Issue 767- 26 February 2025

Over 60 societies sign open letter to Guild

Rosie

Editor-in-Chief and Deputy Editor

MORE than 60 societies have signed an open letter to the University of Exeter Students’ Guild standing against Islamophobia.

This comes after the publication of Exeposé’s investigation into islamophobic statements which were made at a talk held by Freedom Society in October 2024 (Issue 766). A statement made by the Guild at time of publishing was deemed insufficient by dozens of societies, who have reposted a statement on their official Instagram accounts, the first being that of Student Action For Refugees (STAR). This reads: “Student Action For Refugees (STAR) society stands united against islamophobia and demands Exeter Students’ Guild take action now.”

The full letter, included in the caption shared by every society partaking, reads, “Our society stands united against Islamophobia. On campus, in our city, and in our daily lives. We call upon the student Guild to take seriously the recently exposed hateful rhetoric spread at Freedom Society events, as it fosters an unsafe environment for the Exeter community.

“[Exeter Student’s Guild] have a duty

of care, and must actively combat activities that threaten the safety of students and staff. Universities are places of free speech. But when hateful comments actively intimidate and endanger other people, our institutions must intervene. To remain neutral is to neglect their responsibilities, and accept harm to people in our community.

“We stand united with dozens of other societies in this message. We expect more from our Students’ Guild.” At time of printing, this has been posted by 64 societies.

In the days following the publication of Exeposé’s investigation, a student-led petition titled ‘Stop Hosting Hate: Urge Exeter Venues to Reject Freedom Society Events’ has been started, alongside a boycott of The White Hart, a pub on South Street, where Freedom Society regularly hosts events.

The student who started the petition told Exeposé: “We believe in freedom of speech, however, that freedom does not make one immune to the consequences of said speech. The abhorrent remarks made by Freedom fall under the category of hate speech and it is the duty of society to repudiate it. Exeter University is already perceived as an unwelcoming place for minorities (as compared to other Russell Group universities).

“Therefore, by making a petition with the goal of making hate speech harder to disseminate, students of the University have the opportunity to denounce hate speech and take meaningful action against it. We must make it clear that we do not welcome hate in our community and that we are ready to fight it.”

Many of the signatories of the open letter expressed support for this boycott; a spokesperson for Rethinking society said, “Many of our members support the petition to boycott these venues, because the issues highlighted by the scandal do not only affect our campus but are carried through Exeter and wherever their rhetoric is heard.

“We believe it’s indicative of a sharp rise in fascist and far-right politics in Europe and America. It is important that we show up to protect and work with those most marginalised in society.”

A spokesperson for Socialist Society further stated, “A group of students went to Freedom Society’s event at The White Hart to disrupt it. The plan was to speak over them so they couldn’t hold their talk. This succeeded and eventually all of Freedom Society left the meeting room. This kind of action is what’s necessary to remove hate from our campus when the Guild won’t.”

The White Hart were approached for a comment but had not replied by the time of publication.

In late 2022, another open letter was written to the Students’ Guild in response to a talk held by Freedom Society titled “Daddy Issues: The Crisis of Fatherlessness”. Despite support from multiple societies, Freedom Society remained active in the wake of the criticism.

The Society has previously hosted controversial speakers and events, a recent speaker including David Starkey, who resigned from Fitzwilliam College at Cambridge University in 2020 after making comments on slavery which were labelled

“racist” and an example of “appalling views” by former Chancellor of the Exchequer Sajid Javid, an Exeter alumnus.

A spokesperson for Youth Demand, one of the signatories, told Exeposé, “Islamophobic and racist rhetoric like Freedom encourages violent action against racial and religious minorities which cannot be ignored.

“If the Guild does not take steps to tackle this, the student body will have to.” The Socialist Society shared this sentiment, telling Exeposé “The Freedom Society’s recent islamophobic comments are abhorrent and should be condemned, but this is typical behaviour which they have been displaying for a long time.”

Exeposé asked Rethinking Society to share their expectations of the Guild’s response to the open letter. A spokesperson stated, “We are hoping that our open letter will spark a larger discussion and initiative from the Guild to assess why Freedom Society has been able to act with relative impunity over several incredibly controversial instances of misogyny, classism, and racism (including islamophobia).

“We also hope that the Guild not only understands that freedom of speech doesn’t mean freedom of consequences, but actually takes initiative to meet it’s value of ‘radical inclusion’, such as creating structures for students to be involved in dialogue about these issues but mainly a platform for students and staff to engage in ‘radical inclusion’.”

Editors

Print: Gracie Moore and Amy Rushton

Online: Callum Martin and Katie Matthews

Print Deputies: Charlie Gershinson, Rosie PetersMcDonald, Agata Koralewska

Online Deputies: Emily Roughton and Amberly Wright editors@exepose.com

News Editors

Print: Isabella van der Putten and Nina Exton

Online: Eva Holland and Anvi Deshpande news@exepose.com

Features Editors

Print: Honor Borley and Bella MacLusky

Online: Michelle Chung and Jo Howard features@exepose.com

Climate Editors

Print: Charlie Gershinson

Online: Harriet Ball

Comment Editors

Print: Tom Richardson

Online: Sophie Zoltowski comment@exepose.com

Satire Editors

Print: Audrey Alvey

Online Caspian Davies

Lifestyle Editors

Print: Anna Spencer and Katie Roberts

Online: Jasmine Payne and Imogen Pearey lifestyle@exepose.com

Editors

Arts + Lit

Print: Judy Dodd and Kayleigh Swart

Online: Emily Sara Rizzo and Owen Peak artsandlit@exepose.com

Music Editors

Print: Harry Morrison and Brooke Taylor

Online Zandie Howells music@exepose.com

Screen Editors

Print: Pollyanna Roberts and Charlie McCormack

Online Bronwyn Payne and Dumebi Jibunoh screen@exepose.com

International Editors

Print: Henry Anderson and Jed H. Gibbins

Online: Magdalena Kanecka and Annabel Jeffery

Sci-Tech Editors

Print: Ella-Jade Smith Online Daniel Grayshon sciandtech@exepose.com

Sport Editors

Print: Eloise Grainger and Ben Scott

Online: Reuben Moynihan-Case and Connor Myers sport@exepose.com

Social Media Executive: Eleanor Stewart

Finance Executive: Rhys Thomas

@exepose

@exepose facebook.com/exepose issuu.com/exeposeexeter

Editorial

WELCOME to another issue! February marks LGBTQ+ History Month so this issue we will be celebrating icons of the community, and discussing sexuality and gender today. Within this issue, you can read Exepogay which includes experiences from our very own writers, Guild events to mark the month and Exeter's queer history. On a more personal note, as queer women ourselves this is an incredibly important issue to us and we hope we do it justice. As ever, if there's an important issue at the University or in Exeter we've missed, please email us at editors@exepose.com. For the queer community and allies, have a fantastic LGBTQ+ History Month!

In this issue, News explores the experiences of Israeli and Palestinian students at Exeter (Page 3), interviews a local charity raising awareness for "pant poverty" (Page 6) and more. Features discusses the AIDS crisis of the '80s and '90s (Page 9) and Comment examines the efficacy of the Students' Guild officers (Page 13). Meanwhile, Satire promotes making Vaults gay again (Page 14). Over in Exhibit, Lifestyle celebrate their LGBTQ+ icons (Page 16) and Music provides us with an LGBTQ+ playlist (Page 21). Screen review A Complete Unknown (Page 22) while Exetera Exetera... discuss internalised homphobia and delve into the archive for Exeposé's queer history (Page 24). Also in this issue, the multilingual article in International discusses Milan

Fashion Week — in Italian! (Page 27) and Sci-Tech analyses the AI summit in Paris (Page 29). Finally, Sport cover Exeter's FA Cup journey (Page 30) as well as the recent events of the Superbowl (Page 32).

If you have any questions about joining the paper, please check out our socials @exepose. We hope you enjoy reading this issue and a huge thank you to all our writers, editors and proofers!

Gracie and Amy

University news home and abroad

Modern language courses at risk as universities cut jobs

THE BBC has reported that almost three quarters of universities in England will face financial problems in 2025.

Since this figure was reported, it has been presumed that certain departments will receive funding cuts and staff redundancies.

Now we can see that one of the first areas affected by the university cash crisis is the modern language departments.

The UWN has stated that "mod ern languages are in danger of dying out."

Japanese university to give fee cut to poorer students outside city

TNon-Russell group universities have seen a decrease in offering subjects such as French, Spanish and German.

This is also creating a bigger divide between Russell group and non-Russell group universities. This change is expected to come into full force throughout the year, with 88 universities already undergoing redundancies, restructuring schemes or department closures. Many academics may be at risk of losing jobs.

HE University of Tokyo will be offering a 25 per cent tuition reduction for children of low-income parents, beginning this April. To be eligible, students will have to meet six requirements, including living in prefectures outside the greater Tokyo metropolitan area and belonging to a household not earning more than nine million yen (approximately £47,000) annually. For Japan’s most prestigious university, this is not the only program to help young people in need. The University of Tokyo also currently entirely exempts students with families earning four million yen (approximately £21,000) from paying tuition. According to sources, the university is struggling to secure diversity, with the tuition reduction hoping to broaden its enrolment base. The 25 percent fee reduction will coincide with a 20 percent raise in annual tuition for students not exempt.

Flemish universities adopt new approach to Israeli partners

BELGIAN universities are not allowing cooperation agreements with any future Israeli partners after an open letter from Flemish students. The letter urging universities to sever all ties with Israeli institutions was signed by almost 6,700 students and staff across the country including notable activist Greta Thunberg. Prominent universities such as The Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) have moved to sever ties with both Israeli and Palestinian universities to commit to “the demands of the International Court of Justice”.

In addition, any ongoing projects with Is raeli universities will be subjected to a full internal review due to “the seriousness of the conflict”.

Reports of army call-up for women raises fears for students

MThis boycott may strain diplomatic relations between the two countries in light of Israel’s ongoing military offensive in Gaza.

YANMAR'S military junta has expanded its conscription law to include young women, despite an official exemption for students. Initially enacted in February 2024, the law mandates military service for men aged 18-35 and women aged 18-27. Reports indicate that authorities in Yangon and Shan State are compiling lists of eligible women, including high school students, for military training. Fear has spread among families, with some students fleeing the country. Forced recruitment has been widely reported, with young men abducted from schools and public places. Resistance groups claim that conscripted individuals are being sent to the frontlines. Some students have avoided service through bribery, while others are being pressured to join university reserve forces. Since February 2024, at least 21,000 people have been conscripted, with thousands deployed to combat zones.

By

Kayleigh Swart,

Proofers: Gracie Moore, Amy Rushton, Charlie Gershinson, Agata Koralewska, Rosie Peters-McDonald, Ben Frankland

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How the Gaza conflict is shaping student experiences and academic freedom

THE ongoing conflict in Gaza has had a significant impact on students at the University of Exeter, with Palestinian and Israeli students and societies reporting deep divisions, and feelings of isolation.

A recent survey conducted among Palestinian and Israeli students at Exeter along with an interview with Friends of Palestine reveals how the crisis influences student experiences. In the survey, 100 per cent of Palestinian students and 75 per cent of Israeli students said that being in the UK had affected their perspective on the conflict. One Israeli student explained, “Being away exposes me more to narratives from the other side, but also makes me feel incredibly isolated."

Another Israeli student pointed to the disparity between media portrayals and lived experiences: “The UK’s coverage is so different to what families are facing”. Although Palestinian students echo the sentiment of their perspective changing since being in the UK, they expressed a different kind of distance: “I feel like I’m able to escape the horror by being in the UK," one student said. “I can choose to not watch the news and switch off. People in Gaza don’t have that privilege."

Despite their differing viewpoints, both Palestinian and Israeli students overwhelmingly agreed that the wider university community lacks an informed understanding of the crisis, with 100 per cent of respondents answering ‘No’ when asked if they felt their peers were well-informed. One Israeli student said, “the only narrative allowed in Exeter is an anti-Israeli one… the lack of open, respectful and academic conversation in an institution of education is so saddening." Another explained that their peers are “hopping on the trend on social media” without genuine

engagement. Meanwhile, a Palestinian student dismissed the student body as indifferent: “People are too privileged to care." Others were more critical of what they saw as performative activism: “I hate woke people who pretend to care about Palestine when they don’t”.

The divisions extend beyond rhetoric and into students’ experiences on campus. When asked whether they had faced discrimination, 50 per cent of Palestinian students said they had, while 50 per cent said they had not. Among Israeli students, 50 per cent reported facing discrimination, 25 per cent said they had not, and 25 per cent described their experiences as ambiguous. One Israeli student recounted, “I have been looked at and treated poorly by the protesters before. I have been ridiculed for stating opposing views. I was followed at one point by a group of protesters around [the] Forum."

Friends of Palestine echoed these concerns, stating that Palestinian students often face intimidation and malice: “the reason Friends of Palestine is currently run by a non-Palestinian committee is because Palestinian students had concerns for their safety holding these positions. During our Welcome Fair stall in September, where our presence pertained to being a safe space for Palestinian students, students would often steal resources from our stall and run away giggling, as well as holding up signs calling us anti-Semitic in our faces while feigning conversation. We have also had our faces posted onto Zionist social media “CAMERA” accounts without our consent." CAMERA is a pro-Israel media publication dedicated to “promoting fair, accurate and balanced coverage of Israel in the media." One of the organisation’s branches, CAMERA on Campus, reports on antisemitic and anti-Israel biases felt at universities, such as when Exeter declined an invitation to participate in a Kristallnacht commemoration this past November. The ability to freely express one’s

identity and political beliefs has also been challenged. Among Israeli students, 100 per cent said they did not feel safe expressing themselves. “The popular and viral narrative now is that Israel is a horrible and colonial state that is executing a massive genocide, and every Israeli is a coloniser. This makes my identity a liability, honestly," one student said. Palestinian students were divided, with 50 per cent saying they felt safe and 50 per cent saying they did not. One student said they felt “comfortable around everyone aside from pro-Israeligovernment people."

Friends of Palestine also described a lack of safety: “due to the intimidation faced on campus, including being consistently spied on and monitored by CAMERA-affiliated students, as well as the lack of any support or protection from the University, many Palestinian students feel they cannot safely express their views at all."

When it comes to institutional support, both groups expressed disappointment. Every Israeli student surveyed said the University had failed to provide adequate support, with one student stating, “The University is under so much fire already for association with anything Israeli, so they avoid supporting us like the plague." Another added, “They are too scared of backlash." Palestinian students were split down the middle, with 50 per cent feeling the University had provided adequate support and 50% per cent disagreeing. Friends of Palestine were more critical: ““The Student Guild has systematically failed to protect students from violently racist remarks, and the University has not even been able to provide adequate mental health support to Palestinian students, including those who have lost family to Israel’s genocide."

The Exeter Students' Guild acknowledged the difficulties faced by students in a statement:

“We understand that this is an extremely difficult time that is impacting our diverse student community. The ongoing conflict and suffering have, understandably, brought intense feelings, which can be particularly hard for students affected by events in the Middle East, their families and loved ones here in Exeter and further afield.

You can access many different support channels, including the University Chaplaincy or Wellbeing services, for ongoing wellbeing support. We also have our Advice team, who can help if it’s impacting your academic studies — they’re always there to listen and offer confidential advice. Our Communities team has also maintained direct relationships with affected communities to ensure they are given the support they need.

This conflict has raised a number of student concerns that we have carried to the University. This has

included the University’s investments and partnerships and ensuring it offers adequate support for rebuilding higher education in Palestine. Our Officers have been working with University groups on these issues alongside other students with experience and expertise in these areas. Additionally, the Guild supports student groups that run their own activities. This has included protests that allow students’ voices to be heard and educational events where students can learn from each other and discuss ongoing issues."

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the University commented, "we remain deeply concerned and distressed by the violence in Israel, Palestine and the Middle East. Our thoughts are with all those who are suffering as a result, wherever they are in the world.

"We are working directly with those members of our community who are most affected by this ongoing conflict, to hear their experiences and to offer our support. The University is committed to promoting a culture of debate, built on the principle of tolerance of different views and beliefs. We are unambiguous in our support for all colleagues and students at this time, including our commitment to protecting the right to debate openly and freely, as well as the protection of freedom of speech and academic freedom, alongside our duty of care to our community."

Beyond the institutional constraints, Friends of Palestine provided a statement from a student at Exeter who wished to remain anonymous about the experience of being a Palestinian in the UK: “Israel is a settler colonial project in Palestine, and as long as the University of Exeter is not dealing with its Palestinian students based on this fact, it is indeed complicit in all of the Zionist crimes against the State of Palestine. We, as Palestinian students and academics at the University of Exeter, expect to at least have our collective trauma, triggered by the Israeli settler colonial project, addressed by our University.”

Friends of Palestine also addressed what they feel is a misconception: “That a “ceasefire” means this is over. International law was and still continues to be broken, Palestinians in the West Bank are still being murdered by settlers, and the right to self determination for Palestinians is still under threat daily. We’ve found that our collective student action has greatly improved the conversations we have as a student community about our university’s values and how greater transparency between a university and its students stands to benefit us all."

The broader climate of campus dialogue remains fraught. In the survey, Israeli and Palestinian students were evenly split when asked if there was space for healthy discussion. One Israeli student noted, “I think those who have actually been to Israel or Palestine could

have the conversation, but all of the political warriors who jump on causes wouldn’t listen." A Palestinian student, however, argued, “it’s a genocide; there is no major discussion to be had."

Friends of Palestine described their experience with dialogue on campus, stating: “at Palestine Action events, we have always remained open to constructive dialogue with the public. However, the majority of this comes from non-affiliated students who either want to get involved or understand our motives and message. It is rare that we have been approached by Zionist students for anything other than crude and offensive remarks. Whether it be from jeering at lists of martyred children, walking over a banner that reads “Stop supporting genocide”, or CAMERA-affiliated students filming our faces, it is clear that Zionist societies have little interest in making us feel welcome on campus."

When asked if they believe there is space for healthy dialogue, they responded: “we will continue to stand for a constructive conversation between students at this university. What we will not do is platform or condone the rhetoric of Zionism, an ideology which the UN General Assembly decreed “a form of racism and racial discrimination” in G.A. Resolution 3379. Just as we ardently oppose the University’s support for fascism on campus through Freedom Soc, we reject the platforming of Zionism through the Zionist Society, and all others which subscribe to its hateful doctrine or are supported by the CAMERA organisation."

Friends of Palestine have taken steps to prepare their members for difficult interactions on campus, explaining, “all members of our community are regularly offered non-violence and de-escalation training; this prepares us very well for the regular occurrences in which people engage us with opposing viewpoints, often aggressively and in bad faith. We are trained to not react emotionally, to calmly explain our motivations, to empathise with disruption and distress experienced — and if our safety cannot be guaranteed, to back off. Using these tactics, we have de-escalated situations where members of the public have threatened physical violence and stolen our materials. Safety is our number one priority when it comes to interacting with opposing viewpoints, especially those fuelled by the violence of Zionism." They have also been active in raising awareness: “Friends of Palestine organised movie nights screening awardwinning Palestinian documentaries such as Five Broken Cameras, the society explained. “This gives people a chance to see what life has been like following the founding of a Zionist state and show how the fundamental culture of Palestine continues to thrive despite the oppression its people face."

Isabella van der Putten and Nina Exton News Editors

Image: Pexels

“We call on the Guild and the University to take necessary actions”

Continued from the front page

"THERE isn't a one size fits all answer to this, but currently [The Guild] only surveys [and] it rarely implements student perspective."

The University of Exeter Students’ Guild publicised their response to the open letter on the 19th February, stating, “We are proud of how you have come together to stand in solidarity against Islamophobia and in support of our Muslim students. Islamophobia has no place in Exeter, and we know the harm that incidents like this can cause within our community.” The Guild added that “it was not known by the organisers that the speaker was not a University of Exeter student, and therefore this event was not subject to our thorough external speaker processes which would have reduced risks surrounding a discussion on this topic.” The response also outlined multiple reviews the Guild plan on conducting as a result of the open letter, including “a review of the intersection between the new free speech duties, [the Guild’s] Code of Conduct, and the University Dignity and Respect policy,” alongside “risk management processes for societies,

working specifically with the University on a targeted mandatory training offer for societies hosting external speakers or discussions on topics likely to be polarising.”

Exeposé asked Rethinking Society for their thoughts on this statement, with a spokesperson stating: “Their response will remain insufficient as long as Freedom Society retains relative impunity. A change in policy over risk assessment will not change the fact that Freedom Soc has a history of hate speech beyond invited speakers, and the Guild should do more to engage with people's personal experiences with them. Many members of the societies that have signed the open letter have had bad experiences with Freedom members, but the Guild's failure to engage seriously with this has created an environment where those affected do not feel that they can come forward.”

“Their response will remain insufficient as long as Freedom Society retains relative impunity.”

Rethinking Society

A Guild spokesperson later told

Exeposé , “On Monday, we received an open letter which has been shared with us by a number of societies who feel let down by our handling of the Freedom Society investigation. We have continued to listen and reflect on the events that took place and will be learning from these and building practice in a number of areas. You can read our latest statement on our website, which provides more information and clarity about what we’re doing with our processes and procedures to ensure that everything is in place to stop this happening again. We are also talking to impacted students and student leaders, understanding what more can be done to tackle Islamophobia in our community and coming up with collective actions to make Exeter a safer and more inclusive place.”

