ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF EDITORIAL FREEDOM Wednesday, January 20, 2016
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Students fundraise for water crisis aid Organizations collect supplies, funds for affected citizens MARINA ROSS/Daily
By LYDIA MURRAY
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder (R) gives the State of the State address at the Michigan State Capital building in Lansing on Tuesday.
Daily Staff Reporter
State of the State address emphasizes plan for Flint Governor focuses on initiatives to ameliorate water quality in city By CAITLIN REEDY Daily Staff Reporter
LANSING — At his 6th State of the State address Tuesday night, Gov. Rick Snyder (R) highlighted
a number of issues, including thewater crisis in Flint and the large debt facing the Detroit Public Schools system. Snyder drew a large crowd both inside and outside the state capitol building with hundreds showing up to protest on the steps, calling for his resignation. Many of those present noted their presence, including state senator Ken Horn (R—Saginaw), who highlighted the apologetic tone Snyder set. That tone, he said,
differed from his past addresses. “I thought it was very somber,” Horn said. “It was different than the seven other state of the unions I’ve been to as a member of the legislature. We dealt with the Flint water issue primarily and I think the governor set a tone that we are here to help. Mistakes were made on every different level.” Key points made during the speech included a six-point plan to respond to the Flint
water crisis, fixing Michigan’s deteriorated infrastructure, aiding the Detroit Public Schools system and the economic future of the state — particularly the future of the automotive industry and the trajectory it is currently on. Snyder began his speech addressing the people of Flint, which served as the main focus of the address. “Tonight will be a different See ADDRESS, Page 2A
In response to the Flint water crisis, students across campus are coming together to collect water bottles and monetary donations for the affected citizens of Flint and surrounding areas. The Flint water supply has been contaminated with lead for multiple months, spurring health concerns for Flint’s citizens and garnering national outrage. The contamination began after the city switched from the Detroit city water to water from the Flint River in April 2014. The water from the river corroded the water pipes, allowing lead from the pipes to leech into the water. In the weeks following the change, residents began reporting a change in quality and adverse health effects.
OPINION
RESEARCH
Study finds mental link to phantom vibrations
From the Daily: Recall Gov. Snyder Michigan citizens must be allowed to use their vote to give the people of Flint justice From The Michigan Daily
It is no secret that Gov. Rick Snyder (R) is not a fan of democracy. Two months into his first gubernatorial term, he signed Public Act 4 — a bill that would allow him to delegate total control over a democratically elected municipal government in the event the state government decided it was financially insolvent. Snyder utilized this bill in 2011 to appoint a financial emergency manager over the city of Flint, leading to a string of decisions overseen by Snyder that ultimately led to the water crisis decimating Flint today. As we’ve seen the crisis unfold, Snyder has
taken democracy away from Flint and in the process ruined lives. Michigan voters must make their voices heard for justice in Flint by supporting a recall of Gov. Snyder. Tuesday night, Snyder delivered his State of the State address, dedicating much of his speech time to the Flint Water Crisis. Snyder acknowledged the mistakes he and his administration have made, but made a number of concerning points regarding how he views the timeline of the disaster. Snyder began his overview of events by pointing to the Flint city council’s March 2013 vote, with emergency manager approval in April, to switch the city of Flint’s water supply to the Karegnondi Water Authority, a municipal cooporation Flint was a founding member of, but still under construction. Entirely absent from this discussion, however, was the chain of decisions that led to Flint’s switch from Detroit See RECALL, Page 4A
Both Gov. Rick Snyder (R) and President Barack Obama have recently declared state and federal states of emergency in response to the crisis. Protesters have additionallycalled for Snyder’s resignation, claiming he was negligent in his delayed response to the crisis. Joining many other groups across the state, University’s Prevention Research Center and the Michigan Youth Violence Prevention Center are partnering in a campaign called Fill-A-Truck for Flint. The campaign is now accepting both water bottle and cash donations, which will be delivered to Flint residents. Water bottle donations will be accepted until Friday in the School of Public Health lobby, and cash donations are being accepted in the Prevention Research Center office. The campaign aims to bring as much bottled water as they can collect to Flint to help the residents there. Alison Grodzinski, School of Public Health employee and one of the organizers of the effort, said the center wanted to help out in any way possible See CRISIS, Page 3A
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Psychological factors determine reactions to cell phone notifications
Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor speaks on issues such as affordable housing and the deer cull during the City Council meeting at Ann Arbor City Hall on Tuesday.
Council passes resolution opposing state ballot law Ann Arbor Mayor says bill threatens voter knowledge By BRIAN KUANG Daily Staff Reporter
At Tuesday’s City Council meeting, a range of topics — from a new state law to the city’s planned deer cull— were discussed.
During the meeting, Council rebuked the state government of Michigan for a law that the city claims restricts its right to inform voters, voting unanimously in support of a resolution opposing the State Legislature’s Public Act 269, which Gov. Rick Snyder (R) signed on January 7. Public Act 269 prohibits local officials from publicly disclosing information about ballot proposals within 60
days of an election. The bill has sparked debate throughout Michigan, with opponents raising concerns that it will bar public entities — such as cities and school districts — from distributing factual information about ballot initiatives. During Tuesday’s council meeting, Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor emphasized the impact this act has on the voter. See COUNCIL, Page 3A
By ALEXA ST. JOHN Daily Staff Reporter
If you find yourself checking your phone only to realize the vibration you thought you felt was non-existent, you may be more anxious when it comes to relationships. Those who have higher attachment anxiety in their relationships are more likely to interpret ambiguous physical sensations as cell phone messages, according to recent University research. In contrast, people who have higher attachment avoidance are less likely to have these “phantom” experiences when they anticipate receiving calls or messages, and tend to be See STUDY, Page 3A
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TUESDAY: Campus Voices
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FLINT PROTEST
Sexual assualt discrepancy
According to a report from the Badger Herald at the University of Wisconsin, there are significant discrepancies in the number of sexual assaults reported at the school and the number of investigations pursued by the school’s administration. The Herald examined recent statistics of sexual assault reports at the university of Wisconsin over the course of the past five years.
It was reported that only 67 of about 735 of reported cases at the university have been investigated over the past half decade. The Herald also reported that from the cases investigated, only 27 students were found to be responsible and only three students were expelled. Ithaca College Ithaca College and Coastal Carolina University top schools in drug and alcohol violations Administrators at Ithaca College and Coastal Carolina University deli vered the most disciplinary action related
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UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN
Officials at the University of Wisconsin have investigated a low number of sexual assault cases according to The Badger Herald.
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to drug and alcohol use per capita, according to a recent report. The report, released by the marketing firm Fractl, examined rates of disciplinary action at institutions that have student residencies on campus. According to the report, Ithaca College had the most drug-related disciplinary actions per 1,000 students in 2014. Drug-related arrests also increased from five students in 2013 to 19 students in 2014. Coastal Carolina University had 1,058 disciplinary referrals for alcohol violations during the period surveyed. —ANNA HARITOS
MARINA ROSS/Daily Protestors calling for the recall of Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder (R) bang their hands against the windows of the Michigan State Capital building where Gov. Snyder was giving the State of the State address in Lansing on Tuesday.
