2022 Oregon and SW Washington middle and high school students created this complimentary magazine, funded by philanthropic partners.
Tevin Tavares: Inspiring Future Filmmakers
Portland Trail Blazer: CJ McCollum’s Commitment to Community
Q&A with Anya Pearson
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Justice Oregon for Black Lives is the largest initiative in Meyer Memorial Trust's 38-year history, created in the wake of nearly two months of demonstrations protesting the killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and others. In recognition of the urgent opportunity to transform institutions, systems and narratives in Oregon, a state founded on stolen lands and explicit in its constitutional exclusion of Black people, the initiative is being cocreated with Black communities working to advance racial justice and equity in Oregon.
Participants in World Stage Theare’s Black History Festival NW, funded in part by the Oregon Cultural Trust.
Taxes may be “certain.” But using yours to fund the arts? Now, that’s brilliant. If you donate to any arts and culture organization in Oregon, you have a secret weapon for protecting the groups hit so hard by the pandemic: Oregon’s cultural tax credit.
A Meyer Memorial Trust initiative
Started more than 20 years ago, the cultural tax credit gives Oregonians the opportunity to direct a greater portion of their tax dollars to fund arts and culture. The funds have never been more needed. Learn more at CulturalTrust.org, by calling the Oregon Cultural Trust at (503) 986-0088 or by consulting your tax preparer.
Learn more at mmt.org Oregon Cultural Trust | 775 Summer Street NE, Suite 200 | Salem, OR 97301 (503) 986-0088 | CulturalTrust.org
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Contents 16 10 12 18 20 22 24 30 34 36
writers
Making a Name for Yourself: Zyah Belle
Odessa Berry Ella Edwards - Guest Essay Winnie Fletcher Alex Fredrickson Quentin Hawkins Ja’Vionne Hudson Jeyla Luvert Kaden McDaniel Savannah Moore-Jones Elijah Mullenix
Q&A with Anya Pearson
Jael Calloway
The Perseverance of a Student Athlete
Nicole Williams
Tevin Tavares: Inspiring Future Filmmakers
My Hair Grows Up CARE’s Multicultural Library Holds its Grand Opening Portland Style: Dress to Express Portland Trail Blazer: CJ McCollum’s Commitment to Community On Her Toes Classrooms, Computers, and COVID-19
editor-in-chief designer
director of philanthropy & partnerships Glenda Gordon
operations manager Maya Lazaro
writing coaches Jahlysa Azaret Jassy McKinley Casey Winbush
community coordinators Jahlysa Azaret - Portland, Oregon Kenya Luvert - Lane County, Oregon Bruce Poinsette - Portland, Oregon
copy editor Ryan Nguyen
editorial consultant Jordan Tichenor
additional photography Jeremy Williams
thanks
Access and share our digital edition:
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Craig Hallman, Teacher-Librarian at Roseway Heights Middle School
special thanks to jli’s board John Griffith, Interim President Esther Wojcicki, Secretary Susan Castillo, member Amira Barger, member Ritch Colbert, member Berk Nelson, member
letter from the editor
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e’re pleased and honored to present the second edition of Black Student Magazine — now covering Oregon. In the last couple of weeks of production, a friend asked me why I decided to take on the Editor-in-Chief position for Black Student Magazine, given everything else I had committed to this year. This question made me laugh because, while one glance at my schedule is enough to make any sane person faint, my answer was clear and organized in my brain: because I didn’t have this opportunity growing up. I grew up in a predominantly white area and had limited chances to meet and befriend other Black or BIPOC kids. In middle school, I hated standing out with my curly, oil-slicked hair, darker skin and bushy eyebrows. I continuously tried to erase my Blackness. Opportunities to express my true self were never present. There were no environments where I could celebrate my Blackness instead of alienating it. This is what makes Black Student Magazine
so special. Our magazine encapsulates that one magic word: representation. This magazine elevates Black voices so other students can see middle and high school students who look like them; who share similar experiences; who are interested in the same topics as they are. They are celebrating their race, as they should. I could not be prouder of every one of our students who contributed to this edition. Not only were they able to express their true selves through words, but they were able to show other Black and BIPOC students that their voices matter — all while navigating the world in a pandemic. These students are superstars. A huge thanks to Jassy McKinley, Jahlysa Azaret, Nicole Williams, Bruce Poinsette, Kenya Luvert, Ryan Nguyen, Jeremy Williams, and our Executive Director, Ed Madison. And a special thanks to all of our interview subjects for taking the time to sit down and talk with our students; this is an experience they will never forget. Enjoy these pages ahead of you and bask in the words of our future. sincerely,
jael calloway, editor-in-chief
letter from the executive director
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ou’re holding a significant achievement! We invite everyone to explore the pages and enjoy engaging stories authored by Black middle and high school students across Oregon and Southwest Washingon. Black Student Magazine celebrates culture and self-expression from seldom-heard voices. Students met weekly via Zoom to engage with guest speakers, receive coaching and improve their writing — despite the pandemic. The Journalistic Learning Initiative’s story begins with our cofounder Esther Wojcicki and the teaching methodologies she originated during her 35-year tenure at Palo Alto High School in Northern California. Earlier, she taught at low-income schools in San Leandro, California, adjacent to Oakland, and successfully engaged students others had written off. Esther recently retired from classroom teaching
but remains an active education thought leader. The notion that some students are incapable of learning remains prevalent. However, the concept is false. Students who engage in journalistic storytelling earn better grades, become stronger writers and are better prepared to excel in their careers. JLI’s programs strengthen students’ character, collaboration and critical thinking skills. Special thanks to Nancy and Dave Petrone, our distinguished benefactors, as well as the many foundations, sponsors, partners and individuals whose generosity makes our work possible. Also, thanks to our board members, the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication and College of Education, and their respective deans, Juan-Carlos Molleda and Randy Kamphaus. Enjoy these pages and support JLI’s ongoing commitment to empower all youth. Remember: “One voice can change the world; one gift can change a life.” sincerely,
ed madison, executive director
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TEVIN TAVARES
INSPIRING FUTURE FILMMAKERS An emerging Black filmmaker shares his story. by kaden mcdaniel 11th grade, junction city high school junction city, or
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evin Tavares is an emerging Black film director in his twenties who is already making a name in Hollywood through various notable projects. LeBron James is the executive producer of Tavares’ newest project, “Top Class.” The IMDb network docuseries is about the rise of a Southern California high school basketball team that includes James’ son, Bronny James. Tavares is a University of Oregon alum who has directed documentaries, music videos, short films and commercials. Tavares grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area, a known hotspot for creative individuals. A product of a highly diverse community, he feels it changed his perspective on life and his craft. Earlier in life, he had no specific interest in filmmaking and focused mainly on school and athletics. “I really didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life,” Tavares said. “I knew I wanted to go to college, because my mom and my dad, they never had that opportunity. My brother didn’t either.” It wasn’t until his final year of high school that filmmaking caught his eye. However, like many seniors, he felt pressure about not having clear plans. Tavares still remembers sitting on his couch when a Nike commercial with Marvin Gaye’s “I Want You” flashed on the screen depicting LeBron James’ season leading up to his first NBA championship.
