Behind the Curtains
Anna Hummel /The Maroon (Left to right) Kelsey Breaux, Taylor James, and Gaby Hawk perform in "God Help Them If We Wake Up" on Friday, Nov. 16 in Marquette Theater.
Theatre production sparks outrage and community dissaproval By Kloe Witt kgwitt@my.loyno.edu
Some cast and crew members were thankful when the final lines of the latest Loyola production rang through Marquette Theatre on closing night, ready for this addition to their resume to be over and move on with their lives. Loyola’s Theatre and Arts wrapped production of professor Ann Mahoney’s original play, “God Help Them If We
Wake Up” on Nov. 18. But students involved with the production expressed discomfort both on the stage and behind the scenes. Issues arose in several aspects of the play and production process, including what cast and crew members criticized as a negatively stereotyped Native American character, stories of students fainting backstage, and some advisors ignoring concerns, causing some students to lose their love for the produc-
tion all together. Objections from community Several characters in the production made the cast and crew uncomfortable to see performed on stage. Assistant costume director Justice Mosley said when she first decided to join the production, the costume director told her to read the script and to tell her whether or not she wanted to do
the show. Needing the experience, Mosley agreed to stay in, though felt she needed to go to someone to change parts of the script to make it more inclusive and less offensive. One character Mosley felt uncomfortable with was the “slave woman” character in the show. This character, who was not given a name in the original script, was written to be portrayed as an African woman
who worked on a plantation. The character isn’t on stage for long, as she is shot within moments of her appearance. Mosley said she did not like this portrayal and went to Helen Jaksch, assistant professor in the theater department. Eventually, after expressing concern, the character received the name “Peg,” but Mosley still felt this initial problem shouldn’t have happened to begin with.
See THEATER, page 9
Library no longer open 24 hours for finals, closes 2-7 AM access By Shelby Perkins srperkin@my.loyno.edu
Students will have to find some place else to pull all nighters studying during finals season this year, as the library will no longer be open 24 hours, as it has in the past. Michael Capella, Interim Dean of Libraries, said the hours changed due to the lack of students using the library
past 2 a.m., the time the library closes on standard work weeks. The library staff tracked the number of students that would come to the library between 2-7 a.m. and found that the average was only 6 students. Patricia Nugent, Associate Dean of Libraries, said some nights, there weren’t even any students at all, making it questionable if it’s necessary for the library to be open 24/7 during finals.
Additionally, a lot of finals have been online or take-home exams, making the library unnecessary for many students. Student workers on the late shifts would have to stay up all night working instead of studying for their own finals, causing stress, according to Nugent. Capella mentioned closing the library after 2 a.m. encourages students to value their own mental health and to rest to prepare for finals, rather than pulling
all-nighters. The Student Library Advisory Board, according to Capella, is in favor of this new change since it seems to use a lot of resources and effort for the number of students who utilize the library 24/7. “One thing that isn’t going to change is our welcoming environment,” said Capella. The library will be providing snacks and beverages to students in the evening and in the early morning.
The library is working to create a comprehensive list of alternative study options for students on campus. However, there is no option available for students wanting to study from 2-7 a.m.. The library staff encourages students to study in their dorms during this time.
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Dec. 1, 2023 THE MAROON
ACROSS 1. Commerce treaty signed in 1947 5. McCarran committee 9. There are two on your backpack 14. Olive genus 15. Prefix meaning eight 16. Forced displacement of Native Tribes “Trail of _____” 17. Educational program Anti-Bias Anti-Racism abbr. 18. Retro phone feature 19. Fourth letter in the Greek alphabet 20. Dish consisting of mashed pumpkin, milk, eggs, and sugar 23. Midterm or final 24. People who listen to My Chemical Romance are this 25. Actor Jackman who played Wolverine 26. You’ll hear this if you’re being loud in the library 28. Thanksgiving treat with marshmallows on top 29. “Don’t text and drive” is this type of ad 30. Computer’s core 33. _____ and Lime 36. Families travel this way to visit extended family from far away 38. The most important office in America 39. Toy ___ 41. You don’t NEED this 42. Fearless Apache leader who was known for evading the U.S. Army 44. Indian drink _____ Lassi 45. Mineral source 46. “I Just Wanna Rock” by Lil ___ Vert 47. Genus oxalis 49. Unique or ___ of a kind 50. American Music Awards abbr. 51. Student organization that governs 54. Grandma makes sweaters with this 57. This “sour cabbage” can be put on hotdogs 60. Indigenous tribe in the Arctic 62. One of a cube’s dozen 63. Melville captain in Moby Dick 64. Previous Vice President Mike 65. To really anger or ____ up 66. St. Petersburg's river 67. “The icing on this cake is too _____!” 68. To remove in French 69. Informal colloquial slang Loyola people say after almost every sentence DOWN 1. Widely express anger or excitement, like a gorilla
2. PinkPantheress came out with a new… 3. Spanish for “I love you” 4. Waterproof cover 5. “There is a lot of ______ in ramen,” said every annoying person 6. Sweet ingredients used to fill in the gaps in a gingerbread house 7. An infection caused by staphylococcus bacteria 8. The plural form of solo 9. Chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV are this 10. “All I want for Christmas is my two front _____” 11. An abnormal rattling sound heard when examining unhealthy lungs with a stethoscope 12. Loyola is a liberal ____ school 13. Take this before the SAT 21. Online Educator Sal __, who helped with 13 Down 22. You may find students pulling all-nighters for this writing assignment 27. Past tense of have 28. You only live once (Hi LoynoFits) 29. ___ Favor 30. Vodka ___ (a festive cocktail) 31. ____ Pong 32. “You are __ __ no good!” 33. Golden arches, bitten apples,
and donuts are these to companies 34. Happily ____ After 35. Female horse 36. Nickname for kangaroo 37. “____ the night before Christmas” 39. Measurements 40. Too much information abbr. 43. A Holy Sister 44. The villain in “Scream” wears this 47. RIP to this old web-based online chat service that we all used in middle school 48. After graduating college, you will pursue this 49. Traveling show, “Disney __ ___” 50. Do an IRS job 51. Saharan region 52. A tropical fruit that has pink juicy flesh and a strong sweet aroma 53. Cornered, as a hunted animal 54. Nervous tension that causes an athlete to fail 55. Starting over 56. Ancient inscription 58. Of the air 59. Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes abbr. 61. New Year, in Vietnam
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STAFF
Assistant Editors: Rodrigo Delgado Jr., Falyn Hardouin, Ruby Nieder, Chiara Faircloth, Sam Guillotte, Chris Maldonado, Janssen Van De Yacht Comics Editors: Sofia Johnson, Grace Knight, Taylor Falgout Associate Producers for The Maroon Minute: Chloe Caudle, Sunny Bedford, Matthew Richards, Francisco Esteves, James Hufnagel, Christopher Nesbit, Laurence Graham III, Mabel RegaladoHernandez Staff Writers & Photographers: Greer Jines, Guelan Zaour, Nadir Benslimane, Brice Gutter, Dexter Earley, Lizzy Hadley, Dajah Saul, June Fernandez, Laci Barrow, Ashlyn Bobb Collins, Rodrigo Delgado, Tanesha Taylor, Rin Andrews, Gabbee Bonura, Ilya Nawaz, Micaela Hood, Cecilia Calderin, Aaron Covin, Liz Snow, Heidi Herrera, Ryan Talley, Erin Gillen, Grace Knight, Margo Weese Digital Team Chris Nesbit, Kennedy James, Addison Laird, Lydia Hilt Layout Designers: Daniel Wong, Zach Cesarini
In the Chapel Anna Hummel
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Adviser: Michael Giusti
CONTACT US Main Office 504) 865-3535 Business Office (504) 865-3536 Adviser’s Office (504) 865-3295 Correspondence maroon@loyno.edu Letters to the editor letter@loyno.edu Advertising ads@loyno.edu Website www.loyolamaroon.com Twitter @loyola_maroon Facebook The Maroon @loyola_maroon Instagram Our office is in the Communications/ Music Complex, Room 328. Send mail to: The Maroon, Loyola University, Campus Box 64, 6363 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118 The Maroon is published every Friday. Unless otherwise noted, all content is copyrighted by The Maroon. All rights reserved. First copy free to students, faculty and staff. Every additional copy is $1.00. The Maroon is printed on 30 percent postconsumer recycled content.
NEWS
Dec. 1, 2023 THE MAROON
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Women's basketball starts season with new faces By MatthewRichards mlricha2@my.loyno.edu
The Loyola women’s basketball team has started their 2023-24 season with a 5-1 record despite significant roster turnover from last year’s team that won 27 games with only three losses. “We’ve been up and down to start, and played a lot of close games, but that was to be expected,” said head coach Kellie Kennedy. “We have a lot of new players in our program this year, seven newcomers and most of our returners didn’t play much, so more than half of our team is still kind of new in a way.” The Wolf Pack opened the season with five games in their opening week of play, highlighted by exhibition contests with Division I opponents Tulane University and reigning national champions Louisiana State University. “After our first game, we played 4 games in 5 days, which was a difficult stretch,” Kennedy stated. “For a couple of those games our best players were injured, but I think we passed those tests with flying colors and we’re a much better team because of it.” The team is now back at full strength after some injuries hampered their early momentum and resulted in their lone loss to local rivals Xavier University. “We weren’t happy with how we performed against Xavier,” said 5th year senior guard and business and marketing major Taylor Thomas, who was playing in her first game back from an ankle injury. “But we’re learning from it. We’re still figuring out how to play with one another and find what is and isn’t working well so we can win games.” The Wolf Pack would open play in the Southern States Athletic Conference that same week on Nov. 16, with a rematch against their opponent in last season’s conference championship game, Faulkner University. “The Xavier game was a bit of a wake up call for us, and we knew we didn’t want that to happen again, so we knew
Fundraiser and open house held for Catholic Studies program By Kincaid Leger rkleger@my.loyno.edu
Loyola promoted the Canizaro Center for Catholic studies at their annual #iGiveCatholic fundraiser. Their intention is to fund an organization dedicated to a uniquely Catholic vision. On Giving Tuesday, Nov. 28, Loyola promoted the Canizaro Center for Catholic Studies with the goal of raising money for their Rome study abroad program, according to Bree Higginbotham, coordinator for the Canizaro Center for Catholic Studies. The study abroad program is semester-long and based at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, available only to Catholic Studies students. The program offers courses in the Loyola core, philosophy, and religious studies, according to Loyola’s study abroad website. Senior music major Melissa Moore is one student who was able to go to Rome through the study abroad program. Moore described the program as the greatest opportunity she has been given at Loyola.
See CATHOLIC, page 4
we had to come out early and set the tone against Faulkner,” Kennedy stated. “They beat us in the conference championship last season, so we had a little extra incentive to beat them this time around as well.” The Wolf Pack would emerge with a 91-87 victory over the Eagles, after freshman biochemistry major Libby Thompson, in only her second college game, hit a three pointer to give Loyola the lead with 12 seconds left in the game and avenging the loss they suffered in their last meeting. The team was led in their victory by 5th year senior forward and psychology major Sandra Cannady, who eclipsed the 1,000 career point mark in this game, along with a new single game career high with 29 points, 13 rebounds, four steals, three assists, and two blocks. “I really am just so grateful that I was able to reach this milestone, especially in a win,” Cannady said. “I felt a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the game because we didn’t start the way I anticipated we would. After halftime, the game started coming to us, everyone was playing their role, and I am beyond proud of my team because we continued to play hard and do the small things that helped us get our first conference win.” The victory moved the Wolf Pack to 1-0 in the SSAC and could serve as a crucial point for the rest of their season as the team gets more comfortable with their new talent. “I’m really excited about the rest of the season,” Thomas said. “We had a really special team last year, and because we lost so many players from that team, no one really thought we would be as good this year. But we have a lot of great new talent this year and I think we’ll be a lot better than people might have thought we would be.” “We have a lot of new faces, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be as good as we were or even better than last year,” Kennedy said. “It’s going to take a little more
Grants expand Loyola Projects
Wolf Pack basketball player Libby Thompson shoots for a basket during a game on Nov. 16, 2023. Sophia Renzi/The Maroon
time for us to find our footing and get comfortable, but once we do that, we’re going to be a problem for our opponents come the conference tournament and nationals.” And this year’s team finds themselves with a renewed goal to reclaim their SSAC title after Faulkner halted their quest for a third consecutive
championship in February. “Our main goal is to win the SSAC tournament and take back our title,” Thomas declared. “And we want to make it a lot further at nationals than we did last year. And we know that if we are putting in the work on and off the court, we’re going to accomplish those goals.”