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WHAT: The Bonderman Fellowship is offering four LSA seniors $20,000 to travel the world. WHO: Center for Global and Intercultural Study WHEN: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. WHERE: The League, Michigan Room
WHAT: A guest professor will give a lecture titled “Taking the Place of Stalin: The Story of Late Communism.” WHO: Center for Russian, East European and Eurasian Studies WHEN: 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. WHERE: School of Social Work Building, room 1636
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WHAT: The Bicentennial Office will hold an activity grant workshop to help generate ideas for projects and activities. WHO: Bicentennial Office WHEN: 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. WHERE: The League, Vandenberg room
WHAT: MEMS will hold a lecture on Islam, Buddhism and the Mongols debating the fate of Chinggis Khan’s soul in medieval Iran. WHO: Medieval and Early Modern Studies WHEN: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. WHERE: Tisch Hall, room 1014
WHAT: The Digital Media Club will be hosting an internship search preparation workshop today. WHO: Digital Media Club WHEN: 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. WHERE: North Quad
State of the State,” Snyder said. “I would like to address the people of Flint. I want to speak directly, honestly sincerely… The government failed you. I’m sorry most of all that I let you down. You deserve accountability. You deserve to know the truth and I have a responsibility to tell the truth.” During the speech, Snyder said he will release all of his e-mails pertaining to the water crisis as well as a comprehensive timeline listing every step taken. He also announced plans to request $28 million from the state legislature to provide additional bottled water and tap filters for affected homes, as well as treatment for the children suffering from lead poisoning. “We need to make sure this never happens again in any Michigan city,” Snyder said. “I give the people (of Flint) my commitment that Michigan will not let you down.” Snyder’s plan to hold individuals accountable also included replacing the former director for the Department
Kent Monkman WHAT: Artist Kent Monkman will speak on his latest installation work. WHO: Institue for the Humanities WHEN: 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. WHERE: 202 S. Thayer, room 1022 • Please report any error in the Daily to corrections@ michigandaily.com
continuous access to primary care, early childhood education and supplements like calcium, vitamin C and iron, which may help mitigate the impacts of lead poisoning.” Highlighted additionally in Snyder’s address was an initiative to create a commission for building 21st century infrastructure in the state, aimed at finding out what the state needs and developing a plan on how to make the best investments. “We need to get this right in Michigan for the long term,” Snyder said. “More than roads, we have a hidden problem… underground some pipes are over 100 years old. Out of sight out of mind until we have a water problem.” Though Flint was the main focus of the address, Snyder also commented on the growth of Detroit in the past few years. He said violent crime is down 18 percent since 2010, derelict buildings are being torn down and electricity is spreading to once dark areas of the city. The city’s school system, however, faces mounting problems surrounding its current debt, which is currently at $515 million. Snyder said he plans to create a commission focused on 21st century education to address that debt and related issues statewide. “As Detroit builds, it should give hope to other cities,” he said. “There is much more work that needs to be done, but progress is evident everywhere. Too many schools are failing at their central task… Let’s solve this problem and help the kids. The time to act is now.” Snyder also touched on the state’s economy, noting that 232 jobs are added every day in the state. He acknowledged this growth doesn’t reach every town, saying he plans to provide towns still struggling with unemployment not just with not money but also people to help them get back on track. Before Snyder’s remarks, the Michigan Democratic Party held a press conference denouncing both the governor and state Republicans for the Flint crisis and other issues, accusing Snyder and legislators of creating a culture of secrecy within the government. “Secrecy and cover-ups create See ADDRESS, Page 3A
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WHAT: International Programs in Engineering will host a fair for engineering students to learn about various study abroad opportunities. WHO: International Programs in Engineering WHEN: 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. WHERE: Duderstadt Center Atrium
of Environmental Quality Dan Wyant with incoming DEQ director Keith Creagh, who said in an interview he agreed with the governor’s words regarding the need for change. “As I came in as a new director there are some things we need to address within the department. We need a culture change, we need to start with the outcome in mind,” Creagh said. “And have our goal be safe, clean drinking water to all citizens. What matters is the delivery of clean, fresh, safe water to residents.” In a statement released after the address, Karen Christian, president of United Teachers of Flint and a math intervention teacher at Potter Elementary School in Flint Community Schools, urged the governor to adopt a more detailed plan for helping residents. “The health and educational challenges facing Flint students and families for years to come are serious and require a detailed plan to identify and address the various issues coming at us,” Christian said. “We must help students with the real impacts of lead poisoning, like learning disabilities and behavioral issues. Gov. Snyder and leaders in Lansing need to act on detailed plans that gets students
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E. Royster Harper, vice president for student life, introduces herself to the CSG assembly and discusses her role within the administration at the CSG meeting in the Michigan Union on Tuesday.
CSG supports campus-wide efforts to aid Flint residents Assembly members discuss ways they can help at meeting By ANNA HARITOS Daily Staff Reporter
At their meeting Tuesday, Central Student Government discussed coordinating efforts among student organizations over the Flint water crisis and resolutions to define the agenda of the semester. The body also hosted E. Royster Harper, Vice President of Student Life, as their guest speaker. CSG President Cooper Charlton, an LSA senior, addressed the assembly on the importance of assisting existing efforts across campus aiming to aid with the Flint water crisis. “In the beginning of the year we talked a lot about uniting the three campuses in Ann Arbor — Central, North and South — and at that same
time we also reached out to Flint and Dearborn so we can be a united voice when we talk about the University of Michigan,” Charlton said. “Not just talking about Ann Arbor and not forgetting our brothers 30 to 40 minutes away.” Charlton called upon the body to reach out to student organizations currently engaged in fundraising campaigns and other forms of aid. “This is an unbelievable opportunity for us to show support with the water crisis happening in Flint,” Charlton said. “We need need need to show support for Flint in this very terrible time.” Guest Speaker During her speech, Harper shared several personal stories with the assembly, including her childhood, her relationship with the University and her involvement with social life at the University when she was a student. Among the policy topics she touched on were the forthcoming University celebration
for the bicentennial in 2017 and parents weekend. She asked CSG, and all students, for ideas to help strengthen the planning and execution of both events. CSG, in turn, asked Harper for constructive criticism and general advice going into the second semester. She outlined the importance of understanding the student body in response. “I will offer you two words of advice,” she said. “I think that you need to move outside your own space and to really be asking people who are maybe different from you what’s working and what’s not. In addition, you need to listen with more than your ears. What is the person not saying — you have to represent the student body.” In particular, she encouraged assembly members to consider their own identities. “This is the time in your life to do your work around your own identity, and understand See CSG, Page 3A
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Flint residents file lawsuits against city Flint residents filed two new class action lawsuits on Tuesday against city and state officials regarding the water crisis, according to MLive. The plaintiffs argue that water bills since April 2014 should be considered void as the water was unsuitable for consumption. Families involved in filing the lawsuits accused officials of supplying contaminated water from the Flint River to citizens as a cheaper alternative to receiving Lake Huron water from the city. They highlighted that government officialls at all levels failed to provide safe water to residents and want compensation for personal and physical injuries. On Tuesday, the request for the preliminary injunction was filed at the circuit court level to pursue the lawsuit. The city of Flint, the state Receivership Transition Advisory Board and other individual officials were listed as the defendants.
DPS plan to move forward with second “sickout” protest Detroit Public School teachers are deciding to continue protesting the quality of their buildings, inaccesable wages, and crowded classrooms by staging a second protest, The Detroit Free Press reported. Teachers boycotted their classrooms last Wednesday by unanimously calling in sick, effectively closing schools in five districts. Two other demonstrations, hosted by Detroit Federation of Teachers union and a second group of parents and community members, will occur in tandem with the sickout in a show of solidarity with the teachers.
University receives NIH grant to study back pain University researchers received a $1.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to investigate the cost of back pain treatment ouside the primary care system, according to a University press release. They will also examine the impacts of complimentary and alternative medicine providers, such as chiropractors. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services noted that back pain is a common reason for primary care visits, but predicts primary care physicians will decrease signigicantly by 2020. Consequently, researchers claim the study will be an important and timely topic for policymakers. —CAMY METWALLY
COUNCIL From Page 1A “(Public Act 269) would prevent factual communication about matters of communal interest from municipal bodies and elected officials, and thereby impedes voter knowledge in the voting booth,” Taylor said. “It warrants repeal.” Councilmember Graydon Krapohl (D–Ward 4), who also opposes the law, emphasized the significance of passing the resolution. “I don’t want to be known as the king of resolutions opposing state actions, but our voice does matter when it comes to issues like this in Lansing,” Krapohl said, adding that Ann Arbor would be joining numerous other cities in protesting the law. City Council also heard public comments from Ann Arbor residents who opposed the city’s deer cull — a group of Ann Arbor residents who support the city’s plan to kill a portion of Ann Arbor’s deer population — as has been typical at recent meetings. In addition to criticizing councilmembers, multiple anticull activists also criticized the pro-cull group Washtenaw Citizens for Ecological Balance, accusing it of having unfair influence on the council. Ann Arbor resident Lorraine Shapiro pointed to recently disclosed e-mail exchanges between councilmembers and members of WC4EB to argue that they had undue influence over other citizens when the council was still deliberating over the cull in 2015. “It is apparent that WC4EB has privileged access to councilmembers that I and others do not,” Shapiro said, referring to the e-mails. “We are being governed behind a cloak of secrecy.” In an interview after the meeting, three members of WC4EB dismissed these accusations as absurd. WC4EB member Bernie Banet said the communications his association had with members of City Council were completely normal and that the accusations were an attempt to distort reality. “All groups were communicating with council as we have a constitutional right to do, we have every right to petition our government,” Banet said. “The notion that there were some improper connections or magical power, other than the information that we provided is kind of laughable.”