A spokesperson for the University of Exeter said, “The University is clear that there is absolutely no place or justification for any instances of discrimination, hate or harassment and we are committed to ensuring our community is safe and welcoming for everyone. We encourage anyone who may experience any such behaviour to report it immediately so it can be investigated through the appropriate channels."

Freedom Society were approached for a comment but had not responded by time of printing. However, a statement published on their Instagram on the 17th February in response to “recent events" stated that the society “stands firmly against Islamophobia and all forms of discrimination that threaten free expression, open debate, and mutual respect.” The statement also announced a revision of the society’s “risk assessment and speaker policy”, as well as “internal changes on the vetting of speakers.”

The Islamic Society told Exeposé “We, the Islamic Society, denounce

the Islamophobic remarks made at an event held by Freedom Society. We strongly believe that there is no place for such hate speech at our university and call on the Guild and the University to take necessary actions. If you have been affected or distressed in any way by the comments made, please reach out to us on our social media @exeterisoc.” If you have been affected by this content, you are encouraged to contact wellbeing at wellbeing@exeter.ac.uk. Additional support can be found through the charity Islamophobia Support Unit at theory.org.uk.

Student charity in the fight against ‘pant poverty’

Gracie Moore Editor-in-Chief

ET'S Get Our Knickers

LIn a Twist (LGOKIAT) is a charity founded by Serena Chamberlain in 2022 who was a student at the University of Durham. She was inspired not only by the issue of women’s safety and wellbeing but also wanted to create a safe space for women during Durham’s bad spiking outbreak. Exeposé spoke to Emma Cowan, who

is a representative of the charity at Exeter, about the charity’s mission. Charity shops and other secondhand clothing stores cannot sell underwear so an estimated 500 million women and girls worldwide lack access to affordable underwear.

Emma said: “while pant poverty and period poverty come hand in hand, and whilst period poverty is often taken up by big charities such as Oxfam, the underwear part is often forgotten.”

In the UK and the USA, underwear tops the most urgent clothing

needs list in women’s shelters.

LGOKIAT are a non-profit organisation that provides vulnerable women with clean underwear, working with shelters to provide support for women who are victims of homelessness, domestic abuse, addiction, sex work and those who have had contact with the criminal justice system.

In order to provide to those who need the support, LGOKIAT collect donations in the form of money or packaged and unused underwear and then distribute them to shelters both nationally and internationally. On the recent international donations, Emma said: “recent donations have gone to Ukraine, Texas and Melbourne to help victims of conflict or disaster that have been displaced.”

Emma mentioned the charity’s ‘dual empowerment’ model which “empowers women we donate to and those of us who volunteer and support the charity with fundraising and community building.

“This helps create a sustainable cycle of support and solidarity amongst young women.”

As of January 2025, 15,371 pairs of underwear have been donated with 40 different centres being

reached, over three continents.

On her role as an ambassador for the charity, Emma said she works with university societies to create events, raise donations and awareness. At the moment, she is trying to set up a ‘pink pants party’ and collaborate with societies like the Body Society.

For further financial support, LGOKIAT also sells hoodies and calendars whereby 100 per cent of all profits go straight to

the charity. The calendars aim to empower models to feel their best and the location of the photos aim to break down the sexist stigma surrounding women’s underwear.

LGOKIAT has room for more ambassadors. Go to www. letsgetourknickersinatwist.org to find out more, or find the charity on Instagram and TikTok at @letsgetourknickersinatwist.

Image: LGOKIAT

Image: LGOKIAT

Image: Exeter Students’ Guild

Yellow ribbons appear on Streatham Campus

Gracie Moore Editor-in-Chief

THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS CONTENT RELATING TO WAR AND CONFLICT WHICH SOME READERS MAY FIND DISTRESSING

YELLOW ribbons have been tied around stair bannisters and trees across campus over the last few weeks.

Yellow ribbons have been tied around stair bannisters and trees across campus over the last few weeks

The yellow ribbon is said to be a symbol of solidarity with the hostages in Israel, calling for their safe return as well as showing support for their families.

The symbol originated in the United States during the 1979 Iran hostage crisis in which 52

Americans were held hostage. Even back then, yellow ribbons were worn on lapels or tied around trees and lamp posts — the same is currently being seen on our campus.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum introduced the yellow ribbon in 2023 as a symbol to call for the safe return of hostages currently held by Hamas, occasionally appearing alongside the slogan, “Bring Them Home Now". More than 250 hostages were captured by Hamas following the attacks of October. 7 and, as of the 6th February, 136 are still being held in captivity.

A ceasefire came into effect on the 19th January, and the yellow ribbons are part of a nationwide effort to recognise the ongoing plight of individuals kept as hostages on both sides of the conflict.

Originally, when these hostages were first captured, sympathisers took to the streets in Israel to hand out yellow ribbons.

Alongside Exeter, five other campuses have begun to display these yellow ribbons — Birmingham, Leeds, Cambridge,

Sussex and Nottingham. On the ribbons, Sami Berkoff, Union of Jewish Students President, said, “It is clear that Jewish students are not aligned in fighting to keep the awareness and understanding of the plight of the hostages in Gaza present amongst the campus conversations about this war. We must keep campaigning and raising awareness until every hostage is returned home.”

Exeposé approached Jewish Society for a comment, who said: “The yellow ribbons around campus serve as a quiet yet powerful reminder of the Israeli hostages still being held in Gaza. Their suffering should not be ignored and we hope these ribbons prompt more people to recognise the importance of this issue. [The ribbons] remind us to engage in dialogue ensuring the hostages’ return and a peaceful future.”

“The ribbons remind us to engage in dialogue ensuring the hostages’ return and a peaceful future”e Israeli and Zionist Society

On the 20th February, Jewish Society also released orange balloons in honour of Israeli bodies that were

returned to Israel that morning.

The Israeli and Zionist Society added: “it pains us our hostages are not home yet and we will continue to advocate for them as long as needed. Above all, hostage situations are a humanitarian crisis, and the ribbons on campus are a reminder to not forget this, politics aside.”

“Hostage situations are a humanitarian crisis and the ribbons on campus are a reminder to not forget this, politics aside”e

Israeli and Zionist Society

Exeposé then also approached ELE4PAL (Exeter Liberation for Palestine) who stated: “there is also no mention of why the number of Palestinian hostages released is so much higher than that of Israeli hostages released; which is because Israel holds thousands more Palestinian hostages in vile, inhumane conditions.

“Palestinians released from

being a hostage to Israel are traumatised to the core, and we mourn for the life they have missed while being held by Israel.”

“We continue to stand up for Palestinian liberation and will not stop until it is met.”

“We continue to stand up for Palestinian liberation, and will not stop until it is met.”

On the appearance of the yellow ribbons on campus, a spokesperson for the University of Exeter said: "The University is aware of the yellow ribbon campaign, carried out at the Streatham Campus. The University is committed to the protection of freedom of speech, academic freedom, and the right to debate, protest and campaign openly and freely, providing it is carried out safely, respectfully and within the law."

Sleep under the stars in Exeter to help fight homelessness

Amberly Wright Online Deputy Editor

MEMBERS of the Exeter community will brave a chilly winter night at St James Park on Friday 14th March, to raise money for the homeless. The event is organised by the Exeter City Community Trust, who have already developed a housing programme in 2021 for those living on the streets. The housing programme helps residents to develop important life skills for employment and living, whilst supporting them mentally and

physically with the transition from supported living to independent living. This aims to encourage them to overcome barriers and stabilise their living situations. The residents come from all sorts of backgrounds; some may be escaping domestic violence or facing financial hardship due to the cost of living crisis. With this in mind, the programme takes a person-centred approach, focusing on the individual, not the situation.

The event aims to raise awareness of the reality for those living on the streets. Exeter’s homeless charity, St Petrocks, commented on the

issues surrounding homelessness, estimating that more than 600 people face homelessness each year, with the chief of the Exeter City Community Trust adding, “homelessness is a growing concern in our region.”

It costs £15 to take part and participants are encouraged to raise £100 each.

To sign up to take part in Exeter City Community Trust’s Big Sleep Out, visit www.exetercct.org/exeterbigsleepout2025/

Image: Gracie Moore

Image: Gracie Moore

mage: Unsplash

Image: Gracie Moore

Exeter Liberation for Palestine

Grace Roberts

TExeter bursts with excitement over new bubble record

HE world record for the longest lasting bubble has been broken by two University of Exeter Physics students, managing to form and suspend a bubble in the air for 1 hour and 24 minutes, thus trouncing the current record by over an hour. The attempt took place in a soundproof room in the Physics laboratory, with a group of witnesses present and footage being dispatched to the Guinness Book of World Records.

The bubble was created using an acoustic levitation machine which uses acoustic radiation pressure to form high intensity sound waves which suspend matter in air against gravity. Boden Duffy and Joe Nightingale used this machine to form minute bubbles out of water droplets in a soapy solution which are then kept suspended in the air. The

students said that they were confident prior to the experiment and even chose to pop the bubble after an hour — stating that the hardest part was setting the equipment up.

The students said that they were confident prior to the experiment and even chose to pop the bubble after an hour

Moving forwards they are hoping to practically apply the science behind this experiment to more useful fields such as the manufacturing of microchips. As Duffy and Nightingale await official verification, nobody can burst their bubble!

100-turbine wind farm proposed off Devon and Dorset’s coast

Charlie Gershinson Deputy Editor

ARENEWWABLE energy company has proposed building a large-scale wind farm off the Devon and Dorset coast.

Two weeks ago, Source Galileo, a Norwegian renewable energy firm, announced a partnership with Portland Port to deliver 100-132 wind turbines through a substation in Chickerell — near Weymouth, Dorset — and would be placed 14 miles off the coast. The project, dubbed PortWind, would be constructed, operated and supported by Portland Port. If constructed, it would be the largest wind farm in the country.

Garrett Morrison, director of Source Galileo, told the BBC that the company hoped to take advantage

of the Labour government’s supportive attitude towards wind and other renewable sources of energy.

In an interview, Morrison said that “now is the time” for offshore wind development. He went on to say,

“We have a government that is very much pro-energy security. And we see the new government industrial

strategy as one that is very much promoting offshore wind development.

“We looked at the south coast and we felt it was probably under-developed from an offshore wind point of view.”

This contrasts with the approach the last Conservative government took to a similar proposal. In 2015, the government refused permission for the proposed Navitus Bay wind farm on the grounds that it would cause “significant adverse impact on the qualities underpinning Dorset and Isle of Wight’s Areas of Natural Beauty.”

PortWind is said to be in an “early stage of development” with proposed areas being subject to “a future leasing round by the Crown Estate.” Were PortWind to be fully constructed, it could be providing power by 2036.

Air ambulance responds to cyclist accident near the Quay

Koralewska Deputy Editor

ON Sunday the 16th February, an air ambulance was seen landing at Exeter Quay early in the morning, around 10am. The reason for its abrupt departure from Exeter Airport was a crash that involved a cyclist colliding with a car, leaving him unresponsive. The accident happened on Water Lane, a street that follows the river and leads to the Belle Isle Park. Authorities were informed and soon after the Police arrived at the scene. They instructed all passers-by to step aside and started to help the unconcious man. The cyclist’s injuries were not considered lifethreatening, and the road was closed until the patient was safely transported to the hospital.

According to Devon Live, a spokesperson for Devon Air Ambulance stated: “We were

called at 09:53 on Sunday morning 16th February to respond to an adult male patient in Exeter who was reported to be unconscious following a collision between a car and a bicycle. We assessed and treated the patient on scene and travelled with them in a land ambulance to RD&E hospital for further treatment.”

Devon and Cornwall Police added: “Police were called at around 10.40am on Sunday the 16th February following reports of a road traffic collision involving a car and a cyclist on Water Lane in Exeter. The cyclist was taken to hospital. His injuries are not considered life-changing or life-threatening. A road closure was put in place before later being lifted.”

Agata

Image: john bristow, Wikimedia Commons

Image :Wikimedia Commons

Image: David de la Iglesia Villar

Exeposé writers, past and present, discuss LGBTQ+ experiences in Exeter

e x e p o gay LGBTQ+ History Month at the Students’ Guild

I often feel that Exeter is a very 'straight' university where lots of girls don't partake in the Doc Marten-esque bisexuality that I resonate with. At first, I felt quite isolated, as if something was wrong with me and I needed to straight-ify myself but I soon came to realise that if you look between the gaps, your people are there! Fellow baggy-jean-wearing, TV Girl-enjoying girls and gays who could relate to my style and hobbies. I always knew I was into both girls and boys but kept it hidden, only ever talking about my boy crushes when I was younger. Now I'm open about it and my friends at Exeter of all genders, sexualities, ages, faiths (and more) love me for me! I've come to realise that the best person you can be is yourself.

Gracie

Positives of Exeter include a tight knit queer community, overlap with other progressive groups e.g. Friends of Palestine, lots of society events & involvement, the Guild does some good things e.g. gender expression fund, queer art exhibits, Section 28 educational partnership. However, the Guild lacks real progressive politics e.g. radical trans acceptance and pushback against right wing societies on campus, [the] queer community [is] very small and there is no real alternative scene.

Gemma

I've never had any trouble with it even though I'm pretty openly out. The only issues I can think of aren't endemic to Exeter but rather a society-wide problem, e.g. no lesbian-exclusive spaces, misogyny and other ideologies used specifically against lesbians, etc. While being at uni, I've learned that my being gay isn't really all that central to my identity; I'm lucky enough to live in a particularly tolerant corner of the democratic Western world that I don't need to worry about my sexuality, let alone have it be something that shapes my life so drastically.

Audrey

When I first came to Exeter it felt a little like drowning in a sea of heterosexuality — the city and the Uni seemed overwhelmingly straight, lacking the big queer scene films, TV and right-wing tabloids promised me university would bring. Exeter does have a queer community, but their experiences are often quashed by the overwhelming perception of Exeter as a ‘straight’ Uni. I’m also lucky being a white, cis lesbian that I’ve faced little discrimination whilst at Uni. This is certainly not the case for my trans and POC queer friends who struggle with accepting an image of Exeter as an inclusive and diverse space. There have been incredible strides in recent years; the Section 28 and its Afterlives Project and gender expression fund for instance.

Amy

Pretty positive overall! I knew I was bisexual far before I came to university and since coming to Exeter, there’s been no pressure to either hide it or to come out to anyone — I feel safe to just casually drop it in conversation and have no abnormal reaction from anyone!

Magda

Whilst LGBTQ+ history often centres on the history of big cities and metropolitan areas, the South West — and Exeter itself — has its own queer history, much of which was reported in the pages of Exeposé

The AIDS crisis affected LGBTQ+ people across Exeter and some of its most vocal actors were Exeter-based. In this article, an Exeter GP promoted homophobic quarantine measures, attacking queer people for the epidemic.

However, this wasn't the only narrative of the AIDS crisis; this 1994 Exeposé article demonstrates how student action promoted safe sex and eqaulity on campus, without resorting to homophobia.

In 1990, Exeposé celebrated Exeter's first Lesbian and Gay Rights Week, involving talks, campaigning and a speech against Section 28. Universities were key sites of activism for LGBTQ+ rights. Homosexual acts were decriminalised in 1967 but the taboo of homosexuality raged on. LGBTQ+ activism took place on campuses across the country, including Exeter, with students organising Pride events, taking to the streets and lobbying MPs.

In 1997, Ben Bradshaw became Exeter's first openly gay MP, after a campaign wrought with allegations of homophobia from other candidiates. He was only the second MP in the UK to be openly gay at time of first election.

Exeter's first Pride march was in 2010, though it didn't hit Exeposeé's front cover until 2013. It has expanded since, from a small march to a large event involving much of Devon's queer community. Exeter Pride didn't run in 2023, prompting concern for the city's queer population. However, it returned in 2024. This year Pride will take place on 10th May.

MARKING LGBTQ+ History Month, the Students’ Guild have lots of events on to celebrate the occasion, including a Creative Exhibition in the Greenhouse to see all the amazing art and writing created by students at our University. Also, for the creative students among us, you can take part in flickbook animation, and for competitive students, on the 27th February, the Guild will be running a board games night. On the 28th February, Jana Funke, lecturer in English at the University of Exeter, will be running a talk in the Amory Building titled: 'How we engage with controversial sources in LGTBQ+ history'.

On recognising the month, a spokesperson from the Students’ Guild said: “Every February, we celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month! This year, we’re shining a light on the powerful stories of the LGBTQ+ community, aiming to build understanding, acceptance, and allyship across our campuses and within our student communities. “We’ve teamed up with the LGBTQ+ Society to bring you a variety of events and activities throughout the month — open to all students. There’s so much to get involved in! From flagmaking, book clubs and film nights to history lectures and discussions, there’s something for everyone. See what’s on at exeterguild.com/lgbtq.” Elsewhere, the LGBTQ+ society are running a pub quiz on the 26th February where all proceeds will go towards Exeter Pride. Tickets cost £3.50 and are available to purchase on FIXR or on the door. It is open to both staff and students in collaboration with the LGBTQ+ staff network and is a chance to chat to representatives from Exeter Pride. LGBTQ+ Society have already hosted a number of events this month, including a 'Trans tea', open to anyone on the transgender and gender diverse spectrums. There have also been a number of talks on queer theology, gender euphoria in health, exploring unity in diversity and more.

In 1988, a new law came into place in the United Kingdom that prohibited local authorities from promoting homosexuality in schools. This was repealed in 2003. An edition of Exeposé in 2023 covered 'Section 28 and its Afterlives' — an exhibition that delved into the oral histories of LGBTQ+ individuals in the South West, 20 years on from the repeal of the law. The exhibition wanted to ensure that the

through

voices of those who lived

Section 28 did not go unheard.

Image: Amy Rushton

Image: Amy Rushton

Image: Amy Rushton

Image: Amy Rushton

Image: Amy Rushton

Image: Chris Sandal-Wilson

Honor Borley

Bella MacLusky

Pride in the face of persecution

Amberly Wright, Online Deputy Editor, examines pressing LGBTQ+ issues

FOR centuries, LGBTQ+ rights have been debated and ruled by politics, with transgender rights being for upmost debate recently. Currently, identifying as LGBTQ+ is punishable by death in 12 countries, with 64 countries criminalising sexual activity between two women. 14 countries criminalise drag performers and transgender individuals for ‘cross-dressing’ and expressing their gender through their clothing, with similar bans in the US, as drag is being increasingly considered pornographic and like a cabaret act. Though Thailand recently legalised gay marriage, there is still such a long way to go. Gay marriage was illegal in the UK until 2014, with the US following behind a year later, to legalise it in all states, compared to just Massachusetts, in which it was legal from 2004.

Currently, identifying as LGBTQ+ is punishable by death in 12 countries

In the US, there are 533 anti-LGBTQ+ bills, 49 of which have been passed into law, which included healthcare restrictions, curriculum censorship, barriers to correct identification documents, and forced outings in schools. Coincidently, Governor Bill Lee passed a law banning drag performance in Tennessee, a state with 14 of the 49 bills passed, but was caught in drag. A shadow of history is cast over the US as bills that mirror Section 28 are being questioned and passed at an increasing rate in the US. Section 28 refers to the act where local authorities could not intentionally promote homosexuality or publish

Wmaterial with such intention in the UK. In 2003, after 15 years in legislation, it was repealed. In his first term, Donald Trump ordered all transgender personnel to be banned from serving in the military during his presidency, with such bans continuing throughout his first term, and now into his second, including refusing to fly the pride flag at the US embassy, and his failure to attend any pride events.

One cannot talk about LGBTQ+ persecution, without talking about the current stance on gender in sport. Transgender individuals are banned from many mainstream sports, due to a deemed danger toward cisgender participants, because of increased hormones.

During the Olympics, we saw a cisgender athlete, Imane Khelif, face hate on social media for their masculine appearance, whilst being accused of being transgender — thus making their victory unfair, due to their increased masculinity and inferred testosterone levels and strength. Khelif, alongside boxer Lin, faced backlash after they failed hormone tests for the women’s competition. Similar experiences are echoed through Nikki Hiltz, a non-binary middle-distance runner for the US, who was assigned female at birth, and Lia Thomas, a transgender female swimmer who won in the women’s category at a national event but was later banned from competing in the women’s events at the Olympics, as she had already been through male puberty prior to her transition.

The science behind gender rules in mainstream sport stems from the differences in sexrelated hormones between men and women. Prior to puberty, circulating testosterone is the same for

males and females, however, this changes during and after puberty, with male testosterone increasing well above the female average. However, there are some exceptions to the rule. Throughout the menstrual cycle, testosterone and oestrogen levels fluctuate, with women suffering from PCOS producing more testosterone and androgens compared to those without. For now, transgender inclusion in sport remains up for debate — is it just rules of a competition, or are there underlying misogynistic and transphobic views coming into play?

For now, transgender inclusion in sport remains up for debate

Outside of the sporting world, individuals still face barriers. In the UK, puberty blockers and gender-

affirming healthcare also have barriers. Those under 18 cannot access puberty blockers for their gender dysphoria, which is troubling, considering said puberty would be over by the time they are 18. This ban is in the “best interests of the child” according to the previous government. Furthermore, for those searching for private treatment outside of the NHS, European and private prescribers are also banned from offering prescriptions to those under 18. However, though the LGBTQ+ community faces oppression, and never-ending battles for the legal protection of their identities, the community rally together and celebrate their identity year-round, especially during pride month in June and LGBTQ+ History Month in February. It is in this month, that we all come together, queer or not, to celebrate those who have come before us, and battled for their rights.

