass to wide receiver Maurice Herrera. The first quarter ended with Santa Monica College taking the lead 6-3.

The Dons outscored the Corsairs 14-7 in the second quarter, taking a 1713 lead into halftime. The Dons added a field goal in the third quarter and two

29 | October 9, 2024 | The Corsair

touchdowns in the fourth to extend their lead. The Corsairs cut into the lead with a touchdown pass from Cruz to Darren Tenner, but with less than two minutes left to play, it was too little too late for the Corsairs.

The game ended in a 34-20 victory for the Santa Ana College Dons. The Corsairs play their next non-conference game on Oct. 5 at 6:00pm at Compton College. For more information on SMC Football games and statistics.

“It was good for the first part,” safety Carson Cox said, “The second half got away from us in the end.”

Santa Monica DB Logan Polk (4) intercepts ball that was aimed for SAC’s WR James Farmer (2) on Sep 28, 2024 at the Corsair Stadium in Santa Monica, Calif.

Santa Monica WR Sean Grier (9) celebrating his touchdown with his teammate Cody Lambert (10) on Sep 28, 2024 at the Corsair Stadium in Santa

Santa Monica P Diego Caldera’s (85) punt gets blocked by SAC’s LB Jake Giles (30) on Sep 28, 2024 at the Corsair Stadium in Santa Monica, Calif.

Santa Monica LB Jonathan Joseph (8) and his teammate Ayden Martinez (55) both tackle SAC’s RB William Saucedo (6) on Sep 28, 2024 at the Corsair Stadium in Santa Monica, Calif.

“Our guys played extremely hard.

They had great effort, great intensity.

They work together.” Head coach Kelly Ledwith said, “We committed 5 turnovers and made a couple big mistakes at the wrong time on the special teams that lead to touchdowns. You can’t overcome that against a team that is playing well, you know. We play really well at times, but those mistakes that cost us a game.”

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Photos by Rebecca Villagarcia | The Corsair Santa Monica College women’s soccer defender Izzy Turner(3) runs towards midfielder Jacibie Martinez who is hugging midfielder Karla Torres after scoring a goal in their first conference game against Bakersfield College.

The Corsairs Start Western State Conference Play With A Victory

Corsairs Women’s soccer team opens conference play with a win over WSC foe, the Bakersfield College Renegades, 1-0.

Bri Minor | Staff Writer Karen Lopez | Digital Editor

T

he Santa Monica College women’s soccer team played the Bakersfield College Renegades at home on Tuesday, Oct. 1. In addition to opening conference play, the Corsairs recognized Breast Cancer Awareness month with each player wearing a pink bow. “It is October 1 which signifies Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the color pink correlates with Breast Cancer Awareness,” Corsairs’ center midfielder Madeleine Alban said. “We thought we would show our love and support for this month in this kind of awareness by wearing these bows.”

With great offense and team coordination already at work early in the match, the Corsairs’ defender Ariana Maldonado earned a corner kick. However, the kick was blocked by Renegades’ goalkeeper Mer-

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cedes Ramirez. gades’ forward Giselle Cardenas attempted Ramirez had impressive defense, blocking a shot, but it was blocked by Maldonado. shot attempts made by Corsairs’ forwards The Corsairs regained possession, with Zuleyka Ortiz and Valeria Romo. The Cortwo final shot attempts made by forward sairs didn’t let up, keeping possession on Alinna Savaterre, one of which was blocked their side for the beginby Ramirez. The other ning of the first half. In went out of bounds “We thought we would the 21st minute, Coras the first half endsairs’ midfielder Karla ed with the Corsairs show our love and Torres scored the first leading 1-0. support by wearing these and only goal of the Corsairs’ forward, night.

Jacky Hernandez, bows.”

The Renegades atstarted the second tempted to come back with a corner kick half passing the ball into the center field to by defender Brooklynn Tucker, but it was the opponent’s side. Hernandez passed to defended by the Corsairs. The Renegades midfielder Jacibe Martinez who cleared the started to step up their offense by obtaining ball closer to the Renegades. a foul on Corsairs’ center-midfielder Mia As the ball was thrown into play and Shoua by forward Mayson Saffouri. Rene- passed around, Torres attempted to score

Santa Monica College’s (SMC) defender Carmen Talavera (L) defends Bakersfield College’s defender Emily Vincent (R) as she heads the ball. SMC women’s soccer defeated Bakersfield College 1-0.

another goal, but the shot went wide.