CRISIS From Page 1A after watching the crisis unfold and realizing the far-reaching impacts of the contaminated water. “Our center has worked directly with the Flint community for over twenty years,” she said. “We know people who live in the community; they are our partners, our friends and our
ADDRESS From Page 2A
scandals like the poisoning of Flint’s children with lead and the throwing away of $134 million on new legislative offices the state doesn’t need and can’t afford,” said Brandon Dillon, chair of the Michigan Democratic party. Snyder ended his remarks by committing to the state of Michigan to fix the problems he outlined, admitting to making mistakes during the last years of
STUDY From Page 1A less sensitive to phone alerts. Using the Psychology Subject Pool, University researchers created an online survey to analyze the increasingly common phantom phone vibration phenomenon — which a cell phone user believes they felt a phone vibration or heard a notification erraneously. The survey consisted of different measures to gauge the link between the sensation and the subject’s attachment style in relationships, considering anxiety responses vs. avoidance responses, specifically. Daniel Kruger, research assistant professor of health behavior and health education, collaborated on the research with assistants in his Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program in his lab. Kruger said he studies evolutionary theory to understand the psychology of behavior, and has done previous work with attachment styles, which are ways we feel attachment to others. He was also part of a previous study with a former UROP research assistant who observed people and saw that cell phone use is contagious. The project began with looking into the intersection of virtual social space and in-person space, specifically researching social media. “If you have a couple of people and they’re sitting together in a coffee shop and talking together, and one person picks up their cell phone, the other person is more likely to do so,” Kruger said. Considering this phenomenon, research assistant Jaikob Djerf, an LSA junior, suggested researching phantom vibration, or phantom cell phone ringing. “I was curious why some
colleagues. We just wanted to be able to do something.” The Black Student Union at the University has also started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money that will be directly donated to help the citizens of Flint. The funds will go to providing fresh fruits and vegetables — which help combat the effects of lead poisoning, according to LSA senior Christopher James, BSU mass communication chair — to
his term. “Challenges we face in Flint, Detroit and beyond are serious but solvable,” he said. “The question is can we come together today. Every single citizen depends on us and we need to give them a better, brighter future. They deserve it.” For state and federal Democrats, the reaction to the address was predominantly skeptical of Snyder’s plan for Flint’s future. In a statement released by his office, U.S. Sen. Gary Peters (D–Mich.), condemned the
people feel it more than others, why people are even feeling it in the first place,” Djerf said. “It’s a cultural phenomenon — so many people do experience it, and it’s significant in the sense that we found personality traits that influence this phenomenon.” Though Kruger said the phenomenon was something he has experienced before while driving, he was at first unaware this was a common sensation. However, because there is not much research being done about phantom vibration, Kruger said they designed the study to analyze several different aspects that were related to this sensation. “In one way, [cell phones are] a practical device,” Kruger said. “You can get information, you can find out where the bus is, you can read the news. But it’s also your connection to social world, with Facebook, Twitter, the other different social media applications and websites.” Some of the reasoning behind having attachment cravings is simply individual differences, Kruger said. However, he noted a craving for reassurance could be a combination of genetic variation and environmental and developmental experiences. Normally, attachment style develops in infants and young children and can potentially in adult social relationships. “Because the cell phone isn’t just this objective, practical tool for objective information, because it has the social component, detection is going to be influenced by these psychological factors, such as a craving for relationship stimulation,” he said. Djerf said researchers used a popular personality scale called the Big Five to create their survey. The Big Five is a fivefactor model which refers to the five dimensions psychologists use in analyzing personality — openness, agreeableness,
be distributed at schools and childcare centers. The BSU is partnering with local elementary schools and the Community Foundation of Greater Flint in their efforts. James said the BSU decided to contribute to the effort to support the residents of Flint after the increased national attention to the crisis. “It’s getting national recognition now, but it’s always been a problem,” he said.
Wednesday, January 20, 2016 — 3A
governor’s plan for moving forward with the Flint crisis. “While I was pleased to hear the Governor speak directly to the people of Flint, I believe the plan he outlined tonight fell short of what is needed to fully address the extensive needs of Flint residents suffering from lead exposure, especially Flint’s children,” Peters said. Lonnie Scott, executive director of Progress Michigan, echoed Peters’sentiments in a statement released Tuesday night, also highlighting the organization’s dedication to hold the state accountable.
conscientiousness, neuroticism and extraversion. According to Kruger, inn addition to the Big Five, the researchers also used the Dark Triad, another group of personality traits psychologists use that holds a negative connotation. The Dark Triad includes narcissism, Machiavellianism and psychopathy, indicating that scoring high in these traits is related to malevolence. Kruger said the researchers also made their own scale about phantom cell ringing, asking if the participant had ever experienced it, and if so, how often and how bothersome the sensation was. The three types of stimulation highlighted in the survey included a cell phone’s ringing, vibration and notification. Among the most common sensation felt by those surveyed was a phantom vibration, in which people feel something on their skin that might be simple sensation, but they interpret the sensation as their phone buzzing. “This could be due to the ambiguity of the stimulus,” Kruger said. “Sounds are more distinguishable, and it is more difficult to have a visual hallucination than it is to interpret a tactile sensation.” With the new and rapidly developing state of technology, cell phones and social networking, Kruger said the world is only starting to understand the psychological dynamics and implications of objects like cell phones. “Still, it just kind of shows at least some people might be too dependent on this cell phone technology, so the recommendation is it might be good practice to sometimes not have your phone on or not constantly be checking these applications.”
“Nationally, everyone had been rallying behind them, so we thought we’d do the same thing here. We cannot be the leaders and the best and not help them out.” The Michigan Republican Party contributed to water bottle collection efforts Tuesday by collecting water bottles on the steps on the Michigan Capitol building. During Tuesday’s State of the State Address, Snyder
“While it’s a good first step for the Governor to release these emails, Progress Michigan remains committed to advocating for a complete repeal of the exemption for the Governor and legislature in our FOIA laws,” Scott said. “It’s nice that now that the spotlight of national media is shining a light on Snyder’s failures that he decides to give lip service to transparency. We will continue to shine a spotlight on the Governor to encourage action and not just empty words.”
CSG From Page 2A other people,” she said. “It takes just a little bit of courage to be uncomfortable enough to understand life from other people’s point of view.” Resolutions A new resolution on increasing voter registration on campus was brought to the assembly floor during Tuesday’s meeting. The proposal sought to install a popup window on Wolverine Access about registering when students register for classes to make the voter registration process easier for students. The resolution was passed to the finance and resolutions committee for further review. The body also voted on winter CSG election dates with a resolution that had been brought to the table last week. The resolution was passed, with applications for candidacy due the week before spring break. Among old business brought back to the table was a resolution to amend CSG’s 2016 $400,000 winter semester budget, and another to enact it.