Grant to support LCCE play therapy center By Eloise Pickering ewpicker@my.loyno.edu
In a testament to the commitment to mental health and healing, the Loyola Center for Counseling and Education within the College of Nursing and Health was recently the beneficiary of a $2.5 million grant. Awarded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, this grant will focus on expanding trauma-informed care and play therapy services for children in the Greater New Orleans area. Loyola’s Department of Counseling and the LCCE is also home to a Play Therapy Center for Education and Research, with Loyola students often presenting at nationwide and international play therapy conferences. Established in 2015, the center’s primary mission is to facilitate student and faculty contribution of research to the play therapy field, while optimizing educational opportunities for graduate students. The center provides pro-bono consultation and education in the New Orleans area through local non-profit collaboration, as well as opportunities for professional education and collaboration outside of the city. According to their mission statement, Loyola’s Play Therapy Center hopes to offer more children, adolescents, and adults healing through play by providing quality
learning opportunities for students and practitioners. “Looking in our city that has such a prevalence of mental health issues with youth and children who've experienced trauma through community violence through family based trauma and intergenerational trauma. We get sought out for play therapy a lot.” Said Denise Gilstrap, a registered play therapist and the director of the Loyola center for counseling and education. According to Gilstrap, play therapy provides young children with a method of communication that isn’t difficult for them, whereas talk therapy could be. They express themselves through play, because that is their natural language. So, play therapy is a very methodical approach to providing therapeutic support to children in their own language,” said Gilstrap The $2.5 million grant was the first grant awarded to the program since 2015, when the Play Therapy Center received an endowment of $50,000 from the Heebe Family Fund at Touro Infirmary. This money went primarily towards training and educational workshops for healthcare professionals, chiefly mental health counselors who focus on families struggling with life-threatening illnesses. The money from the Heebe Family Fund was also intended for a play therapy library. “That's the beauty of this grant,” said Gilstrap.
The grant is earmarked for the LCCE, propelling its mission to expand trauma-informed care and play therapy services for children in the Greater New Orleans area. With the money, the Center for Play Therapy expands the provided services to older children up to age 12, which fills a gap in terms of accessibility to evidence-based counseling within the New Orleans community. “The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration grant will enable the Loyola Center for Counseling and Education to expand the critical and invaluable traumainformed care and play therapy services that the Center has been providing to the New Orleans community for many years,” said Michelle Collins, dean and interim director of the School of Nursing. Furthermore, the grant will hire a case manager to help families in need, as well as help the Center provide aid to clients with Medicaid who have been unable to gain access to these therapy services prior, according to Gilstrap. “This also benefits students of the counseling program via the addition of learning opportunities supervised by the very talented and gifted faculty of the counseling department of the College of Nursing and Health,” said Collins.
Professors and organizations on campus have received large grants to support and expand the work that they have been doing. Professor Mitch Crusto received $10,000 from the Ohio State Drug Enforcement and Policy Center in support of his research project Pardon Me Please: Evaluating Clemency Availability for Marijuana Offenders. The Office of Professional and Continuing Studies received $9,333 from the New Orleans Tourism and Culture Fund to support students enrolled in the Professional Tour Guiding program. Additionally, PACS received $10,000 from Cox Communications to support the Women’s Leadership Academy. Professor Hiroko Kusuda was awarded $4,000 by the Midsouth of the American Immigration Lawyers Association to support Loyola's Immigration Clinic. The Law Clinic received four grants, the first being the My Community Cares award of $75,000 to support a staff attorney. The other three, totalling $48,456 support the Childrens’ Rights Clinic, the Immigration Clinic, and the Workplace Justice Project.
Sneaux brings snow to Loyno The University Programming Board and Student Life and Ministry are hosting their annual winter celebration, Sneaux. Train rides, hot chocolate, free shirts, cookies, and pictures with Santa will be available at this holiday event, as well as an opportunity to learn about Christmas and worldwide winter holidays. Sneaux will be taking place in the Marquette Horseshoe from 6 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 8.
Loyola presents Christmas opera The School of Music and Theatre Professions at Loyola will be showcasing ‘Amahl and the Night Visitors,’ a family-friendly Christmas opera, this holiday season. The show will take place at Holy Name of Jesus Church on Loyola’s campus on Dec. 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for senior citizens and Loyola faculty and staff, and $8 for students. Children 10 and under are free. They are available for purchase at the Loyola’s College of Music and Media website.
New college of business dean Dr. Robert “Bobby” Savoie will begin serving as Interim Dean for the College of Business at the start of the new year. A researcher, inventor, and entrepreneur, Savoie was chosen to support the college’s plan of developing ethical business leaders and fostering a global mindset.
NEWS
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days until last day of classes
days until 2024 days until Mardi Gras days until graduation
Loyola Music Business School hitting the charts By Heidi Herrera
Dec. 1, 2023 THE MAROON
Ideation Lab renamed to honor Loyola alumni By Pharrell Every pjevery@my.loyno.edu
What was previously known as The Ideation Lab in Loyola’s College of Business has been renamed in dedication of Robert “Bobby” Savoie and his wife, Lori Kent Savoie. The newly named Dr. Bobby and Lori Kent Savoie Ideation Lab is a hub for student entrepreneurs to work out ideas, collaborate, and make said ideas into a reality. Sam McCabe, director for the Center for Entrepreneurship and Community Development, said Savoie is a “heavily involved entrepreneur throughout New Orleans.” Savoie graduated from Loyola with his masters degree in 1981 and has gone on to work with NASA in engineering, and nuclear power. According to McCabe, Savoie and his wife are “great supporters of the university.” Barbra Watts, executive director of entrepreneurship for the Center of Entrepreneurship and Community Development, said the married couple are dedicated to keeping both the Ideation Lab and all of its programs alive and funded, as they believe that it is an asset to students across campus. McCabe said the Savoie are donors
to programs in the business department including Wolfpack LaunchU, even reaching out to find how to best support entrepreneurial spirit on campus. Wolfpack LaunchU in particular has seen success since its start two years ago and has provided over sixty-thousand dollars in support for student, parent, faculty, and alumni businesses. The first cohort of the program, according to McCabe, collectively raised a total of one million dollars, and hired sixteen employees. In addition, last month the Center of Entrepreneurship and Community Development received an award for Outstanding Student Engagement and Leadership by the Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers. McCabe said all of this was made possible by the people who use the Dr. Bobby and Lori Kent Savoie Ideation Lab, and through campus programming such as the Side Hustle Expo. McCabe said he wants students to know that the Dr. Bobby and Lori Kent Savoie Ideation Lab is open to all students, and not just those in the business college. He said the lab, “can be used as meeting and office space, [and is] designed to be an open space where everything can move and a place to work through ideas and push them to turn
Sign hangs ontop of the previously name Ideation Lab on Nov. 29, 2023. The lab was renamed in honor of Robert and Lori Kent Savoie. Anna Hummel/The Maroon
into a business.” Although McCabe couldn't share any future endeavors regarding the business college and its programs, he did tease something could be coming. “We always have something up our sleeves,” he said. This year, the entrepreneurship club was formed, in which speakers are
invited to talk to members about the specifics of starting a business, and how to move from a side-hustle to a revenuegenerating business. Watts said New Orleans is a growing entrepreneurial network, and in the future, there will be more robust opportunities to connect Loyola with the greater New Orleans area.
hmherrer@my.loyno.edu
Loyola continues to reign success after being named one of the top Music Business schools in the world for the third consecutive time. Billboard magazine announced Loyola as one of the best in this field, alongside other notable music schools like Berklee College of Music and the Abbey Road Institute in early October. The university first received this title in 2020 and has continued to shine excellence in the program. Kate Duncan, director of the School of Music and Theatre Professions, expressed gratitude towards this honor and recognizes the depth the people at Loyola go into helping students flourish and find their strengths here. “We have a faculty that is fully dedicated to the success of our students who spend 98% of their hours thinking ‘how can I do this better,’” she said. Duncan said the Music Business School is fully dedicated to the students as individuals and, thanks to the size of Loyola and the city of New Orleans, the school is able to focus on each student individually and truly help them find what is useful to them. “I looked for a place that celebrated a wide diversity of what ‘art’ is, and that is exactly what Loyola does here, they celebrate the uniqueness of our students,” said Duncan. Jazz studies freshman Stuart Adams said when searching for schools, Loyola’s success in music business and culture in New Orleans led him to commit to the university. “Music culture is very alive, it’s everywhere and easier to build an audience here, I have been able to make connections and work with people who are like-minded,” he said. Music freshman Eva Harris said Loyola’s location in New Orleans has helped students here become very culturally involved, and it enhances the ability for artists to explore and express themselves with others rather than just limiting themselves to the school. “I feel a sense of pride that I get to be involved here. At Loyola, if you help others out they will help you, and that's how you build connections,” Harris said. Even after three years of this recognition, Duncan said Loyola’s Music Business School continues to work on finding ways to improve the environment for students and will always recognize the diversity music can bring to the community around the community.
Men's basketball team shoots high this season CATHOLIC:
Raising money for learning opportunities Continued from page 3
Wolf Pack basketball player Alex Hammond dribbles away during a game on Nov. 16, 2023. James Hufnagel/The Maroon
young group of players is going through some early bumps and bruises but he purposefully planned the season this A young but determined men’s bas- way so they can be prepared for the upketball team is looking to make it to the coming months. Regardless of how young the team is, national championships this season. one thing has never The team has changed: their goal of currently won two making it to the Naof their six updated “Though we are young, overall games and our expectations are still tional Championship. “It’s a staple to is 1-0 in conference the same.” what this program games. is about,” Reyes said. Several new faces — Donald Reyes “We are blessed to joined the team this be in the presence of season, with five in- Head mens basketball coach the national champicoming freshmen and onship banners. We a brand new assistant know what our goals and aspirations are. coach, Justin Reynolds. “Across the board, everything is fresh,” Though we are young, our expectations said head men’s basketball coach Donald are still the same.” However, that isn’t the only goal that Reyes. “Experience across the board is a the team has for this season. According new feel.” Reyes is in his 2nd year here at Loyola to Reyes, he wants this team to be the and is looking to “reteach everything in most tight knit group the players have all aspects of the program”. He said the ever been a part of.
By Sam G iullotte
slguillo@my.loyno.edu
“Everyone is on the same page and they know how important it is to build connections outside of basketball,” Reyes said. Reyes said the team has been spending more time off the court to achieve this. They have done bonding from community service to game nights to National Basketball Association watch parties. “Our chemistry has grown throughout practices and team activities and that translates onto the court as far as being cohesive as a team. Our strength and trust in each other has grown exponentially,” said redshirt sophomore Leonard Jackson III. But Coach Reyes' goals for the basketball team don’t stop with that. He said he wants to give back to the community as well. “We don't just want people to come see us, we want people to know us on and off the floor so if there are opportunities in the community we would love to participate in them” said Reyes.