On set of Oakland Redbull project. Photo by @iamsquint
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On the set of the film Why Not. Photo by @iamsquint on Instagram
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On set of a Goapele music video. Photo by @iamsquint
On set of a Goapele music video. Photo by @iamsquint
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My goal is to inspire the next generation of young filmmakers.
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The song was a familiar favorite of his father’s. “I saw that, and it just struck an emotional chord with me,” he said. “I was like, ‘Man, this is what I want to do.’” That one moment sparked his creativity so deeply he attributed it to inspiring his career. While in high school, a mentor recommended he consider continuing his education at the University of Oregon. Before arriving in Oregon, he landed and completed an internship with the Golden State Warriors. At UO, Tavares and his classmates founded Combined Culture, a creative team that challenged themselves by making socially relevant short films that often went viral. One dealt with youth obsession with athletic shoes. Another centered on school gun violence. Brands noticed, and the second film won a national College Emmy Award. Tavares says he arrived in Hollywood feeling like an outsider because many who’ve succeeded attended film school at prestigious universities, such as the University of Southern California or the University of California, Los Angeles. “Even though I was an advertising student [at UO], I still made it my film school,” Tavares said. When asked how a younger version of himself would react to his current success, Tavares said young Tevin wouldn’t be surprised. “I think there was something in me as a kid that drew me toward public speaking and telling stories,” he said. He always knew he wanted to do something big. His parents and grandparents offered positive reinforcement, constantly reminding him, “the sky is the limit.” Increasingly in demand, Forbes Magazine featured him as a rising talent, suggesting he is following in the footsteps of “Black Panther” director Ryan Coogler. Tavares recently directed singer-songwriter Goapele’s music video for Coogler’s production company. “It’s a surreal feeling, going from someone I looked up to as a teenager to now I’m working with him, you know?” Tavares said. Tavares intends to use his success as a platform. “My goal is to inspire the next generation of young filmmakers,” he said.
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Despite Belle facing homelessness in Los Angeles, her determination shines through as she makes a name for herself. Photo by Riley Brown
Making a Name for Yourself:
Zyah Belle
by winnie fletcher 6th grade, roseway heights middle school portland, or
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hildhood hardships influenced singer and songwriter Zyah Belle’s music while growing up in Vallejo, California. Belle’s mom, known as “Ms. Linda,” and Aunt Regina were sources of inspiration. Both were choir directors, with Aunt Regina coaching Belle’s vocal skills. Belle was raised in the church and inspired by gospel music through Ms. Linda and her hometown church, Revival Center Ministries. She discovered Neo-Soul and R&B musicians, including Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, and Aaliyah. Soul and R&B became her favorites, but the idea of pursuing a music career came later in life. “It wasn’t until I was a sophomore in high school that I knew for sure that music and music education was something I wanted to pursue,” she said. In 2016, Belle moved to the largest city in California – Los Angeles. She overcame several hardships before arriving in Los Angeles to pursue her dreams. “I was raised by a single mother of four children,” Belle said. “She did her very best, but it’s very hard to financially provide for so many children. At a point in my life, I ended up deciding to move away from home.” She slept on couches and crashed with friends whenever she could. But those moments of sacrifice never blinded her from the future. “I knew that my gift and the amount of sacrifice and work that I put into my girt would essentially help create new generational wealth,” she said. Between 2018 and 2019, Belle collaborated with many rappers, R&B artists, and vocalists, which helped shape what collaborations she wanted to stick to in the future. Through understanding different artists and carving how she wanted to represent herself, she decided to bring her music from the concrete jungle of Los Angeles to Portland, Oregon’s nature-surrounded city.