The decimation of London’s gay scene

Audrey Alvey, Satire Editor, discusses the decline of London’s LGBTQ+ night venues

HILST it’s not exactly San Francisco, the gay capital of the world, London has for a long time boasted a prominent position globally for the LGBTQ+ community. From Georgian-era underground gay networks that hid in plain sight across nighttime venues, to one of the longest running Pride parades in history, the city has been instrumental in providing spaces for the LGBTQ+ community to congregate and thrive. Soho particularly is known amongst Londoners as the city’s gay hub. As well as hosting many of the city’s LGBTQ+ night venues, many gay music icons wrote and recorded there, including Queen and Elton John.

The city has been instrumental in providing spaces for the LGBTQ+ community to congregate and thrive

However, the Greater London Authority found that, from 2006 to 2022, more than half of the city’s LGBTQ+ venues were closed. The pandemic hit particularly hard, killing off 22 per cent of the venues. Finances are of course the biggest issue, rent prices decimating businesses nation-wide, but safety — or rather the lack thereof — has played a huge role too.

Heaven, London’s most prominent gay “superclub” faced temporary closure in 2023 after a security guard allegedly raped a patron.

From 2006 to 2022 more than half of the city’s LGBTQ+ venues were closed

Interestingly, the disintegration of London’s gay nightlife is nothing new. The mid20th Century saw the number of LGBTQ+ venues in London decrease to a number below that of the 1720s, as submitted by queer historian Rictor Norton. Anti-gay governmental policy and crackdowns on policing homosexuality in the 1950s onwards saw London take a huge hit to its nightlife. Meanwhile, in the Georgian era, molly houses were rife in the city: venues from taverns to coffee houses — and even the Royal Exchange — were designated as meeting places for homosexual men. It was a tight and meticulously organised network to protect the men from prosecution; “sodomy” was a capital offence at the time. These places earned somewhat of a reputation for being makeshift brothels, though many historians contest that view given the lack of evidence for male prostitution in pre-1780s Britain. Women were too confined to the private

social sphere to participate as actively in this culture, let alone at such a sheer scale. Sadly, the same rings true today: lesbian-exclusive nightclubs and pubs are practically non-existent. From the precariousness of women’s safety on nights out to the misogyny that is rife amongst the LGBTQ+ community, there are many reasons as to why sapphic nightlife in London has always been scarce — and now with the epidemic of closures infecting the city, the numbers are looking rather dire.

There are many reasons as to why sapphic nightlife in London has always been scarce

There is hope, however. May of last year saw the number of permanent lesbian venues rise to three with the opening of “La Camionera” — Spanish for female trucker and slang for butch lesbian — in Hackney. Bar-goers speak positively of not only the venue, but of the hope that it brings — one told PinkNews that it feels like the coming of London’s “lesbian renaissance.” Although its owner notes that many a confused straight man enter “in the morning for a coffee,” let’s hope that those men don’t set up permanent residence like they seem to do in all other lesbian spaces.

Image: Pickga-

Image: Eric Allix Rodgers, Flickr

Image: Vancouver LGBTQ Pride 2015, Wikimedia Commons

How the AIDS crisis shaped modern sexual health

Gracie Moore, Editor-In-Chief, considers how HIV has transformed sex and sexuality

AMID economic decline, social unrest and ongoing political turbulence during the early 1980s, Britain added another straw to the camel’s back with the emergence of the disease AIDS. It cropped up in the United States and quickly made its way over here.

Following the strides that had been taken in the ‘70s in the fight for gay liberation, the story of AIDS was picked up by publications in the UK such as Gay News who ran a story in November 1981, titled ‘Gay cancer or mass media scare?’

Despite many believing it was a pushback on the progress made for queer rights in the United Kingdom, others argued there could be no smoke without fire. Confusion and doubt swept the nation: how could a disease target gay men, anyway?

How could a disease target gay men, anyway?

The issue came primarily from a lack of research due to heteronormative practices. In fact, just 10 years earlier, homosexuality had been categorised by the American Psychiatric Association as a mental disorder. Theories swarmed regarding “poppers”, a recreational drug popular on the gay scene, and another proposed that AIDS was the end point for a lot of sexually transmitted infections. By July 1983, there had been 14 reported cases of AIDS in Britain, disproportionately all of them being men. Most of these men identified as gay but suddenly, the cases shot up to 24 just two months after this figure was noted and this time, the statistics included a woman and a man

with haemophilia (where blood doesn’t clot in a normal way). People died very soon after diagnosis. The stigma of homosexuality paired with this disease meant that gay men were treated as lesser than others. Men with partners who had contracted AIDS weren’t even allowed to see their partners in hospital, not strictly because of spread risk, but because they weren’t considered family.

It wasn’t until 1984 that the virus causing AIDS, known as HIV, was discovered. Very quickly, a test for antibodies was approved for use in the UK and this was transformative in addressing the issue. However, it was soon discovered that around 1,200 people living with haemophilia had been infected with HIV in the 1980s. Known as the “innocent victims” of the virus, they had contracted HIV from blood transfu-

sions. This label naturally served as a reminder that there were supposedly “guilty” victims too and that naturally fell to gay men so fear quickly turned to hostility and discrimination. As marginalised groups that could be blamed for their own misfortune, they paid the price. The positives of new HIV testing had negative impacts too in that it also increased social tensions. Many people were tested without their knowledge or permission, misinformed of the meaning of their test result, or not told at all. This meant the profile of HIV/AIDS increased in the second half of the 1980s. Emerging research indicated that HIV could not be transmitted by casual contact such as by a handshake or a shared cup and in the public eye, Princess Diana famously hugged and shook hands with those who had HIV, using

Iher power to show that the narrative that had been created was wrong. It came in light of an article in The Sun titled ‘I’d shoot my son if he had AIDS, says vicar’. National campaigns also did little to dispel the stereotypes but late in the 1980s, specialist advocacy and support groups filled gaps. Positively Women and Mainliners were set up in 1987 by and for women with HIV and helped individuals who were feeling isolated.

National campaigns also did little to dispel the stereotypes in the late 1980s, specialist advocacy and support groups filled gaps

Despite this, the country was set back when the disease started to become racialised as it was suggested that the epidemic’s routes stemmed in Africa, another rumour that needed to be disproved. HIV and AIDS has transformed attitudes towards sex and sexuality as well as activism and community-building. As much as there is no cure for the disease, there are medicines to treat both the infection and the health problems that come with it. These medicines allow those living with HIV to live long and healthy lives while also reducing the chance of contracting AIDS. Also, for the first time ever, men who have sex with men are permitted to give blood in the UK, a rule that was changed to allow blood donation to be more inclusive and fairer for everyone. These small steps are ending the association of gay men to HIV and are amplifying the voices of those who have suffered.

Queer perceptions in women’s sports

Gemma

T is well documented that women in sport face frequent hardship and inequality, including underfunding, lack of opportunities and discrimination in many forms. It has also become unfortunately common to speculate about the sexualities of sportswomen, with some queer sportswomen such as Billie Jean King historically being forced to come out.

One 2008 report found the stereotyping of women in sport as gay has had several highly negative consequences: some girls avoid taking up certain sports for fear of unwanted perception as unfeminine or queer, some parents discourage their daughters from taking up sports, and some lesbian athletes feel they cannot come out. The report goes on to caution against portrayals of sportswomen in media as overly feminine in an attempt to counter this stereotyping.

The stereotyping of women in sport as gay has had several highly negative consequences

Tennis player Martina Navratilova has suggested the stereotyping women face in sports creates a situation where sportswomen have to “prove they are straight.” She argues sportswomen face invasive questions from journalists regarding their sexualities that sportsmen do not. One scholarly article argues that the labelling of female athletes as lesbian in sports’ heteronormative context is used to subvert women’s power, status and influence. This stigma is there-

Gradwell discusses the hardships of stereotyping in women’s sports

fore highly damaging and an attempt to further deny women their successes within sport.

The stereotyping women face in sports create a situation where sportswomen have to “prove they are straight”

The same 2008 report suggests that solutions include promoting positive role models of all sexualities in order to demonstrate the variety of women who compete within sport, as well as making safe spaces for women of all sexualities and promoting education. Sport has historically been a safe space for queer women, despite all this. There are 39 openly queer women in the WNBA, and notable queer players in women’s’ rugby such as Holly Aitchison and Hannah Botterman. Sport can foster a sense of community for queer women as a place they feel less stigmatised.

Women’s sport in general has been very successful in recent years, with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 being the most watched women’s sporting event in history with a global audience of almost two billion. Women’s sport media coverage has tripled since 2019. 92 per cent of people surveyed also now believe it’s important for girls to play sport growing up. This progress is undoubtedly positive, despite the hurdles that exist. In the future, women’s sport should seek to take advantage of this progress and attention whilst being an inclusive space for all, avoiding perpetuating stereotypes whilst celebrating its incredible diversity.

Image: Tony Webster, Minnesota AIDS Project

Image: William Worby. Flickr

Climate

TCLIMATE EDITOR:

Charlie Gershinson

Devon Environment Foundation reaches £1 million in grants

Grace Roberts discusses the efforts of a local charity dedicated to conservation

HE Devon Environment Foundation (DEF) has recently celebrated the momentous milestone of granting £1 million towards nature conservation efforts across Devon. Launched in 2020, the charity aims to restore the county’s countryside and coastal areas through various projects and initiatives — adopting the vision of making at least 30 per cent of Devon ‘for nature’ by 2030. Since starting in 2020, DEF has channeled the £1 million worth of funds into an array of localised projects in

vain of restoring Devon’s coast and countryside to its former natural beauty. One of the most successful has been the funding of Plastic Free North Devon, an initiative aiming to both reduce the use of plastic and

Ttackle plastic pollution in the oceans and countryside. This funding enabled the scheme to remove several tonnes of plastic from the coastline and raise public awareness for the issue. Other optimistic achievements include the funding of peat bog restoration in Dartmoor, the establishment of a species recovery centre and the Tamar river restoration project. This is just a selection of the work done so far by DEF — a testament to its vision.

In the future, the charity aims to support further grassroots nature

regeneration projects, anticipating 2025 as being the most competitive year yet for grant applications. In moving forwards, DEF hopes to continue prioritising nature-based solutions — advocating the use of organic materials and methods. This is already prominent in their work, with the reintroduction of beavers into river systems to manage flooding, exemplifying natural methods. The benefits already visible across Devon act as an exciting window into the charity’s role in the future protection of the county’s biodiversity and ecological splendour.

Campus Winter 2024/2025 Bird Survey results announced

HE results of Exeter University’s Winter Bird Survey are in! The survey is carried out twice annually by an independent consultant on both Exeter campuses to record bird numbers and species. This year on Streatham Campus, 1,256 birds were recorded, a 14 per cent decrease from last winter’s total of 1,454. However, last year’s winter number was the highest recorded in almost a decade of the survey’s 16-year history. In fact, this year’s total represents the average of the last 10 years of the survey.

The top species recorded on Streatham were Robin, Wood Pigeon,

Freddy Purcell reviews the activity of birds recently seen on campus

Blue Tit, Blackbird, and Herring Gull.

The last of which is a surprising member of the BTO’s 2021 Red list, a category representing bird species of the greatest conservation concern. Other Red listed species included Greenfinch, House Sparrow, and Mistle Thrush. 10 Amber listed species, a category representing birds of more moderate conservation concern, were noted. Particularly interesting examples included Bullfinch and Sparrowhawk.

Another exciting record is that of a Treecreeper heard calling near Duryard Cottage. These tiny white and brown birds have a unique hunting technique

as they climb vertically up tree trunks in search of invertebrates. However, Treecreepers cannot climb downwards, they must fly to another tree to start again. They’re excellent birds, but difficult to spot, so keep an eye out for movement around the trunks of trees!

A total of 228 birds and 16 species were recorded on St Luke’s campus, 47 more birds than last winter. As was the case last year, the top species recorded were Wood Pigeon, Herring Gull, and House Sparrow. Six Amber and Red listed species were spotted, including Starlings, a species that wasn’t found on Streatham. St Luke’s

University research round-up

Climate writers summarise recent research conducted with the help of University of Exeter academics

Hidden ‘highways’ connect Brazil’s rainforests

RECENT research led by the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) and the University of Exeter reveals that forests that align with Brazil’s rivers act as ‘highways’ that connect the Amazon and Atlantic rainforests. For millions of years, this has enabled tree species to move between the two rainforests. It was previously assumed that the spread of tree species was only possible during periods of wetter climates when South America was predominantly covered in rainforest. The Amazon and the Atlantic rainforests are separated by vast savannah landscapes, which is inhospitable for rainforest tree species which thrive on moist terrains. But now it is understood that the species have ‘dispersed consistently over time’ through these ‘highways’. By growing alongside rivers, tree species can spread through Brazil’s dry ecosystems. The findings reinforce the importance of riverside forest conservation (which is protected in Brazilian law) but it also shows the value in conserving the connection between the rainforests too

Eloise Grainger, Sport Editor

Global GDP could be halved due to climate crisis

THE global economy could see a 50 per cent loss in GDP between 2070 and 2090 unless immediate policy action is taken to address risks posed by the climate crisis, a new report by the Institute and Faculty of Acturaries (IFoA) and University of Exeter warn.

Current climate targets accept triggering multiple tipping points where climate change thresholds, once crossed, may be irreversible and limit humanity’s ability to control climate change; there is currently no realistic plan in place to avoid this latter scenario.

Mass mortality, mass displacement and conflict become more likely if risks and existing impacts on populations, including heat stress, remain unchecked.

Professor Tim Lenton of the University of Exeter, who coauthored the report named “Planetary Solvency — finding our balance with nature,” stated that “Planetary Solvency offers a clear way of seeing global risks and prioritising action to limit them.”

Oliver Nicholls

Kenyan

tree-planting scheme must account for complex issues

KENYA has made it its mission to plant 15 billion trees by 2032 as part of the international strive for tackling climate change and conserving the planet’s rich biodiversity. Agroforestry — the planting of trees and shrubs in farmland — is central to this plan. Using farms as planting sites benefits the climate by catalysing carbon capture and biodiversity while also increasing soil health, which in turn increases crop productivity and thus farmers’ income.

As nice and straightforward as that sounds, researchers at the University of Exeter have — in collaboration with Kenyan smallholders — identified “complex local issues and preferences” that may inhibit agroforestry. Ennia Bosshard, a postgraduate researcher at Penryn, stressed the importance of dialogue with local farmers as they “play a crucial role in this effort as guardians of the land and trees.”

Worries about lack of space, attracting harmful wildlife and negative past experiences are exacerbated by misinformation spread amongst the Kenyan farming community. Farmers with a background education were more likely to be on board. Only by tackling these external barriers will agroforestry schemes benefit “people, nature, and climate”. Audrey Alvey, Satire Editor

Image: Rayhan9d, Wikimedia Commons

also saw many Herring Gulls, so keep your food safe while you’re there!

Image: Richard Knights, Wikimedia Commons

Image: University of Exeter Sustainability

Tom Richardson

Will technology destroy legacy media?

Tom Richardson, Comment Editor,

examines whether social media is the death of newspapers

IMUST admit I am a keen user of Twitter (known as X).

Nothing raises my endorphins quite like arguing with some MAGA account. But one must be careful when relying on it for information, whether it be an Elon Musk-owned Twitter, or somehow even less reliable forms of social media. Of course, social media does have its uses, such as showing both sides of an argument — mine, and the one which gets community noted.

We only need to look to America to see how social media, becoming a breeding ground for misinformation, can rot the brains of an entire nation, with many people trusting various conspiracies posted by Chuck, 52, on Facebook over established journalistic sources. Outrage is rewarded, instead of information. Even in the UK, we saw this during the Southport stabbings, where social media was used to spread misinformation

about the ethnicity and immigration status of the attacker to create outrage that caused mass riots. However, the sheer scale of misinformation across social media has impacted its future as a reliable source of information. We’ve seen the memes of boomers being tricked by artificially generated images on Facebook of African children making Jesus sand sculptures. Whilst it is obviously funny, if the ability and strength of Artificial Intelligence continues, with many people still unable to identify it (likely, in future, even ourselves) we have to go back to print.

In Britain, gone are the days when the British public held strong trust in print media, once revered as great national Institutions. Today, we see that print media is not only being ditched by the tinfoil hat brigade, but is increasingly being considered archaic amongst younger people. Instead, the majority of them are

finding ‘news’ through social media platforms, even through TikTok where fact-checking often becomes an afterthought in favour of engagement.

Am I saying pick up a copy of the Daily Star , home to such headlines as ‘Killer ghost keeps flushing my bog’ and ‘Psycho seagull stole my dog from garden’? No. But it is usually the same people who consider these tabloid papers to be sensationalist whilst failing to see the irony of getting their news from Instagram reels. Whether it be our most glorious Exeposé newspaper, or ‘legacy media’ and newspapers of record — online or in print — we should go out of our way to seek it, otherwise our attention spans will continue to shrink to that of an iPad kid at a restaurant.

What’s in a word?: Reclaiming a label

Amy Rushton,

IN 2019, a week after I told my mum I thought I might be gay, two women were attacked on a bus for the crime of being on a date together in central London. The picture of the couple, covered in blood after they refused to kiss in front of a group of teenage boys, still flashes across my mind every time I reach for my girlfriend’s hand on public transport. At the time, it seemed to cement what being a lesbian truly meant: oversexualisation, shame and danger. I decided I was better off in the closet.

Lesbian is a complicated word, taking ownership of it seems to imply taking on a milieu of stereotypes. For many queer women, it seems to feel safer to avoid the word altogether.

Last summer, in BBC Three’s groundbreaking lesbian reality show I Kissed A Girl, the contestants debated the label, with many preferring to distance themselves from it and use

‘gay’ instead. This unease with the word is not uncommon; in 2022, the LGBTQ+ charity Just Like Us found that 68 per cent of lesbians surveyed said they delayed coming out due to harmful stereotypes of lesbians as ‘man-hating’, ‘over-sexualised’ and ‘anti-trans’. More recently, the singer and actress Reneé Rapp talked openly about the internalised homophobia she was forced to address upon coming out; “Lesbian was not a good word for me to hear as a kid,” she said, “and now it’s something that I have such a close emotional connection to.”

The very word ‘lesbian’ seems to drag up feelings of shame and self-hatred. I now use ‘lesbian’ and ‘queer’ interchangeably, but it didn’t always carry positive connotations for me.

From the Amsterdam bouncer who gave me a withering look and a “you know this is a queer night, right?”, to the fight or flight response which flares up as soon as somebody clocks me as gay — I’ve spent so much of my life dancing between identities, never feeling quite queer enough but also afraid to actively take ownership of my sexuality.

In 2022, I kissed a girl for the first time in a club with, ironically, Katy Perry’s ‘I Kissed a Girl’ playing. Whilst I wish I could say I busted out the pride flags on the spot, it wasn’t quite that simple. I remember the feeling of being watched and swarmed by men, using my self-discovery for their gain. With the anthem to performative sexuality playing in the background, my own lesbianism felt ever more on the periphery.

The fear of being oversexualised is commonplace among queer women; Just Like Us found that 36 per cent of lesbians labelled oversexualisation as a barrier to coming out, and it remains one of the most popular categories on porn websites across the world. This just adds to the shame and stigma many lesbians face, not least because alongside being oversexualised, we are often portrayed as objectifying and dangerous to other women. Whether it’s from being in the same changing rooms or having a crush on a female friend, pretty much every queer woman has associations of guilt with attraction, and this can be difficult to shake.

This is changing; from Chappell Roan to Claire in Derry Girls, lesbians are everywhere, and they’re saying the word. Labels might be socially constructed and constantly evolving, but they are useful. As soon as I accepted that ‘lesbian’ is not a dirty word, I learned to embrace my own sexuality, and undo some of the damage years of internalising stereotypes had wrought.

This is all coming from a white, cis woman who has lived in relatively liberal areas my whole life. For many lesbians, the dangers of being out and proud manifest differently, and the impact of harmful stereotypes can be more forcefully felt. However, perhaps the key to forging a more inclusive and open understanding of ‘lesbian’ is to reclaim it and wear it proudly.

Image:Taqwomen, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Wikimedia commons, Harshil

This article contains discussion of violence and homophobia which may be triggering for some students

WHEN looking at the role of the elected Student Officers at the Guild, we must consider two things: do they provide genuine and elective representation? Do they justify their position in the face of alternatives or potential reform? I would argue that the answer to both is no.

The concept of the Guild Officers, serving as ex officio trustees of the organisation alongside being full-time paid staff, is that students have a permanent method of advocating for their views at the top of the Guild and the University. However,

Are the Guild officers worth it?

Felix Massey debates the necessity of the Students’ Guild officers

this is far from the reality: students too often feel powerless to advocate for change or reform of the University experience, and the Guild and the Officers suffer from a lack of transparency in decisionmaking that needs urgent improvement.

Do they provide genuine and elective representation?

The Officers do not have the sufficient power compared to the Guild permanent staff and the University, which

means they are not always the ones with final decision-making power or authority on things that matter to us, be it societies, welfare, support, or academics. They may advocate on our behalf, but there is also little in the way of awareness on how to do this. The roles would benefit from more opportunities for scrutiny by the general student population and ability to pass on concerns on a more regular basis.

There is also the question of whether their cost and role can be justified. Their annual salaries of £26,638, whilst not much in the real world (amounting to

£159,828 for all six officers), could potentially be better spent on sub sidies and grants for students in difficulty, as well as on sup porting student activities and new society start-ups. This doesn’t mean getting rid of high-level student voice, but advocacy of student views could be done with fewer of ficers or a voluntary/advisory group. Overall, it is vital that the role either be examined or significantly reformed.