“It was amazing. First of all, in the location where we were living, we had access to all of Rome. We could go anywhere we want. A lot of us went all over Italy,” Moore said. One thing Moore said she appreciated about the program was the diversity. “I had never lived in a more diverse city or college,” she said. “There were over fifteen countries represented. Just getting to eat dinner with people from all over Africa and Asia was just really wonderful.” In a speech to a crowd of students, alumni, faculty, and donors, Moore also spoke to the impact that the Rome program had on her faith. “I felt called by St. Thomas Aquinas, by the holy spirit through him, just to grow closer to the Lord, closer to my Catholic identity, to my community. And that is exactly what happened,” said Moore. The fundraiser served as an open house to connect donors and alumni with the new interim head of the Catholic Studies program, Fr. Mark Mossa. Mossa touted the program’s weekly Catholic Study nights where students gather for mass, dinner, and other activities, such as guest speakers or serving the homeless. Mossa also celebrated the return of the Sodality of Our Lady to Loyola, what he describes as a long tradition of students gathering in prayer and celebration of their Catholic identity. Guest speakers and alumni Ben and Kristen Clapper rounded out the evening by speaking about their own experience in the Catholic Studies program, discussing their work on campus to evangelize to the student body and advocate against abortion, bemoaning the renaming of Loyolapalooza into Crawfish in the Quad, and their hopes for the program. “The goal of the Catholic center is to encounter Christ. That is fundamentally the goal. And I think the fruit of that, the fruit of reading the gospels together, the fruit of encountering Christ together is just really strong relations,” said Clapper.
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News of the World SAG-AFTRA Strike Suspended By Jacob L'Hommedieu jllhomme@my.loyno.edu
The SAG-AFTRA strike was officially suspended on Nov. 9 at 12:01 a.m., according to a letter released on the union’s website. The strike’s end comes after negotiations between studio and the union’s negotiating committee restarted on Oct. 24 following previous negotiations breaking down over strikers not being granted concessions or counter proposals, according to The Maroon. According to the letter, the new contract is “valued at over a billion dollars” and includes new protections for actors against artificial intelligence use as well as compensation for media streaming. Along with these stipulations, several other substantial benefits were included in the deal, according to their letter. The agreement for now is only tentative, as it will be under review by the SAG-AFTRA national board, according to the letter, but picket lines will be closed, ending the strike.
Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond speaking in Holy Name of Jesus Church, Nov. 10, 2023. Archbishop Aymond announced the closure and consolidation of several parishes in New Orleans due to budget concerns and declining participation, changing the total number from 13 to five. Anna Hummel/The Maroon
Jesuits reflects on parish consolidations By Ava Acharya aaachary@my.loyno.edu
Loyno Students to Meet With City Council By Eloise Pickering ewpicker@my.loyno.edu Loyola students will be meeting with city council members to discuss their concerns regarding violent crime both on campus and in the surrounding areas. Honors students from professor Joseph Givens’ Community Organizing class will meet with city council members Jean Paul Morell and Helena Moreno to propose a partnership, with the goal of implementing a task force to combat the issues that threaten students’ safety. Students and New Orleans citizens are welcome and encouraged to attend the meeting in support, which will take place on Dec. 8 at 5 p.m. in Miller Hall 114. “We all deserve to live in a safe city and to stop living in fear when we leave our houses at night,” said students in a press release regarding their meeting.
As an effort to ensure the prosperity of New Orleans’ Catholic parishes, Rev. Gregory M. Aymond, Archbishop of New Orleans, announced significant consolidation of these parishes. Despite the difficulty associated with this transition, consolidation will likely open the door to a stronger and more active congregations throughout New Orleans, according to Joshua Hinche, a philosophy instructor and Jesuit Scholastic at Loyola. Archbishop Aymond’s announcement states that the decision to consolidate certain parishes comes after in-depth research, conducted by the Parish Sustainability Committee, determined that this would be the best way
By Mr. Maldonado cwmaldon@my.loyno.edu
The New Orleans Police Department has major plans in place to implement drone technology in their effort to combat crime, according to a press release. This plan entails the usage of Small Unmanned Aircraft System technology in an effort to effectively respond to disasters, conduct reconnaissance, and assist in investigations. The usage of drone technology is expected to boost effectiveness in investigations and act as a force multiplier for the NOPD. After soliciting public comment regarding the plan the NOPD conducted a public demonstration of the technology on November 28. The NOPD swears to uphold the privacy of New Orleans residents and visitors.
really offer as much formation and programming.” Hinche further stressed that a strong and active community is essential to any place of worship. Because of this, Hinche was saddened, but not surprised, at the decision to consolidate. University chaplain and Loyola professor of theology ministry, Thomas Ryan, shared a similar sentiment. This recent consolidation in New Orleans bears similarities to recent consolidation across the country, but that does not make it any less impactful, Ryan said. Ryan also mentioned that he currently attends St. Rita Church in New Orleans, which recently had to close its elementary school due to similar difficulties. “It was a loss to the parish, and I think New Orleans, so I was very sad to see
that happen,” he said. But, these consolidations allow for new and stronger church communities to form, which helps address the difficulties which certain parishes have been facing, Hinche said. Hinche added that, in his experience, parish consolidation is ultimately beneficial in the long run, although its immediate effects may be difficult to grapple with. Consolidation of the parishes will go into full effect in July of 2024, at which point New Orleans’ 13 parishes will be consolidated into five. “I’m sure that people will really put a lot of thought and prayer into this, and going forward that decisions and actions can be by good data and best practices,” Ryan said.
Meteorologists predict rainy winter due to 'El Niño' By Nezar Berryhill
NOPD announces plans to use drones
to address certain issues which these parishes have been facing. These issues include economic difficulties and waning church attendance following the COVID-19 pandemic, Hurricane Ida, and recent increases in inflation and property insurance. Hinche related these conditions to a situation which he experienced while working, studying, and living in Chicago. At the time, Hinchie served as a catechist in a parish that was combined with a neighboring parish due to similar circumstances. He remembered the effect it had on the community. “It's hard to see them go through that and losing this place that meant so much to them,” Hinche said. “On the other hand, I could also see how this church had gotten thinned out in the number of people participating, that they couldn’t
development and activity. According to Katz, the weather phenomenon causes downstream winds throughout the We are in an El Niño year. For Caribbean’s southern gulf as well as the Louisiana, it means mild and rainy winters Atlantic. “During an El Niño year you can and in this instance for 2023, a very hot summer with a severe drought. Bruce certainly have storms. However, it Katz, the chief meteorologist at Fox station diminishes the probability of a strong WVUE in New Orleans, has had to utilize storm. And if it’s weak enough, it could kill it,” Katz stated. his understanding of However, Katz Louisiana’s climate warned that you during his coverage “We are in an El Niño can still get major of El Niño’s effects year. For Louisiana, it hurricanes in an El on southeastern Niño year despite the Louisiana in this means mild and rainy lower storm count. If momentous weather winters.” a hurricane is able to year. develop with strong He explained how — Bruce Katz enough winds, it El Niño and its sister Chief Meteorologist, WVUE will be able to “beat pattern, La Niña, are El Niño” and its opposite patterns. “They both balance the atmosphere of the downcurrents, according to Katz. Based on his analysis, Katz has several world. You need heat, you need cold, you need rain, you need dry. So those cycles predictions for what southeast Louisiana can expect for this El Niño. According to last anywhere from two to five years.” Katz also explained that El Niño Katz’s predictions, the coming weeks will is something we look forward to in be mild and rainy, which he hopes will the decrease of Atlantic hurricane offset the ongoing drought Louisiana has nzberryh@my.loyno.edu
been dealing with. “I would hope it would be a bit wetter. We would get cloudier, kind of damp, cool days with some rain, which would be a good thing,” Katz stated. Katz’s predictions for southeast Louisiana during the El Niño winter mirror a lot of fellow meteorologists’ expectations, like meteorologist Scot Pilié from the Weather Channel. Pilié claims to back up what local weathercasters expect in a post on X. “[There will be a] complex pattern over the next 7-10 days as the subtropical jet stream attempts to turn more active. Typically, this pattern results in multiple rainfall opportunities, which would be extremely beneficial for parched sections of the Gulf Coast Southeast U.S.” Pilié stated. Zack Fradella, another meteorologist at WVUE, also hopes for rain to help put out the drought in the Bayou State. In a post on Facebook, Fradella said “El Niño leads to a wet winter for us and maybe, just maybe we’re seeing the hints of this pattern flip in our long-range models. We’ll see!”