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“When I came to Portland, one of my biggest goals was to work for an agency and learn more on that side,” Belle explained. “And I really enjoy everything that I’m able to do here as far as taking advantage of nature. That was one of my biggest things with moving [to Portland] as well.” Belle sees nature as grounding and reminds her that there’s more to life outside of social media and her own music career. She sees the outdoors as a space for her to find gratitude in her everyday life. Belle tries to practice gratitude every day. However, the music industry has presented new hardships — especially for a young, Black woman. But Belle has made it a mission of hers to remind other young, Black artists that they are valid no matter where they are. “It’s very easy to step into this industry and instantly feel invalidated as a Black woman and feel like, ‘Well, maybe I’m not lightskinned enough. Maybe my hair isn’t straight enough,’” she said. “You got to make sure that you love yourself and your silence before stepping into this industry.” Belle emphasized that artists must always be ready to advocate for themselves and be surrounded by a tribe of genuine, supportive people who know their truth. “Make sure that you’re practicing enjoying the process of strengthening your voice and strengthening your ability to retain music and learn music quickly,” she said. “Those are the two main things that I would call out for a Black girl trying to come in this industry or trying to be a singer.” Belle has released two new albums and is promoting three singles. She will continue to make music while staying true to herself and her roots. “As you get older, it gets harder to believe because adult life means making money,” Belle said. “But if you try to keep that same childhood passion, if you really want to do this, I promise you, the sky’s the limit.”
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Q&A with
Anya Pearson
LET’S START WITH HOW YOU GOT INTO WRITING. I have always written; it’s just been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. For a long time, I was also an athlete. I played basketball through high school, so I didn’t start seriously writing and acting until college. But it’s just been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I read a lot as a kid. I’d make up these stories. When I was in college, I started to take classes and have a little more confidence in terms of putting my stories out into the world. DID YOU EVER THINK YOU WOULD WRITE PLAYS WHEN YOU GOT OLDER? Yes, actually (laughs). Because again, when I was little, I would make these little skits. There’s an infamous story from my childhood. I wrote a play, and I made the rest of my class act it out during recess. I watch people a lot. That was something I started doing when I was little. I’m always wondering, “What’s that person’s story? Or, “How did they get to this moment in their life?” Playwriting really lends itself to creating these entire worlds for people to reside [in].
The challenges, inspirations, and rewards of being a creative Black woman. by alex fredrickson 10th grade, battle ground high school battle ground, wa
WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED IN YOUR CAREER AS A BLACK WOMAN? One of the biggest challenges I’ve encountered is because I started with acting before I was confident enough to put my writing out into the world. I began to get really, really frustrated with the type of roles that I was being offered and how limiting they were. There’s this really famous Tony Morrison quote that I love where, if the book
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hite writers historically dominate the world of writing. Black authors, especially Black women writers are often discredited. Nonetheless, many Black women still push to make themselves heard. Few people stop to think about how personal identity can change how stories are told and perceived. According to the New York Times, only 11 percent of books in 2018 were written by people of color, not accounting for how many were Black. The world of literature suffers without more diversity. Despite these circumstances, Black women are finally making headway. Young Black women deserve to see authors like Maya Angelou and Angela Davis praised for their significant contributions. A young woman I have always looked up to is Anya Pearson. Based in Portland, she’s an award-winning poet, producer, actress, and playwright. Pearson understands the struggles of being a Black woman. I interviewed her about those struggles and how she overcame them.
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doesn’t exist or the story doesn’t exist that you want to see, then you need to write it. And so, I just started doing that. I want to see amazingly human portrayals of Black women, especially, but just Black people in general. Because I love being Black. It’s not always easy, but it is a source of great pride for me, and I wanted to see more stories that reflected what it was like to be like — you know, we’re not a monolith — the entire lived experience of what it means to be a Black person in America. I feel like things are starting to change, hopefully, in the various industries. But I would say that probably the biggest is not getting to see stories that really resonated with me. My experience is being biracial, growing up, having my dad come from another country and kind of all the different identity crises. I wanted to see more stories like that. More stories that were about: “Yes, it’s hard to be Black. Yes, there’s a lot of pain, but also there’s a lot of joy, right? The ability that we have to hold both pain and joy at the same time.” Because I didn’t feel like there were enough of those, either. SO WHEN YOU EXPERIENCED THOSE PROBLEMS, HOW DID YOU DECIDE TO OVERCOME THEM? I think part of it was just experience. The more time I had in the industry, the more confidence I developed using my voice. When I first started, I had this, “We must be ten times better than everybody. We must be the first one there, the last one to leave,” all that kind of stuff. It took me a long time, mainly until COVID, to realize that it is equally important to talk about how much we need rest and
Made to Dance in Burning Buildings by Anya Pearson at Joe’s Pub, New York City. Photo by Susie Lang
www.anyapearson.com Photo by David Hiller
I love being Black. It’s not always easy, but it is a source of great pride for me, and I wanted to see more stories that reflected what it was like.
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restoration and breaks. I needed to be the one who spoke about what was really wrong with the industry on multiple fronts. I was doing a show right before COVID where I just was like slamming my head against white fragility. What does it mean to create shows that are about diverse experiences at predominantly white institutions, and how detrimental that was to me? But also, to the actors, I asked to be in this really heavy show. And so, I decided that it was more important for me to advocate on behalf of artists than it was to worry about not getting to work with that company again. WHAT WOULD YOUR BEST ADVICE BE TO THE BLACK PEOPLE WANTING TO BE IN THE WORLD OF LITERATURE? I would say, one, read as much as you can. Read and read and read some more. But also, don’t be afraid to draw inspiration from multiple sources. There are certain types of music that I listen to
Above a Wisper by Anya Pearson, Featuring Anya Pearson, Kayla Banks, and Tammy Jo Wilson. As a part of SALT at Shaking the Tree Theater. Photo by Meg Nanna
when I’m working on a specific kind of show. Dance is always a huge source of inspiration for me; visual art too. The second thing I would say is to find your people, find the people who lift you up and [who are] your accountability buddies. The last thing I’ll say is to know your “why.” Like, I write about a lot of hard stuff, like abuse and loss and oppression and racism and violence, especially violence against Black bodies. Those are all really important topics to me. But for me, having read a couple of very important pieces written by Black women when I was growing up, I was like, “Oh, this is the power of story.” Specifically, one play called “For Colored Girls” literally kept me alive when I was a little older than you. Like no joke. Seeing that I could find what I needed to keep writing as a Black woman. I need to be that for the next generation. Hopefully, I need to do work that young woman of color will say: “If Anya did it, I can do it because she survived.” So now I can, and then I can help the people after me.