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discussed several long and shotterm funding efforts to aid the city, including a $28 million request for funds from the state legislature. “This is a challenge we must work together to solve,” Snyder said. “We will not stop working for the people of Flint until every single person has clean water every single day, no matter what”
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Unsigned editorials reflect the official position of the Daily’s editorial board. All other signed articles and illustrations represent solely the views of their authors.
RECALL From Page 1A Water and Sewage Department to the Flint River as an interim source. While it is true that Flint’s city council did democratically approve the switch to the KWA, there is no evidence showing the decision to use the Flint River as an interim source was made in any democratic manner, and instead was made by Snyder’s appointee. This misleading statement is characteristic of the governor’s handling of the disaster in Flint. Despite a majority of Michigan voters in 2012 voting to overturn Public Act 4, Snyder signed a modified version of the law a few weeks later, giving more options to local municipalities declared insolvent than just emergency management. But the choice of whether or not stay under emergency management was not given to the people of Flint or other Michigan cities previously under emergency management prior to the modified law. They were left under the authority of whomever Snyder chose to appoint, with no control over the actions of their own local governments. When Snyder chose to defy the will of the people who elected him, he signaled that the responsibility for what would happen next would fall solely on his shoulders. Now it’s January 2016, and Snyder is just beginning to deal with the consequences of his inaction. It has been a year since Flint was found in violation of the Safe Water Drinking Act, yet Snyder’s appointee Darnell Earley told Flint citizens it would be too expensive to switch back to Detroit water. It’s been six months since the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency expressed concern over lead levels in Flint’s water, yet Snyder’s administration told everyone to relax in July 2015. It’s been four months since pediatrician Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha raised alarm about rising lead levels in vulnerable Flint children’s blood, yet Snyder’s administration has just begun to mobilize a significant response to the crisis, with President Barack Obama most recently agreeing to declare the situation a state of emergency. Snyder’s inaction on this issue — despite forcefully installing himself as the only elected official responsible for the people of Flint — has left us with no confidence that he can solve this catastrophe. Snyder has demonstrated repeatedly that this was not an issue on his mind until professionals and the media brought it to national attention. From the time Snyder entered office in 2011, he has continually demonstrated that his administration’s number-one priority would be to save the state money, apparently even at the cost of lives. Upon taking office, Snyder signed the most expansive emergency manager program in the nation. Before the new law, Michigan’s emergency manager program functioned like most other states’ in that it allowed state governments to appoint representatives to oversee municipal finances for cases in which they became insolvent. But soon after taking office, Snyder made Michigan the only state that allows the state government to appoint a single individual to take control over entire municipalities, requiring city councils and mayors to get approval from the governor’s appointees for all actions. These appointees could control everything in municipalities, from firefighter’s contracts to sewage maintenance. They serve solely at the pleasure of the governor, making them the optimal opportunity for Snyder to implement his cost-cutting
agenda anywhere he saw fit, with no intervention from municipal governments. The crisis in Flint is a direct result of the subversion of municipal democracy under this law. Elected representatives of the people of Flint might have had the forethought to realize that running a cheaper water source through lead pipes 19 times more corrosive than the previous source might not be the best for their constituency’s health. Flint’s elected representatives would have switched back to Detroit water when residents started complaining of foul-tasting water and rashes. They might have realized that charging people for water that is unsafe to drink, and then shutting off water when residents didn’t pay, might not make for the best governance, yet this is still somehow actually happening. But Snyder’s appointed representatives did none of these things, because the only thing they were accountable for was the spreadsheet showing Flint was saving money. That’s not to say no blame is to be shared with Flint’s government. Despite being powerless, Flint’s mayor and city council could have been far more vocal in bringing attention to the plight of Flint, and not could have not dismissed concerns over water quality. But while accountability in the Governor’s Mansion has yet to come, Flint’s government rejected its Incumbent Mayor Dayne Walling in favor of current Mayor Karen Weaver last November. However, despite being under financial emergency for more than four years, the apparent cost-saving emergency management system still has not restored democracy to Flint. Flint’s newly elected mayor still lacks her full authority, because the city has still been controlled by a Receivership Transition Advisory Board, a board made up of unelected state and local officials designed to transition the city back to selfgovernance, since last April. That leaves only one elected official to be held accountable for the actions that have plagued Flint: Snyder. If a local mayor or council member took actions that led to the poisoning of his or her constituents, they would at the very least be denied another term. The only option Michigan residents have to hold Snyder properly accountable, since he is serving his second of two terms, is to recall him from office. Michigan law allows a governor to be recalled provided a petition signed by 25 percent of voters in the last gubernatorial election to put the issue on the ballot. There is just one problem: The bipartisan Board of Canvassers, the board appointed by the governor to supervise elections, has rejected multiple petitions from Detroit pastor Angelo Scott Brown on grounds from purely technical to that the actions Snyder has been accused of happened in his first term, and therefore he cannot be held responsible for them in his second. We find such logic outrageous and unbecoming of a democratic society. There shouldn’t be a statute of limitations on an elected official’s exploitation of a vulnerable population for political gain. We call on the Board of Canvassers to accept one of the many currently pending petitions to right this wrong. From the time Snyder entered office, he has demonstrated a lack of regard for the democratic process and has left Flint powerless. Now, Michiganders must be allowed to use their vote to give the people of Flint justice for the life-changing choice they never got to make.
Schlissel dismisses divestment
O
n Dec. 3, along with several of my peers, I attended a fireside chat with University President Mark Schlissel. This was meant to be a forum for us to ask him questions — anything we wanted to hear him talk about. Schlissel opened the session by describing these meetings as the most effective way for him to “feel the pulse” of ISAIAH the student body. However, after leav- ZEAVINing the chat and reflect- MOSS ing on the evening, I realized he had not actually been interested in listening to our words, or even in seriously considering our questions. Instead, Schlissel was there as a mouthpiece to dictate University policy. One of Schlissel’s most puppet-like moments was when he tried to answer my question, which concerned the Divest and Invest campaign that has garnered attention on campus over the past year or so. My question to Schlissel went something like this: In continuing to invest heavily (around $1 billion) in the fossil fuel industry, Schlissel has to be considering the inherent utility of fossil fuels, especially for a massive research hub like the University. Well then, does Schlissel only intend to divest that large sum once that
utility has vanished? If so, wouldn’t the state of our climate have already devolved at that point past any hope of salvation? The answer I got went something like this: The University is, in fact working actively to combat climate change. Schlissel mentioned the recent $80 million (not much when compared to $1 billion) investment in a wind turbine, as well as other green philanthropy efforts, the installation of the Graham Sustainability Institute and environmental studies courses that “undergrads like me” can take. Initially, nothing that he was saying irked me — this all changed when he declared that Divest and Invest wastes its time trying to change the University’s investment portfolio. He argued that the way the University spends its money is not where the real change happens — it happens, according to Schlissel, at City Hall, by the lawmakers. City Hall, he told me, is where we should turn our attention, because the University’s finances would not change anything; divesting would be largely a “symbolic” effort. Instead of focusing on this symbolism, he argued, students ought to focus on changing the laws themselves. I have several responses. First, in 2013, the city of Ann Arbor already voted in favor of divestment. The vote was spurred by the work of activists such as my peers working for the Divest campaign. So, much of the battle at City Hall has already been done. The next step for student activists ought to focus on our
RYAN MOODY | MICHIGAN IN COLOR
S
Sounds pretty racist to me
ounds pretty racist to me” – @ Sporty1546 This was the response I received just minutes after tweeting that I would be attending a national solidarity event, aimed at ending racial injustices on college campuses, hosted by the Black Liberation Collective. I wish I could say this remark was an outlier. That it was of few I can recall over the past six years I’ve attended the University. Instead, what my experience has been — a sentiment that is clearly shared by Black students nationwide — is that this type of misinformed hostility is commonplace. As a Black woman, I have two salient, visible identities that cause me to differ from the vast majority of people in power in this country. Though I can’t isolate one identity from the other — I will never experience life as a woman who isn’t Black or as a Black person who isn’t a woman — it continually seems to me that larger society has compassion and empathy for only one of these struggles. At Michigan, we have several residence halls and living communities exclusive to women. There are committed student groups, Greek organizations and health clinics whose purposes are attending to the needs of women — many of whom receive financial support from the University. Societally, we create TV shows and movies to reveal the growth and support that can arise from close-knit, women-only friendships. We raise our daughters in Girl Scouts and teach them to keep a “girl code,” recognizing that building and maintaining close friendships with other girls is essential. We let them have girls-only parties, acknowledging that introducing others into the mix changes the chemistry of the interactions. The concept of having small aspects of our world dedicated for women only simply isn’t taboo. But when Black people crave and carve out those same avenues for ourselves, it’s attacked. Considered exclusive. Unfair. Counter to racial harmony. “That’s not what Dr. King
wanted…” they say. While everyone isn’t on the same page about gender-based oppressions, many, if not most, people view disparities in success across gender groups attributable to the world we grew up in, not to individuals themselves. We generally agree that although born with equivalent potential, historical precedent and our present culture erodes away opportunities available for people who aren’t men. But that same view — the view that all groups originate with the same capacity, but some are subject to forces outside of their control that prevent them from having equal participation in society — isn’t extended to Black people.