“We also had a shutout. 1-0. So, we did not Afterwards, the Corsairs and Reneget any goals in, which is really important,” gades continued to counterattack each Alban said. “I think we had a great game. It other until Corsairs’ goalie Jacinda was really intense. We definitely could have Hevesy-Rodriguez cleared the ball outgot more goals in.” of-bounds. “ The game went well. I think it was a good However, a collision broke out begame to start off this season. Although, you tween Renegades’ midfielder and know, us as a team, we still hold high expecdefender Emily Vincent tations. I think the thing and Corsairs’ defender we are hoping to find “This was a really throughout the season Carmen Talavera. This led to Vincent getting to make more goals,” good test of what is isCorsairs’ subbed out, and replaced Assistant coming ahead of us.” Coach Yosemite Cruz by midfielder Melody Christian. As the Corsairs said. “What we know - Yosemite Cruz successfully executed a we are capable of doing one-two pass, Corsairs’ but otherwise this was a forward Alinna Savaterre obtained a really good game. This was a really good test yellow card. Afterwards, the Corsairs of what is coming ahead of us. I think the girls gained a free kick, while the Renegades are getting a good understanding of where obtained a yellow card as a team. The we got to go and where we got to be to really game ended with Corsairs defeating succeed in our season this year.”

Renegades 1-0.

The next game is on Friday, Oct. 4, against “I think it went really well. We play the West Los Angeles Wildcats, an away really well together. We were a cohegame at 4 p.m. For more information regardsive team. We built out from the back,” ing SMC women’s soccer team can be found Hevesy-Rodriguez said. “We were able at smccorsairs.com. to circulate back and forth and switch Santa Monica College’s center mida lot. Also, we skip over them. We just fielder Mia Shova(L) challenges Baplayed really well as a team. I am really kersfield College’s midfielder Melanie proud of us.”

Mendizabal(R) for possession of ball.

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2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup

LAFC Wins 3-1 Final Against Sporting Kan Danilo Perez | Photojournalist In the final match of the 109th Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup (USOC), the Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) prevented Sporting Kansas City (Wizards) from claiming their fifth USOC title after an intense match at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, Califo rnia. The match ended in a 3-1 victory for LAFC on Wednesday, Sept.

25, 2024 in front of over 22 thousand people. New LAFC signing and French superstar, Olivier Giroud scored the first goal of the game early in the second half which gave them the lead.

The victory let LAFC walk away with the 33 | October 9, 2024 | The Corsair

competition’s grand prize of $300,000 with the Wizards as runners-up pocketed $100,000. LAFC won their first USOC trophy in their franchise history.

Both teams started strong in the first half with constant pressure, both having shots on target. It was LAFC that seemed to be the most dangerous team on the pitch, the ball being played in the Wizards side.

Wizards having a more accurate shot on target and any chances created were stopped by LAFC keeper Hugo Lloris to keep the half at a nil-nil standstill.

The former AC Milan striker, Olivier Giroud turned the game in LAFC’s favor after

scoring a tap in goal in the 53rd-minute after a cross from Mateusz Bogusz. It was a short-lived lead as the Wizards had an opportunity to tie it 1-1 and took it after Wizard Erik Thommy scored only seven minutes later in the 60th-minute.

After going back and forth for a total of 92-minutes, the second half ended in a 1-1 tie leading into overtime.

In 10-minutes of extra time, LAFC’s left back found the back of the net in the 102 minute to give them the lead. Not long after the 40-year old forward Kei Kamara scored the game-winning goal for LAFC and won both French legends Lloris and Giroud their first trophy with the team in

their first

As the re match, th stadium in the air first time

LAFC, cu ern Confe spot in th

Sporting Kansas CIty defender Logan Ndenbe(18) keeps the ball away from LAFC midfielder Mateusz Bogusz during the final of the U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, Calif. (left) Photos

by Danilo Perez | The Corsair

LAFC midfielder Timothy Tillman(L) unable to stop Erik Thommy(R) during the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Final on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, Calif. (right)

nsas City

t season of the MLS.

eferee blew for full time to end the he 3252 LAFC fans rumbled the celebrating and throwing liquids r as LAFC lifted the trophy for the e.

urrently second in the MLS Westference as of Sept. 28, clinched a he playoffs.

LAFC 3252 fans lift the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Trophy after LAFC’s 3-1 victory against Sporting Kansas City on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, Calif.

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