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The
PERSEVERANCE of a Student-Athlete
by quentin hawkins 10th grade, sheldon high school eugene, or
A high school senior reflects on life as a student-athlete.
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Photo by Jeremy Williams
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To be a great athlete in high school, it takes a lot of hard work and dedication. You have to stay on top of everything. You have to outwork everyone around you.
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wanted to understand what it’s like to be a high school student-athlete — specifically, a Black student-athlete. A place to begin was my own school, Sheldon High School. As a basketball fan, I thought of that sport first. Freshman year, I made the basketball team, where I met varsity team starter Louis Gaines, who has played basketball since he was in elementary school. Now 18 and a senior at Sheldon, he jumped at the opportunity to tell me his story. He hopes to inspire other young student-athletes to follow their dreams and continue to persevere. We dove into what drove me to want to tell his story: his passion for basketball. “My favorite sport to play and watch would be basketball,” Gaines said. I passionately agreed. We share a love of the game. Life is constantly changing, but all my stressors and obstacles pause with basketball. It was nice to connect with Louis on our love for the sport. However, he pairs his die-hard passion for basketball with other interests. Like many other high schoolers, when he’s not on the court, he’s playing video games at home or spending quality time with his friends. It gives him a break from the rush of life. Balancing a social life and school with an athletic lifestyle can get tricky. “The challenging part for me is the schoolwork,” Gaines said. “I have a hard time keeping up.” It’s a common challenge, and I admire his ability to persevere. He looks forward to winding down at the end of every day. It takes a serious commitment to be a stellar athlete. “To be a great athlete in high school, it takes a lot of hard work and dedication,” Gaines said. “You have to stay on top of everything. You have to outwork everyone around you.” I instantly related to those words. Times come when Black athletes are overlooked or judged more than our teammates. It’s not about proving ourselves to fans. It comes down to how badly we want it. How badly do we want to be on top? It can get frustrating. It was nice to relate to Louis and know that we’ve both experienced how it feels to push through and reach the peak — even when others may doubt us.
However, sports recently came to a halt for Gaines. “I’m currently not playing any sports because of my back injury that I’m recovering from,” Gaines explained. And while extreme endurance exercises and the fast pace on the court have stopped, Gaines still stays active. He found a YMCA league that has allowed him to continue to play the sport he loves and be surrounded by a team while properly healing from his injury. “I’m going to just chill and play in that YMCA league for now,” he said. As we wrapped up our interview, I wondered what advice he’d give to other student-athletes who are juggling the same amount of work — especially amid the pandemic. “I would tell them to stay on top,” Gaines emphasized. “Stay on top, and don’t get behind. Getting behind in schoolwork can not only take a toll on your athletic performance but your mental health.” “My goals are to go play basketball somewhere in college and make it to play overseas or the NBA,” Gaines told me. “I don’t know which one yet.” He’s optimistic that basketball will be the driving factor for his success. And although he sees a bright career with a team and a ball, tunnel vision hasn’t encapsulated him. “I still want to settle down back home in Florida and have a nice apartment or condo on the beach,” he said. Settling down and moving back to Florida may be the happy ending he needs. Gaines believes in a life after basketball — but he continues to chase his dreams in hopes to, one day, be an even better basketball player than he is today. I enjoyed talking with Louis about basketball, school and life. We can conclude that the life of a studentathlete can take a toll. As long as you stay on top of everything and persevere, so you don’t get behind, you can reach great success in life. To get to where you want to be in life, you must overcome a lot. As Gaines said, “You have to stay on top of everything.” Sometimes it’s okay to take a break from everything and relax. As the late great Kobe Bryant once said, “The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to be.” Success is in Louis’ future, and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
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Photo courtesy of Palisades Charter High School
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I figured if I couldn’t control the color of my skin, maybe I could fit in by changing my hair.
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by ella edwards 12th grade, palisades charter high school
felt the eyes of a dozen classmates as they watched me take my seat. My teacher looked up from her desk to catch a glimpse. Conversations that classmates intended to be whispers were trapped in my ears. My breathing was rapid, and my face was bright red. I steadily reached into my Jansport backpack and grabbed a purple scrunchie. I held it up to my head to tie my hair up, then paused, realizing: I barely had any hair. For as long as I was aware of beauty standards, I knew my appearance didn’t “fit” what I saw in mainstream fashion and beauty magazines. I’d stand in front of the bathroom mirror and look at myself with disappointment. I looked at my eyes very carefully, evaluating them, until I accepted how they looked. I did that same process with each of the features of my face. I was studying my nose, lips, forehead, and cheeks. I concluded that I liked each feature but worried that no one else would agree with me. In my worst moments, I turned to my mother and asked, “Why don’t I have pretty white skin like the girls in the magazine?” I proceeded to hold up the 2012 Teen Vogue magazine cover showcasing Kendall Jenner. With a broken heart, my mother said, “Ella, you shouldn’t compare yourself to others.” I didn’t listen to her because it was hard for me not to contrast myself with others. Through absorbing the media messages, and even the subtle cues in my own experiences, I thought that the only way to be beautiful was to have lighter skin. I’d spend my days flipping through the hundreds of magazines my mother kept in her office, analyzing the models’ beauty. I wanted to be just as gorgeous, admired, and loved, and thought I could only do so by changing my own appearance. None of the models had hair like mine. I gently stroked my fingers through its puffiness. I wanted hair that blew through the wind and that was soft like silk. I figured if I couldn’t control my skin color, maybe I could fit
thinner. But I still couldn’t stop straightening it. I started to get frustrated leaving the salon because I wasn’t getting the same satisfaction and excitement as before. I’d fallen back into a place of discouragement. Years later, when I moved to Los Angeles, I was introduced to a world where there was more diversity, and I saw different cultures represented than I’d seen in Northern California. My new classmates appeared to feel no shame in wearing their hair naturally and embraced the curliness of their hair. I saw afros, braids, and twists. They used gels and toothbrushes to curl their baby hairs into different swirls and designs. Some decorated the ends of their hair with multicolored beads. It inspired me, and I wanted to wear my hair naturally. I’m not going to act like this was an easy thing to do; I was terrified. I’d spent my whole life up until this point living in a predominantly white neighborhood where I felt the need to change myself. My hair was damaged, and my curls were nonexistent at this point. I spent weeks and months trying to rebuild the healthiness of my hair by coating it with oils and conditioners. I wore hoodie sweatshirts that would cover my hair for many months as I waited for it to heal. The satisfaction that I once experienced by straightening my hair, I now felt when I watched my hair rejuvenate into luscious curls. It was not an easy process; it took patience.