A representa tive for the Students’ Guild said: “Our Guild Officers work on a variety of projects, campaigns and lobbying pieces based on your stu dent feedback and voices. From push ing for positive changes to assessment and feedback or making campus more acces sible to advocating for better housing or hosting awareness campaigns like 16 Days of Activism, we amplify your student voices and push to make change happen. This work is also shaped by the stu

Democracy postponed? The local elections delayed

Charlie Gershinson, Deputy Editor, discusses the recent local government restructuring and its effects on May’s elections

THE political story of the year thus far is without a doubt the rise of Reform UK in the polls. The right-wing populist party led by Nigel Farage has emerged from the political vacuum of an unpopular Labour government and almost non-existent Conservative opposition to create the first three-party tie in 15 years. With Farage and Reform on the ascent, the main electoral event to see just how well the party is performing is due to be the local elections in May with county councils and a number of local mayoralties being decided at the ballot box.

However, the planned test of Reform’s strength has come undone due to planned local government reforms. Two-tier councils are being invited to reform into more streamlined, single-tier unitary authorities but a consequence of these changes is a delay in local elections until a restructure is agreed.

Reform are crying foul over these plans as many of their strongest areas, such as Essex, Thurrock

and Norfolk, will have their elections postponed for a year, accusing the Labour government and Conservative-led local administrations of colluding to deprive the electorate of an opportunity to show their newfound support for Reform.

Similar arguments have been made by the Liberal Democrats as they had hoped to capitalise on their record gains from last year’s general election but have also been put at a disadvantage as their southern heartlands of Sussex and Surrey will also see a delay in local elections.

With Reform’s petition calling to scrap the delay saying, “Labour and the Tories have colluded to officially cancel over 5.5 million votes in May,” is it worth asking if there is any truth in this statement? There may be some worth asking the question, but the answer will be a resounding “no”.

Delays to local elections as a result of reorganisation have occurred multiple times in recent years, under governments of both main parties. Only in 2021, local elections in North

Yorkshire, Cumbria and Somerset saw delays. These postponements take place to save taxpayers’ money, otherwise elections for the old council and the new council would take place in two successive years. It would also be an exaggeration to say that the government are taking every possible opportunity to delay local elections. While nine areas are seeing delays, these were only granted to just more than half the authorities who requested one — 16 in total.

While it is certainly unfortunate for Reform that they are unable to demonstrate their high poll rating to their full extent in May, they will still have plenty of opportunities in councils like Devon, Kent and Lancashire as well as in the Lincolnshire Metro Mayoral election where former Conservative MP Andrea Jenkyns is standing as the Reform candidate.

It certainly is not fair or truthful to assert that democracy has been unjustly delayed in their entirety or because of a grand conspiracy between the two main parties.

Image: FMT

Images: University of Exeter Students’ Guild

Satire

OSATIRE EDITOR: Audrey Alvey

Philanthropic woman exists: men saddened

N Sunday the 9th February, the Super Bowl was underway in New Orleans. It was a fantastic game (probably — I, surprisingly, didn’t tune in) which saw the Philadelphia Eagles obliterate the Kansas City Chiefs 4022. Despite the excitement that fans in attendance were expecting to feel, their beloved game was soured by man’s greatest enemy: an indisputably attractive, compassionate, and wildly successful woman.

Man’s greatest enemy: an indisputably attractive, compassionate, and wildly successful woman

Taylor Swift, there to support her boyfriend — the Chiefs’ tight-end Travis Kelce, was one face among the 65,000 in attendance. As the cameras panned to Swift, displaying her all over the stadium screens, much of the crowd booed the very (pixelated) sight of her. Unsurprisingly,

Taylor seemed entirely unbothered by the unnecessary display of vitriol thrown at her by fans who earlier in the game cheered for Donald Trump who has done less for the American economy as President than Taylor did as a touring pop star (however, evidence suggests that Fox inserted fake cheers over the booing heard on international networks’ footage — talk about land of the free!)

Whilst I’m not here to talk politics, it’s a rather eye-opening occurrence that a crowd of thousands can supposedly cheer at the sight of a 78-yearold man, well-known for the crimes of which he has actually been convicted (not even counting the ones he has only been accused of), but jeer at a 35-year-old woman only well-known for her music, awards, and unprecedentedly generous philanthropy.

Of course, not everyone is a fan of Taylor Swift’s music — and I wouldn’t expect it! But the ability to publicly display your dislike of a great woman (whose only real criticism is her carbon footprint — a competition Donald Trump definitely isn’t winning) while she attends a public event in support of her boyfriend is nothing short of embarrassing. It’s likely that many of the Super Bowl attendees that participated in this live display of immaturity were merely insulted

that a woman, infinitely more successful than them, could be stood in the same stadium. It makes you wonder what it is about Taylor Swift that is so upsetting to the thousands of people at the game. Perhaps her 14 Grammy Awards shine an extremely bright light on their lack of achievements, let alone any that are so similarly impressive. Surely not, though? Would a stadium full of adults (a term I’m using rather lightly) really be that dissatisfied with their own lives to behave so pathetically?

Maybe it’s her status as the most-awarded artist of the American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and the MTV Video Music Awards that upsets them so.

If not those achievements, Swift having been named Time Person of the Year in 2023 may have struck a painful chord for those who dislike her. To be fair to them

though, it’s Time Person, not Time Woman! We all know they’re different things.

You know that no democracy = no good

Unfortunately for them, booing someone who has donated millions of dollars to charitable causes only makes them seem pitifully unhappy with their own selfish lives. Especially while they publicly show their support for an old man who within weeks of becoming president sought to strip America from its hardwon civil rights. Between the two, I would definitely have much more pride in supporting one over the other — and clearly, for many American men, the choice is ever so moral: criminals > philanthropists. Hopefully, future Super Bowls won’t present its deeply unhappy attendees with any more opportunities to embarrass themselves on such a grandly misogynistic scale (though when they inevitably do, I’ll be happy to laugh at them once more).

Gay section (mandated by the Students’ Guild)

MVGA: Make Vaults Gay Again

ANIGHT out at Vaults or rather, a night ending at Vaults. Overwhelmed by the sad Pride flags and drag queens outside that signal this is meant to be a gay club, but the heterosexuals on the dance stomp on that concept. Where are the gays? Where’s the camp that I know isn’t happening at Fever? Let’s make Vaults gay again (was it ever?)! “How?” You ask. Stricter entry control. Prove your

queerness at the door: Sadness in the eyes that can only be seen in Eastern European gay porn? Yes Your LGBTQIA membership card you received when you co-signed the gay agenda? Adequate. Kissing the same sex? Performative. No entry tonight boys/girls/dolls/theys/thems! Malik Awotorebo (in the words of “there right there” from the Legally Blonde musical)

THEUniversityof Exeter’srichest venture partner, Wakeham Token Ltd., has unveiled UoE’s latest DEI initiative: “The Super Straight Shutdown”, a bold policy mandating all heterosexual employees to take unpaid leave until March. CEO A. Wakeham, Esq. called it “a necessary step toward equity.” This month’s staff newsletter — titled “Exciting News: Het-Free February!” — was 10 per cent prose, 90 per cent buzzwords like “brave spaces” and “leveraging privilege.”

HR declared it was “all about creating [brave] space and levelling the [privileged] playing field.” Chaos ensued: productivity plummeted, the office plants died (only Karen remembered to water them), printers jammed, and the break room’s coffee supply was replaced by energy drinks.

Employee reaction was mixed: some formed a peer support group; the more disgruntled of the heterosexuals protested with signs reading, “We’re

here, we’re clear, get used to it!”; others made productive use of their newfound free time to start side hustles or catch up on their Netflix watchlists. By month’s end, the policy will be quietly scrapped. However, the damage has already been done: at least four heterosexual fellows from the Business School have quit to pursue their side hustles full-time, as even the ones operating at a loss are receiving better pay than their previous salaries. Lord Wakeham, confessed to Exeposé that “it turns out, excluding 80 per cent of your workforce in the name of inclusion isn’t great for business. But hey, we tried!”. He told our reporters that, despite the “unexpected” spike in homophobic sentiment among staff, the University has re-commissioned Wakeham’s for the annual pink washing campaign in June. The new university motto? “Omnis huc pertinet nisi te” or “Everyone belongs here — except you.” Yasmine Al-Saket

Image: Audrey Alvey

Image: Martijn Janssen, edited by Rosie Peters-McDonald

Image: Audrey Alvey

Image: Flickr, LovelyBevis, edited by Audrey Alvey

Getting into a morning routine

Niall O'Mara tells us how to transform and maximise your mornings

FOR three years I haven’t been able to do early mornings at Uni. I just can’t do it. When I hear people out at the crack of dawn or see people on Strava with their 6am runs or their BeReals at the gym, I have simply never understood it. I am in a long-term relationship with the snooze button on my phone and the idea of surfacing before 10am always seems the wrong option. Anytime I have attempted a strict morning routine, someone’s birthday comes along, a deadline I have left late, or a night out, then the routine is back to where it started! However, with my dissertation due in 74 days and I am yet to start any of it, I have realised perhaps now is the time to get my mornings in check.

I HAVE REALISED PERHAPS NOW IS THE TIME TO GET MY MORNINGS IN CHECK

For the past two weeks (I understand this isn’t a very long time) I have been waking up

at 8am, then going on a run or to the gym and have aimed to be on campus for 10am; nothing drastically early as I refuse to ever join the 5am club, I believe it to be immoral. Yet, getting my days started earlier I must say I have felt much better both physically and mentally and dare I say it, slightly superior? This change is new and is still proving to be a challenge, but I am determined to stick to it. Here are a few ways to maximise the AM hours:

I HAVE FELT MUCH BETTER BOTH PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY, AND DARE I SAY IT, SLIGHTLY SUPERIOR?

Step one Sleep pattern, at times virtually impossible to fix but if you can aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time, it does make the world of difference. Start gradually, don’t go in straight for a 6am start, just take half an hour off your normal wake-up time and keep working backward and the early mornings will gradually feel easier. Also,

do not press snooze! I know it is so easily done, especially when it’s freezing outside but I promise you the snooze button is not your friend. I love the Mel Robbins technique of counting back from five to get you out of bed, it’s worked well for me so far.

Step two Breakfast: Curate an early morning playlist, stay away from heartbreak anthems, and get the feel-good music on! And make a breakfast you are excited to eat in the morning! (I am an egg and avocado type of guy…)

Step three Get outside: resist the urge to scroll and get outside, whether that be the gym, a run, or just a walk, it is such a good start to the day, and once you’ve firmed the morning cold you really can achieve anything for the rest of the day.

This transformation will be gradual but stick with it. If the routine breaks, (which it will, that is normal!) give yourself a day to re -

set and try again. Be kind to yourself and I can promise you once my diss is over I probably won’t see 7am for a long time…

LGBTQ+ History Month

Anna Spencer, Lifestyle Editor, shares the stories of this month's LGBTQ+ activists

THE annual celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month happens every February in the UK, and connects present lives to historical queer figures. Every year has a different theme, and this year’s is activism and social change. Differentiating from Pride Month in June which features pride marches, this celebration has a distinct focus on learning from the past.

THIS CELEBRATION HAS A DISTINCT FOCUS ON LEARNING FROM THE PAST

The truth is that LGBTQ+ individuals have always been in every society and era of history, even if their stories aren’t always told. People looking for guidance and support might find a sense of community in their stories and experiences, and this month highlights the importance of looking back! This year’s celebration aims to share the lives of several activists specifically, which this article will explore.

Firstly, Octavia Hill, who was a social reformer and thinker whose work transformed contemporary attitudes towards

safe, social housing. She also fought to protect green urban founders, acting as a founder of the National Trust, and providing training programs for youths, which is now known as the Army Cadet force. Secondly, Ivor Cummings, born in 1913, was an openly gay man who became first Black

British official in the Colonial Office. Working 26 years before the Sexual Offences Act in 1941, Cummings managed to advocate for his beliefs, and diversified the United Kingdom by helping new arrivals on the Empire Windrush.

Thirdly, Annie Kenney was a workingclass English feminist and suffragette, who

became a leading member of the Women's Social and Political Union, with reports of having lesbian relations with fellow suffragettes.

Charles Kiss is also highlighted as the first transgender man to run for Parliament, who stood for the Green Party in 2015 and was influential in the improvement of trans-inclusive policies within his party, and also advocated for better NHS support for trans people. Kiss continues his activism through a fundraiser for trans communities, keeping his legacy going.

Lastly, Olaudah Equiano, born in 1745 in what is currently southern Nigeria, was enslaved as a child, and eventually became an instrumental abolitionist in Britain. He gave lectures and wrote an autobiography in 1789, along with other bestselling novels. His sexuality has often been discussed, and due to some hints in his memoir of a gay or bisexual relationship, many readers interpret his work as a representative of an LGBTQ+ African man in the 18th century. Overall, these pioneering thinkers and activists allow all of us to see hidden histories of past queer figures, and it is important for all of us to reflect on their work, to understand importance of history and the activism of others.

Looking after your physical health at university

Katie Roberts, Lifestyle Editor, gives you some wellness tips for the season of colds

WE are all warned about the dreaded Freshers’ flu, yet it still manages to take us by surprise when we’re suddenly wiped out, feeling sorry for ourselves, and stuck in bed for days at the start of each term. What might surprise us even more is how university life can sometimes feel like a never-ending cycle of minor illnesses. Many of us choose to simply accept and ignore them, while others (especially those who lean towards being hypochondriacs) find ourselves endlessly Googling symptoms until the only logical conclusion seems to be that death is near.

WE ARE ALL WARNED ABOUT THE DREADED FRESHERS' FLU

So, how can we take better care of ourselves while living away from home, without the watchful eyes of family members who — let’s be honest — probably keep our health in check more than we’d like to admit?

From coughs, colds, sports injuries, STI’s,

meningitis, hangovers, stomach bugs to food poisoning, concussions, and allergic reactions; the barrage of common illnesses flying around at uni can feel overwhelming. But what can you do if you become ill at university — or better yet, how can you avoid it in the first place?

1. Make sure you’re up to date with vaccinations — MMR, Flu/Covid-19 jabs if you know that you are eligible for them.

2. Listen to your body and if in doubt about your symptoms phone a GP or 111 — both can provide you with reassurance and advice for medical problems that are not urgent.

3. Go to the walk-in centre or A&E if you are concerned, have severe symptoms, or need urgent care.

4. Do not “die quietly” — ask your housemates, flatmates, friends to look out for you and check on you if you are feeling poorly.

5. Be aware of the symptoms of meningitis to look out for yourself and others — according to the NHS, the symptoms of meningitis are a high temperature, cold hands and feet, vomiting, confusion, breathing quickly, muscle and joint pain,

mottled or blotchy skin, spots or a rash, a headache and stiff neck and a dislike of bright lights.

6. If you have allergies — make sure to make your friends and those you live with aware. Keep people informed on cross-contamination risks and what to do if you did happen to have a severe reaction. Let them know where your epi-pens are and to call 999 if needed.

There’s truth to the age-old advice of eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and limiting alcohol consumption — but let’s face it, these don’t always align perfectly with the university lifestyle. However, feeling run-down is often your body’s way of warning you to make a change or simply slow down. Taking a moment to check in with yourself and recalibrate your lifestyle could be the key to maintaining long-term health —without sacrificing fun, socialising or productivity.

A few ways you can help yourself stay healthy are:

1. Bring a healthier lunch to campus instead of always grabbing takeaway.

2. Take a daily multivitamin to help cover any nutritional gaps.

3. Swap one night of clubbing per week for a more relaxed pub trip.

4. Set aside one day a week for rest and self-care.

5. Manage stress levels — being overly stressed, sleep-deprived, or eating poorly can make you more susceptible to illness.

The biggest piece of advice is to recognise just how important it can be to talk to housemates and friends about your physical health. There can be an inclination to keep it to yourself when you are not feeling your best, but friends really can offer care, support and advice (not to mention bringing you a few sympathy cups of tea or hot water bottle) if you are feeling under the weather. A friend might help you stop overthinking minor ailments, encourage you to seek medical attention when necessary, or simply check in on you while you recover. Even if it’s “just a cold,” a bad hangover, or a sports injury, don’t underestimate the comfort of having someone else look out for you — even if it’s just to complain a little and gain some well-deserved sympathy.

Society spotlight: Women in Politics

Michelle Chung, Online Features Editor, sheds light on an up and coming society that made a revival last year

AT a point in the term when it can be natural to feel stuck in a bit of a rut, joining a society can be a fun way to try something new and form new friendships. Exeter’s Women in Politics Society (WiP), revived last year, is an excellent choice to get involved with other women who are passionate about discussing politics outside of classes. It is one of the rare non-partisan political societies at University, promising to provide an intellectually stimulating environment for debates and socials.

Yasmine Al-Saket, President of Women in Politics, decided to create the society to create a safe academic platform for women to share their experiences and foster discussions in a male-dominated field, particularly with the aim of helping women gain deeper access and knowledge into political careers and politics. This sentiment is pleasantly reflected by the range of academic and careers events hosted by WiP. Speakers include current Exeter academic staff, doctoral students, and experienced politicians, such as alumnae Anna

Taylor from the Adam Smith Institute. Learning from female mentors who are now excelling in their own distinctive roles, exposes WiP members to a multitude of pathways in the political field. Aside from academic events, WiP regularly organises both sober and non-sober socials to allow women of all spheres to meet friendly faces. Last year, it joined forces with other exclusively female societies such as Women in Law Society to host a Spring Soirée at the Terrace. There are also study sessions, weekly socials at the Ram, and

Tiktok vs. TV time

Iweekend brunches for more informal chitchats. When asked about the legacy and future of the society, the committee expressed that they would like to see WiP expand into a society to develop greater networking opportunities and a space where old and new members can connect. For Al-Saket, the goal would be an ideal world where WiP wouldn’t need to exist since "we would be in a place where women are equally represented in parliament and in our governments."

Eloise Granger, Sport Editor, discusses whether these types of screen time are relaxing or bad for us

T is easy to pick up your phone and tell yourself you’ll only spend a limited time on social media, but before you know it you are sucked into a vortex of constant content all available at your fingertips. Experts have suggested that short-form content and quick swiping to access information satisfies our natural curiosity and evolutionary drive to explore. When we discover content that engages us, it releases dopamine — the happy hormone — which reinforces the habit. But what is also interesting is the idea of the ‘variable reward reinforcement’. This basically means that the unpredictability of the content we will encounter when scrolling keeps us addicted — humans don’t tire of the unpredictable. Not knowing whether the next video is something

you’ll love or find intolerable gives us a thrill. Scrolling on social media is a form of relaxation. It gives us a moment to ourselves to find short-form content that engages us and it feeds the primitive need for our explorative nature to be recognised. Where the problem lies is the guilt we face after spending hours doing seemingly useless scrolling, which undermines our relaxation. Shame for scrolling makes us realise we could have better spent our time elsewhere. But where does television stand in all of this? Well, a study in the US revealed that two thirds of people watching TV are scrolling on social media apps at the same time. Most of us are guilty of ‘two-screening’… but can we be blamed? Marketing and advertisements constantly assure us that the show they are promoting will be "the next big thing" and

something you "can’t miss." When every show seems to promise that it contains the meaning of life, it comes across that they are keener to impress us than entertain us. And don’t even get me started on the excessive ads — no wonder we reach for our phones every minute!

Without the double screens, there are advantages to streaming as a form of relaxation — it guarantees the content we want, and unlike scrolling, we literally don’t have to lift a finger. But, if shows are binge-watched, they perform the same self-soothing act as doom scrolling. Just in the same way, it is simple to over-indulge. It’s important to diversify your

study breaks — scrolling and streaming is okay, but moderation is key. Having a 20 minute nap, going for a walk, or reading a book are other great ways to break up a study session without requiring much brain power.

arts + lit

How does literary representation shape LGBTQ+ readers’ sense of identity?

Lucy Parsons discusses the impact of narrative tropes on LGBTQ+ identities

LGBTQ+ representation bears varying levels of significance for different people when coming to terms with their sexuality. For some, it’s an important part of self-discovery, offering a portrayal of what a particular sexual identity might look or feel like. In speaking to a couple of people on this topic, I was interested to find contrasting responses. For one student that I spoke to, portrayals of queer relationships had very little to do with her acknowledgement of her sexuality. Another student spoke to me about how she finds this kind of representation to be productive when it’s ‘natural’ and ‘blended seamlessly into an existing narrative,’ though very much unproductive when it promotes overdone stereotypes and appears only to be ‘ticking a box’ in a media outlet’s attempts at queer diversity. This is why representation can be difficult to get right. Recognising a feeling of relatability within it can validate the sometimes confusing and uncertain feelings accompanying an exploration into one’s sexuality or gender identity. However, if too reliant on overused

and inaccurate stereotypes, this representation can generate a sense of displacement.