“I can’t isolate one identity from the other — I will never experience life as a woman who isn’t Black or as a Black person who isn’t a woman...”
We don’t get Lean-in circles, we get we get death threats. We don’t get a #62MillionGirls campaign, we get told, “I wish these … protesters were this passionate about looking for jobs, education and avoiding teen pregnancy” (@RWSurferGirl). Our government and universities aren’t saying, “It’s on Us,” they’re saying “it’s on you.” People think if they can’t see or conceptualize racial advantages, there must not be any to be seen. And honestly, I can see how that would happen. Just as health is a crown that only the sick can see, the benefits of being white are rarely visible to those who receive them. That’s the thing about privilege — it’s about all of the adjustments you never need to make, the hesitations you never have, the questions you never need to ask yourself. I understand that. But what I don’t under-
stand — and frankly, what I have little sympathy toward — is why, after being informed, people are so slow on the uptake. From our Black Student Union’s #BBUM — Being Black at the University of Michigan — campaign to the Ferguson protests to the events at the University of Missouri: the hunger strike, football players refusing to play and numerous demonstrations, my community has given ample evidence as to the many injustices we face. Yet it falls on blind eyes and deaf ears. We as a society recognize that certain groups need sacred spaces. We know that there are benefits that those groups get from being in communities with one another, and we allow that. We accept that people who have commonalities in an area so intrinsic to who they are need and flourish in spaces separate from the watchful eyes of people who just won’t get it. That’s why we have professional women’s organizations, Alcoholics Anonymous and sexual assault survivor support groups. Not because the people in them are broken or weak or less-than, but because we know they are going through some things that someone who doesn’t face those challenges just can’t understand. Life is harder for them in a million ways that an outsider can’t imagine, and they need to feel safe to talk about and strategize around that. Unless, of course, they’re Black. If they’re Black, then a solidarity event is discriminatory and moving this country backward. If they’re Black, it’s conspiracy brewing, and seeing things that aren’t really there. If they’re Black, organizing is rioting and promoting violence. If they’re Black — Well, if they’re Black, that’s where you’ll find me. Because with them — with us — is about the only place I feel welcome right now. —Michigan in Color is the Daily’s designated space for and by students of color at the University of Michigan. To contribute your voice or find out more about MiC, e-mail michiganincolor@umich.edu.
EDITORIAL BOARD MEMBERS Claire Bryan, Regan Detwiler, Caitlin Heenan, Jeremy Kaplan, Ben Keller, Minsoo Kim, Payton Luokkala, Aarica Marsh, Anna Polumbo-Levy, Jason Rowland, Lauren Schandevel, Melissa Scholke, Rebecca Tarnopol, Ashley Tjhung, Stephanie Trierweiler, Mary Kate Winn, Derek Wolfe campus. But surely Schlissel already knows that — clearly he just wanted to evade my question, which probed at direct action the University could take in response to climate change, an issue that the global community is beginning to approach with increasing levels of urgency. In his response to my question, Schlissel did articulate that divestment as a symbolic action was among the “strongest” arguments he had heard in this debate. He went on: “If you could convince me that the University of Michigan shifting its investment portfolio away from fossil fuel companies would actually hasten our transition to renewables, then I’d think about it.” Here’s how divestment helps speed up this transition: Convincing people to live more sustainable, less wasteful lives is only possible if those same people live in a culture where that lifestyle feels popular, or as if they are a part of a new, exciting trend. In other words, there needs to be a fundamental cultural shift in the direction of sustainability; an excellent first place to start for that shift, here on campus, would be the University divesting from the fossil fuel industry. The symbolism and the transition are integrally linked, and Schlissel misses this crucial point in the standard response he has been giving to students — myself included — throughout his tenure. I took issue with another part of Schlissel’s response — specifically, his telling me that students should not focus on the campus climate around this issue, but should instead advocate for laws that we
agree with. This dismissal of the divestment activism on this campus contradicts the fundamental notion — shared among all of us, I believe — that this University is meant to be a home. And in any home, the children — we students — ought to be able to fight for the change they wish to enact, to be able to negotiate with their parents — the administration — freely and honestly. They should not be dismissed. Furthermore, Schlissel and I disagree most fundamentally about the
“Convincing people to live more sustainable, less wasteful lives is only possible if those same people live in a culture where that lifestyle feels popular, or as if they are a part of a new, exciting trend.” meaning of money and the impact it can have. Divestment is crucial and worthwhile, even though the University will never be able to singlehandedly shut down the fossil fuel industry. If we divest, at least we would not explicitly support it. In the famous “Civil Disobedience”, an essay that has guided social movements throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Henry David Thoreau dis-
cusses the power our spending holds, and how it can have a profound effect on the society we inhabit. Furthermore, Thoreau argues that any citizen has the power to advocate for the change they believe in. There are actions we can all take to fight back — specifically, we all control how we spend our money, and we control which corporations to support. If we ignore this power we have, not only are we wasting an opportunity to fight, but also, most crucially, we are complicit in the harmful activities of the politically and economically dominant groups. Let me just be clear: Schlissel understands the logic of divestment as a means of civil disobedience. The problem must therefore be that Schlissel and the moneyed interests he represents are simply unwilling to divest from fossil fuels, perhaps because of their own interest in profit-making. Instead of seeming to dismiss this movement — and, by extension, the work of the students he is supposed to serve — as a waste of time, Schlissel ought to heed Thoreau’s words. In our case, the University has $1 billion invested in an industry that is killing our planet, acting without any consideration for the scientific consensus that climate change shares a direct link to human activity. The University is consciously complicit, then, in the proliferation of an industry driven by ignorance, destruction and greed. Isaiah Zeavin-Moss can be reached at izeavinm@umich.edu.