Illustration by Jacob L'Hommedieu
COMICS
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Dec. 1, 2023 THE MAROON
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THEATER: Crew finds production environment "toxic" Continued from page 1
none chose to comment for this story. Although the show aims to be a “But the character of Peggy wasn’t critique on patriarchal society, Bute said the only one that made the cast the criticism the production cast and and crew uncomfortable. Another crew gave was not acknowledged by character, called the “medicine woman,” Mahoney and others professionals. “They don't even acknowledge that was written in ways that some cast members say depicted Native American they're doing something, maybe, a little stereotypes that were distasteful and bit backwards,” she said. Catholics in the cast, on the crew, and offensive. in the audience expressed distaste for Several individuals involved in the production expressed that the character the use of religion in the show as well. Students and staff from the was portrayed improperly. One actor specifically noted how this character Catholic studies department and cast speaks out to God, something inaccurate member Laura Hamilton said the play to Native American women from misrepresented the Abrahamic religions “ancient” times, as stated in her character through the characters of “the Madonna,” “the Virgin,” and “the Whore.” description. Catholic audience members took Although the character description offense to one part of the play when it didn’t say the character had to be Native American, an Indigenous theater arts was implied that Mary, the mother of freshman Enne Samuel was cast to play Christ, lied about being a virgin to cover up for adultery. her. Beyond the three tropes, individuals Scenic designer Rylie Bute said this shared an instance when the character character specifically brought forth an issue of cultural appropriation within the Marcus, who represents the gospel writer Mark, mentioned to the Madonna show. One instance she noted was the how it was an honor to know Jesus and medicine woman character being stand with Mary at the cross, which is dressed in a traditional Native American inaccurate in the Bible. John the Beloved was the one standing with Mary at the garb. Cultural appropriation was cross. Mark had never met Jesus. The inaccurate portrayal of religion something Mosley said Mahoney had was something audience members, tried to push in the costume department. These costumes, Mosley said, were on the stage and behind the scenes, shut down throughout the process, with expressed discomfort with. Actors in the production said they the costume team going against many of felt they were not allowed to make any Mahoney’s ideas. choices for their Mosley, Bute, and characters. other members noted “They’re doing this According to they appreciated show, and it’s supposed a student in the diversity in the cast production who and the inclusion to be about feminism to stay throughout the and women taking back wished anonymous, they production — on felt they weren’t paper. However, power, but it’s by two all of them noted women who are abusing allowed to fully put themselves in their how they felt the characters due to direction and writing their power.” Mahoney having a of the play didn’t — Justice Mosley strict vision on what properly represent Theater junior she wanted for the perspectives of play. feminism for people The student said of color. “It’s just like a half thought because they felt they weren’t allowed any artistic (Mahoney) doesn’t get it,” Mosley said. freedom as an actor. One of the actors from the play, who “And that is fine. There is no way for her to get it. She’s a white woman. No one’s was not comfortable using their name expecting her to. But having written it in for fear of reprisal, said that because the the show, it’s a lot of blatant ignorance material was drawn from Mahoney's that I’m having to think about almost personal experience, the director protested any time it didn't play out every day.” The Maroon reached out to Mahoney exactly like her vision. Mosley said she feels this isn’t truly and many other professional members of the production, as well as in the School the work of the theater department. “This is her show. This is not the of Music and Theatre Professions, but
students' show,” she said. Toxic work environment Issues with the production weren’t just within the script. Several individuals in the production, including Bute and other students in the production, claimed the work environment was “toxic.” Bute said throughout the rehearsal process, students involved in the production were constantly crying and being yelled at. One actress said people were fainting as well. “We had to start having at least one other staff member in the rehearsal room with Ann Mahoney to make sure that everyone was being nice and respectful,” Bute said. “They literally had to be babysat.” Mahoney had said some “unforgettable” things to and about students, according to Mosley. But she wasn’t the only one. According to Mosley, the assistant director Gillian Shelly, had also been toxic and manipulative toward students. “They’re doing this show, and it’s supposed to be about feminism and women taking back power, but it’s by two women who are abusing their power,” Mosley said. A student in the production also claimed no accommodations were given to students who needed to leave rehearsal or the production process, even in cases of emergencies. According to Mosley, artistic director Sal Mannino asked people to make him aware of issues when they occurred so there would be documented records of how people are being affected. The Maroon reached out to Mannino, who asked to be sent questions by email. He never responded despite having more than a week’s notice. Funding for the production was procured by Shelly and Mahoney from the annual Carol Sutton/Sherri Marina Memorial Grant, which supports new plays featuring roles for Black leading actors – particularly Black women – and a New Orleans Theater Association Grant, according to a press release from the theater department. Mosley and Bute both claimed they weren’t given proper funding to work for their production departments because most of the money given for the production was used to pay for the main actress, Nadine Marissa, Mahoney’s costar from “The Walking Dead.” “As a senior designer, I was given zero dollars and zero cents and zero change,” Bute said. “I just had to pull something
to Loyola’s theater department, both inside and outside of the production, and worked to get that changed. “I actually tried to get the show canceled because I felt so strongly that it was a negative representation of us,” Bute said. “Nothing about this process was at all how we preached that the process should go.” No escape This process was one that Mosley Students majoring in theater must felt had a damaging toll both on the complete three production credits in production itself and those in it, causing order to graduate from Loyola. On top a loss of love for the show. “I feel like you can feel the tension — of that, students also need experience in their fields which are gained by you can feel the passion is lost,” Mosley said. “As someone working in Loyola who’s done multiple productions. “The students didn't feel Loyola shows, I can Unlike previous years, this was the like they had any power tell there are so many people in the room only show Loyola throughout this entire who are not enjoying did during the fall themselves and don’t semester, limiting process to walk away want to be there.” individuals on their from it.” “It just takes the options to receive passion out of it,” these credits and — Rylie Bute Mosley said. “We’ve experience. Theater senior This left some been working students stuck doing and working for this production, even through the toxic something that we don’t love.” environment they expressed being in. Even feeling uncomfortable in the “At the end of the day, this is a environment, theater arts freshman production credit for us. We need those Enne Samual still looked for the positives motherfuckers to graduate, so like, get that arose being in their first college play. where you can,” Bute said. “I'm very grateful that I was part of it, Mosley, although given the choice because of all the wonderful people that to leave the production after reading I met, and the experiences that we had the script, said she felt she had to stay together supporting each other through both for the experience of costuming art, because art gets messy sometimes,” for a larger cast and because she felt she said Samual. couldn’t leave the costume director to do Samuel maintains a positive outlook it on their own. on the theater department and said Although Bute didn’t use this as a they’re excited for future projects in the production credit, she did use it for upcoming semester. her senior project, leaving her to stick Bute said she hopes people who through the entire show. weren’t involved in the production Bute said she knew people in the show don’t place the blame on the students felt stuck throughout the production involved, rather on the people in power process where they didn’t feel they could who created the negative environment. react to the issues occuring. “Everyone's really giving it their all. “The students didn't feel like they None of this is on the students, I really had any power throughout this entire want to hold the people that should be process to walk away from it. People accountable, accountable,” Bute said. were afraid it was going to ruin them or Mahoney did not respond to multiple something,” Bute said. emails from The Maroon over the course And this process, of being stuck in of two weeks. something without love for it, Mosley Jaksch and Chair for the Theater and said, has been draining. Dance Department Patrick Gendusa were emailed together on Nov. 14. Impact on the department Gendusa responded that day that he would not be able to discuss it until next Bute said she worries how this show semester. Jaksch never responded. affected the look on the department, Interim Director for the School of especially as the only fall show. Music and Theatre Professions Kate Even with other performances she Duncan did not respond to an email sent felt were great in the past, Bute knew this Nov. 28. would be some students’ first exposure out of my butt.” Mosley said the harsh working environment took the fun out of the show for herself and others involved. “It just takes the passion out of it,” she said. “We’ve been working and working for something that we don’t love.”
Dressing up an offensive play: Costume director speaks out JUSTICE MOSLEY Theater junior jmmosley@my.loyno.edu
When I was asked to join the production team of God Help Them, I immediately agreed because I knew a cast of this size would be a good challenge for me, as it was my first time Assistant Costume Designing. My supervisor gave me the chance to back out at any moment, even before I read the script. After reading the script I was nervous about the show being produced. Some of the first things I noticed (in an earlier version of the script) were that there was an ‘Enslaved Woman’ character; named as such, a ‘Medicine Woman’ character,
and two “non-binary” characters who were specifically written in the script as dressed in stereotypical girl & boy styled costumes. This was enough for me to talk to my supervisor about my concerns, as well as other members of TAD faculty that could do something about these concerns. I was uncomfortable. These identities which were so poorly portrayed because of the simple fact that they were written by someone who doesn’t understand the complexities of them. Why write about the struggles of Enslaved peoples when that’s not your story to tell as a white woman? I knew this was the effect of ignorance. I didn’t feel that it was malicious, but I know it’s not a story that should be brought onto a stage for an audience. After myself and a few other students brought their concerns to the production team, there were rewrites. The Enslaved Woman was renamed to Peg Jefferson. Still discom-
forting, but an attempt was made. Throughout my talking with the costume designer, I was given multiple opportunities to leave the production because being a part of it was causing me immense stress. But, I persisted because each theatre student needs a certain amount of production credits for our degrees, as well as my passion for the actual work of creating the costumes. I love what I do, but my lack of passion and belief in the themes of this show tainted the process. Working with Ann Mahoney (the director) I noticed things. I could say all I wanted about the script but I had never been in a class of hers in person so I had no real experience with her until the first costume meeting we had with her. She had originally sent over a mood board for the costume design she envisioned, this consisted of images of enslaved women and Native American women. We were never going
to put anyone in shackles or a headdress, regardless of the fact that the person originally casted as the ‘Medicine Woman’ role was Native American. I thought it was entirely inappropriate to ask that of us. So we presented the mood board that Kaci (Costume Designer) had created, which eliminated the cultural insensitivity and appropriation. It went well. However, at the end of the meeting Ann presented a new idea she’d come up with. At the end of the show the main character Hannah Green is supposed to say “I’m Hannah Green.” and Ann proposed that instead of Hannah saying it, she’d have a young Black girl run across the stage to say “You’re Hannah Green, I know you!”. But the way that she presented this idea to the room struck me in a negative way. The people in the room were herself, a Puerto Rican woman, another white woman, and myself: a black woman. And she stared me in the eyes
for this proposal, as if I was supposed to approve of this? Hannah Green is a character that is based on her own life experiences as a white woman, although she was casted as a black woman, being idolized by a young black girl? Why? I felt immensely discomforted, but the idea was shut down eventually. After that meeting I never had to interact with Ann until tech week, which was very minimal. The process of creating the garments and designs for the show was something that I enjoyed, but the experience was tainted by the contents of the show. I felt uncomfortable seeing how many of my peers were constantly upset about being a part of it. Many of the actors & student designers expressed their stresses but as students we have to obtain production credits. I just hope moving forward the department will put more effort into diversifying the methods of choosing their productions and directors.
LIFE & TIMES
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DEC 1, 2023 THE MAROON
Film • Arts • Food • Music • Leisure • Nightlife
Kappa Alpha Psi Helping the community through brotherhood By Daniela Martinez dcmartin@my.loyno.edu
Sunny Bedford/The Maroon
Stop and smell the squirrels By Maleigh Crespo and Natalia Silva macrespo@my.loyno.edu nssilva@my.loyno.edu
Once upon a time in a campus far, far away… in New Orleans, there lived a bustling community of squirrels. These furry creatures are known for their playful antics and boundless energy. However, despite their vibrant personalities, squirrels often go unnoticed and underappreciated for their tireless efforts to maintain harmony in the bayou. At some point in your time at Loyola, you’ve been walking to class when something jumps out in front of you, dives into a trash can, or scampers up a tree. Is it a bird? Is it a leaf? No, it’s a friendly neighborhood squirrel. Back in the 1850s, squirrels were a rare sight. Tree squirrels had been nearly eliminated from many U.S. cities by the mid-19th century, but cities responded by adding more parks, trees, and of course, squirrels. Our campus is home to a robust squirrel population, yet many of us fail to acknowledge the character they add to our community with their unique presence. Everyone should stop and smell the squirrels. Maybe even give them a nut or a bite of your Starbucks breakfast sandwich – this way you’ll have a moment to stand still and notice the world moving around you. You’ll notice the wind gently brushing your face, the chlorophyll-drained leaves falling from trees, the jet black feathers of the cawing crows, and of course, the scampering squirrels that also call Loyola home. In our time at Loyola, classes will change, professors will leave (unless they’re fortunate enough to have tenure), and that group of friends you swear will always have your back might fall apart, but squirrels – squirrels are forever.
OmiKron Upsilon chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity based in Loyola University New Orleans is using their resources and brotherhood to make an impact in the community. Created in 1911 as Kappa Alpha Nu, later renamed Kappa Alpha Psi in 1915, this black fraternity that was founded with a mission of creating community and pushing achievement in universities. According to their website, “Kappa Alpha Psi is the second oldest existing collegiate, historically Black, Greek letter fraternity and the first intercollegiate fraternity incorporated as a national body.” The different chapters in the fraternity take part in different outreach programs, like tutoring local schools, enrichment programs, fundraising, and more. Established in 2005, OmiKron Upsilon is the Loyola University New Orleans chapter of the fraternity. Current chapter president Torron Brown,
initiated in 2022, is very grateful for the opportunities that he has experienced and the activities where he gets to give back to others. “How we give back affects the community around us …We provide a variety of initiatives and programs, like kappa league and kappa camp for which offers mentorship for highschool students,” said Brown. These activities not only benefit the community, but they also impact the OmiKron Upsilon members. “It helped me mature in ways I could not imagine as a person, it helped me look at things in a broader perspective,” mentioned Brown. This semester, fall 2023, the chapter's members organized and participated in activities like going to multiple schools and reading to children, planting trees in Ms. Gloria’s Garden, and other fundraising activities. Other than activities, Kappa Alpha Psi prides itself on brotherhood and creating community within each university. Some members even feel that
being a member connects them to their family or provides a second family. John Watkins, fundraising chair, initiated in 2022, said, “it has always been a part of my life, everyone in my family is a part of Alpha Kappa Psi. I feel that Kappa Alpha Psi is a bigger part of my life than what I ever imagined when I was little.” Even after graduating, members like Vincent Manuel, initiated in 2016, still feels a strong connection to the fraternity. “I was in a displaced home; that is part of the reason why I wanted to join. After I joined I gained lifetime brothers. So to be able to give back, to be able to mentor them, to be able to help them get to where they need to be it's a blessing for me. And anytime they need to call or anytime they need anything, I'm in a good position to help them.” said Manuel. According to the members themselves, the best way to describe OmiKron Upsilon and Kappa Alpha Psi is brotherhood from initiation to the end.