RESPRESENTATION CAN BE DIFFICULT TO GET RIGHT

Literary representation differs to that of onscreen media for its potential to carry more multifaceted characters. The Price of Salt by Patricia Highsmith is a lesbian novel written in 1952, following the relationship that grows between two women in very different stages of life. For the protagonist, Therese, this is her first experience with another woman. Despite the novel being just over 70 years old, I found the evocation of Therese’s very unfamiliarly intense feelings particularly relatable. Therese struggles with the idea that she might not have loved her male partner in the way she’d thought after encountering her feelings for another woman. This kind of narrative can be important in suggesting the complexity of human

sexuality and of emotional connection to others. Despite the power of representation to make positive change, there is something to say for its drawbacks. Literature has been a developing and expanding mode of queer representation since the early 1900s. The first widely recognised queer novel was The Well of Loneliness by Radclyffe Hall, written in 1928. The novel faced a wealth of public criticism and became the centre of a major obscenity trial in the UK, eventually leading to its ban. It advocated more explicitly for acceptance, unlike earlier works which touched more tentatively on the theme. The novel was a breakthrough for representation in its admittance into the canon, having been widely read and discussed. However, The Well of Loneliness was potentially the first of a great deal of tragic stories of homosexuality, as tragedy became one of the more defining aspects of the queer genre. It should be noted that for some, negative feelings of displacement are very real and upsetting parts of coming to terms with identity. I suppose the question is: should LGBTQ+ representation continue to meditate so heavily

Queer literary voices

Arts and Lit writers recommend their favourite queer writers

ACLASSIC in queer literature, Oranges are not the Only Fruit tells the story of Jeanette, a member of the fanatical local branch of the Pentecostal Church, who comes out as lesbian at the age of 16. Jeanette presents at first as passive, then later, as strong-willed and resourceful. The structure allows the reader to read in fluid spirals, with Winterson calling it ‘experimental and anti-linear’ and despite its broad and complex vocabulary, is a very straightforward read.

The novel effectively debunks the sanctity of the family and dares to suggest that what makes life difficult for queer people is other people’s irrationality and inappropriateness rather than

their own. Winner of the Whitbread Prize for best fiction in 1985, it rose to prominence and arguably helped break down barriers with its relatable portrayal of the young queer experience. The two quests of the book are discovering and defining sexuality and individuality, alongside navigating first love, grief, betrayal and, most of all bravery, to push beyond a known world and into another.

A focus of the book is the mother and daughter relationship, with oranges holding symbolic significance, first as a show of love between mother and daughter, then as a representation of a life that Jeanette has left and finds repulsive, and lastly as a symbol of alternative forms of love. The mother is extremely combative, and confrontational, harbouring an almost comical obsession with enemies (Next Door) and revenge, resulting in Jeanette’s extremely isolated childhood, initially being denied school and socialising outside of the church. Despite this, the book remains keenly lighthearted until Jeanette falls in love with a girl in her church, and when discovered, is forced to undergo a humiliating “cleansing process” akin to exorcism; from here the book gets much darker. Ultimately it raises questions of what constitutes betrayal, how to move on and how to forgive.

Ton the negative, or should we be moving towards more hopeful and normalised portrayals?

SHOULD WE BE MOVING TOWARDS MORE HOPEFUL AND NORMALISED PORTAYALS?

So, how much of an impact might representation really be having on LGBTQ+ readers’ sense of identity? I’m of the opinion that representation is significant, as literature and media both shape public perception and aid personal validation. Sexuality or gender identity can play notably into sense of self, especially if representation lacks depth, variety or authenticity. If sexuality is subconsciously influenced by connotations of tragic non-conforming relationships that are destined to fail, this could impact confidence levels in relationships or optimism for the future. It’s important to remember that there are no criteria for feeling a certain way, and to try and embrace the natural, unpredictable trajectory of non-conformity.

Federico García Lorca

La Casa de Bernarda Alba

HE works of Federico García Lorca are essential to engage with when revisiting LGBTQ+ history in Spain. Lorca was gay and wrote incredible poetry and theatre during a politically fraught time in Spain where nationalist forces condemned homosexuality. In fact, during raids conducted by nationalist forces in the Spanish Civil War, Lorca was targeted and shot dead.

Aside from his homosexuality, Lorca was also targeted because of censorship laws in Spain. His poetry and plays deal with the themes of sexuality more generally which subverted the authoritarian rules of the Catholic Church.

One of my favourite plays by Lorca is La Casa de Bernarda Alba or The House of Bernarda Alba . It was completed in June 1936, two months before Lorca was assassinated. It deals with five sisters in Andalusia in the south of Spain who are experiencing a period of mourning at a time where their mother (Bernarda) wields total control over them. The deliberate exclusion of any male character from the action helps build up the level of sexual tension that is present throughout the play. Pepe is the love interest of the daughters but never appears on stage. This plays on the themes of repression, censorship, conformity and passion and

is a forcible reminder of the silencing of any of these concepts during 1930s Spain. If Lorca were alive today, he’d be a gay icon with a penchant for addressing taboos on-stage and in his poetry. It’s at a time like this where we are grateful that modern-day playwrights and poets have more freedom to express their queerness in their work. However, more can be done to bring these silenced voices to light, especially those from the past. We need to amplify these voices and bring more attention to the historical and political practices that originally silenced them.

Gracie Moore, Editor-in-Chief

Jeanette Winterson Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit

Asha Van Meurs

Theatre and queer culture

April Frain talks us through the history of queer culture and the theatre

ANCIENT Greece is widely considered the origin of the theatre we have today, with its creation of amphitheatres and theatre masks reaching back over 2,500 years ago. Theatre, of course, has evolved over time. Inspired by the Greeks, the Romans continued the tradition of performance, which led to theatre’s further carriage into artistic exploration. Throughout its lengthy history, theatre has been shaped by cultural and political influences. In Ancient Greece, it flourished as an artistic religious tradition, honouring the god Dionysus. Carrying on through to the Renaissance, playwrights like Shakespeare began to incorporate themes of gender fluidity through cross-dressing performances. However, the theatre was not always a safe space for expression, let alone queer expression. Up until 1968, specifically British theatre was heavily censored, restricting portrayals of homosexuality and other “indecent” themes. Though, despite these limitations, the theatre has always found ways to challenge norms and allow for genuine societal reflection. Due to stigmas and censorships, LGBTQ+ themes have been hidden and coded within the theatre for centuries. The most well-known examples are the hints of queerness found within Shakespeare’s theatrical works. His 1602 play, Twelfth Night, sees the character Viola cross-dressing as

Cesario, and the passionate bond between Antonio and Sebastian demonstrates rather homoerotic undertones. Despite these hidden queer aspects, openly queer narratives were, of course, largely absent from mainstream theatre until the 20th century.

In the early 1900s, queer nightlife began to flourish despite widespread discrimination. Underground clubs, such as the Caravan in London and Caffe Cino in New York, allowed gay men and lesbian women to express themselves somewhat publicly and socialise with a community that understood and accepted them. Caffe Cino was particularly significant as it was one of the first venues of “Off-Off-Broadway,” with its owner Joe Cino allowing actors and playwrights to stage plays there frequently. In fact, one of the first openly LGBTQ+ plays, Lanford Wilson’s The Madness of Lady Bright , was performed in Caffe Cino in 1964.

QUEER

NIGHTLIFE BEGAN TO FLOURISH DESPITE WIDESPREAD DISCRIMINATION

In 1968, the abolition of theatre censorship in Britain was a turning point, allowing for the rise of queer theatre companies such as Gay Sweatshop, established in 1974, which actively explored gay and lesbian experiences and, as written in their 1975 manifesto, “to counteract the prevailing

perception… of what homosexuals [are] like.” By the late 20th century, LGBTQ+ theatre had gained much greater visibility and acceptance. The Boys in the Band (1968) was groundbreaking as it was the first OffBroadway (not Off-Off-Broadway!) to openly depict gay life, while La Cage aux Folles (1983) was the first Broadway musical to do the same. Even despite the AIDS crisis at the time and continued discrimination, queer voices continued to be explored and celebrated in the theatre, making it a platform for resistance and a home for many who felt ostracised. Due to its history of challenging discriminatory social and legal constraints, the theatre has long been a refuge for those who feel like outsiders, making it a natural home for queer individuals. Theatre communities are widely accepting of selfexpression and diversity, and the stage makes a perfect platform to share struggles, stories, and unique experiences, queer or not.

THEATRE

HAS LONG BEEN A REFUGE FOR THOSE WHO FEEL LIKE OUTSIDERS

Nowadays, there are many shows to choose from that explore queer voices and experiences. The multiple award-winning A Chorus Line (1975), while not centred on LGBTQ+ themes, includes the stories and experiences of openly gay characters. For

The rundown on self-publishing

Ia more recent recommendation, the 2017 musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is a brilliant coming-of-age story, based on the very real experiences of drag queen Jamie Campbell. If you’re yet to see a performance with openly queer themes, there are so many wonderful options to choose from, and I highly recommend exploring them!

Kayleigh Swart, Arts + Lit Editor, discusses the good and the bad of the self-publishing industry

N recent years the self-publishing industry has bloomed and become increasingly popular. A large part of this is due to the new popularity of eBooks and E-readers such as Kindles. Books have become more accessible and cheaper for both readers and writers. The self-publishing industry is largely different from traditional publishing and can benefit writers and readers in different ways. For starters, there are no limitations to who can publish. Writers don’t have to go through agents and publishing houses which control and decide which books they want to publish. It also means stories can be told exactly as the writers want, instead of being edited in certain ways. In addition to this, underrepresented groups are more represented in self publishing and have more of a voice. The AIA reported that the majority of self-published writers are women and women writers are outselling their male counterparts. Not only that, LGBTQ+ writers and stories are becoming increasingly popular for E-readers. Self-publishing is also a great way for new writers to start. Finding agents and publishing houses that will accept your work is difficult as a first time writer, so self-publishing is a great way to establish a name for yourself before that. Many now traditionally published writers started out this way, Margret Atwood herself started out as a self-published author. There is sometimes a stigma that comes around self-publishing, that it is not up to the same standard of traditionally published books but that doesn’t have to be the case. Around a third of all eBooks sold are self-published which means they have to be doing something right. No matter if you read self-published books or not, there is no denying that this trend is affecting the publishing industry. What used to be a relatively closed off and sometimes elitist industry is now being opened up to more and more people. Publishing is no longer just owned by ‘the big 5’ but is becoming more individual and accessible to everyone through self-publishing.

THE self-publishing industry has bloomed in recent years. With the rise of E-readers making self-publishing far more accessible. Wordsrated reports that around 30 per cent of all eBooks sold are self-published. So, clearly self-published books are popular, but are there any downsides to them? A lot of the problems in the selfpublishing industry are faced by the writers of these books. Many of these writers come from marginalised groups, which means underrepresented voices can be shared in a way they are often neglected in the publishing industry. However, these writers still have to face many barriers to get their writing out there. There isn’t any support when you self-publish compared to traditional publishing. All the costs of publishing and advertising are put on the writer to front. There is also no upfront pay-out that you get with traditional publishing. This means you are relying solely on the sales of your books to make the money back. So, self-publishing comes with the risk that you’ll lose more than you gain. This means writers are taking big risks when deciding to self-publish. In addition to this, the most popular self-published genres (romance and fantasy) are heavily saturated, meaning it is even harder for writers to get their work out there. Another way that self-publishing can be costly for writers is that online books also don’t sell for as much as physical copies, meaning the return is far less. Also, the cost of printing physical copies for a self-publisher would almost be impossible to manage. It is estimated that printing one book costs about £3, meaning printing just 500 would set a writer back £1500. Finally, self-published writers have the problem of editing. Either they can self-edit their work, which can lead to more mistakes throughout or they have to spend more money to get someone to edit it for them. Self-publishing has become more and more popular, and it is a great option for those who want to publish without going down the traditional route. However, it still has its problems for writers, and for some the risks don’t always match the rewards.

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MUSIC

Exeposé's modern queer icons

Three Music writers share their favourite queer artists for LGBTQ+ History Month

Blood Orange

FOR many, including myself, Blood Orange (Devonte Hynes) has become a personal hero — a figure whose music encapsulates the intricate journey of one’s self-discovery, and the painful process of coming to terms with one’s own identity and queerness. Born and raised in East London, he shares a deep connection to the space, shaped by its diversity, both literally and musically. Blending R&B, electronic, rock, and funk, his songs navigate themes of race, love, sex and self-discovery. Songs like ‘Jewelry,’ ‘Dagenham Dream,’ and ‘Forget It’ resonate deeply with me, reflecting how identity is fluid, and how that journey is messy but ultimately mesmerising and worth every step.

CChappell Roan

HAPPELL Roan is currently breaking through the music industry and the LGBTQ+ community. Her stage persona is a drag queen andChappell herself is openly a lesbian. Her music discusses queer themes, such as crushing on a presumably heterosexual woman ('Good Luck, Babe!'), sexual relationships between two women ('Red Wine Supernova' or 'Naked in Manhattan'), or growing up in a non-LGBTQ+ accepting area ('Pink Pony Club'). The last song listed is particularly personal to Chappell, considering the fact she grew up in a religious Missouri town where queerness wasn’t broadly accepted — causing her to disprove of her same-sex attraction at first. It’s so refreshing to see an artist advocating for and giving back to the community as much as Chappell does — her recent Grammy wins are so very deserved!

Magdalena Kanecka, Online International Editor

JACOB Elordi’s “little lesbian intern” Reneé Rapp has been a favourite amongst ex-theatre-kids since she made her Broadway debut in 2019 as Regina George in Mean Girls — but only recently did she enter popular consciousness when she reprised the iconic role in the “film-based-on-the-musical-based-on-the-film-based-ona-book” which hit cinemas last January. Rapp revolutionised the ‘00s classic when she admitted to interpreting Regina as a lesbian, confirming the suspicions of all sapphics with function ing gaydars. She has written many a gay song — such as 'I Do' from her debut LP Snow Angel — but none quite as much as 'Pretty Girls' and its equally gay music video. To quote Reneé in 'Not My Fault' (co-written and performed with fel low sapphic Megan Thee Stallion): can a gay girl get an amen?

LGBTQ+ Artist Spotlight: Freddie Mercury

Sarah Gould on the legendary frontman of rock band, Queen

FREDDIE Mercury is without a doubt one of the most influential figures in music history and an enduring icon for the LGBTQ+ community. His life story is a powerful mix of inspiration, success and heartbreak. As the frontman of Queen, one of the most iconic rock bands of all time, Mercury helped shape the sound of an era. He wrote 10 of the 17 tracks on Queen's Greatest Hits album, and his unmistakable voice and bold stage presence — full of flamboyance, confidence, and a touch of femininity — set him apart as a true star. What made Freddie Mercury even more groundbreaking was his willingness to break free from society's expectations of gender, sexuality and identity. His androgynous style and fearless performances continue to resonate with countless people in the LGBTQ+ community. He proved that personal identity doesn't need to fit into a box or adhere to rigid societal standards. His presence on stage, unapologetically larger than life, empowered many to embrace their true selves. Mercury's sexuality is often described as complex, and the truth is we may never know exactly how he identified. He was in a long-term relationship with Mary Austin in the early '70s, even getting engaged to her. Later, he came out to her as bisexual, but Austin recalls responding to him that she thought he was gay. He had relationships with both men and women, but always kept his private life largely out of the public eye. Before his death in 1991 from AIDS, he spent his final years with Jim Hutton, his partner, whom he referred to as his "husband" despite it not being legal to marry at the time. They wore gold

bands to symbolise their commitment to each other. The media has long debated Freddie's sexuality, often labelling him as either bisexual or gay. However, Mercury was the embodiment that Queer celebri ties don’t owe the public an explanation on their sexuality, and his choice to keep his AIDS diagnosis pri vate was also his own right. Today, Freddie Mercury’s legacy contin ues to inspire and empower people around the world, especially within the LG BTQ+ community. His impact goes far be yond music. He be came a symbol of resilience, selfexpression, and living life authentically —making him a lasting icon of the fight for LGBTQ+ visibility and rights. Freddie Mercury’s story reminds us all of the importance of living bold ly and on our own terms.

TRANSA

Brooke Taylor, Music Editor, highlights a gender non-conforming album

TRANSA is a compilation album released by Red Hot Org in 2024. The album features contributions from over one hundred artists, spanning a range of genres and gender identities, celebrating the trans community. Popular artists such as Faye Webster, Hunter Schafer, Andre 3000, Sam Smith, Clairo, and Sade lend their talents to the project. My personal favourite song on the album is ‘Feel Better’, which is Adrianne Lenker’s contribution. In my opinion, Lenker is one of the greatest lyricists in the music industry currently, and ‘Feel Better’ is a beautiful song about embracing acceptance.

Jakub Ciesielski

Audrey Alvey, Satire Ediror

Reneé Rapp

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Superbowl 59: K.Dot, Stars, and Stripes

Harry Morrison, Music Editor, reviews this year's half-time show, headlined by Kendrick Lamar

THE Superbowl LIX saw an evening filled with upsets, surprises and entertainment. The biggest surprise to many wasn’t the fact that four-time Superbowl champions Kansas City Chiefs got wiped off the floor by the Philadelphia Eagles, but the controversy surrounding Kendrick Lamar’s iconic half-time show.

The half-time show and the Superbowl go hand in hand, a once-a-year spectacle that millions of people across the globe tune in to watch. Acclaimed as the biggest sporting event in the world (only to Americans), the USA sure do take their half-time shows seriously. For any musician considered to be a leading artist in the industry, booking the half-time show can be the biggest event in your career. Some use the show to entertain the masses with their music, tainment came in a form

mar during his performance this year.

Opening up with Samuel L. Jackson as an American Uncle Sam, dressed in a red, white and blue suit with a top hat, his character delivered a series of short-spoken sections throughout the performance. The message delivered from Samuel L. Jackson’s character was not only to celebrate the ability of hip-hop to challenge society, but also a statement about the power of Kendrick Lamar amongst Black culture in America. Boldly stating in the early minutes of his performance “(The) revolution about to be televised, you picked the right time for the wrong guy,” Lamar was there to provoke a message, not just to entertain the people. Embellishing his performance with fireworks, dancers and special guests, he really elevated his game. Again though, he politicised his performance, referencing “40 miles and the mule, this is bigger than the music,” a specific reference to Ameri can slavery, showcasing how his message meant more than the music being performed.

His politicisation of the performance wasn’t the only major aspect, it was only the beginning. If you ha ven’t heard about Kendrick Lamar’s beef with Canadian

rapper Drake, it’s possible you’ve been living under a rock. Bringing out Serena Williams and SZA, Drake’s ex-girlfriends, he used his performance to make a substantial statement on his thoughts upon Drake. Kendrick Lamar took his beef with Drake and performed it to over 130 million viewers. Teasing the song 'Not Like Us' throughout, a song that disrespects Drake, he finally performed it. He looked down the lens of the camera and without hesitation said “say Drake,” directly teasing him. Was Kendrick Lamar the right choice for this year’s halftime show? Described by the BBC as “one big tease,” the controversy of this performance is what makes it entertaining. Overall he delivered an iconic performance that I think justified his appearance during this stage of his career.

LGBTQ+ History Month playlist

Four Music writers contribute artist and song suggestions for your playlist this month

POP music during the ‘80s would have been dull if it hadn’t been for the Britpop bangers of George Michael. His music was always full of incredible vocal talent, bringing us ballads like ‘Careless Whisper’, ‘Where did your heart go?’ and other famous tunes like ‘Faith’ and ‘I’m Your Man’. His open and vocal advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights was innovative for his era of music production, and he used his platform to normalise conversations about sexuality at a time when it was still taboo. A true gay icon, George made honest and catchy music, capturing the hearts of Britain and beyond, creating a reputation that will last for decades to come.

Gracie Moore, Editor-in-Chief

COINCIDENTALLY, my top song on Spotify last year was a track by Clairo, an LGBTQ+ artist who I am dragging my boyfriend to see in concert in Glasgow this March. The track in question is Bags, an ode to Clairo’s love for women. Clairo has confirmed that the lyric "Can you see me? I'm waiting for the right time" encapsulates the nerves and joy surrounding her very first experiences with a girl. The song is very subtly queer, with the line “Call me by the name I gave you” hinting at the LGBTQ+ film, Call Me By Your Name

Amberly Wright, Online Deputy Editor

ON the surface, it may be difficult to see how Tracy Chapman’s ‘Fast Car’ has become cemented in lesbian and queer culture. Written about the experiences of the working class community in Chapman’s Ohio hometown, ‘Fast Car' is an escapist anthem about the dream of a better life. After a televised perfomance at Nelson Mandela’s tribute concert in Wembley, it captured the hearts of the queer community; the freedom, pain and longing encapsulated in every lyric resonates for any queer person who has fled small-town life. Coupled with Chapman’s own status as a black, queer, working class woman, ‘Fast Car’ speaks to the queer experiences which are often excluded from mainstream conversations. It’s not only one of the most beautiful, but one of the most important, queer songs of the 80s.

Amy Rushton, Editor-in-Chief

NOT everyone’s journey to coming out is the same. Tyler, The Creator's is a unique experience. Tyler has never explicitly mentioned his sexuality, but rather expresses the complexities of being queer and dealing with internalised homophobia. Exploring his unique identity of being a queer, black rapper, his music creates an outlet for those who are still on their journey of finding themselves. The album Flower Boy and the song 'Garden Shed”' highlights his painful journey through the analogy of a garden shed, as a confession from the closet/ 'shed'. The album reminds us that the discovery of your sexuality may not be a smooth one, but rather one of true realisation.

Yasmine Al-Saket

'Garden Shed' by Tyler, The Creator

'Fast Car' by Tracy Chapman 'Bags' by Clairo

'Faith' by George Michael

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screen

Queer representation on screen

Amberly Wright, Online Deputy Editor, discusses whether the film industry is doing enough for the LGBTQ+ community

EQUAL representation in the media is always something that can be consistently strived for, and certainly hasn’t been reached yet. Although, progress is being made, with some of the best LGBTQ+ representations reaching our screens in recent years. Shows such as Heartstopper and Atypical, where LGBTQ+ identities and the reality of being queer in the current generation are portrayed incredibly accurately, detailing realities and norms. Heartstopper doesn’t shy away from addressing dark topics, exploring homophobia and transphobia, alongside mental health.