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The satisfaction that I once experienced by straightening my hair, I now felt when I watched my hair rejuvenate into luscious curls.
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in by changing my hair. At age 11, I worked up the courage to ask my mother to go to a salon and get my hair straightened. She looked at me with kind eyes. “But Ella, I love your curls. It’s what makes you unique,” she said. I rolled my eyes and grabbed her hands with reassurance. “I know, mom. I just wanted to try something new,” I said. She smiled and agreed to make an appointment for me; she just wanted me to be happy. After my ballet class, my mom drove through the streets of San Francisco to take me to my first hair appointment. I was so excited to finally have a new look that would help me feel beautiful. I pictured all the cool hairstyles I’d be able to do with straight hair. I could feel my mom looking at me with sympathy the whole car ride. She was tilting her head to the side with her mouth slightly quivering. At the salon, I was greeted by the smell of hairspray and the sounds of blow dryers. A young girl getting her hair straightened was swinging her legs back and forth with a great big smile. I wanted to feel the way she was feeling. A vibrant woman named Amy approached me, “Hey there! You must be Ella,” she said. I looked up at my mom nervously, hoping that she would do the talking. My mom and Amy walked to the side to work out the details, and I stayed back. Nobody in the salon looked like me. Then I felt a tap on my shoulder. Amy pointed to a chair. “We’re ready for your appointment!” she said. I laid my head back as water and shampoo were massaged into my head. The water was warm as it slushed around in the bowl. Then, in another chair, my hair was blown dry. My mother watched in the waiting room, holding her thumb up as a sign of approval. I looked at myself in the large, light-up mirror. As my hair got straighter, my smile grew larger. She began to press my hair, and I watched as my tight-knit curls grew longer and silkier; I couldn’t help but touch them. When she finished, I couldn’t believe how long my hair was. It was interesting to think that all this length was hidden for years in my nappy curls. I finally felt acceptable... beautiful. I prayed all weekend that my hair would stay straight so I could wear it down on Monday. When I walked into the classroom, I watched everyone’s heads turn my way. I felt like a movie star. My friends rushed over to me in awe. They were touching my new hair, giving me compliments. “Your hair looks so good! Why don’t you straighten it all the time?” This was the validation I needed; I wanted to experience it always. This led to my addiction. From ages 11 to 15, I went to the salon almost every weekend and straightened my hair almost every day. If I couldn’t control the color of my skin, then I’d make sure that I could control the straightness of my hair. In the beginning, it was exhilarating and I loved looking at my hair, admiring how it sat perfectly on my shoulders. But as I got older, my hair began to damage. I was losing hair, and it got thinner and
In October, I attended my 8th grade school dance. I’d been restoring my hair for two months, and I decided it was finally time for me to wear it down. No headbands, no hair ties, just down — completely exposed. I walked into the auditorium, looking down as I approached my group of friends. They looked at me in awe, just like my old friends from elementary did, though they didn’t touch my hair this time. They were all hyping me up. “Why don’t you wear your hair like this all the time?” one asked. At this moment, I realized that no one was ever going to accept me until I learned to accept myself. People will always have their opinions about how others should look and what makes a person beautiful. This whole process of straightening my hair has helped me develop an appreciation for myself and my natural hair. Though there aren’t enough people who look like me in the media, I feel inspired to tell my story and assert that people who share my skin type are not alone.