Traveling troupe of tales Renaissance Fest returns to LA By Heather Rabassa hnrabass@my.loyno.edu
The Louisiana Renaissance Festival is around for six weeks and each week has a theme. Starting from November 14 all the way to December 1, the Renaissance-themed park has plenty to do. Theatrical performances, holiday shopping destinations, and educational experiences are all rolled into one seamless adventure. With two weeks left, be sure to dress the part. December 2 and 3 is pirate themed, and December 9 and 10 is the fireworks finale. More than 600 artisans, entertainers, and educational demonstrations welcome you to the best parts of history!
Local clothing vendors sell handmade Renaissance clothing. Sofia Johnson/The Maroon
Jessie Jocom shoots arows at the archery range. Sofia Johnson/The Maroon
Charles Wade, John Watkins, and Silas Thomas visit The Good Sherpherd School on September 11, 2023. They volunteered in their Drop Everything and Read Program (DEAR Time) to promote fundamental reading. Courtesy of Kappa Alpha Psi.
Renaissance performer sits and tells tales. Sofia Johnson/The Maroon
Dec. 1, 2023
THE MAROON
Every election, your rights could be on the ballot. But you can’t vote if you aren’t registered. Get #VoteReady and register to vote by visiting vote.org/chat-to-register
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REVIEWS
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Dec. 1, 2023 THE MAROON
"The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes": The songbird before the mockingjay By Mia Oliva & Ava Acharya mfoliva@my.loyno.edu aaachary@my.loyno.edu
Eight years after the international sensation “The Hunger Games” first defined the genre of YA dystopia, a new addition to the franchise re-sparked our generation’s strong opposition to systems of societal oppression. The prequel highlights the origins of Panem’s means of control through violent spectacle. On the eve of the 10th annual Hunger Games, a young Coriolanus Snow (Tom Blyth) learns that his efforts to provide for his family will be for naught unless he is able to make a lasting impact on the head gamemaster, Dr. Volumnia Gaul (Viola Davis) by turning his assigned tribute, Lucy Gray Baird (Rachel Zegler) - a traveling performer known for her voice, into a beloved champion. Blyth’s performance as Snow is bone-chilling, as you see the character transform, his hunger for power and control overtakes his sense of love and humanity. The result is the prototype for the original Hunger Games’ brutal dictator, partially fueled by the sense of abandonment he feels towards his lost love – the aforementioned songbird, Lucy Gray Baird. Baird becomes a symbol of Snow’s descent into madness, although her de-
parture is well deserved after learning his true intentions and nature. Zegler’s performance as Gray is charming, although her accent was at times overwhelming and inconsistent. Regardless, her voice evokes genuine emotion and adds layers and depth to the film’s themes of oppression, control, and dehumanization. These general themes are furthered by Davis’ performance as the sadistic Dr. Gaul, who revels in her ability to creatively torture and kill children. Davis plays the character like no other – a disturbing reminder of resources available to those in power, regardless of intention or regard for human life. Although many of the deviations from the original book seem empty, the empathy imparted on Reaper (Dimitri Abold) sews the seeds of eventual revolution and displays the growing pain and resentment felt by the people of Panem. Additionally, the depiction of certain supporting characters further make this resentment all the more apparent. Casca Highbottom (Peter Dinklage), Dean of the Academy and unintended founder of the games, becomes ever more sympathetic and understandable as the plot progresses. Dinklage’s acting makes the character's genuine regret all the more believable. Josh Andres Rivera’s optimism and passion for change as Sejanus Plinth makes his ultimate fate all the more
painful, as this optimism turns to naiveté and his plans implode in on themselves. The nods to the original trilogy, through the inclusion of familiar characters, were appreciated. Jason Schwartzman’s Lucretius “Lucky” Flickerman feels almost comforting, although his clever humor is often detrimental to terrified tributes and disturbed onlookers. The character, obviously, is reminiscent of Stanley Tucci’s Caesar Flickerman in the original four films. In a more direct comparison, Hunter Schafer’s haunting optimism and beauty as Tigris Snow makes the character’s original appearance in Mockingjay Part 2 all the more heartbreaking, as she is far from the mutilated and disillusioned stylist the audience is familiar with. Although the pacing made it difficult for audiences to fully understand other tributes before they suffered cruel ends, this film was an exciting watch nonetheless. Especially for those of us who fostered an obsession towards the original source material. Old Snow’s voice over at the very end evoked a sense of nostalgia that could send any fan back to middle school. "The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" is now playing in theaters.
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"Fourth Wing": A lackluster romance interrupted by fantasy ByAddison Laird
she’s going to make it (we have so much book left to read), so please don’t subject us to a history lesson in the meantime! #BookTok has led me astray — never Speaking of world-building, as in my life have I been so disappointed by interesting as it looks on paper, most such a highly-hyped and recommended of the fictional world’s vast history and read. When I first caught wind of custom serve no use in the actual plot of “Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros, it was the story. The world plays little part in the described as a fantasy novel for romance main characters’ love plot, so anything readers. With dragons, danger, and a that could make this fictional world fake-out love triangle, there was much seem somewhat interesting is ultimately about “Fourth Wing” that I, initially, pushed to the side. There are no new found intriguing. So with its sequel, “Iron twists on common fantasy tropes, no Flame” now out with mixed reactions breath of fresh air. It feels more like an from fans and a TV show in the works, let AI-generated fantasy concept than an me tell you how everything that led me actual magical world that you want to be to “Fourth Wing'' eventually let me down. a part of. When her mother, General Sorrengail, One of the things that initially refuses to break intrigued me about tradition in order to “It feels more like an “Fourth Wing” was accommodate her the idea of dragon health risks, Violet AI-generated fantariders. I adore is forced to pursue sy concept than an dragons in fantasy the dangerous path media, but I will of dragon rider. actual magical world forever be utterly She joins the Rider that you want to be a perplexed as to Quadrant under the how “Fourth Wing” watchful eye of her part of.” managed to make childhood crush, its dragon boring. Dain, and is forced How on Earth do you to confront the vengeful Xaden, who make dragons boring?! blames Violet for her mother’s crimes Furthermore, a massive portion of against his father. With plenty of action the fantasy genre is the world in which and drama, twists and turns, you would the story takes place in. However, I don’t think that the premise alone could easily care about the world unless I care about carry the 150,000+ word novel on its the characters first. And, simply put, I own. But sadly, it does not. don’t care about the characters. Violet First, it doesn’t work as a fantasy. and Xaden are flat and basic. Dain is Sure, the world-building is there, but awful. None of the massive supporting information is never conveyed to the cast of characters gets any development reader in an organic way. Most of it outside of passable (at best) one-liners. I comes in paragraphs at inopportune did not find myself invested in the lives moments. For example: when Violet is of these characters. Therefore, I am not risking her life to cross the parapet, she invested in the world they inhabit either. recites bullet-points about her country’s Second, it doesn’t work as a romance. history to calm her nerves. The blatant The love triangle trope is tired, but info-dumping sucking any ounce of “Fourth Wing” narrowly avoids it. At tension from the scene. We already know most, Dain is annoying. He never feels
allaird@my.loyno.edu
like a true threat to the Violet and Xaden endgame. Xaden is the bad boy, and Dain is the childhood best friend. I feel like I’ve seen this story played out a thousand times before. Of course, Violet can’t stay away from the toxic, hot guy! What a surprise. And of course, Dain turns out to be evil (spoiler alert, I guess). He has to be evil for readers to be convinced that Xaden is Violet’s only choice. The right choice. Even though the novel chooses the couple for us, I don’t necessarily care for them. I guess Violet and Xaden could fall into the “enemies to lovers” trope? But that trope only works when the two characters actually love each other. Xaden spends the majority of the novel threatening to kill Violet, and Violet spends her time ogling him, despite this. Their attraction to one another feels superficial and forced for the sake of conflict. Their relationship is so uninteresting, yet it’s made the core and supposed heart of the story. Ultimately, if a romantasy novel doesn’t work as a fantasy or a romance, then it has no legs to stand on. Finishing the incredibly hyped novel has left me wondering why “Fourth Wing” receives so much acclaim across social media. Like I said before, it feels like what an AI would write if the prompt was “adult fantasy novel with dragons.” It’s nothing new, nothing fresh. What could be an exciting world of dragons with a powerful message about how those in power use said power to oppress is overshadowed by the “love” story. But the love story and its characters aren’t nearly compelling enough to stand alone. If you’re looking for a new friendsto-lovers romantasy read — skip “Fourth Wing” — you’ll only be disappointed.
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Courtesy of Entangled Publishing
Watch This Weekend Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé Pop superstar Beyoncé performs hit songs in concert and discusses the creative process behind her world tour.
Dec. 1, 2023
THE MAROON
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OPINIONS
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Dec. 1, 2023 THE MAROON
Gringos need to go home! DANIELA MARTINEZ he was horribly offensive and ignoMassComm major, rant. So I will do it here… junior Americans need to get over this dcmartin@my.loyno.edu
Americans need to let go of their savior complex. But first some backstory, on Thursday, September 28 I was working. The day was slow and one of the customers started to make conversation with me. After a brief introduction, he asked me where I was from, and with all of the pride in the world I said “Puerto Rico!” With my answer the conversation quickly turned uncomfortable. He said that he has friends who recently moved there but have received backlash from the Puerto Rican community and they do not understand why. With all respect I explained that most Puerto Ricans do not like that because it is gentrifying the island, pushing out native people, creating a lot of uncertainty/ confusion within the community and more. While I was explaining he interrupted me and started trying to convince me that Puerto Ricans should be happy that Americans are moving into the island because it could help us become the 51st state which would make our island better and more secure. I was shocked. He spoke with such confidence about a subject he does not understand. With his microaggressive tone, he was trying to tell me and convince me how Puerto Ricans should feel. I was furious. Sadly, since I was working and I needed to be professional I could not explain to him why his statement was wrong. Why
savior complex they have when it comes to Puerto Rico because in reality there is no saving involved. There is just plain colonialism and an imprisoned island that significantly benefits the American economy. Every year Americans get to celebrate their independence whilst taking advantage of Puerto Rico through the Jones Act, tax law 22, Act 60, gentrification, lack of representation in congress, and limited rights even though we are technically citizens. Every year the American government shuts down more and more public schools in Puerto Rico. And every natural disaster we have experienced we receive new excuses for the lack of aid provided by our so called saviors. Everytime I go back home I see less of my community, but more airbnb or hotels. Puerto Ricans can no longer afford to live on their own island, they are being pushed out and no one seems to care. In other words what I really wanted to tell him was…No, we are not happy that Americans are moving to Puerto Rico to avoid taxes and gentrify the communities which will displace Puertorriqueños. No, we are not happy that generational homes are now airbnb. No, we are not happy that the Jones Act makes everything more expensive in Puerto Rico thus benefiting the American economy. No, we are not happy that we are forced to live under American rule but we cannot vote for the Presidents that make those rules. No, we are not happy that we can
Sofia Johnson/The Maroon
not represent ourselves in congress but again we have to live under their rules. No, we are not happy that once again we have to plead and fight for the right to live in our own islam, our own community. Ignorance like this is why Puerto Ri-
cans are so frustrated. We keep screaming at the top of our lungs explaining the issues that we are suffering from but they do not care because they are “saving us.” Puerto Rico does not need saving, it needs respect. We are not your safe haven to avoid taxes and make more
money. We are not and will never be the 51st state. We are la Isla del Encanto, we are Borinquen, we are Puerto Rico.