The L-Word and Orange is the New Black are staple LGBTQ+ media, with the main theme being lesbian identity, following many different women and their relationships with one another. Atypical shows Casey’s journey of realising her LGBTQ+ identity, with the actor themselves coming out as non-binary recently. Modern Family explores

many relationships, my personal favourite storyline is that of Mitch and Cam’s, which blossoms throughout the series. Gay marriage becomes legal in California during the show, allowing the couple to get married, whilst documenting their journey to adopting children

For me, Call Me By Your Name must be one of the best LGBTQ+ films to have ever been made. We all dream about a trip to somewhere in the south of Italy, eating fruit from orchards and drinking wine from the vineyard. The film follows Elio, who is still figuring out his sexuality, as he enters into a physical relationship with their house guest, Oliver. The film documents their journey of falling in

love in such a beautiful way, and I cannot fault it. I am currently binge-watching The Sex Lives of College Girls, where each stage of the coming out journey is documented. Many characters are figuring out their sexual identity, while others are still closeted. LGBTQ+ identity is celebrated in the show, with sex presented as positive and the norm, which is echoed in a similar format through the sexpositive show, Sex Education

However, many straight actors (as far as I am aware), play queer characters. This was particularly present when less actors were out as LGBTQ+ in the industry. Heath Ledger famously played the role of a gay man in Brokeback Mountain, with Matt Damon also

For your viewing pleasure

Screen writers recommend their favourite LGBTQ+ films

LOVE, SIMON

FOR me,  Love, Simon  was my first taste of an on-screen identity crisis from an LGBTQ+ perspective. The 2018 film portrays Simon, an American teenager in high school, coming to terms with his sexuality. An element of his life that he has hidden from family and friends, we follow his rollercoaster journey as a blackmailer threatens to reveal it to everyone. Balancing coming to terms with his identity and issues with friends and family, this film explores many themes that are realities teenagers of the LGBTQ+ community face, especially when coming out to people in their lives. Although I don’t personally relate to the issues faced, Nick Robinson’s convincing and powerful performance as Simon allows me to sympathise and understand the difficulties members of the community experience when revealing and coming to terms with their sexuality. Together, this film is impactful, emotional and striking to myself, making it my favourite LGBTQ+ film.

Jplaying a gay man in The Talented Mr Ripley. This is particularly problematic when actors cannot quite grasp the hardship and oppression that individuals face, with actors not accurately portraying the experiences of being queer, particularly where films explore deep topics, such as homophobia. The ups and downs of LGBTQ+ identity have also been accurately represented, with Bohemian Rhapsody exploring Freddie Mercury’s journey to finding his sexual identity, as well as his battle with AIDS, echoed throughout It’s A Sin. However, many shows still lack representation. Reality shows, such as Love Island, lack the format to actually include couples outside of the heterosexual norms, and with many dramas, making queer characters feel like a commodity. Though all forms of media have become more diverse with gender and sexual identities, there is still more to be done.

QUEER

ONE of my most recent watches, rated four out of five stars on my Letterboxd, is Luca Guadagnino’s 2024 release — Queer . As the title partially suggests, the centralstoryline explores a gay relationship between two men in Mexico during the 1950s. What I enjoyed most about the film was not just the cinematography and the visual appeal of each scene, but also the themes of war and military and the connection and yearning between two individuals, who also happen to be of the same gender — providing great insight into the LGBTQ+ community. Without spoilers, Daniel Craig’s performance in the movie is particularly worthy of highlighting, with his character evolving greatly as the storyline progresses. Upon finishing the movie, I was left thinking about it and reflecting on its themes for a long time afterward. If you loved 2017’s Call Me By Your Name — produced by the same director — be sure to check out Queer !

ONATHAN Larson’s radical hit RENT was the 11th longest-running Broadway show, further popularised by its 2005 film adaptation. Fans of the stage-to-screen genre will appreciate Idina Menzel as a bisexual, activist/performer femme-fatale. Those outside the niche will still recognise the opening song: “Seasons of Love” (aka 525,600 minutes). A faithful depiction of working-class creatives in NYC during the HIV/AIDS crisis, RENT strikes the perfect balance between portraying LGBTQ+ struggles central to the plot without making them shallow caricatures incapable of being anything but queer. HIV/AIDS was (and still is) seen as a “gay” disease, but RENT knows it affected everyone — especially the poor, whose restricted access to health/education made them more vulnerable than the upper class. Larson’s, and protagonist Mark’s, purpose was to document real people in a world becoming more unreal every day — owing to landlords/governments prioritising greed over humanity. RENT is as fun and camp as it is deeply moving. Its cinematic immortalisation ensures the story’s legacy as central to the destigmatisation of HIV/AIDS, and as a foundation for multi-faceted queer stories.

AUDREY ALVEY, SATIRE EDITOR

A complete must watch

Pollyanna Roberts, Screen Editor, reviews the new musically compelling Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown

IN James Mangold’s musical biopic, A Complete Unknown, Timothée Chalamet stars as Bob Dylan, iconic folk singer, who turned the world upside down with his transition into rock and electric music. Dylan is no doubt one of the most influential figures in the music world, with a career that spans over 60 years. Chalamet had big shoes to fill, and I truly think he did a fantastic job. Chalamet’s dedication to the role did not go unnoticed. He sang all the songs himself, and they were performed live. Chalamet’s mannerisms and impressions were accurate and realistic. His performance really made this film so immersive; he became Bob Dylan and there is no question against that. Chalamet has been nominated for an Oscar for Best Actor. This is

a testament to his enthralling and transportive performance. If he wins, he will be the youngest actor to have won the Academy Award for a leading role. However, his chemistry with his screen partners cannot go unpraised. Chalamet was absolutely brilliant, but Edward Norton and Monica Barbaro were both magnificent as well. Barbaro played Joan Baez, another famous folk singer whose career coincided with Dylan’s frequently. Their love af fair was somewhat tumultuous, but their duets were beautiful, and Barbaro’s voice has a timeless sound that is hard to fault. Norton, as Pete

Seeger, put together an emotive performance. His friendship with Dylan was incredibly wholesome, and when Dylan did, in his classic egoistical manner, disappoint and hurt Seegar, my heart ached for him. Elle Fanning portrayed one of Dylan’s girlfriends, Sylvie Russo, but I fear she was given a rather flaccid role. Against Barbaro’s enigmatic and enchanting Baez, Fanning had a difficult task to try and illuminate Sylvie Russo, who just did not add to the film. Both these women did well in highlightingtheimperfectionsofBobDylan’scharacter.Itcan sometimes be easy to fall into the trap of glorifying music legends, especially when they are

as influential as Bob Dylan, but Mangold did a good job of remaining honest. Dylan appeared quite selfish and egotistic throughout the film, which was evidenced by his infidelity, and his mistreatment of long-time friend, Pete Seegar. This was a realistic portrayal of a music icon. I recommend seeing A Complete Unknown, and I firmly support just losing yourself in the music. The cinematography, the soundtrack and the performances total to make a transportive film that is really just good vibes and pure enjoyment. We follow Dylan’s career like we’re on a smooth sailing, still river, and it is oddly comforting. I left the cinema with a weight off my shoulder and a big smile on my face; I felt like I was just present in ‘60s America.

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MAGDALENA KANECKA, ONLINE INTERNATIONAL EDITOR

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HARRY MORRISON, MUSIC EDITOR

Companion Review

Rosie Peters-McDonald, Deputy Editor, unpacks Drew Hancock’s new sci-fi smash

DREW Hancock’s Companion (2025) is a gripping and impressive exploration of the relationship between humanity and Artificial Intelligence. Starring Jack Quaid (Josh), best known for playing Hughie in Amazon’s The Boys , and Sophie Thatcher (Iris), who recently received critical acclaim for her role in Heretic , the film’s uncanny and gory portrayal of the robotic companion concept is novel and complex. Thatcher steals the show — as she arguably did in Heretic — with a simultaneously emotive and detached performance which captures the complexity of Artificial Intelligence’s futuristic potential. If you’re looking for a film which asks important questions of AI autonomy and its relationship with gender, this one is for you. (Sidenote: I’ll also take this opportunity to recommend Kazuo Ishiguro’s Klara and the Sun , which is significantly less violent but deals with similar questions of whether AI can feel/act/be considered human).

I felt that the film got off to a slow start and could have propelled itself into action somewhat sooner, although I appreciated the scene-setting for Iris’s emotional attachment

to Josh. Having avoided any trailers (why do movie trailers insist on spoilers so often these days?) I expected the AI theme but was pleasantly surprised at a couple of the plot twists in the first quarter. I found it interesting that Iris’s violence (I’ll refrain from spoiling too much here) was triggered not by her own innate unemotional ‘settings’, but by Josh’s tampering or jailbreaking of them. While the most physically violent acts in Companion are enacted by the companions themselves, the underlying motives belong to those who control them. This is a pretty tangible concept when you consider the prevalence of AI-training jobs on the market these days — AI may be super-smart and it might feel beyond us, but it is very much trained on our own ethics, knowledge and ideas. One might argue that fear of AI is adjacent to a fear of humanity’s ethical failures.

DAVID Fincher’s Zodiac (2007), is a film emblematic of Fincher’s greatest qualities as a filmmaker. The thriller is meticulous in detail, delving into the almost mythological story of the infamous Zodiac Killer, who terrorised the San Francisco Bay Area in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Fincher’s detail-oriented, almost obsessive filmmaking style lends well to a film aiming ambitiously to give you the complete unfurling of the killer’s rise to fame. The resulting atmosphere is ‘close’ with tension, Fincher attempts to transport the viewer back to these years dense with the public anticipating death.

The narrative slowly unfolds through the perspectives of three central figures: cartoonist Robert Graysmith (Jake Gyllenhaal), journalist Paul Avery (Robert Downey Jr.), and detective Dave Toschi (Mark Ruffalo).

The acting seeds that would grow into Gyllenhaal’s more refined portrayal of obsession in Prisoners (2013) can be seen

few parallels between these films, although I would argue that Companion was much better executed in almost every way, no hate to Olivia Wilde). There is a moment at the end of the film in which Iris looks out of her car window and sees another version of herself, a companion styled in heavier makeup. In both instances, Thatcher’s characters are shaped to fit exactly what their male controllers want in a woman, a detail the film can thank its costume designer, Vanessa Porter, for composing excellently.

In its design, its satirical edge, and its gripping plot, Companion is full of interesting points of analysis and discussion regarding gender, technology, and the intersection between them both. While there were parts of the film that I felt dragged — particularly at the beginning — I really enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone interested in the ethics of Artificial Intelligence.

ONE MIGHT ARGUE THAT FEAR OF AI IS ADJACENT TO A FEAR OF HUMANITY’S ETHICAL

FAILURES

The aesthetics of Companion are striking and well-developed. Once it is revealed that

Iris is controlled by Josh, her wardrobe is certainly called into question (at least I definitely started to think about it). It’s undeniable that Sophie Thatcher looks amazing in Companion , but why is it that Josh chooses to dress her like an 1950s housewife? It feels wrong once we know that this style is not owed to her own autonomy. There’s something very Don’t Worry Darling about Iris’s attire (I actually felt that there were quite a

Redux Reviews

Two editors turn a critical eye to a couple of cinema classics...

Zodiac

in his rough, but still compelling portrayal of Graysmith as his compulsion to find the killer grows. Robert Downey Jr. brings his classic charisma to the role, but as his character naturally dissolves into the background across the film’s runtime and I found his performance unexpectedly one-note. Ruffalo’s character provides the anchor from which the viewer is given the police’s perspective on the unsolved case. His frustrations are well realised and resonated with me through Ruffalo’s performance, he remains an actor with an inherent sense of sensitivity, even in this ‘straight-edge policeman’ role.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to maintain tension without resorting to sensationalism. Fincher proves his mastery over the thriller genre, opting instead for a slow-burn approach that emphasises the procedural aspects of the investigation. Whilst the film’s two-and-a-halfhour runtime feels slightly on the bloated end, the patience

Fincher exercises with his plot serves to really heighten the scattered moments of terror.

Cinematographer Harris Savides matches Fincher’s directorial patience with his own understated cinematic style. Shots linger just long enough to unsettle, with just enough artistry to stave boredom, and with the perfect use of muted tones to convey the anxiety of the time.

Zodiac does everything well, but unfortunately few things great. When I turn back to Fincher’s filmography, Zodiac stands not as his magnum opus, but as the film I have to thank for better films like The Social Network (2010) or The Killer (2023). It perfectly incorporates some of the best parts of classics like Se7en (1995) and Fight Club (1999), but its bloated runtime and luke-warm ending somewhat blunt this lethal film’s edge.

ZODIAC DOES EVERYTHING WELL, BUT FEW THINGS GREAT

JI REALLY ENJOYED IT AND WOULD RECOMMEND IT TO ANYONE INTERESTED IN THE ETHICS OF AI

But I’m a Cheerleader

AMIE Babbit’s 1999 cult classic, But I’m A Cheerleader deserves revisiting. Lambasted by critics, Babbit’s satirical take on evangelical conversion camps has nevertheless been embraced by the queer community for its camp humour, drag star cameos (RuPaul in a ‘Straight is Great’ T-shirt) and loveable central couple. Megan (Natasha Lyonne) is an allAmerican girl; she has a boyfriend and is a cheerleader! However, this isn’t enough to evade the suspicions of her parents and for the crimes of vegetarianism and an interest in singer-songwriter Melissa Etheridge, she is sent to ‘True Directions’, a camp promising to convert teens to heterosexuality.

(THE FILM) HAS BEEN EMBRACED BY THE QUEER COMMUNITY FOR ITS CAMP HUMOUR

Babbit plays on the absurdity of homophobia — here heterosexuality is the real spectacle. From the bright blue/pink scheme to

the overtly gendered activities (vacuuming versus chopping wood with masculine icon RuPaul), ‘True Directions’ is a fever-dream version of a 1950s suburban marriage, as ridiculous as it is harmful. As Megan embarks on the camp’s five-step program to becoming ‘normal’, she finds herself falling for reluctant camper Graham (Clea DuVall), threatening to undermine her journey towards heterosexuality. The cast led by Lyonne — whose declaration of “I’m a homosexual!” plays in my head at least three times a

day — are not only fantastic comedic actors but so willing to lean into the bit giving the film the element of seriousness it needs. This is bolstered by a central romance between Megan and co-camper Graham, which stands out from an otherwise jokey script as romantic, important and — against the backdrop of repression and discrimination — something worth fighting for.

THE CENTRAL ROMANCE STANDS OUT FROM AN OTHERWISE JOKEY SCRIPT AS IMPORTANT AND SOMETHING WORTH FIGHTING FOR

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Image: Marcin Wichary, Flickr

Image: DVSROSS, Flickr

Image: Oooo, GoodFon.com

E x etera Exetera...

Let’s

Talk About It...

Gracie Moore, Editor-in-Chief, discusses how to deal with internalised biphobia

INTERNALISED homophobia refers to the involuntary belief in society’s negative perceptions of homosexuality and more generally, queerness. In an individual, it can lead to feelings of shame, self-loathing and a diminished sense of self-worth.

I have experienced this in the past myself — in the form of biphobia. It feels extremely isolating because you begin to punish yourself for feelings that are completely natural but when you feel ashamed, it’s hard to open up to people about the way you feel.

I didn’t know it at the time but I actually realised from the age of around 12 that I liked girls along with boys. I never wanted to admit it because I hardly knew anyone else at my school who was the same and those who were, were ostracised for it.

The term “bisexuality” was thrown around online when I took part in those inaccurate, scaremongering “Am I gay?” quizzes when I was younger but I refused to accept it, ensuring myself that everyone fancied girls to an extent. Soon enough, opening up to friends about my secret attraction towards both girls and boys helped me to realise that the way I feel is normal and aside from that, it’s actually quite common!

The feelings of internalised biphobia started to fade but they still lingered. The internet can be a cruel place when looking for reassurance. I was told by 20-something men online that bisexuality makes a girl promiscuous and told by women that I was basically just straight and I was going through a phase. Well, the phase has persisted for around 10 years now so I can safely say that this isn’t a trend, it’s a part of who I am. Bisexuality is a varaible term that you can resonate with however you wish. There is no set way to represent it although I am the absolute stereotype with my rings, Doc Martens, love of cats and every Tame Impala song to have ever been made (did you know it’s actually just one guy!?) What is important is to understand that whatever

sexuality you identify as, you are perfect the way you are. Shame was brought about by companies looking to capitalise on your insecurities and middle-aged men who still believe women should be chained to the kitchen sink waiting for their husbands to come home.

When you begin to research the origins of LGBTQ+ history and the strides that have been taken over the last 60 years, you can really see how being part of the community is something to be proud of, not ashamed of.

People still question my attraction towards women as if I’m making it up — but I just let them. I tend to talk more about the crushes I have on men compared to women because it’s more relatable for my straight female friends. I suppose this is the lingering reminders of my internalised biphobia that I’m still working to tear down.

Embrace your sexuality in any way that suits you. There is no-one on this Earth you need to impress except yourself so leaning into your sexuality rather than trying to reject it is the best way to be rid of your internalised shame.

Finally, for my bisexual kings and queens: I see you. You don’t have to hide your attraction to certain genders just because the internet says it’s promiscuous and weird. Engage with your openly queer friends about their experiences and your self-love will come on in leaps and bounds.

Recipe: (gay) vegan katsu curry

WE were scratching our heads in the Exeposé office trying to come up with a queer recipe which didn’t go crazy with rainbows (a little on the nose, and who’s buying that much food colouring?) So here is our gay Katsu curry. It’s true that there’s nothing explicitly gay about a katsu curry, but this specific recipe was the first meal I ever made for my girlfriend. She’s gay, I’m gay, therefore the curry’s gay, and if you eat it you are too. Nobody gets to question this logic or it’s homophobic. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

For the katsu, I used tofu because my girlfriend is one of the few blasphemous vegetarians who hate aubergine, but sweet potato also works well. You will also need cornflour and breadcrumbs. For the sauce itself, the best option is Japanese curry roux; S&B Golden Curry is the most popular brand and can be found in most Asian supermarkets. You will also need onion, garlic, ginger, carrot and potatoes. For serving, you will need rice of your choice, cucumber and carrot, plus coriander, lime wedges and chilli if you’re feeling fancy.

Step 1:

boiling water. Whilst this is simmering, you can crumble up the curry roux and stir in in. Leave the pan for around 15-20 minutes, but depending on the size of your potatoes it may take longer! The main thing is getting the potatoes soft and the curry to the desired thickness. If you like it creamy, you can also add a little coconut milk.

Step 2:

Now for the fun part! Make sure you’ve pre-pressed the tofu so it’s firm and has been drained of water. Slice the block in half, then into triangles or slices around an inch thick. You’ll need two bowls; one with cornflower, a couple of spoons of water and some seasoning; the other with breadcrumbs. Dip a piece of tofu into the flour, then into the breadcrumbs, make sure both sides are fully coated. If the breadcrumbs aren’t sticking properly, you may need to play around with the consistency of the flour mixture, adding more flour or water where needed.

Step 3:

Sauté onions in a pan until translucent. Then add garlic and ginger, stirring so it doesn’t burn. Meanwhile, chop the carrots and potatoes into cubes and add to the pan along with

WHeat oil in a pan until it’s hot and fry the tofu until it’s crispy and golden on both sides. Now is also a good time to put the rice on if you haven’t already. For the sides, thinly slice cucumber and the remaining carrots. Arrange it all on a plate with the rice, spoon some curry on top and add a couple of slices of tofu. Finally, sprinkle on coriander, chilli and top with sesame seeds if you have them. Enjoy your newfound queerness!

Amy Rushton, Editor-in-Chief

Exeposé archives: LGBTQ+ activism

E often imagine universities to be sites of progressive politics where strides have been made for equality. However, in actuality, the history of LGBTQ+ rights was fraught in Exeter as anywhere else. This letter, from Exeposé’s March 1993 edition is from a reader expressing his disgust at “sexual deviancy”. The full letter is full of homophobic talking points, criticising many of the steps the University took towards equality in the 1990s, for instance the establishment of an elected Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Rights Officer in the Students’ Guild framework. The writer promotes legislation which in retrospect, is widely seen as homophobic and damaging, such as Sec-

tion 28, and refers to homosexuality as an “unnatural lifestyle”. Signed, “Concerned Normal Male” is a harrowing remainder of the kind of homophobia that was — and in many ways still is — rampant on university campuses. Fortunately, that’s not all and one writer took it upon himself to reply in a form the letter deserved, opening with “You really are an odious little fascist sh*t aren’t you?” and finishing with “Please, do me a very huge favour and get a life.” This was followed by a letter from the incumbant LGB Officer. LGBTQ+ history at Exeter is rich and varied, with student activists and writers playing an important role in standing up for LGBTQ+ rights. If you would like to read more about Exeter’s queer history, check out Page 7 for a timeline told through the pages of past Exeposé issues.