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TWO YEARS IN THE MAKING: CARE’S MULTICULTURAL LIBRARY HOLDS ITS GRAND OPENING by elijah mullenix 9th grade, cleveland high school portland, or
Students enjoy reading in the newly opened multicultural library. Photo by Ezra Ereckson
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he Cleveland Alliance for Racial Equity (CARE) leadership class has finished the multicultural library project. The nearly twoyear project held its grand opening on Dec. 15, 2021, to educate others about racial equity. While the library is small, both in size and catalog, CARE carefully selected the books. The authors in this catalog include author Ibram X. Kendi, Princeton University professor Matthew Desmond and graphic novelist Dave Walker. Walker, who has also worked for Marvel, D.C. Comics and Dark Horse Comics, attended the grand opening, posing for pictures and interacting with students. He also wrote for the 2011 film “My Dinner with A.J.” “He was not involved in setting up the library,” senior
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Moxie Thompson, a member of CARE, said of Walker, “but our collection features several of his graphic novels, so we contacted him over Instagram and invited him to attend the grand opening.” About 20 people, including two adults, put quite a bit of effort into the aesthetic beauty of the small space. With some extra space on the bookshelves, the paintings and pictures help each section stand out a bit more. Quaint bean-bag chairs make the space more comfortable to sit during your reading or browsing. CARE members say that the most significant objective of the multicultural library is to draw potential readers. This may have more people become interested in learning about racial equity. “This section allows students to become better
Librarian Bryan Smith helped guide the process. “Once the Multicultural Library opened, I felt incredibly proud of the students who worked on it,” said Ezra Ereckson, who took over after Allers departed. “It was really cool for me as the CARE Leadership advisor to be able to oversee a project that started before I was an advisor and before most of the current students were even in the class.” Ereckson pointed out that while the project was technically completed, it would continue to grow. “A library is something that is never ‘completed,’” he said. “It will grow and change and like any collection, it must be curated and cared for. We plan on adding more books and media to the collection every year.”
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This section allows students to educate themselves more and to learn, and it also allows for this very small community of minorities to have a safe space.
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The Cleveland Alliance for Racial Equity (CARE) leadership finished the multicultural library project at Cleveland High School. Photo by Ezra Ereckson
educated and learn,” said junior Mandy Zhan, one of the CARE organizers of the event. “It also allows for this very small community of minorities to have a safe space and to see themselves represented in literature, instead of reading books without being able to see them in it.” The project began in 2019, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, under CARE teacher Lynne Allers. At the time, senior Ari Periche was the one to kickstart the project. Initially, their idea was to simply get books for CARE, not to create a physical library space. The thought was that this would give the fledgling class more resources to educate themselves about race and equality, which could also open a pathway of projects. While CARE picked out books to order, the project pivoted to something even more significant. “It started as a project based on books that we in CARE wanted to read to educate ourselves,” Thompson said. “Then we were offered funding by Leo Lawyer, the principal at that time, to expand this to a school-wide project, and that is when we decided to put a section in the library to curate.” The curators picked out books carefully, which was time-consuming. Shortly after, COVID-19 quarantine and social distancing protocols shut down in-person schools and forced everyone to isolate at home. Although Periche graduated from Cleveland in 2020, the project picked up momentum a year later when in-person school began again. CARE decided to continue the project and ordered the books. Finally, they eventually made and finished the library once the books arrived, almost two years after the project started.
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by odessa berry 9th grade, mcdaniel high school portland, or
Exploration of individuality in Portland’s fashion community Through mixing different patterns, they recognize who they are within themselves. Mia Caldwell is a freshman at McDaniel High School in Portland, Oregon. While kicking a soccer ball up the field during a competitive game, she also loves to dress well. For example, Caldwell hangs out with her friends in low-rise dark blue jeans that flare out, a cashmere pink short-sleeve sweater, and a sun hat with roses to accentuate the brim. Fashion is a prominent aspect of who she is. “My favorite thing about fashion is probably expressing myself through clothes,” Caldwell says. “I want people to know that I’m fun and easygoing and
put effort into my outfits.” The thing about fashion is not everything has to match. Symmetry is not needed for the beauty and precision of it all. “I love to put together pieces that wouldn’t necessarily work together and make an outfit.” Caldwell says. “The weather and what I am doing for the day impacts how I get ready.” For example, Caldwell likes to mix and match specific clothing articles. She is also experimenting with a unique collar and shirt. An essential part of fashion is wearing what you like and want. “Dressing for yourself is so important to help develop and maintain self-esteem and boost confidence,” Caldwell explains. Adam Arnold is a fashion designer who works with each client’s individual needs. His garments are regularly known for their clean patchwork and neat construction, with a timeless appeal to every one of them. “I’m the brand. The brand follows me,” Arnold
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says. Arnold believes that fashion is all about dressing for yourself and only fitting the needs of what you like or don’t like. “It doesn’t need to be accepted to be really good,” Arnold says. With so much constant media and output from many different sources, it is essential to maintain your individuality and gain ideas and inspiration from the things surrounding you. “Developing a personal style has to do with exposing yourself to lots of different things,” Arnold says. “Like music, movies, books, and art.” The thing most needed in fashion is individuality. The difference between individuals and the use of different ideas varies. According to Arnold, every person has a personality, a way of expressing themselves, and what they can offer to the world, resulting in endless benefits. “People are craving individuality,” Arnold says. Things can come and go quickly, especially fashion trends. There are many ways to avoid that, though.
Dressing for yourself is so important to help develop and maintain self-esteem and boost confidence.
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ashion is everywhere. It consumes Portland and the people living here. Vibrant colors and unique brands guide locals about what to put out in the world to show who they are. Throughout Portland, several individuals have a discerning eye for trends, clothing pieces, and a sense of what is essential for them to wear to describe themselves. Portland is a beautiful city in the sense of fashion. Though they can impact locals, trends do not stifle them from branching out. Many people are individualistic and wear what they want depending on their mood or what they want to match their day.
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LANE AABSS TEAM: (L-R) Jason Floyd; Shanae' Joyce-Stringer; Vanessa Clemons; Ayanna Moriguchi; Holli Johnson-Keaton
The purpose of the Lane African American/Black Student Success Program is to improve academic outcomes for African American/Black students and to achieve a vision of an equitable education system in Lane County.