LISA COLLINS Professor of Mass Communications khcollin@loyno.edu
I am writing to urge Loyola’s leadership to bring back a time-honored campus tradition: The Window. For those new to the Loyola community, the Window was a dedicated time period each Tuesday and Thursday during the academic year when class was not held. The time between 12:30 and 2:00 p.m. was used in a variety of ways that made our campus community stronger. Student organizations gathered to plan and build community. Faculty and staff held key meetings or collaborated. The Peace Quad came to life with fun events. The Window was also used for rest. Whether you grabbed a nap in your dorm room or sat in the Palm Court and read a book, the Window was a guaranteed break twice in your week so you could tackle your next class project or your to-do list. It showed that the university walked the walk when it talked about cura personalis. The Window was a unique Loyola tradition that lasted for decades. I have colleagues at other universities who sandwich meetings and gatherings in between classes and advising appoint-
ments. When I tell them about the Window, they are envious that our leadership prioritized this concept of community. In the spring of 2023, the outgoing Provost ended the Window with no (public?) discussion with faculty or staff. The reason given: a drop in classroom space due to the demolition of Mercy Hall. While I can appreciate the challenge losing eight classrooms can bring to a university schedule, I still don’t understand why other alternatives were not explored. We have a creative staff and faculty that has weathered devastating hurricanes and a global pandemic, all while maintaining this key Loyola custom. It was disappointing to learn via an email that the Window was going away, with no opportunity for discussion of potential solutions. The Window was more than a time period— it was a part of Loyola’s culture. Ending it abruptly shows me that the leadership did not consider the long-term impact such a major decision would have on our community. Some academic departments are working to schedule spring courses around the Window. But this is a piecemeal approach, and not a long term solution. It does not guarantee a dedicated block of time university-wide. If Loyola’s leadership wants to show that it values our community and culture, bringing back the Window would be a big step in the right direction.
Grace Knight/The Maroon
We need to bring back the window
OPINIONS International Law Today – Are You in the Dark? Dec. 1, 2023 THE MAROON
Patrick Hugg Law Professor Emeritus
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Claire Campbell Law Student
Today, the world is on fire with international conflict and destruction as not seen in decades; from Ukraine to the Middle East, from Africa to Asia, and beyond, we witness hostility and even hatred dominating the relations of too many nations and the lives of many millions of people. We naturally ask: is there not some concrete system of conduct or law that attempts to provide some measure of order and justice in global relations? Yes, we all know that there is something called international law, that likely has something to do with the United Nations. And we all have heard of many treaties that nations have signed to promote cooperation and harmony. And we are grateful that we have not repeated the global conflagration of the successive, truly World Wars of the past century. Yet so few people today understand even the basic rules in this international system. Hence, this brief entreaty for all those seeking to understand the global disorder today to pause and read the ba-
sic rules of our international order and disorder, as the case may be. Renowned international law scholar Louis Henkin is credited with stating the clever aphorism that “almost all nations observe almost all of the principles of international law and almost all of the obligations almost all of the time.” Critics of international law place undue focus on the word “almost” and erroneously discredit the majority of instances of when international actors do fulfill their obligations and comply with international law. There are numerous reasons for actors to comply with international law: reciprocity reasons, reputational reasons, or promoting certain basic moral values, to name a few. Global markets and economic growth do not prosper in an uncertain environment. Thus, self-interest motivates much of nations’ reasonable conduct. As States’ interdependence has increased over the past decades, so have nations and other global leaders sought more definition and guidance. And following the horrors of two world wars and a great depression, the creation of advanced rules of humanitarian law and the law of war has advanced. Yet, do most of the people understand most of this background for international relations today? If not, how do they evaluate and participate in our democratic governance? Today, seemingly more than ever, our need for and the value of informed and constructive civil discourse is apparent. Few could deny that global affairs present us with real danger. Citizens need to read and listen to in-
Photo illustration by Lacy Barrow
formed information sources – we profit none by misinformation, especially in today’s environment of “personalized, tailored commercial news feeds”. We all cringe when we hear a loud misstatement of facts or principles. The danger today is sufficient to warrant everyone to pay attention, to read multiple news sources, and judge for themselves who our leaders should be and how they
should lead. We encourage especially college and university students today to read multiple, credible sources of information. Don’t worry, so much of the news today is not boring! Yet it may be frightening. And go deeper than usual in learning about the rules of international law. Not everyone can take a course in international law, but everyone can visit
multiple news sources that will indeed spell out the law, even sources from international organizations seeking to serve the public good. We encourage everyone to be an informed participant in vital discussion and leadership to fortify our shared search for wise direction in this frightening world today.
Loyola has an accessibility issue CHRIS NESBIT Mass Communication, freshman cwnesbit@my.loyno.edu
The modern digital era has transformed higher education, bringing more information a single person can read in a lifetime, and has made it easier for students to gain higher education through online programs. However, accessibility issues often undercut this potential, creating invisible barriers for students with disabilities. This critical topic underpins the journey towards an inclusive learning environment. It is time to re-examine our teaching methods-There is a need for a proactive and inclusive approach in the design and delivery of online education. Kimberly Coy from California State University, Fresno, speaks about the importance of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as an approach to inclusivity. UDL is not only a set of strategies to make learning more inclusive; It is also a mindset for others to guide institutions to accommodate the vast range of learners in higher education. This principle, extending beyond online platforms, is crucial in addressing on-campus challenges, such as those faced by Loyola University Student Kaley Delker. Delker's struggle with campus elevators highlights the need for consistent UDL applications in both digital and physical learning environments (especially ironic when visiting the Office for Accessible
Education on the second floor of Monroe Library). Institutions can fuel the student body's diverse talents and learning styles by offering several means of engaging students and representing the struggles of certain groups of students. Veronica McGowan of Southwest Oklahoma State University points out that while resources and legislation aid students with disabilities, the implementation of accessible education is inconsistent between institutions and is not mandated as harshly as it should be to support students with disabilities. As experienced by Delker at Loyola University, her difficulties navigating an "able-bodied setup" campus reflect the broader issue of inconsistent application of accessibility policies in higher education. The gap between policy and practice creates urgency for higher education to, rather than meet the minimum standards, use what resources they can spare to improve education for students with these needs. With the concurrent growth of COVID-19 and the shift towards online learning, the landscape of technology used in education has grown, but according to Danielle Hass and her team, emergency online learning has magnified the digital divide, especially for minority students. The study presented by Danielle Hass reveals that students, while many can adapt to the quickly changing online world, many others face challenges in social connectivity and technical literacy. This situation parallels the experiences of Loyola University Technology and Accessibility Coordinator Karissa Mooney, who notes that while online tools like screen readers aid students with disabilities, the broad-
Photo illustration by Chris Wayne Nesbit
er digital divide still poses significant challenges. These points prove the importance of equipping all students, not just ones with disabilities, with the tools to thrive in an online learning environment. Concrete strategies are essential to move toward a more accessible future in learning. Implementing text-to-speech technologies, providing alternative formats for auditory and visual content, and designing assessments that accommodate different learning styles are just a few steps that can significantly enhance accessibility in the classroom and online
learning landscape. It's about crafting an education experience that resonates with every student, acknowledging that accessibility is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a dynamic and ongoing pursuit. These strategies, grounded in the principles of UDL, can transform online education into a more inclusive and equitable space for students with disabilities. As we navigate the future of education, we must commit to making online learning accessible to all. This commitment goes beyond mere compliance with legal mandates; it is about em-
bracing a philosophy of education that values diversity, equity, and inclusivity. Our goal should be to cultivate a learning environment and celebrate diversity in learning. It calls for a collaborative effort among educators, administrators, policymakers, and students to create innovative and practical solutions. By integrating UDL principles, addressing the digital divide, and implementing practical strategies, we can ensure that our digital classrooms are not only accessible but also empowering for every student.
ILLEGITIMI NON CARBORUNDUM AntiAmericanism ≠ Progressivism By Nadir Mahdi Benslimane nmbensli@loyno.edu In the wake of the tragic October 7th massacre in Israel, where Hamas claimed the lives of an estimated 1,200 people, tensions escalated dramatically. Israel's response, marked by an all-out invasion against the Palestinian people in Gaza, resulted in a devastating toll. According to the Washington Post, over 11,100 Palestinians have died since October 7th, many being women and children. As the international community grapples with the alarming casualties, the context of these events becomes crucial, particularly with President Joe Biden's unwavering support for Israel's actions. In this tragedy, an unexpected source is gaining attention—Osama bin Laden's letter to America. It is essential to scrutinize this newfound interest critically. While some may see it as dissent against perceived injustices, it is crucial to emphasize that Bin Laden's letter should not be romanticized as a positive response to the unfolding crisis. Rather, it is a reminder of the complex geopolitical dynamics that have led to the current state of affairs. The rising popularity of Bin Laden's letter coincides with this ongoing conflict, capturing the attention of younger progressives dissatisfied with President Biden's unyielding support for Israel. Despite the escalating death toll among Palestinians, President Biden’s pro-Israel stance remains unwavering by stating, "The United States has Israel's back." Notably, he expressed doubt about the reported death toll of the Palestinian people, saying he has "no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using." This skepticism raises concerns about the accuracy of information and the potential consequences of such uncertainty on diplomatic efforts to address the crisis. Bin Laden's letter should be viewed cautiously, as its resonance may be a reflection of frustration with perceived injustices rather than a constructive solution to the issues at hand. It is crucial to engage in a nuanced discussion while recognizing the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict in the region. While he correctly points out the injustice of the Israeli occupation over Palestine, this criticism is based on the view that the Muslims hold a natural right over Palestine by saying, “The people of Palestine are pure Arabs and original Semites. It is the Muslims who are the inheritors of Moses (peace be upon him) and the inheritors of the real Torah that has not been changed…If the followers of Moses have been promised a right to Palestine in the Torah, then the Muslims are the most worthy nation of this.” Furthermore, he ascribes America’s immortality and war-mongering to the Jewish people by saying, “You are the nation that permits Usury…the Jews have taken control of your economy, through which they have then taken control of your media, and now control all aspects of your life making you their servants and achieving their aims at your expense; precisely what Benjamin Franklin warned you against.” This belief originates from the Franklin Prophecy, an antisemitic speech falsely ascribed to Benjamin Franklin published in the Pro-Nazi magazine Liberation. Even if Osama Bin Laden may raise some valid points on America’s corruption, one must also realize that his reasoning is not from genuine concern but rather his own ulterior motives to force his ultra conservative ideology on others. This is to say that Anti-American does not necessarily equal progressivism. Many young progressives fall into the trap by seeing and critiquing the very real flaws of American society. However, when one begins to support nations such as China, Russia and North Korea on their “Anti-American” position and their supposed progressivism despite their current atrocities including but not limited to the Uyghur genocide, the Russo-Ukrainian war along with the tyrannical rule over their people respectively. We can not fall into the trap of anti-American rhetoric but rather we target the roots of what causes the corruption including but not limited to lobbying, systemic racism, occupation, rising discrimination and other issues.