The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
Arts
Wednesday, January 20, 2016 — 5A
HEALTH COLUMN
Finding mindfulness in coloring books January is the month for fixing things. For some, it’s a body fix — gym memberships are purchased, alarm clocks are set, extra champagne from New Year’s Eve is tossed out. Others set careeroriented goals — following up with job recruiters, making an HAILEY effort to MIDDLEBROOK stay on top of projects, finally asking for that promotion (or at least getting your internship housing paid for over the summer). But there are other areas of our lives needing to be “fixed” that go unnoticed each year, because they don’t call for extra obligations. We’re conditioned to think that “New Year, New Me” means adding more to our plate — whether that be more veggies, morning spin sessions, a night class called “How to Be Successful Post-Graduation 101” — but sometimes it calls for the opposite: letting ourselves breathe. This year, my New Year’s resolution isn’t to be more organized, more productive, or more focused on school, running, or even my post-graduation plans. Instead, I’m resolving to relax. It’s easier said than done. I bet this sounds familiar: finals week, a tiny table at Espresso Royale, laptop opened to a blank document, books piled high on a stool. I’d been staring at the computer screen for about 30 minutes, but my mind wasn’t on the paper I had to write; it was on the to-do list scrolling in the back of my head: finish essays, write cover letters, make flashcards, submit applications! There was so much to do that the bulk of it paralyzed me. I lashed out at my boyfriend when he stopped by to visit, saying he was wasting my time. Couldn’t he see that I didn’t have 20 minutes to talk? Turns out, I did have time. And so does everyone else, no matter how busy they are (i.e. even those who have infinite to-do lists). Because as much as I think I’m being “productive” and “bettering” myself by taking on a Herculean workload, if all I’m left with is a blank document and an irritated boyfriend, I’ve really accomplished nothing. So what should I be doing instead of unproductively
stressing? Coloring. No, really. If you haven’t heard of adult coloring books yet, you will soon. Filled with pages of beautifully intricate patterns, books like “Secret Garden” and “Enchanted Forest” by Johanna Basford or Emma Farrarons’ “The Mindfulness Coloring Book: Anti-Stress Art Therapy for Busy People” have topped bestseller lists in the United States. Sales especially skyrocketed over the holidays: Amazon reported to Fortune magazine that out of their top 10 bestselling books in December, five were adult coloring books. This DIY-art-therapy phenomenon has lead prestigious media outlets from the Atlantic and the New York Times, to NPR and CNN Health, to ask a key question: does it work? Can coloring really relieve stress for adults, or are they just a distraction from our problems? And my own question: is filling in a coloring book really a productive use of college students’ time? To answer these questions, I sought out Psychology Prof. Nansook Park, director of the
Coloring differs because it has a set structure. Michigan Positive Psychology Center on campus. Most of Park’s work focuses on mindfulness (the act of living in the moment and being open to experience) and its positive impact on individual health, particularly in regards to decreasing symptoms of anxiety and depression. At the University, Park regularly teaches a class called “Savoring,” which instructs students to be wholly present in their everyday lives — for example, to truly savor a piece of chocolate, a walk in the Arb or a conversation with roommates. I asked for Park’s opinion on whether adult coloring books were just a fad or a legitimate mechanism to cope with stress and anxiety. Also, I asked whether or not she saw the coloring trend as a regression to childhood — a potentially serious issue, as students are at a critical stage of becoming independent and learning to face their problems. “It’s not fair to dismiss
coloring as regressing,” Park said, who had observed two University faculty members coloring recently on their staff break. “There are too many studies that support the health benefits of simple tasks like coloring. Finishing a picture gives our brains the chance to zone out, similar to meditation, but it also gives us a sense of accomplishment — there’s color on the page where there wasn’t before.” This sense of accomplishment — having a picture to show for our task — makes coloring a positive experience, which is why it not only gives people a momentary release from stress, but actually improves our moods. “People are happier when they have positive experiences, like when they’re creating something or going somewhere,” Park said. “We zone out when we watch TV, but we aren’t necessarily happier when we come back to reality, because we haven’t been active participants in the task.” Coloring differs importantly from other forms of creative expression, like writing or doodling, because it has a set structure. As the Atlantic put it, “Coloring offers that relief and mindfulness without the paralysis that a blank page can cause.” In a coloring book, the important decisions of form and layout have already been made for us — our only job is to pick a crayon. “When we write, we’re forced to go into our heads and potentially face difficult issues,” Park explained. “Coloring is mindless. We aren’t solving our problems, which is why coloring books cannot be used to solve long-term issues such as anxiety or depression.” “However,” Park continued, “Coloring books are a great tool for short-term stress relief. When you’re overwhelmed by stress to the point of paralysis, taking 20 minutes to color a picture gives your brain a necessary break. Afterwards, you’ll be able to face your problems with fresh eyes.” Make a resolution to relax, then be more productive as a result. Sounds like a fresh start to me. Middlebrook is coloring the day away. To ask what her favorite color is, email hailharp@umich.edu.
FILM NOTEBOOK
IFC PRODUCTIONS
Ah yes, I love the grass.
Looking for my own childhood in media By VANESSA WONG Daily Arts Writer
Being an Asian American woman, movies with accurate representations of my life experiences are extremely rare, if not nonexistent. Yet here I am, doing the opposite of boycotting white, male-
centric movies and – dare I say it? – enjoying them. What gives? It’s a simple explanation: unless I want to sit in an empty space completely devoid of all media entertainment, I have to make compromises. I have to reclaim and rehabilitate the white male gaze to tease out elements with which I can identify.
Because even with all the problems inherent in inserting myself so fully into these characters, it also lets me reclaim positive elements. Take Catwoman’s character in “Batman.” Though she’s the villain and we shouldn’t like her, my mind searches for traits that encourage, even empower me. She’s fierce — a female role model who isn’t pas-
TV REVIEW
NBC
I spy with my little eye, someone’s toupee.
Phony, gilded Globes By SHIR AVINADAV Daily Arts Writer
Every year, the star-studded red carpet, weeks of speculation and buzz surrounding nominations and a hilarious, high-profile host (or hosts) comprise the indulgence and shameless ploy for media attention that is the Golden Globe Awards. This year, both expected and unexpected titles and performers received awards. Among this year’s winners, there were many first timers, such as Lady Gaga (Best Actress in a Mini-Series, “American Horror Story: Hotel”) and Rachel Bloom (Best Actress in a Comedy Series, “Crazy ExGirlfriend”). There were also veterans like Kate Winslett (Best Supporting Actress in a Drama, “Steve Jobs”), Aaron Sorkin (Best Screenplay, “Steve Jobs”) and Sylvester Stallone (Best Supporting Actor, “Creed”) gracefully accepting their awards. The prestigious Cecil B. DeMille award was granted to the legendary Denzel Washington (“The Equalizer”), making him only the third Black actor to receive the honor. Some nominations and wins, however, were just baffling. The entire Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy category was a mixed bag of films dubiously touted as comedies (or musicals). Films like “Joy” and “The Martian” were nominated alongside “Trainwreck” and “Spy,” with “The Martian” taking home the Golden Globe. The only thing funny about “The Martian” was that it was placed in this category at all. What wasn’t funny at this year’s ceremony was Ricky Gervais’ performance as host. Not only was his monologue a hollow critique of Hollywood’s shining stars, but it also slammed those responsible for putting him on the Globes stage for the fourth time. His incredulity at being asked back to host, given