Make an Inquiry “If it is about personality and expression, then everything can be timeless,” Arnold says. On the other hand, Leslie Galvin has a more modern outlook on fashion. She moved to Portland from New York, and is a fashion designer for her children’s clothing brand, The Saplings Collection. “Growing up on the Eastside and going to school in New York City, I learned that it doesn’t need to be expensive; it just has to be noteworthy or original,” says Galvin, relating to fashion. Galvin, herself, was interested in studying fashion. “I went to a school in New York and studied fashion,” she said. “I wanted to be a fashion designer because I knew at a young age, I was obsessed with color and cloth and texture, so I wound up switching majors, and fashion later found me.” Galvin’s first interaction with the individual fashion preferences of different people was in school. “When I went to public school, freshman year, I saw all these people, and I’m such a visual person, and I saw all these people making all this impact from just a color or a silhouette or a haircut or a lipstick, and I was attracted to all of it,” she says. Galvin compares Portland to larger cities like
Paris, New York, and L.A. She believes culture and weather can influence a city’s fashion. Individuality is also a factor. “I mean, even look in a high school,” she says. “There are so many microcosms of fashion. There are the skaters, for example.” Inspiration for outfits can come from many different places. Galvin introduced the “trickle-up theory.” “The trickle-up is where it comes from the streets,” she says. “An example was when I lived in Berkeley; I made a lot of my clothes. And I made a coat that I thought was so [expletive] — out of two corduroys. It had this huge wizard’s hood, but it was really tight on my arms, and it swooped down long to the floor and had slits up the side, so it was easy to walk in. It was very dramatic. I had this designer walk up to me and ask me where I got it. And I knew who she was. She was Jaqueline West.” All these people are so obviously different, but are they really? This community of design and outfits can be so inclusive and hold so many bright souls. Bringing them together is necessary for the ebb and flow of fashion.
To inquire about the resources, summer or year-round opportunities, and trainings that we offer to African American/ Black youth, their families, and their educators make a submission through our inquiry form. Reporting of racial incidents can also be made using the form. Use the QR Code below to access the form:
C.H.A.M.P.S. 2021-2022 Initiative LANE AABSS seeks to engage with students in the schools within the 16 school districts in Lane County during school hours at school sites and at district/ school supported events in the community beyond the school day for the duration of the 2021-2022 school year. To learn more about our initiative visit: https://bit.ly/champs21-22
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Portland
TRAIL BLAZER P ortland Trail Blazers basketball fans have followed the rise of shooting guard CJ McCollum for nine seasons, but few may know about his love of journalism. While a sophomore at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, he changed his major from business to journalism. He wasn’t just in it for the degree. McCollum has always loved storytelling and getting to know people in new ways, even though it was sometimes challenging. “As a kid, I had this idea of the life I wanted to live and what I wanted to accomplish. I just
CJ McCollum’s Commitment to the Community by ja’vionne hudson, 8th grade, roseway heights middle school portland, or
focused on the process, which always consisted of hard work,” McCollum said. Journalism is a passion McCollum still enjoys. He’s written articles for several sports publications and launched CJ’s Press Pass, a program that provides students from local high schools with opportunities to cover Trail Blazer games and news conferences. “Success is being able to play basketball for a living; being able to help the community; to create CJ’s Press Pass; being able to partner with the Boys and Girls Clubs; and to do things to uplift the kids and the community, McCollum said.
McCollum gives back to the community through giveaways, mentorships and collaborations. Photo courtesy of Trail Blazers
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CJ McCollum has played with the Portland Trail Blazers for nine seasons as shooting guard. Photo courtesy of Trail Blazers
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“When you do things right and when you work hard, you receive a reward at the end,” McCollum said. Photo courtesy of Trail Blazers
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When you dedicate yourself to your craft, and you have a commitment and consistency with your approach, good things happen. Black Student Magazine 31
Giving back to the Black community is high on his list of priorities. He launched the CJ McCollum Dream Centers in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland. Each center features computers, books, art and learning tools. “I’ve continued to figure out ways to help contribute to the Black community,” McCollum said. “I’m giving away tickets to the community and to kids in less fortunate situations. I think that’s extremely important.” McCollum’s values come from strong ties with his family despite early challenges. Named Christian James at birth, CJ was raised in a single-parent household with two brothers, including Errick (also a professional player) who didn’t just make him a better basketball player but pushed him to be a good person. “He’s a big part of who I am. Without him, I wouldn’t be in the position I am today,” McCollum said. “We worked out together. He pushed me to be a good person, a hard worker, and to treat people the right way.” That brotherly support paid off. While at GlenOak High School in Canton, Ohio, McCollum was recruited by several colleges. He chose to go to the private Lehigh University, which had never sent anyone to the NBA. McCollum would change that. However, success didn’t come easy. He was picked tenth overall in the 2013 draft, only to be put on reserve for two years. “It was tough. It was hard to go through that… showing up to the arena and not playing. Knowing that I couldn’t play,” McCollum said. “And the worst part is, you know, you’re capable of performing at a high level, and you’re not given the opportunity.” Family is a subject McCollum returns to often. He credits his family for inspiring his resilience. “My wife, my family, my mom, my dad are constantly on me; they’re constantly encouraging me,” McCollum said. “They let me know that anything is possible with hard work, and you dedicate yourself to your surroundings. When you dedicate yourself to your craft, and you have a commitment and consistency with your approach, good things happen.” McCollum wants to spread that message and challenge young people to aspire and achieve their dreams. “When you want to be successful at things, you’ve got to work hard, dedicate yourself, and sacrifice. I was willing to do all those things to become successful.”