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A LONG AWAITED EXPIRATION The world breathes a long sigh of relief for evil has been vanquished. On the historic day of November 29, 2023 centenarian war criminal Henry Kissinger - the second most evil German in history - has finally died after a century of plaguing the Earth. Some might dispute the phrases “evil”, “villain” and “maniac” in their relation to Kissinger but with his death Kissinger leaves behind a tremendous legacy of terror, trauma, and death across the world. The entire planet is still just barely recovering from the specter that was Henry Kissinger and his homicidal conniving for over a century. The exact death toll as a result of Kissinger’s policy making is nearly incalculable due to the abstract way in which policy making contributes to mass death but even the most conservative estimates holds Kissinger accountable for approximately 3-4 million deaths. Despite having a hand in the decimation of numerous countries such as Chile, East Timor, Bangladesh, and Kurdistan and causing the deaths of millions upon millions, one of the most notable countries directly affected by Kissinger’s foreign policy is that of Cambodia. Under Kissinger’s directive, numerous bombing campaigns were conducted and masses of innocent Cambodians were murdered as a result. Even 50 years after the bombing campaigns, Cambodia is still feeling the effects of the scars left by Kissinger. Cluster bombs continue to pervade the land of Cambodia and the death toll continues to count up with each unnecessary death. Beyond the
grave, Kissinger’s actions will continue to terrorize countless Cambodians and the occupants of dozens of other countries throughout the world. “War-monger” and “Career opportunist” are fitting ways to describe Kissinger and this is exemplified in his involvement with the Vietnam War. When the Paris Peace Accords of 1968 were starting to gain traction and there finally appeared to be a possibility of a peaceful compromise, Kissinger intentionally leaked information in order to further his own status and political influence. Following his leaking of this information, Kissinger was appointed as the National Security Adviser of Richard Nixon. Despite proposing a plan for withdrawal from Vietnam a few years later, Kissinger actively participated in more bombing directives that would result in a tremendous death count among the Vietnamese and Kissinger’s sabotaging of peace-talks inevitably lead to greater fighting and death among American troops and the North Vietnamese Army. Kissinger would only continue to accumulate a higher body count for every bit of policy making he had a hand in formulating. Operation Menu, a covert bombing campaign conceived by Kissinger, would target locations in Cambodia and Laos resulting in countless civilian casualties. In the instance of Cambodia, Operation Menu is estimated to have resulted in approximately 4000 civilian deaths. Much like the titular Nazi scientist of the film “Dr Strangelove”, Kissinger actively worked towards
making the U.S. a national power to be feared. This prerogative can be seen with his conception of the “Madman Theory” which sought to make President Nixon seem like a volatile force willing to make rash and deadly decisions. All of this was in part due to Kissinger’s staunch anti-communist foreign policy that would prefer intimidation & violence over genuine diplomacy with communist foreign powers. Kissinger would even provide his full support towards despotic right wing tyrants over democratically elected socialist leaders as was exhibited in Chile. Despite being a diplomat and representative of the United States government - the “beacon of democracy” Kissinger would vehemently oppose the democratic election of socialist leaders to the fullest extent. So indignant was Kissinger towards the idea of a popular and democratically elected socialist government that when Salvador Allende ran for president of Chile, Kissinger did all he could to prevent Allende’s success. In the case of Allende’s successful election, Kissinger tried to coerce President Nixon to lead a forceful overthrow of Allende thus overriding a fair and democratically elected government. This U.S. opposition against Allende, as conceived by Kissinger, would actively support the military junta of Augusto Pinochet. Following this military coup, Pinochet would commit an estimated 30,000 instances of human rights abuses, numerous executions, and the interment and torturing of countless innocent Chilean citizens and
political dissidents that opposed Pinochet’s fascistic rule. Kissinger revealed his absolute disdain for democracy the instant he actively supported the Pinochet regime and worked towards overthrowing a genuinely democratic government. To suggest that Kissinger had an “impact” on the world is both an understatement but also completely inappropriate for the death and destruction that Kissinger wrought on a global scale. Kissinger did not leave an impact but rather an egregious stain that continues to disturb the peace that numerous countries wish to gain. Deaths upon deaths continue to mount in the aftermath of Kissinger’s countless bombing campaigns and democracy is continually threatened thanks to Kissinger’s constant destabilization of other countries thus depriving them of genuine self determination. “Polarizing” is a word that should remain forever distant from Kissinger. Henry Kissinger was a vile, opportunistic, war-mongering grifter and war criminal who fully opposed the democratic process and who stands as the antithesis of peace and whose legacy should be continually affirmed as a testament to the evil that continues to pervade the world throughout countless governments and their respective foreign policies. It’s no wonder Biden never extended an invitation to Kissinger to visit the White House.
Peanut Butter is the glue that holds life together An opinion by Taylor Falgou & Patrick Hamilton
Dear friends, Before we embark on a journey celebrating the peanutty delight that is peanut butter, we extend our heartfelt apologies to those with peanut allergies. We understand the seriousness of this condition and hope our shared enthusiasm for peanut butter doesn't induce any cravings you can't satisfy. Now, let's reflect on the topic at hand – the unparalleled charm of peanut butter. One of us ardently champions the cause of creamy peanut butter, while the other staunchly defends the crunchy variety. A friendly disagreement, indeed, but fear not, for in the grand tapestry of peanut butter appreciation, our differences pale in comparison to our shared love for this delectable spread. Think about the magical way peanut butter coats the mouth. Creamy enthusiasts revel in the smooth, velvety experience, akin to a culinary caress that leaves taste buds tingling with delight. The crunchy aficionado argues the interplay of tiny peanut pieces creates a symphony of textures that adds a delightful crunch, making each bite an adventure. Beyond our minor dispute, there are facets of peanut butter that unite us in gastronomic ecstasy. Picture this: peanut butter, the great equalizer, harmonizing effortlessly with an array of foods. Whether spread on warm toast, paired with crisp apple slices, or incorporated into a savory satay sauce, peanut butter's versatility is unparalleled. It's the chameleon of condiments, seamlessly adapting to sweet or savory, breakfast or dinner. Beyond its delicious taste and adaptability, peanut
Taylor Falgout
butter brings health benefits to the table. With a notable concentration of protein and healthy fats, it serves as a filling and nutritious addition to any meal or snack, making it not only a culinary delight but
also a wholesome choice for those seeking a satisfying and nourishing treat. And let's not forget the universal appeal of peanut butter—no chewing required. In a world where our jaws work
overtime on crunchy snacks and tough cuts of meat, peanut butter stands as a beacon of respite. A spread so divine that it glides down the throat, a heavenly blend that requires no arduous mastication. Peanuts have embedded themselves in every layer of American history. The 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter, was, in fact, a peanut farmer before his political career took flight. While our primary focus is on the culinary merits of peanut butter, it's worth acknowledging that even the leader of the free world had a hand in the peanut game. Peanuts, humble in appearance yet impactful in influence, have woven themselves intricately into the fabric of American history. From the agricultural landscapes of the South to the bustling urban centers, peanuts have left an indelible mark on the nation's development, economy, and cultural identity. Whether sustaining farmers during the Great Depression, nourishing soldiers during wartime, or becoming a cherished pantry staple in households today, peanuts and their derivative, peanut butter, serve as a flavorful reminder of America's resilience, adaptation, and the delicious evolution of its culinary traditions. So, whether you find solace in the creamy embrace of peanut butter or prefer the textured adventure of its crunchy counterpart, we can all agree on the irresistible allure of this nutty delight. It transcends personal preferences, forming a gastronomic bridge that spans generations and cultures. Peanut butter is the unifier, the versatile companion, and the snack that makes life a little bit nuttier and a whole lot more delicious.
Dec. 1, 2023
THE MAROON
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FINALS WEEK
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COLUMN: A good turkey day spent at the races This year’s Thanksgiving day was surely one to remember. Oh it had all the usual accoutrements that people come to expect of it: family, fun, food (not to mention C.W. Maldonado charged political War arguments and convenient hisCorrespondent torical amnesia). For me, however, I spent most of my Thanksgiving day where the most thanks given is to the horse that guarantees you a sweet betting voucher that makes you completely forget that you’re supposed to be saving money instead of spending it: Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans. For context, Fair Grounds Race Course has held an annual horse racing event every Thanksgiving day since 1924 with the typical schedule being 10 races starting at around 11 AM and ending around 7 PM. Accompanied by a friend, we arrived at races around 1 PM and proceeded into the towering temple of wager taking. Immediately, I was struck by the sheer number of raving and exuberantly dressed race-goers who were making mad dashes to the betting stations before the start of the 4th race. As a kindness to my wallet, I had only brought a single $20 with me so I made my way to the station, inserted my dollar, picked my horse, and received a voucher stub for a $2 bet on the soon to start race and the change for my remaining $18. As we waited along the race course fence, I was again astonished by the raiment of the droves of people also waiting for the start of the 4th race. You could’ve convinced me that half of these people at the races were going to a church service - which in a way they were - while the other half were dressed like characters out of a John Waters film. I witnessed people dressed to the nines in suits that reminded me of my student loans, people dressed in cowboy attire, one person dressed in full Soviet military fatigues, and a plethora of others who were dressed in all manner of outfits that screamed with a desire to be acknowledged by every person in attendance. Thankfully the race started without much delay and un-thankfully I ended up losing $2 on my horse and this pattern would be repeated for the rest of the races. The loss of my bets didn’t upset me too much since gambling wasn’t the reason I wanted to go to the races in the first place. Aside from hanging with my friend and making a day out of it, I wanted to go so I could witness those incredible, beautiful equines in action as they darted around the course at dizzying speeds. The atmosphere rumbling with excitement as the starting buzzer signaled and the announcer declared “And they’re off” was absolutely tantalizing. It felt like I had taken refuge in a place away from all of the typical trials and tribulations of Thanksgiving. Here no one asks me “What do you plan on doing with your degree?”, they only ask “How much would you like to bet?” It was a different dimension of sights, sounds, and smells where time falls away and you’re absorbed in the phenomena of animals engaged in tense and awesome competition with each other (both the humans and the horses).
KEEP THE LIBRARY OPEN Students may be shocked to find out that the Monroe Library is changing things up for finals week this year. Previously, Monroe Library has offered its services to students on a 24/7 hour basis meaning that no matter the time students could trust that the library would be available to them during the dire hours of finals week. Unfortunately, Monroe Library will cease to operate on this basis during finals week going forward. Whereas the library originally would remain open to students all day so that they could prepare for their finals it will now only be open from 8 AM to 2 AM. This decision severely hamstrings the student body of Loyola who have to put in major hours of studying to fully prepare for the difficult finals ahead. It can only be imagined how upsetting it would be for many of the students to, expecting the library to be fully serviceable during finals week and depending on the library for the necessary study conditions, be blindsided by an unannounced and incredibly counterproductive policy change right before the most important week of the semester. Not only would it be a betrayal of the trust that the students have built with the library in previous semesters but it would certainly inconvenience and in some cases ensure that the students’ ability to effectively study for and succeed on their finals would be completely untenable. Not only is this sudden policy change a betrayal of the trust of the student body but it’s an inherent violation of the Jesuit principles of inclusivity and accessibility. It seems as if this decision to change Monroe Library’s hours of operations for finals week was done without consideration for the students that would be most detrimentally affected by it. It’s well known that campus life can be
extremely raucous and with so many events going on it can be difficult for some students to effectively utilize their time for studying for their finals. It’s these students who will be severely affected by the shortening of the library’s operational hours as they depend significantly on the quiet atmosphere and numerous study resources provided by the library. Beyond being a completely counterproductive change that will only inhibit students from being able to study and do well on the most important projects and tests of the semester, it also disproportionately affects the student body in a way to give an advantage to students who commute or are fortunate enough to have a car. Whereas an on-campus full time student might be unable to go home or even get off campus to an equally effective place to study, a commuter student faces none of these problems. This creates total inequality for the students in that it unfairly situates some students in a manner where they’ll be able to effectively study and prepare for their finals while disenfranchising others of the same opportunities for success. In every sense of the word is this policy change a complete violation. It’s inherently detrimental towards the students during the most important time for studying in the whole semester. It actively ensures that not all students have access to the necessary conditions for studying they need to succeed on their finals while propping other students up in a way that gives them a situational advantage over their peers when everyone at Loyola should have an equal opportunity for succeeding in their classes. This decision to change Monroe Library’s hours of operations during finals week emanates nothing but maliciousness towards the students and can only work
towards frustrating students, ruining their chances for success on their finals, and damaging the relationship that exists between students and the university thus undermining any future attempts at building trust between the student body and Loyola. For freshmen in particular this change will show nothing but hypocrisy toward the values espoused during Wolfpack Welcome. When a student can’t even trust the services that are
Photo by Anna Hummel
supposed to be available to them during a major period of testing it can only sow further distrust in the student and work towards disheartening them in their academic efforts going forward.