sive! Great! Never mind that she will never get to be the real hero and save the day. She’s hyper-sexualized just to add eye candy for male viewers? Well, I embrace sexpositivity, so I interpret her slinking around in skintight suits with that lens instead. Another example: “Boyhood’s” very white, middle class, American depiction of childhood. I left the theater with the goofiest grin on my face, nostalgic for the childhood experiences I never had. But I take the experiences of other people around me and use that to reconcile the gap between my life and what’s on the screen. I’ve compromised. I enjoy this. I feel comforted, satisfied. But should I be? Regardless of how much I can find interesting and compelling characters to identify with in films, it’s still perpetrating the idea of what is normal and what is not. Though I smiled knowingly when it happened in “Boyhood,” I’ve never watched “Rugrats” or been to a baseball game. My family doesn’t have heartwarming Thanksgiving traditions. People are always shocked: “You never did that? Did you even have a childhood?” I did, but because white culture is the predominantly represented one, it doesn’t feel like I had the right childhood. As a viewer, I can make things that are not relatable relatable to me. That is the joy and beauty of storytelling. You can take on the experiences of a secret agent solv-
the backlash he receives each time, matched that of his audience. However, the almost certainty of criticism didn’t deter him from making his usual acerbic remarks. Every time the camera cut to another mildly amused or insulted guest, Gervais’ poor taste became more painfully obvious. His affronts ranged from crass remarks about Jeffrey Tambor’s role as a transgender woman on the Emmy-winning Amazon original series “Transparent,” to unrestrained innuendos about Bill Cosby’s sexual misconduct. His monologue and subsequent jokes seemed to have been given as little thought as the decision to bring him back as host. His usual antics were at best halfhearted and at worst offensive. Among the other presenters there weren’t many redeeming moments of entertainment. Jonah Hill (“Wolf of Wall Street”) showed up as the bear from “The Revenant” alongside Channing Tatum (“The Hateful Eight”), while America Ferrera (“Superstore”) and Eva Longoria (“Telenovela”) joked about getting confused for other Latina actresses, eliciting laughs. Jamie Foxx (“Django Unchained”) did his best Steve Harvey impression, announcing “Straight Outta Compton,” which hadn’t been nominated, as the winner of best original score and drawing attention to the film’s snub. Otherwise, there was little else to distract from Gervais’ cringe-worthy comments and the poorly produced awards ceremony. This year’s Globes pitted two notable Amazon original series against one another. Roman Coppola and Jason Schwartzman’s “Mozart in the Jungle” beat out Jill Soloway’s “Transparent” for Best Comedy Series, and Gael Garcia Bernal (“Y Tu Mamá También”) took home the title of Best Actor in a Comedy Series. It was a big night for “The Rev-
enant” as well — which received the award for Best Motion Picture Drama and earned its director, Alejandro González Inarritú the title of Best Director of a Motion Picture and Leonardo DiCaprio the title of Best Actor in a Motion Picture Drama. Brie Larson received her first Golden Globe Award for her performance in the drama “Room,” the touching story of a woman and her five-year-old son freed from captivity and finally experiencing the world outside. And Jon Hamm won his second award this year for his role as Don Draper, the stonefaced advertising executive on “Mad Men.” Jennifer Lawrence (“Joy”) beat out the other talented performers recognized in her category (though it is questionable whether Lawrence belonged in the comedy category at all). And it goes without saying that Taraji P. Henson’s win, placing her among the slowly increasing ranks of women of color who have received awards for their roles on television, was both welldeserved and entertaining. Her response to being told to wrap-up her acceptance speech was perfect: “Wait a minute. I waited 20 years for this. You’re going to wait. Yeah, you’re going to give me a little more time.” It’s always inspiring to see talented artists get recognition for their hard work, but when award ceremonies designed to acknowledge talent and hard work are driven by publicity and industry politics, the show becomes less appealing. Each year Hollywood lets the masses into its glamorous world for a few hours, drawing in audiences with this short window of opportunity to indulge in its façade of prestige. Yet, I will doubtlessly continue to watch, even though I know my joy for seeing artists I respect and admire getting acknowledgement is just an illusion.
ing a mystery, or a child dealing with a hard time, or a washed-up journalist grappling with identity, and it helps you connect your own experiences to someone else’s. So when the industry doesn’t want to produce films with diverse backgrounds because audiences
(hint, white males) cannot relate to them, that’s bullshit. If the majority of my movie-watching life involves learning to understand and empathize with the stories of other genders, nationalities, races and even species, I think white males can learn to do it once in a while too.
Arts
6A — Wednesday, January 20, 2016
COMMUNITY CULTURE NOTEBOOK
The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
TV REVIEW
ABC
A midsummer night’s bro.
‘Bachelor’ universe provides an escape ‘Idiotsitter’ refreshes
COMEDY CENTRAL
A normal night for Daily Arts.
In defense of mindlessly watching reality TV By KELLY MARTINEK Daily Arts Writer
I love “The Bachelor.” I love the drama, the catty girls, the sequined dresses, the too much chardonnay. I love that things like “chicken enthusiast,” “former Miss Illinois” and “twin” can actually be your job when you’re on “The Bachelor.” Sign me up! Who needs this bachelor’s degree? I love that, in “Bachelor” universe, you can fall in love after three weeks and one group date. I love that you can feel “things you’ve never felt before” for someone you call Jessica B. I love that you get a grace period of, like, three serious meltdowns before the bachelor can even see anything past your boobs. What I really love about “The Bachelor” is that it’s not real life — it is so far from real life, it exists in a different universe. “Bachelor” contestants are basically space aliens. “The Bachelor” universe is
exempt from the laws of our own. There’s no politics, no religion and I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone talk about where they went to college (No, seriously, can we please figure this out? Where do I need to transfer to make “dog lover” a career?). It’s a universe where contestants are actually rewarded for their crazy behavior, because it’s a universe designed to entertain. For two hours every Monday night, we can escape to this universe where nothing matters except a hot guy and his 20 girlfriends. As college students at the University, our lives can be pretty stressful. Between classes, extracurriculars, volunteering and working, life is full of academically rigorous, intellectually challenging things. I feel lucky if I have 40 minutes at the end of my day to listen to “Serial.” So with all of the craziness in our lives, who is anyone to tell us what to do with a single minute of our free time? Reality TV is entertainment in its purest form. It’s mindless. It’s manipulated, sure, probably scripted to some degree, but who’s watching this for an accurate representation of the human con-
dition? Whether they’re watching for the time-lapse romance or to diagnose whatever clinical psychological disorders some of the contestants probably have, “Bachelor” fans simply come seeking entertainment, and there shouldn’t be any shame in that. Once you’ve spent the better part of your day pursuing higher education and contributing your share to society, you should be free to do whatever gives your brain a well-deserved break. If calculus relaxes you or running 10 miles clears your mind, I’m unreasonably jealous and I’d like to know your secret. But if bad reality TV or those Xbox games where you run around killing people are your thing, that is just as okay. Do whatever makes you happy, do whatever you don’t have to think about. The bottom line: I won’t tell you what to do with your “you time” as long as you don’t expect me to contribute anything to society from 8 to 10 p.m. on Monday nights. And I won’t tell you to watch “The Bachelor,” but if you do, you might find its mindlessness surprisingly compelling.