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Toes ON HER
Photo by Antonio Anican
Alaja Badalich’s self-discovery and breaking barriers as a Black dancer by savannah moore-jones 6th grade, roseway heights middle school portland, or
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laja Badalich, a classically trained Black dancer, choreographer and a founder of Fermata Ballet Collective, continues to pursue her dreams in dance while working with her Eugene, Oregon, community. Although she currently works primarily with adult dancers, she hopes that her work and Fermata Ballet Collective inspires youth to continue to follow their passion for dance. Badalich favors dance, specifically ballet, over other sports because it reflects herself and fits with her skills the most. Growing up she tried a wide range of sports, including basketball, soccer, track and softball — but dance was the one sport that always stuck with her. “When it was time to let something go, [dancing] stayed with me,” Badalich said. “I was about twelve when I was like, ‘Okay, I just want to do this and only this.’” Ballet was the first form of dance she studied, placing ballet closest to her heart. And although Badalich is trained in other forms of dance, such as hip hop, Broadway, as well as modern techniques such as Cunningham and Martha, she sees ballet as her foundation for her dancing, illuminating the significance behind her passion for contemporary ballet. “It’s just always been a part of me.” Badalich trained at the University of North Carolina School of the Art’s modern high school program and at Oregon Ballet Academy. She became a dancer at the Alonzo King LINES Ballet Company before becoming a choreographer for Flex Studios, XCAPE Dance Academy and Eugene Ballet Academy. She also became the youngest co-founder, out of seven, to form Fermata Ballet Collective. Fermata Ballet Collective, of flex Studios in Eugene, Oregon, aims to offer opportunities and safe environments for dancers who have been affected by the pandemic. “We decided to call it Ballet Collective because there needs to be a new definition of what ballet is,” she said. “We hope to bring that
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definition of light.” Fermata Ballet Collective continues to be that safe space of light and community encouragement for dancers alike, helping shape a positive mindset through this pandemic. As they reflected on their time as a dancer, she emphasized the importance behind the choreography that she teaches and performs. Techniques brought into each dance allow her to express herself as a dancer and as a person. Choreography has become so significant that it was another reason she wanted to help with founding Fermata Ballet Collective. “I’ve always had a passion for choreographing and making moves work for other dancers,” she said. “It was time for something new here in Eugene.” As a Black dancer, Badalich understands moments of doubt, weakness and apprehension. Dance as a sport was built in a rich, White European setting, but dancers like Badalich continue to prove that dance is for everyone — no matter the size, age, gender or race. Badalich sees dance as ancestral, a form of storytelling that has been carried through generations and should be celebrated by everyone. “I’ve had unpleasant moments, but I’ve also had extraordinary moments surrounded by dancers who look like me,” she said. “I’ll never forget when I was taught by a person of color, it was an amazing experience.” It continues to inspire her as she navigates the dance world, as she hopes that inspiration gets through to other young Black dancers. “Nothing can really truly stop you as long as you carry the resilience that you’ve always had inside of you,” she said. “And lots of grace and lots of patience.” Badalich has continued to keep her head high, toes pointed and heart pure as she navigates the world of dance. Her hard work has inspired those who have gotten the chance to meet and work with her, and she’s excited to see what the rest of 2022 has in store. “Everyone has a gift and it’s going to offer different things; we can’t do it all,” she said. “You can do what you want to do; just give what you can give.”
Photo by Jay Eads
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&COVID-19 Classrooms, Computers,
Online and in-person education through the eyes of high school students. by jeyla luvert 10th grade, bridge charter academy lowell, or
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magine missing your high school graduation because of COVID-19, your first year of high school or even prom. For students worldwide, this was a reality because of COVID-19’s effect on education. In the beginning, we all expected this to be something that would be short-lived. However, we are now two years into the pandemic, and education has been heavily affected, with school being online. However, students have different opinions on how they feel about these changes. Some liked the change, while others didn’t. Apryl*, a sophomore at South Eugene High School, experienced her first year of high school online. “I hated it,” she said, going on to explain that school didn’t help her learn. Elaborating, she said students missed a lot of curriculum. Teachers made assignments easier since they were trying to accommodate circumstances. In addition, she didn’t have much motivation to finish her schoolwork, leading her to procrastinate. “It felt like a choice to do your work, plus it was really confusing at times, and it was hard to ask for help,” Apryl said. Even though there were office hours for assistance, she mentioned that they were confusing and not that helpful. One of the other main reasons she didn’t like online school was the lack of social interactions. Everything being online made it harder to connect with peers when it felt awkward. “I wanted to be more social, meet new people,” she said. She likes school better, now that it has returned to being in person. However, some students had better things to say about online school. Some viewed online school as the preferred method for education. Natalie*, another South Eugene student, agreed. Even though she had problems with
procrastination and preferred the social aspect of in-person school, in the end, she did better online. She said online school allowed her to appreciate herself more and improved her mental health. She gained confidence not caring about her appearance and other people’s opinions since no one saw her. Over time she also noticed her relationships get better. “I was able to put more effort into my relationships and grow them,” she said. Additionally, she ventured out and discovered a new passion — fashion. Remote schooling gave her the space to focus on herself and appreciate herself more. She also loved the lifestyle of working from home. “I loved getting up every morning at a leisurely pace; not at 6 a.m., and then doing my assignment at my own pace, in my own space,” she said. However, now that school is in person, she worries again about her looks and others’ opinions, which affects her mental health. She’s concerned she may get COVID-19 and worries there’s nothing she can do to keep safe. With the cases rising, many people are wearing two sets of masks, and because of this, she thinks school will go back to being entirely online soon. “If I were to do it again, and I feel like I’m probably going to have to pretty darn soon, I would enjoy it,” she said. COVID-19 has changed education as we know it. We face rising cases in schools and could see more school shutdowns. With students having mixed feelings about online school, some won’t be happy about returning to online classes, but unfortunately, this is our new reality. *the author used pseudonyms to respect students’ privacy.
Photo by Jeremy Williams 36 Black Student Magazine
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