LETTER: On the toxicity present in Loyola's Greek Life By Rory Hutner-Whiting rrhutner@my.loyno.edu
I write this letter to the Maroon in hopes of spreading more awareness about the realities of Greek life. For many years, fraternities and sororities have been a crucial component of the collegiate experience because they offer networking opportunities, a feeling of community, and camaraderie. Even if a lot of people have good experiences in these groups, it's important to look closely at the negative aspects of Greek life. This article examines the causes of toxic and unhealthy fraternities and sororities, emphasizing problems like hazing, substance misuse, exclusionary policies, and the maintenance of negative stereotypes. The fact that fraternities and sororities are frequently exclusive is one of their main problems. Greek groups have come under fire for encouraging a sense of superiority among their members, maintaining elitism, and upholding social hierarchies. The selection process, which frequently entails strict recruiting procedures and arbitrary standards, might make people feel excluded if they don't fit these companies' unfair requirements. This exclusionary behavior can impede the growth of a welcoming and inclusive campus community by feeding
a poisonous culture that makes students feel inadequate and rejected. In many fraternities and sororities, hazing—a practice that involves initiating new members via demeaning, hazardous, or humiliating activities— remains a widespread problem. Those who are subjected to this unhealthy custom may suffer grave bodily and psychological effects. Hazing occurrences have resulted in long-term mental distress, injuries, and fatalities, underscoring the necessity of critically analyzing these initiation techniques. Hazing continues to be a part of a culture of secrecy and silence, where victims are reluctant to come out because they fear reprisals or social exclusion. In one of the videos I have watched that talks about the long term effects of hazing as well as how hazing has become so severe that some sororities and fraternities have been shut down. One woman talks about how in her hazing they would have girl lay naked in the front of a frat house as well as having to strip naked, sit on newspaper that was on top of a washer while watching lesbian porn and if there was anything on the newspaper you would get dropped, according to The Tocxicity of Greek Life. Fraternity and sorority cultures frequently place a strong focus on social gatherings and parties where drinking
and other drug use are commonplace. Substance misuse and binge drinking have been associated with a number of detrimental effects, such as poor academic performance, trouble making decisions, and a higher chance of mishaps and injuries. Greek life's pressure to fit in with these expectations can foster an atmosphere where harmful habits are accepted, endangering the health of those who engage in them. Certain Greek groups have come under fire for pushing exclusive and constrictive standards of social standing, achievement, and attractiveness. The mental health and self-esteem of people who do not match these predetermined molds may suffer long-term consequences as a result of the stereotypes' continued propagation. Moreover, it sabotages initiatives to establish a campus community that is more inclusive, varied, and egalitarian. In the interview that I had with a boy named Ben, one of his friends expressed how they have heard people in their frat call people racist slurs and that they will not let people in based off of their attractvness as well as their race. Allowing this kind of behavior to happen is completely unacceptable and disgusting. The persistence of a toxic masculinity culture is one of the factors that leads to the high rate of sexual assault in fra-
ternities. These groups' drive to uphold hypermasculine norms may foster an atmosphere that normalizes violent conduct, the objectification of women, and a disrespect for consent. Some fraternity members may feel entitled as a result of this toxic masculinity, which creates an atmosphere where sexual misbehavior can happen without repercussions. In the peer reviewed article, Fraternities and Rape on Campus, they dive into the realities of how, “the social construction of fraternity brotherhood reveals the highly masculiniss features of fracturnity structure and process”(Martin, pg.457). Although it has long been acknowledged that fraternities and sororities promote a feeling of community, it is critical to recognize and deal with the poisonous and harmful relationships that still exist within these groups. Reform and attention are needed for issues including substance misuse, hazing, exclusionary behaviors, the maintenance of negative stereotypes, and the high rates of sexual assault. In order to foster a safer and more inclusive campus culture that supports the wellbeing of all students, regardless of their connection with fraternities or sororities, colleges, institutions, and Greek organization members themselves must collaborate.
FINAL ISSUE, GOOD LUCK!
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How to create a more caring society Responsibility and culpability. Who a society holds accountable, who a society holds at fault, and how a society treats those it sees as fault. For most of human society, this has always been part of the main struggle. History gives us example after example of a time where a society made a scapegoat of someone, and people stood idly by as a miscarriage of justice occurred. This is for several reasons. Deep seated bigotry such as racism, homophobia, misogyny, transphobia with no basis that gets spread through fear manufactured at the very top of society. We see it in society right now with the ongoing persecution of transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals in America. We see many people fighting this, but we also see many bystanders. Many people who believe passively bigoted thoughts or buy into the fear mongering narratives that are pushed by many right-wing politicians, and media outlets that spread misinformation that are bought and paid for by billionaires with pockets lined by the oil industry. The deep-seated issues within society create this issue of people becoming bystanders to injustice for the same reason that it creates these issues of injustice in the first place. Fear and control. When people are scared, they act out, or they cower. And when there is an ever present media that is constantly fear mongering then it makes people act out against whatever group the media is telling them to be scared of, or they do nothing to stop those who act out since they either agree (either actively or passively) with the people acting out, or at least they don’t disagree or are completely apathetic especially if they aren’t part of that community or group. It would be an easy thing to say that all we need to do as a society to fix these issues would be to fight injustice wherever it is, and that that’s the solution to how we create a more caring society. But that seems too easy of an answer. To simply say we need to fight injustice is too broad. What we need to do is to understand that our society inherently promotes greed as
a necessary value in order to get ahead. That is what needs to be remedied. The fact that our society does not reward empathy, sympathy, charity, and general social concern. This combined with the fact that we are living in an age where people are more isolated from each other than ever, not a reference to COVID but the pandemic certainly didn’t help, is it any wonder that people still do not empathize with others. I will not make a statement and act as if people in some other time period had more empathy, those times in the past had similar and just as numerous issues as we have now, it
Athena Marks
just took a different form. We are living in what is seemingly an age of indifference. An age of indifference that is fueled by how our society fails to reward charity, requires greed of people, and is so rigidly hierarchical that over the past 200 hundred years of living in our profit incentive-based society, the gap between those who work for a living and those who own things for a living has only become greater and greater. We have attempted to remedy this hierarchical state of being with democracy, an inherently egalitarian political system, but especially in recent decades in America, we have chosen to sacrifice democracy time and time again in favor of our economic system. Perhaps one of the most egregious
examples of this is the Citizens United ruling in the early 2010s which allowed corporations to donate money as if they were independent citizens, as opposed to massive, most likely tax-avoidant companies. And many people blame the turmoil we’ve seen over the past decade on particular people. The right blames Obama. The left blames Trump. But in my view, most of the politicians we’ve had for the past few decades in America, with either their total callous disregard for the working class, or outright hatred of the working class, have divided and conquered the consciousness of America’s citizens into misinformed Americans. Not just on the right, but those in the center left Democratic party are in many ways equally misinformed about the state of society, and what the problems of society are, and what their solutions should be. While the Democrats did not storm the Capitol, over the past 3 decades the Democrats have shifted social and economic positions to be increasingly more centrist while the Republican party has moved further and further right. This continuous movement towards centrism for the Democratic party has allowed for worsening conditions for basically all Americans as Republicans continue to choose an agenda that actively harms people. The solution to creating a caring society is to have a society that is based on community, not on individualistic greed. The solution to creating a caring society is to understand that the callous disregard of our fellow man for reasons that we feel we need to be ahead of everyone else is inhuman and unamerican. The solution to creating a caring society is to understand that as people we exist as those in the working class, and we should not divide ourselves among race, gender, sexuality, or any other label that society gives us in order to divide us. While these things are still important to remember, we must understand that we are a community, a local community, a national community, and a global community. And this is how we create a more caring society.
HOWLS & GROWLS HOWL to "Last Christmas" by Wham GROWL to Janky Jeff HOWL to Rosalynn Carter GROWL to finals HOWL to cheap wine GROWL to indecision HOWL to 2024 (not a real year) GROWL to those who look up at us HOWL to the fact that they now look up at us GROWL to fake feminism HOWL to Peace Teas
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LETTER: On Israel/Gaza By Charles Cannon cwcannon@loyno.edu
You wouldn’t have learned it from Loyola’s administration, or from reading the Maroon, but the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust took place in October. Almost immediately after Hamas tortured children in front of their parents, shot at close range whole families, and raped teen girls before parading their naked, mutilated bodies through the streets of Gaza, misguided and misinformed voices on the fringe of the political left dismissed these atrocities by suggesting they took place in a (vague and undefined) “context.” Dr. Samar El-Rifei Sarmini filled in some of that context in her November 3 letter to the Maroon. I feel constrained now to recall more of the context that Dr. Sarmini pointedly left out. It’s true that Arab populations have suffered in the years since Israel founded a Jewish State (a little one) alongside the 20-plus independent Arab Muslim states in the Middle East, which span thousands of square miles. It’s also true that the administrations of long-serving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have been disastrous for peace and justice in the region. Still, blame for the suffering of Arab peoples since 1948 can’t be pinned solely on Israel. Immediately after Israel declared itself a
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state, in the vacuum of retreating European colonial powers, their Arab neighbors attacked them, with the aim of driving all the Jews there into the sea. They attacked again, with the same aim, in 1967 and 1973. All along, the narrative pushed by the autocratic dictatorships bordering Israel was that Jews didn’t belong in the Middle East, that they were essentially a European people with no legitimate roots there. This is a typically anti-Semitic Big Lie. In fact, the substantial majority of Israeli Jews are Mizrahim, Middle Eastern Jews, not Ashkenazy (European) Jews. This means that the majority of Israeli Jews are themselves “indigenous people of color,” Middle Eastern people living in their ancestral homeland. Yes, there are also immigrants, including Jews with European backgrounds and Jews with African roots (the 200,000 Ethiopian Jews who migrated to escape persecution in the 1990s). 20% of Israel’s citizenry are Arab Muslims: Palestinian citizens of Israel, represented by their own duly elected members of the Israeli parliament. That’s the broad backstory, but the more immediate one is that, on October 7, Palestinians from Gaza viciously murdered well over a thousand men, women and children, many of whom had dedicated their lives to justice for Palestinians. They also took
hundreds of hostages, including children as young as 2, whom they still hold. Israel is going after the murderers and kidnappers, an obvious necessity for their self-defense, since Hamas has always made clear that they will never relent in their mission to kill every Jew in the Middle East. Hamas is also willing to kill thousands of innocent civilians under its control in order to realize its genocidal bloodlust. Israel knows that it can’t take out these modern-day Nazis without also harming the unwilling human shields Hamas hides behind. Ever since Hamas took over Gaza, Israel’s increasingly indiscriminate aerial bombing campaigns have exacted an unacceptably high toll of civilian deaths, now more than ever before. But we can’t pretend that the aim of this war--to destroy Hamas, one of the world’s most repressive and violent rightwing movements--is unprovoked or unreasonable. If people in the Western left want to help bring peace to the region, they should stop calling for the erasure of the Middle East’s only liberal democracy, and instead support the elements in that democracy that have been fighting all along for peace and justice for Palestinians as well as Israelis. Netanyahu can be removed through democratic means, but only foreign force or local insurrection can remove Hamas. Only after these obstacles are removed will the path
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EDITORIAL POLICY The editorial on this page represents the majority opinions of The Maroon’s editorial board and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of Loyola University. Letters and columns reflect the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of The Maroon’s editorial board. The Maroon does not represent the opinion of administration, staff and/or faculty members of Loyola. Letters are subject to editing for length, grammar and style. Please limit submissions to 400 words. Submissions are due no later than 4 p.m. the Sunday before publication. Please send all submissions — The Maroon, 6363 St. Charles Ave., Box 64, New Orleans, LA 70118. Email us your letters — letter@ loyno.edu. Submissions may also be made online at www.loyolamaroon.com.
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