This article contains discussion of homophobia which may be triggering for some students

Image: Pexels

Image: Rosie Peters-McDonald

Image: Openclipart

Images: Chris Sandal-Wilson

STUDY BREAK

CROSSWORD

Across

1 Pay (4)

4 Turn evil (anagram) — hostile (as 9 is said to be against 11 Down 18) (8)

8 Sorcerer (6)

9 Prejudice (of 11 Down men towards 18?) (6)

10 Stop that! (3,2,3)

11 Period of seven days (4)

12 Expression — adage — proverb (6)

15 Irritate (6)

16 Male (causing 9 in the 11 Down?) (4)

17 Heavy rain (8)

20 Balance (needed for 11 Down 18’s 1s) (6)

22 Unkind person (6)

ANSWERS

Down

2 Parisian goodbye? (5)

3 Testing — trying (9)

4 Cassette — tape (5)

5 Steer to (anagram) — prize ribbons? (7)

6 Casual — careless (3)

7 Saved money (4,3)

11 Office (where 18 get less 1s and 9?) (9)

13 Ancient relic (7)

14 Instruction to a horse to go faster - pudgy DI (anagram) (5-2)

18 The fair sex (unfairly treated in the 11 Down?) (5)

19 Join (5)

21 Sick (3)

SUDOKU

TRIVIA CORNER

THE SCIENTISTS NEWLANDS, MENDELEEV AND MEYER ARE ASSOCIATED WITH WHICH DEVELOPMENT?

WHAT IS THE TERM FOR A CHAPTER IN THE QURAN?

WHAT IS THE TERM FOR THE STYLE OF A MALE SINGER WHO REACHES THE PITCH OF A FEMALE SINGER?

INTERNATIONAL

EDITOR: Henry Anderson

Jed H. Gibbins

New Amsterdam-Exeter link

Jed

H. Gibbins, International

Editor, explains the benefits of the new KLM link

ON the 30th March 2025, KLM, the Dutch aviation flag carrier, will start operating daily flights between Exeter Airport (EXT) and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS). KLM, the world’s oldest operating airline, will be utilising an 88 seat Embraer 175 on the route. The flight takes around an hour and a half, being scheduled to depart Amsterdam at 16:15 and arrive at Exeter at 16:50. The return flight will depart Exeter at 17:20, arriving in Amsterdam at 19:50.

START OPERATING DAILY FLIGHTS BETWEEN EXETER AIRPORT (EXT) AND AMSTERDAM

This new connection offers multiple new advantages to the people of the South West and University of Exeter students. Having a direct

connection from Exeter to Amsterdam means that Dutch weekends away for university students are now much more ac cessible, rather than having to travel to Bristol or into London. However, this connection holds even more significance for international students travelling from the Eastern Hemisphere. KLM operates daily flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Delhi and Mumbai to name a few des

tinations. This new route will allow students coming to study at Exeter to fly to Amsterdam and get a connecting flight to Exeter, rather than flying directly to London to then get a three-hour coach or train to Exeter. Students coming from North America have long been able to access Exeter Airport via Dublin with Aer Lingus offering flights in and out of Exeter.

Currently, Exeter Airport offers domestic and Irish destinations, and a few holiday destinations like

Honouring Pushkin

OAlicante or Tenerife, operated by Ryanair and TUI respectively. KLM offering this new destination is a boost of confidence in the Devon economy; increasing the connectivity of a city is often linked to greater economic growth. Exeter Airport Managing Director, Stephen Wiltshire, has said “This is a tremendous boost for regional connectivity (…) providing a fantastic gateway for both business and leisure travellers from their local airport.” Exeter Airport used to have many more destinations when Flybe, which ceased operations in March 2020, used the airport as its main hub. It had 63 aircraft and 56 destinations overall, which greatly helped Exeter’s connectivity to the UK and European destinations, with Flybe providing more than half of the UK domestic flights outside of London. Since Flybe operations ceased, there have been no flights to major continental European cities from Exeter, so KLM have filled a gap in the market.

Daria Skudina describes how the Exeter Russian society remembered the timeless poet

N the 10th February, Russia pays tribute to Alexander Pushkin, the literary genius whose works laid the foundation for modern Russian literature. More than just an anniversary of his passing, this day is a celebration of his enduring influence — a poet whose words continue to shape storytelling, poetry, and artistic expression worldwide.

Pushkin’s literary genius transcends time, shining through his mastery of different genres. His verse novel ‘Eugene Onegin’ stands as a pinnacle of poetic realism, while ‘The Bronze Horseman’ exemplifies narrative poetry, and ‘The Queen of Spades’ is a psychological gothic tale. His historical

drama ‘Boris Godunov’ explores power and legitimacy, while his fairy tales bring folklore to life with vivid storytelling. His command of language was so profound that he not only shaped the modern Russian literary style but also redefined its very essence.

PUSHKIN’S LITERARY GENIUS TRANSCENDS TIME

The Exeter Russian Society marked the occasion with a Poetry Night on 10th February, turning the Picturehouse cinema room into a cozy space for literature lovers. Dim

candlelight flickered on the walls, soft music played in the background, and snacks made the evening even more enjoyable. Attendees shared their favourite verses, discussed Pushkin’s legacy, and revelled in the beauty of his language. The night concluded with a screening of a short film adaptation of one of his works, bringing Pushkin’s world to life through the silver screen.

For one evening, the Exeter society stepped into 19th-century Russia, experiencing the magic of a poet whose influence refuses to fade. As Pushkin himself once wrote: “I have erected a monument not built by hands…” — and indeed, his legacy stands as tall today as ever.

Thailand legalises same-sex marriage

Charlie Gershinson, Deputy Editor, outlines the new legislation and why it is significant

AFTER a long campaign, Thailand has become the first southeast Asian country to legalise gay marriage. Thailand’s prime minister — Paetongtarn Shinawatra — expressed her gratitude last month to all parties involved in a years-long effort to finally enact the Equal Marriage Act. Thailand is only the third country in Asia to pass such a law after Taiwan and Nepal.

THAILAND IS ONLY THE THIRD COUNTRY IN ASIA TO PASS SUCH A LAW

The legalisation of gay marriage in the country follows a long reputation of the country being welcoming to LGBTQ+ people both from Thai-

land and around the world. Previously passed bills outlawed discrimination on the grounds of sexual identification and gender identity, but final passage of the equal marriage law has previously faced challenges despite widespread approval from the Thai population, with one survey putting the measure at an approval of 97 per cent. Such liberal attitudes were aided by TV dramas starring LGBTQ+ actors and characters. These ‘boy love’ dramas helped to promote acceptance of LGBTQ+ people and normalise their perception. Boy love dramas are one of Thailand’s most successful exports with shows like ‘My School President’ and ‘Love Sick’ getting hundreds of millions of views worldwide. The law had been passed by the legislature’s lower house in March with the support of 400 of the 415 legislators present, and has now

been approved by the Senate and given royal assent. However, the gay rights movement in Thailand did not always enjoy such strong support.

The first pride march took place 25 years ago but was unfocused, unorganised and not supported by the police. Only two pride marches took place between 2006 and 2022 and a planned march in 2009 had to be cancelled due to the threat of violence. Progress was further limited by the conservative military government which ruled Thailand from 2014-2019, which was only willing to recognise civil partnerships for LGBTQ+ couples. However, once civilian rule returned, a thirst for more liberal politics stirred, with the youth-led Future Forward movement winning the third highest number of seats and its spiritual successor Move Forward winning the highest number of seats in the 2023 election.

While the road to marriage equality in Thailand has been fraught, it has been welcomed by its political leaders as PM Shinawatra stated, “all couples can now live with honour and dignity on Thai soil. After over two decades of legal battles, confronting prejudice and evolving societal values, this victory is the result of the collective efforts of all sectors.”

Image: ph-exr, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Orest Kiprensky, Picryl

Spring Destinations

Amberly Wright, Online Deputy Editor, gives her top travel locations for the upcoming months

IAM lucky enough to be jetting off to Amsterdam in March to visit my friend on her year abroad for a much needed catch-up. For those of you who also want to avoid your deadlines, and catch flights, not the flu, here are my suggestions!

AVOID YOUR DEADLINES, AND CATCH FLIGHTS, NOT THE FLU

Flying locally can be a great way to save time and money. Just a stone’s throw away, Exeter airport flies to a variety of destinations, such as Alicante, Crete, Rhodes, Ibiza, and Zante, as well as Dublin and Edinburgh if you want a break closer to home. If you’re willing to travel further, Bristol flies to most European countries, and many

cities, including top holiday destinations such as Milan, Madrid, and Lisbon, or, with London’s extensive selection of airports, travelling further afield means the world is your oyster.

My personal favourite destination is the ‘city of love’, Paris. It is accessible by plane or train, with discounts throughout the year. Whether it’s art galleries or food that you’re after, Paris has it all. For the sports fans, cities such as Barcelona offer lots of sporting events, as well as museums dedicated to the history of athleticism. Barcelona’s Camp Nou has its very own museum, documenting famous footballers and their careers at FC Barcelona.

Interrailing is also an option for those who want an extensive trip, with many European destinations reachable at a cheap price. Some of these lesser-known destinations can

also be great city breaks, with trips to Budapest and Bled quickly becoming the norm. Cities such as Copenhagen and Amsterdam also make great city breaks, with enough to keep you busy for a long weekend.

SOME OF THESE LESSER-KNOWN DESTINATIONS CAN ALSO BE GREAT CITY BREAKS

Most establishments speak English, and with hostels being relatively cheap, they are perfect destinations for students on a tight budget. You can go with a partner, friends, or even just solo. These city breaks are perfect in Spring, allowing you to embrace T-shirt weather, and escape deadline season!

MULTILINGUAL

La Settimana della moda di Milano 2025

Annabelle Atkins scrivo delle marche, le celebrità, i vestiti, le modelle e di più in mostra a Milano

CHE cos’è la Settimana della moda? Fondata nel 1958, è quando le marche di lusso presentano i loro vestiti e gli accessori per la prossima stagione nel mondo di moda. Molte persone chi lavorano per i media sono presente agli eventi e li registrano per il pubblico, che inspira le tendenze della moda. Le quatro settimane della moda principali in tutto il mondo sono a New York, Londra, Parigi e Milano – la capitale della moda di lusso in Italia. Ci sono due settimane della moda a Milano ogni anno. La prima è a febbraio e marzo con i vestiti per il prossimo autunno e l’inverno, e la seconda è a settmbre e ottobre con i vestiti per la prossima estate. La Settimana della moda per gli abbigliamenti da uomo è avvenuto dal 17 al 21 gennaio 2025 a Milano. Molte celebrità l’hanno partecipato, per esempre Troye Sivan alla sfilata di Prada. Inoltre, alla sfilata di Dolce & Gabbana, c’è stato James McAvoy (consciuto per la sua parte come Bill nel film di IT) e Lucien Laviscount chi recitava il personaggio di

Alfie nella serie su Netflix Emily in Paris. Tutti e due attori hanno portato i vestiti di Dolce & Gabbana per pubblicizzare e rappresentare la marca stimata.

Tra il 25 febbraio e 3 marzo 2025, la Settimana della moda di Milano per gli abigliamento femminile si terrà, con un totale di 153 eventi. È probabile che l’intera settimana raccolga più di 185 milioni euro! Gli eventi cominceranno con Gucci, e alcune altre marche sono Diesel, Armani, Versace, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Fiorucci, Fendi e di più. Sebbene le sfilate siano solo per le persone importanti e giornalisti, c’è uno schermo alla Piazza dei Mercanti che il pubblico può il vedere.

Image: Flickr

L’anno scorso, durante la Settimana della moda di Milano a settembre 2024, alcune modelle famose chi hanno fatto la passerella sono state Gigi Hadid e Naomi Campbell.

Per concludere, è difficile da prevedere le caratteristiche dei vestiti per la Settimana della moda a Milano perché le stiliste gli piacciono li nascondere fino alle sfilate. Detto ciò, saranno certamente spettacolare!

ARTICLE

Milan Fashion Week 2025

Annabelle Atkins, writes about the brands, clothes, celebrities, models and more on display at Milan

WHAT is Fashion Week? Established in 1958, it is when luxury brands present their clothes and accessories for the next season in the fashion world. Lots of people who work for the media and attend the events record them for the public, which inspires fashion trends. The four main fashion weeks around the world are in New York, London, Paris and Milan — the luxury fashion capital of Italy.

There are two fashion weeks in Milan every year. The first is in February and March with clothes for next autumn and winter, and the second is in Septem ber and Octo ber with clothes for next summer.

The Fashion Week for menswear took place on the 17th to the 21st of January 2025 in Milan. Many celebrities attended it, for example Troye Sivan at the Prada fashion show. Furthermore, at the Dolce & Gabbana fashion show, James McAvoy was there (known for his role as Bill in the film IT) and Lucien Laviscount who played the character

of Alfie in the Netflix series Emily in Paris. Both actors wore Dolce & Gabbana clothing to promote and represent the esteemed brand. The womenswear Milan Fashion Week will happen between the 25th of February and the 3rd of March 2025, with a total of 153 events. It is possible that the entire week will generate more than 185 million euros! The events will start with Gucci, and then continue with other brands such as Diesel, Armani, Versace, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Fiorucci, Fendi and more. Although the fashion shows are only for VIPs and journalists, the public can watch them from the screen in the Mercanti Square. Last year, during Milan Fashion Week in September 2024, some famous models who did the runway were Gigi Hadid and Naomi Campbell. To conclude, it is difficult to predict the characteristics of the clothes for Milan Fashion Week because the designers like to hide them until the fashion shows. That being said, there is no doubt that they will be spectacular!

Image: Mat’s Eye, Flickr

Image: Pexeles, Freerange Stock

Image: Alexey Komissarov, Pexels

Sci-Tech

The microbiome: student tips for a healthy gut

Anna Tennant debunks microbiome myths: feed your gut, fuel your health —

THROUGHOUT the first few months of the year, many of us feel motivated to adopt healthier habits. Yet, these resolutions often involve ambitious goals that can be hard to maintain, leaving us discouraged when motivation fades. But what if gradual changes to your diet could significantly improve your health?

Your digestive tract houses 100 trillion bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiome. This complex ecosystem aids digestion, nutrient ab-

sorption, immune function and even mental health. The microbes in your microbiome are specific to you and are influenced by diet, lifestyle, and environment. As leading scientists in this growing field, Tim Spector and Chris Gardner said: “Improving our diet… is the most important and cost-effective health measure we have at our disposal.”

Recently, awareness of the importance of the gut microbiome has skyrocketed. Open TikTok and Instagram and your feed will likely include nutritional scientists and recipe developers

cooking up meals labelled as gut-friendly or fibre-rich. One company at the forefront of this trend is Zoe, a personalised nutrition brand co-founded by Tim Spector. Zoe tracks subscribers’ blood glucose using continuous glucose monitors, then recommends recipes to reduce glucose spikes, claiming to help lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease. However, Zoe has faced criticism for creating unnecessary food anxiety among healthy individuals. Nicola Guess, a dietitian and researcher at the University of Oxford states: “Glucose in someone without diabetes is a minuscule part of your overall metabolic health.” Additionally, the hefty £300 subscription fee and complex ingredient lists make it neither practical nor accessible for students. Nevertheless, valuable tips can be taken from this approach and applied to student life.

One simple strategy is to increase the variety of plant-based foods in your diet. Experts suggest aiming for 30 plants a week — not only fruits and vegetables, but also whole grains, nuts, seeds, herbs, spices and legumes. To reach this goal,

Ella-Jade Smith

small bites for big benefits

try adding some lentils to your bolognese, switching to seeded bread or browsing the extensive nuts and seeds section of Lidl. These changes can boost your plant intake without taking up precious space in your shared student fridge — or draining too much money from your student loan.

Consuming prebiotics (nutrients that promote the growth of healthy gut microbes) and probiotics (living microbial cultures) is another way to positively transform your microbiome. Whilst supplements are available, there are more cost-effective ways to consume these nutrients.

Fibrous foods are an essential source of prebiotics. When dietary fibre reaches the large intestine, it is digested by microbes to produce metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). SCFAs are vital for gut health they strengthen the gut barrier and reduce inflammation. A decrease in SCFA production can result in increased gut permeability, chronic inflammation, and conditions such as Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS), obesity, type 2

diabetes and other autoimmune diseases. Mediterranean-inspired recipes incorporate fibre-rich whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables. These versatile, flavourful and nutrient-dense foods can simply yet effectively support microbial diversity and gut health. Fermented foods are high in probiotics. Live culture-containing yoghurts make one of the best gutfriendly breakfasts. Brined pickles, miso, soft cheeses and sourdough bread are also abundant in probiotics. Another group of gut-beneficial nutrients are polyphenols — plant compounds with antioxidant properties. They are found in berries, dark chocolate, olive oil and colourful vegetables. The more colourful your plate, the wider the range of polyphenols you’ll consume. Next time you do a big shop, consider adding more plant-based, high-fibre, fermented and colourful foods to your basket. With small, cost-effective changes, you can improve your mental and physical wellbeing in simple, sustainable ways.

Too high to handle? The cannabis to schizophrenia pipeline

Julia Szewczyk investigates the connection between cannabis consumption and the development of mental health conditions

DESPITE being illegal in the UK, cannabis remains the most commonly used illicit drug, with 6.8 per cent of people aged 16-59 reporting to have used it in the past year. Users may be alarmed to hear, however, that the drug has been linked to the development of a long-term mental health condition known as schizophrenia.

Cannabis remains the most commonly used ilicit drug

According to the NHS, schizophrenia is the inability to distinguish one's own thoughts and ideas from reality. Symptoms include hallucinations, delusions and feeling disconnected from your emotions. There is currently no cure and treatment focuses on the management of symptoms through antipsychotic medication and cognitive behavioural therapy. Globally, around 24 million people are currently diagnosed with the condition. The link between regular cannabis use and schizophrenia is not a novel one. Research has previously proposed

a diathesis-stress model for the development of the disorder. This model suggests that an individual is more likely to develop a disorder if they have a predisposition for it, such as the presence of a genetic vulnerability. However, this vulnerability must also be paired with a stressor (such as a traumatic life event or the use of highpotency cannabis) for the condition to arise. It would therefore follow that an increase in cannabis use would increase cases of schizophrenia in a population. This is one of the main arguments against the legalisation of the drug.

A recent study in Ontario found that the number of schizophrenia cases linked to Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) more than doubled since the legalisation of the drug in the region in 2018, rising from four per cent to 10 per cent. Researchers looked at medical records from 2006 to 2022 of over 13.5 million Ontario residents aged 14 to 65. They found a 270 per cent increase in individuals requiring hospital care for CUD, as well as an 11 per cent rise in schizophrenia diagnoses for those previously treated for CUD. They also found that this

link may be “particularly elevated” for younger males, as about 20 per cent of schizophrenia cases in this group were associated with CUD. It is important to note, however, that the study does not imply that cannabis use directly causes schizophrenia. It instead increases the risk and may worsen symptoms. Some also criticise the link because association cannot predict causation. It could be that those who experience symptoms of schizophrenia turn to drugs like cannabis to cope with their condition.

The number of Schizophrenia cases linked to cannabis use disorder (CUD) more than doubled since Ontario legalised the drug in 2018

Nevertheless, these findings have reignited the debate over cannabis regulation in the UK. Some argue that it is hypocritical for cannabis to be banned while more harmful drugs like alcohol and tobacco are not. Selling it in li -

censed shops would also limit access to young people and allow for regulation of the THC level. On the other hand, others argue that there is not enough research on the long-term health effects of cannabis to be deemed as less harmful. It could also act as a gateway drug towards stronger substances. In 2018, the medical use of cannabis was legalised after two cases of epileptic children, who benefited from it as a treatment but could not access it legally in the UK, caused a public outcry for reform. However, the use of recreational cannabis is still illegal under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. While in power, the Conservative

Party generally opposed the decriminalisation of cannabis, maintaining its status as a class B drug. The current Labour government seems to be following their predecessor and has no plans to legalise the drug, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer repeatedly stating he will not be changing the policy. In fact, of the main political parties, only the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party take a more liberal stand arguing that a regulated market would prevent the availability of more potent and dangerous forms. I think it is safe to say, however, that recreational cannabis will not be legalised in the UK any time soon.

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Paris AI summit: Macron versus the US

Charlie Gershinson, Deputy Editor, explores Europe’s AI ambitions and the challenges it faces

WITH the ever-growing pace of AI development becoming an increasingly consistent presence in our lives, global governments are now starting to launch measures to control and harness AI’s capabilities. The latest example came from a recent summit hosted by President Emmanuel Macron of France in Paris where world leaders discussed the future of AI.

While previous conferences in London and Seoul focused on aspects like safety and existential risks, the Paris summit focused instead on more optimistic subjects including the expansion and innovation of AI. Many of the subjects covered included deregulation through the cutting of red tape and financial commitments towards the development of AI.

A large swathe of investment was announced as more than 70 companies, including Philips and Volkswagen, unveiled the EU AI Champions Initiative to “unlock Europe’s full potential” particularly in sectors such as manufacturing and defence. This was coupled with more than 109 billion euros in investment pledges and 50 billion from the EU themselves for the purpose of developing AI technology.

Macron and Henna Virkunnen

the EU’s digital chief hoped to focus on cutting back regulations governing the development of AI. This follows the passage of the AI Act in late 2023 which became the world’s first comprehensive set of rules governing AI, such as ensuring AI systems are safe and abide by EU rules. These restrictions have been compounded by the Digital Services Act which serves to improve content moderation and accountability for online content and the tech platforms which host it.

It became clear that the lifting of these restrictions would be the largest hurdle at the conference. Recently inaugurated US Vice President J.D. Vance considered Europe’s “massive” regulations on AI as a stranglehold on the burgeoning technology and called content moderation “authoritarian censorship.”

Vance’s attendance was not the only US presence overshadowing the summit. Macron touted France in particular as the ideal location for the development of AI as its large nuclear power capabilities would be able to provide enough energy for the development of a technology which requires a massive energy consumption. This contrasted with the current energy policy of the Trump administration which seems to rely on extracting fossil fuels, or “drill, baby, drill” with Macron instead saying the optimum strategy is to “plug, baby, plug.”

[Macron] hoped to focus on cutting back regulations governing the development of AI Macron instead saying the optimum strategy is to “plug, baby, plug”

The clearest sign of friction came with the US’s refusal to sign onto the diplomatic declaration on “inclusive and sustainable” AI after concerns

about overly strong regulation and cooperation with “authoritarian” regimes in a clear reference to China, whose Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing also attended. The US was not the only nation which refused to sign onto the declaration as the UK also refused, saying that the declaration did not go far enough in dealing with global governance and AI’s impact on national security. However, some observers believe the UK refused to sign to curry favour with the US. Henry de Zoete, a former adviser on

AI to Rishi Sunak when he was prime minister, said that the government had “pulled a blinder” as “not signing the statement brought vital good will with the Trump admin at little cost.” Meanwhile, Elon Musk the world’s richest man and senior adviser to Trump also made an impact by offering to buy OpenAI, one of the leading AI companies, for $100 billion. This forced OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to reject the offer, saying instead he would be “happy to buy Twitter.”

Fat cells: the unexpected cancer killers?

Anna Tennant discusses revolutionary possibilities for cancer treatments utilising fat cells

FAT cells are commonly transplanted in cosmetic procedures, such as fat grafting after liposuction. However, scientists are now repurposing this technique for cancer treatment, transforming ordinary fat tissue into cells which compete with tumours for the energy sources they need to grow. This groundbreaking approach, known as Adipose Manipulation Transplantation (AMT), involves implanting genetically modified

fat cells to effectively ‘starve’ tumours.

Cancerous tumours grow through unregulated cell division, requiring large amounts of glucose and fatty acids. Unlike healthy cells, cancer cells rely on aerobic glycolysis, a metabolic process which allows them to use glucose as an energy source even when oxygen is present. This is the Warburg effect. When glucose becomes limited, many tumours use fatty acids as an alternative source of fuel, allowing them to proliferate in the harsh, low-oxygen conditions of the tumour microenvironment.

Previous research has shown that activating brown adipose tissue (BAT), a special type of fat that burns energy to produce heat, can increase glucose and lipid metabolism and suppress tumour growth. However, BAT activation requires prolonged exposure to cold, which is impractical for fragile, immunocompromised cancer patients.

To overcome this, Dr Nadav Ahituv and Dr Hai Nguyen at UC San Francisco developed an innovative alternative method. Using CRISPR gene-editing technology, they transformed white fat cells into BAT-like

beige fat cells, which consume large amounts of glucose and fatty acids. By creating metabolic competition, these engineered fat cells deprive tumours of nutrients, suppressing their growth without requiring cold exposure or conventional chemotherapy.

Unlike healthy cells, cancer cells rely on aerobic glycolysis, a metabolic process which allows then to use glucose as an energy source

Initially, Dr Ahituv and Dr Nguyen conducted trans-well experiments, where cancer and fat cells shared nutrients but were physically separated. The results were unexpectedly dramatic. “In our very first trans-well experiment, very few cancer cells survived. We thought we had messed something up, we were sure it was a mistake,” recalled Dr Ahituv. “So we repeated it multiple times, and we kept seeing the same effect.”

Following successful in vitro results, the researchers began using

animal models. They implanted the engineered BAT-like fat cells into mice alongside breast, pancreatic, and prostate cancer cells. Once again, the tumours’ growth was significantly reduced. The therapy was also effective in mice predisposed to develop pancreatic and breast cancers and worked even when the fat cells were implanted at a distance from the tumour. This suggests AMT could target hard-toreach cancers, such as glioblastoma.

Dr Jennifer Rosenbluth, a breast cancer specialist at UCSF, was then introduced to the project. Her expertise allowed the team to test AMT on actual human breast cancer tissues. They extracted tissue from mastectomies that contained both fat cells and cancer cells and, in both Petri dishes and mouse models, they observed the same-patient beige fat cells outcompeting breast cancer cells for nutrients.

One of the major advantages of AMT is its adaptability. Different cancers have different preferred nutrient sources. For example, pancreatic cancer metabolises uridine in the absence of glucose. By modifying fat cells to exclusively consume uri-

dine, researchers successfully halted the growth of pancreatic tumours. The method may also have applications beyond cancer treatment. Dr Ahituv explains, “The cells could be designed to sense glucose in the bloodstream and release insulin, for diabetes, or suck up iron in diseases… like hemochromatosis.” Additionally, fat cells are easy to obtain from patients, less likely to interact with surrounding tissues and remain localised after implantation, making them a safer and less toxic alternative to many traditional cancer treatments.

Researchers successfully halted the growth of pancreatic tumours

AMT has the potential to revolutionise cancer treatment by offering a personalised, low-toxicity therapy. While further studies and clinical trials are needed before AMT can be used in human patients, its pre-clinical success suggests a promising future. Dr Ahituv states, “The sky’s the limit,” for this targeted metabolic approach.

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AJAM 2025 — a return to Gloucester

Eloise Grainger, Sport Editor,

recounts Snowsports Exeter's day out at AJAM festival

SKIING, snowboarding, and après.

What more could you want from a Saturday in England? AJAM the UK’s largest snowsports and music festival set the stage on the 8th February for a day of pole smashing, steezy tricks and insane music.

The Exeter teams are familiar with Gloucester, having competed here of ten as part of the Kings regional competitions. Exeter has visited three times already this campaign.

For racing, the day kicked off at 12pm sharp for an hour of warmups this year, the timetabling was moved earlier to allow racers more time for practice and knockouts (and of course to enjoy the three-stage festival!) The format was individual time trial races; each competitor got two runs in, with the best of the two being used to place them for the knockouts.

others who had travelled from all over the UK; 489 competitors (mixed) raced down the slope in the hope of qualifying. Exeter had 17 competitors which was the joint highest sign-ups with Brumski. 255 minutes of skiing took place throughout the afternoon in which the top 64 times from each gender then qualified into the knockouts.

Three females (Jolie Hoffman, Katie Vaughan, and Sophie Galbraith,) and three males (Edward Fisher, Alex Noon, and Max Fairfull) made it through to the knockouts for Exeter. The top of the timing sheets then went head-to-head with the bottom, which unfortunately meant two Exeter competitors had to battle each other for the next stage. Hoffman, who came second fastest overall, had to compete against Galbraith, who came in 63rd. Hoffman advanced in the qualifiers.

from 32 to 16 competitors, in which five were Exeter representatives. Both Noon and Hoffman beat their competition to the end of the slalom course and made it to the next round. Noon at first came second in his duel, but as his opponent was disqualified by the race officials, Noon snuck through. Vaughan lost out after missing a gate and Fairfull was out too. Onto the next round and both Noon and Hoffman were at a loss. In the finals, Fisher had to face Exeter graduate, Ben Hummel, who now studies a masters at UCL. The alumni lost out to Fisher, who went on to beat Tom Butterworth from MUSKI. Out of the hundreds of competitors, Fisher got on the podium as third fastest in Male Ski. The first and second positions were awarded to Ryan Bloom from KUS and Charlie Deem from Portsmouth respectively. As for snowboard racing, Exeter doesn’t have any male or female representatives.

Exeter was one university against 30

The numbers were whittled down

Fisher got on the podium as 3rd fastest in Male Ski

Nestled in between the race slope and freestyle park was the Slope Stage with various artists from DJ Collective a group

of inclusive adults with learning difficulties providing the soundtrack to the skiing. Freestylers also had a warmup session followed by qualifiers. This was in a jam session format to make it more entertaining and squeeze in even more laps within the allotted time. The freestyle slope was kitted out with an airbag, jumps, pipes, and rails, and the judges took the tricks that competitors attempted into consideration when determining positions. Successful finalists then competed head-to-head in front of a 2000-person crowd. Izzy Duly was the only Exeter freestyler to get into the finals she even got on the stage to receive the 'Hard-

“est Stack' award and was given a goodie bag for her courageous attempt at 'sliding the shotgun' that ended in a big fall. Ski boots and poles were pushed aside to make way for the Boot Room Stage which transformed the equipment room into a DnB rave space until the early hours of the morning. Outside in the car park, the Bus Stage a school bus rebuilt into a mobile DJ set kept the vibes high all evening until it was time to depart the county of Gloucestershire.

Exeter was proud of their achievements at AJAM, and it is looking promising for Round four of Kings in Plymouth in a few weeks’ time.

FA Cup: Exeter's exceptional feat

Mikhail Shklover details the match at St James Park between Exeter City FC and Nottingham Forest

THIS could actually be your day” the exclamation from a senior Forest supporter sounded loud and clear from the left section of the main stand, just seconds after Nottingham’s Jota Silva's opportunistic effort struck the inside of the post and bounced back into play. In fact, within the dying embers of a prolonged stoppage time period, the large proportion of travelling supporters (those adjacent to the Exeter City press box) were becoming openly frustrated with the inability of the Premier League side to break down the backline of Exeter City. With Championship outsiders Plymouth Argyle beating Premier League leader Liverpool and League one’s Leyton Orient causing all sorts of problems for Pep’s Man City, a scenario of an astonishing Grecian win seemed highly plausible to everyone at SJP. This feeling was enhanced during extra time as Nuno Espirito Santo’s side failed to score again, this time against a 10-man team.

A scenario of an astonishing Grecian win seemed highly plausible

As so often with knockout encounters, the penalty shootout was ultimately a lottery. However, from Exeter’s point of view, it was also a result of a heroic effort that exceeded all possible expectations. While the majority of readers would have probably encountered a range of different highlights, due to extensive coverage of the Tuesday night fixture on national TV, here is a reminder of chronology. Exeter City dared to dream against the Premier League’s third place team right from the start, as Josh Magen nis seized a fleeting moment in the fifth minute, pouncing on a goalkeeper's mistake and tapping home from close quarters. The visitors responded with the elegance of Ramón Sosa just 10 minutes later, with the winger running in behind the defence and threading the ball past

Whitworth's outstretched arm. The opportunity arose after a beautifully disguised ball from Sangare. Forest continued to dominate possession and this paid dividends on the 37 minute mark. Taiwo Awoniyi found a pocket of space on the edge of the box and curled the ball into the corner, out of the keeper's sight and reach. Nevertheless, the Grecians emerged from the interval with renewed confidence and just several minutes into the second half, Magennis's attempt ricocheted off a defender, nestling into the net to level the score once more. Exeter would no longer be rendered vulnerable, thus making it to penalties. And… It wasn’t to be! Forest were faultless in the shootout with Neco Williams delivering the decisive blow in front of the Big Bank.

The result may not have gone Exeter’s way, but the night belonged

to them. Against all odds, they had turned a moment in the national spotlight into something unforgettable. For the first time in years, the whole city was breathing football. From Penny Road, you could hear the roar of St James Park, with fans gathering outside the ground even without a ticket. While the most eager supporters peeked at the action from the houses on St James Road End or the rooftops of Clifford House accommodation, the newly assembled ITV cameras captured it all for everyone

to spectate at home. The Grecians were in the national spotlight, and boy, did they make it count. Just like Plymouth Argyle, the Grecians made Devon proud. By the time this article goes to print, the focus of Grecian supporters will have already shifted to the all-important League One campaign. At the time of writing, Exeter have begun to turn the tide on their poor league form, securing a vital away win at Cambridge, with another goal from Magennis, who has taken his FA Cup form in EFL League 1.

Image: Eloise Grainger

Image: Mikhail Shklover

Image: Charlie Coulter

Image: FMT

Luka to the Lakers

Zac Robinson reports on the huge NBA trade of Dallas Mavericks' star Luka Doncic

LUKA Doncic is, at minimum, the third best basketball player in the world. Just 25 years old, he routinely dazzles the NBA with flashy passing, a handle that belies his 6'7" frame, and some of the greatest shotmaking ability the league has ever seen. Last season he led the Dallas Mavericks all the way to the NBA Finals where they fell to Boston yet Doncic solidified as the face and future of the Mavericks franchise for the next decade.

A little under three weeks ago they traded him.

Doncic was dealt to one of the most storied franchises in all of sport, the Los

Angeles Lakers, teaming up with a guy you might have heard of LeBron James. Lakers fans immediately began dreaming of championships, the combination of Luka and LeBron having enough firepower to take on any team in the league. Back in Texas, the reaction was on the opposite end of the spectrum. The return for Luka Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first round draft pick was met with scorn and seen as impossibly underwhelming. Luka was Dallas.

A generational superstar in his prime, who loves the city and was loved back, traded for essentially a bag of peanuts.

Conspiracy theories swirled and

leaks from Dallas regarding concerns over Luka’s conditioning and the prioritisation of defence did nothing to allay them. The man who orchestrated all of this, Mavs GM Nico Harrison, has seen his reputation take a nosedive, while calls for his head have been growing by the day.

The new most popular chant at Dallas home games is ‘Fire Nico’, with fans protesting en masse. The seismic nature of this trade is not entirely unfamiliar within the NBA, but the fact that it seemingly came entirely out of the blue is, and fans are only left with more questions.

Sam Kerr acquitted of racial harassment Annabel Gowling details Sam Kerr's harssment case

and its impact

AUSTRALIAN footballer Sam Kerr was recently acquitted of racially aggravated harassment following an altercation with police in London. This case has sparked debates about race, gender and power, raising questions about how identity influences, and encounters with law enforcement. The incident began when Kerr and her fiancée Kristie Mewis, were in a dispute with a taxi driver, who drove them to a police station without explanation. Feeling trapped, Kerr became distressed and allegedly called a police officer “stupid and white”. Prosecutors pursued charges, but the jury found her not guilty, ruling

that while her words were inappropriate, they did not constitute a crime. This case highlights the complexities of public order offences, particularly how context shapes legal interpretations. Critics argue that the prosecution reflected a broader issue of selective enforcement, where high-profile figures and marginalised groups often face disproportionate scrutiny. Media coverage of the trial was divided. Some outlets sensationalised Kerr’s comment, while others contextualized her reaction within concerns about women’s safety. Chelsea FC and Football Australia supported her, but the case undoubtedly affected her public image. Beyond Kerr’s

personal ordeal, the case fuels a broader conversation about race relations and policing in the UK. It raises concerns about how legal systems handle public order cases and whether they disproportionately affect people based on identity. Additionally, the case reignites debates about free speech and whether offensive remarks should always be criminalised. Ultimately, Kerr’s trial underscores the need for nuance in legal proceedings, greater awareness of systemic biases, and a more empathetic approach to justice. While she was acquitted, the discussions it has sparked will likely have lasting impacts on policing and race relations in the UK.

LGBTQ+ History Month athlete profile

BORN on the 21st May, 1994, in Plymouth, England, Tom Daley quickly made a name for himself in the diving world. At just 10 years old, he won the British national junior platform title in 2004. Four years later, he became the youngest-ever European champion in swimming or diving after a stunning victory at the 2008 European Championships.

Daley made his Olympic debut at Beijing 2008, competing in both the individual and synchronised 10m platform events at just 14 years old. He won two gold medals at the 2010 Commonwealth Games and later claimed a bronze medal at London 2012, becoming a national hero. His Olympic success continued with another bronze in Rio 2016 and, finally, a gold medal in the synchronised 10m platform event alongside

Matty Lee at Tokyo 2020. Beyond diving, Daley has been a prominent LGBTQ+ advocate since coming out in 2013. He has used his platform to campaign for greater inclusivity in sports, highlighting LG BTQ+ rights in the Com monwealth. After a two-year break, he returned to competition in 2023 with hopes of qualifying for Paris 2024. From Olympic triumphs to activism, Daley remains an influential figure in and out of the pool.

Ben

FScott, Sport Editor

ORMER American professional basketball player, Jason Collins, not only had a successful 13 seasons as a centre in the NBA, but he was also the first openly gay athlete to play in any of the four major North American sports leagues. His career saw him play for seven pro teams. Upon finishing his 12th season, he decided to come out in May 2013 via a first-person essay for the front cover of Sports Illustrated. He then rounded off his basketball journey by returning to the Nets, who had relocated to Brooklyn. Collins wore a number 46 shirt during his 11-minute game for the Nets since becoming openly gay as it was the only number available; but he then wore

a number 98 jersey for the rest of the season just as he had during his time with the Boston Celtics and Washington Wizards as a way to honour Mathew Shepard who was a victim of a hate crime in 1998 that lead to his death. Collins’s jersey merchandise subsequently flew off the shelves, and all the sales and proceeds from auctions of autographed gameworn jerseys were donated to the Matthew Shepard Foundation and the GLSEN. It's been over a decade since Collins revealed his sexuality, and the former athlete remarks on the overwhelmingly positive response to him coming out and how the NBA has shifted to challenge homophobic language and celebrate diversity.

Eloise Grainger, Sport

Editor

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Image: Wikimedia Commons

Sport

Super Bowl LIX

SUPER Bowl LIX was expected

to be a clash of two elite teams, but instead, the Philadelphia Eagles dismantled the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 in New Orleans. The Chiefs, aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl victory, found themselves overwhelmed by the Eagles’ relentless defence and explosive offence.

Patrick Mahomes, usually the epitome of composure, endured a nightmare game. The Eagles’ defensive line terrorised him, recording six sacks and forcing two interceptions, including a pick-six by Cooper DeJean. Philadelphia’s defensive strategy was masterful, leaving Mahomes flustered and unable to find his rhythm. Offensively, the Eagles controlled the game. Quarterback Jalen Hurts remained composed under pressure, with the offensive line neutralising Kansas City’s blitz-heavy approach. Wide receiver DeVonta Smith contributed a crucial touchdown, while kicker Jake Elliott added three field goals. Even without a dominant display from running back Saquon Barkley, who managed just 57 yards, the Eagles never looked in danger.

Philadelphia proving themselves as the new dominant force in

By halftime, the Chiefs trailed 24-0,

and the game was effectively over. While Mahomes led a late charge, throwing three touchdowns, it was too little, too late. The Chiefs’ offensive line struggled throughout, and their reliance on blitzing failed to trouble Hurts. The result left Andy Reid’s side humbled, with Philadelphia proving themselves as the new dominant force in the NFL.

In numbers, Super Bowl LIX at tracted a massive audience, with final figures reaching 127.7 million viewers, a three per cent increase from last year. The peak came in the second quarter, hitting 137.7 million, but viewership could have been even higher had the game been closer in the second half. The halftime show also drew 133.5 million viewers, setting a new record.

tain lyrics due to legal implications. Serena Williams made a surprise cameo, dancing on stage, further adding to the spectacle as an ex-partner of Drake. By the end of the performance, it was clear that Lamar’s show was about more than music, it was a powerful statement on race, resistance, and culture.

Super Bowl LIX was packed with pop culture moments.

On social media, reports circulating on the cost of Trump’s attendance, which ended well before the final play, have sparked outrage. While no official report lays out the exact amount, estimates suggest the total cost was somewhere between $10 and $20 million. This is likely to have included, Secret Service Protection ($7$10 million), Air Travel and Motorcade ($4-$5 million), Stadium Security Enhancements ($2 million), and Local Law Enforcement Support ($1-$2 million).

Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance will go down as one of the most politically charged in Super Bowl history.

Introduced by Samuel L. Jackson as ‘Uncle Sam,’ Lamar delivered a 13-minute set laced with social and political undertones. Clad in a biker jacket, he opened with ‘Squabble Up’ as dancers formed a US flag, before moving into ‘DNA,’ a song reflecting his heritage.

The highlight was his performance of ‘Not Like Us,’ the diss track aimed at Drake, though he strategically self-censored cer-

Taylor Swift, attending to support Travis Kelce, was booed by the Philadelphia crowd, though she seemed unphased. The broadcast also featured unexpected celebrity pairings, such as David Beckham and Matt Damon starring in a Stella Artois ad and Snoop Dogg sharing a Super Bowl moment with Tom Brady. Fox’s much-maligned minimalist ‘score bug’ was a source of frustration for viewers, marking one of the more unusual controversies of the night.

For the first time in Super Bowl history, a sitting US president attended the game, with Donald Trump making an appearance just 20 days after returning to the White House. Security was heightened throughout the build-up, given the presence of 65,719 fans inside the stadium and the president himself in attendance only one month after a terrorist attack on New Year’s Day in New Orleans.

In the breaks, Super Bowl LIX featured 63 ads from 57 advertisers, with a 30-second spot costing a staggering $8 million. T-Mobile and Starlink’s “A New Era in Connectivity” led online engagement, generating 12.6 times the average ad interactions. However, it was Nike’s “So Win” campaign, celebrating women’s sports, that was the most talked-about brand with 13,000 mentions.

Super Bowl LIX was also the biggest betting event in BetMGM’s history, with wagers flooding in on all as-

pects of the game. While many punters backed the Eagles’ moneyline and Jalen Hurts for MVP, sportsbooks benefited from underwhelming performances by Saquon Barkley and Travis Kelce, both failing to meet their expected yardage. One of the most popular prop bets was on the duration of the national anthem, which was performed by Jon Batiste. Bettors who predicted that the anthem would last over two minutes were successful, as the performance concluded at two minutes and three seconds. Other prop bet outcomes included: the coin toss landing on tails, Jalen Hurts being shown before Patrick Mahomes on the FOX broadcast during the national anthem, and Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show including over 10.5 songs, and Taylor Swift being shown 12 times on the broadcast. All in all, the Eagles’ blowout win ensured that most major sportsbooks came out on top, with operators describing it as one of the best Super Bowl results in years.

SPORT EDITORS:

Eloise Grainger

Ben Scott

Ben Scott Sport Editor

the NFL

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