Classifieds RELEASE DATE– Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle
DOWN 1 Upscale British wheels 2 Actress Longoria 3 Twister 4 Caron title role 5 Picking out of an LAPD lineup
6 Bar charges 7 Play with robots 8 Ancient 9 One of the Allman Brothers 10 Earth, to Mahler 11 Corrida stars 12 Portend 13 *Daytime observatory sighting 18 Moves effortlessly 22 Kid watchers 23 Jean-__ Picard: “Star Trek: TNG” captain 24 Make a wrong turn, say 26 Chow __ 27 Quilting gathering 30 Laptop connection 34 “Mamma Mia!” song 35 Kind 37 Incomplete Wikipedia entry 38 More like Cheerios 39 Folklore creature traditionally averse to the starts of the answers to starred clues
40 First lady between Lou and Bess 41 Series installment 42 “Homeland” sta. 43 “Most likely ... “ 44 Dubai’s fed. 45 “Thrilla in Manila” ruling, for short 47 Change direction abruptly
50 “The Good Wife” event 51 Extended family 54 Ballpark figures 56 Portent 59 Button with leftpointing arrows: Abbr. 60 Gorges oneself (on) 61 Belg. neighbor 62 Ike’s wartime command
ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE:
xwordeditor@aol.com
By Mark McClain (c)2016 Tribune Content Agency, LLC
01/20/16
01/20/16
By SAM ROSENBERG Daily Arts Writer
Comedy Central is known to cater its programming toward a predominantly young adult demographic, and its newest show, “Idiotsitter,” seems to fit that mold. Originally a six-episode B+ web series in 2014, “Idiot- Idiotsitter sitter” conComedy tains the Central irreverence of “Worka- Series Premiere holics” and the female- Thursdays at 10:30 p.m. empowered humor of “Broad City.” But as a whole, “Idiotsitter” works on its own as a refreshing take on the “odd couple” premise with its hilarious leading stars and improvisational energy. The “sitter” is uptight Harvard grad Wilhelmina “Billie”
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Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis ACROSS 1 Yin Yang portrayer in “The Expendables” film series 6 Business 11 Covers with Quilted Northern, briefly 14 Shun 15 Portend 16 Christian sch. in Tulsa 17 *Trattoria basket filler 19 Cartoon Chihuahua 20 Lad of La Mancha 21 Union 23 Rural expanse 25 Make a bet 28 “I don’t give __!” 29 Karachi language 31 Nursery purchase 32 Scrapped, at NASA 33 *Railroad track piece 35 Atlas enlargement 36 Deck honcho, informally 37 Recital highlights 39 Thomas, Dick and Harry 42 *Police surveillance 46 Rations for Rover 47 Sealed 48 Black Hills st. 49 Israel’s Golda 50 Unimportant 52 __ gratias: thanks to God 53 Rural expanse 55 Son of Aphrodite 57 Diminutive Italian suffix 58 *Reversed counterpart 63 Towel holder 64 No longer dirt 65 Artist’s headgear 66 Prior to, in verse 67 Gobs 68 El Día de Los Reyes month
odd couple premise
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Brown (Charlotte Newhouse, “Brainstorm”), who unwittingly becomes the guardian and GED tutor of the “Idiot,” wealthy, fully-grown delinquent Genevieve “Gene” Russell (Jillian Bell, “Workaholics”). The plot sounds hackneyed, but Newhouse and Bell’s chemistry and the show’s guffaw-inducing ridiculousness are enough to make “Idiotsitter” worthwhile. While the pilot episode is mostly a simple storyline setup, it quickly establishes “Idiotsitter” ’s swift pacing and absurd jokes. After Gene’s father Kent (Stephen Root, “Office Space”) and his airheaded wife Tanzy (Jennifer Elise Cox, “Web Therapy”) go out of town indefinitely, Gene throws a rowdy, alcohol and drug-fueled party at her mansion, much to Billie’s dismay. It’s typical to dismiss the banality of this scenario, with Billie being relegated as a strict authority over the party’s outof-control nature. But once Billie decides to indulge in letting loose through Gene’s encouragement, that’s when the fun (and best) parts of the episode begin. The two gals have a ball dancing to glitzy EDM music, doing horrible Austin Powers impersonations in the bathtub and playing Apples to Apples just with apples. At times, “Idiotsitter” seems like it can go off the rails at any moment. Yet it never glorifies the affluent lifestyle, nor does it forget to recognize the humanity of its characters. After Billie is hoofied — half-roofie, half-horse tranquilizer — by Gene and her “best, non-sexual friend” Chet (Steve Berg, “Coogan Auto”), Billie becomes fed up with Gene and leaves. However, Gene apologizes and the two reconcile through their shared love for Patrick Swayze in “Dirty Dancing.” “Idiotsitter” seems like the perfect career catalyst for Bell, who has consistently shown her knack for witty, deadpan humor in several film and TV roles, such as “22 Jump Street”
and “The Night Before.” Newhouse is also a perfect counterpart to Bell, with both actresses building quips off one another. What makes “Idiotsitter” a potentially inventive TV comedy is that Bell and Newhouse don’t just subvert the stereotypes of their characters,
Can go off the rails at any moment. but also add more comedic flair and edginess to them. At first, Billie exudes the high-strung, Ivy Leagueeducated persona that feels all too familiar. But later on in the episode, she becomes more likable through the help of Gene, as they grow from completely opposite strangers to unlikely friends. Gene isn’t the clichéd spoiled girl, with a rude demeanor and unpleasant attitude. Her behavior comes from a child-like innocence, and her recklessness is more silly than plainly stupid — the opening scene involves her asking two police officers for sex while drunkenly riding a pony. Considering that both Bell and Newhouse are co-creators and co-writers of “Idiotsitter,” it’s hard not to appreciate their comedic efforts in crafting the characters so well. Regardless of the undeniable talent behind “Idiotsitter,” the show still needs some work in developing the relationship between Gene and Billie from two very opposite women into something much more engrossing. “Idiotsitter” doesn’t quite reach the comedic heights of “Broad City” or “Workaholics” and probably won’t for a while. But with Bell and Newhouse at the acting and writing helm of the series, it’s bound to still provoke and charm Comedy Central’s audience.
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Sports
The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
Wednesday, January 20, 2016 — 7A
Wolverines, Fisch extend agreement Passing game coordinator reportedly re-ups By JAKE LOURIM Managing Sports Editor
Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh said in December he was looking to lock up passing game coordinator Jedd Fisch to a contract extension. That deal is done, according to Sports Illustrated’s Thayer Evans, who reported Tuesday that Fisch signed a two-year extension worth between $650,000 and $750,000 per year, plus incentives. Fisch, also the Wolverines’ quarterbacks and wide receivers coach, just wrapped up his first season under Harbaugh in Ann Arbor. He has been an assistant for nine different teams in 16 years of coaching, never spending more than four years in one spot.
The new extension secures Fisch, who has coached eight of his 16 years in the NFL, before he gets snatched away by a professional team following the season. Fisch, 39, led a steady improvement in Michigan’s offense in 2015. Fifth-year senior Jake Rudock, a graduate transfer from Iowa, emerged to complete one of the best statistical seasons for a quarterback in Michigan history. He threw for 3,017 yards and 20 touchdowns against just nine interceptions. Redshirt junior wide receivers Jehu Chesson and Amara Darboh and junior tight end Jake Butt totaled 2,145 of those yards on 159 catches, and all three have decided to hold off on the NFL Draft and return for their final seasons in 2016. Fisch will have another stable of quarterbacks to grow. The leader could be Houston transfer John O’Korn, who has two years of eligibility remaining after he sat out in 2015.
DAVID SONG/Daily
Junior heavyweight Adam Coon (right) anchors a trio of wrestlers that have become known as “Murderer’s Row” for their dominance at the back end of meets.
“Murderer’s Row” leads Wolverines By ORION SANG Daily Sports Writer
ALLISON FARRAND/Daily
Jedd Fisch led Michigan to an offensive resurgence in 2015.
It’s not often that one can find three wrestlers who perform well enough to deserve a nickname like the “murderer’s row,” but Michigan’s trio of junior Domenic Abounader, sixth-year senior Max Huntley and junior Adam Coon seem to fit the bill. The 10th-ranked Wolverines have received great performances from their captains all season, and Friday’s dual meet against Illinois was no exception. Heading into the final three matches of the meet, Michigan (3-0 Big Ten, 7-1 overall) found itself down, 12-14, against the 13th-ranked Fighting Illini (0-3, 9-3). But because Abounader, Huntley and Coon had yet to
wrestle, the Wolverines weren’t worrying. “If the dual’s tied or close at 184 pounds, we’re going to win,” Huntley said. “It’s kind of like a murderer’s row. We all work very hard, we’re all top-10 guys, and I don’t see any team that could win two of the last three matches.” Coon agreed with Huntley’s naming and assessment of the trio. “It’s great having those two,” Coon said. “Those guys are just dominant on the mat. In the practice room, how hard they work, it shows on the mat. It’s death row when they meet those two, and I just try to follow along.” With its victories over the Fighting Illini, Michigan’s so-called “murderer’s row”
remained unbeaten in dualmeet play. Their consistency has led them into the top 10 of the InterMat rankings for each of their respective weight classes, with Abounader ranked No. 10, Huntley ranked No. 6 and Coon, No. 4. The Wolverines’ captains are not only proficient wrestlers, but are also good leaders, according to coach Joe McFarland. “Those guys are just great role models,” McFarland said. “They’ve got a great work ethic and really focus on all the right things, on and off the mat. Put all three of those guys together and there’s really good leadership right there.” Added Huntley: “Everything we do, we try to beat each other. We do the conditioning together in the morning, and we always
wrestle.” Besides leading through hard work, though, the three captains also exhibit a unique blend of different leadership styles. The approach for Huntley, the first three-time captain in Michigan wrestling history, has especially changed from previous years. “I’m in more of an advisory role,” Huntley said. “(Abounader’s) taken over the vocal part. I’m more of the older, wiser captain. A lot of guys come to me for advice for cutting weight and things like that, and I try to lead by example now and leave the vocal stuff to the other captains.” If the trio’s leadership mentality comes to fruition, opponents may be calling Michigan’s entire lineup “murderer’s row.”
Trio sparks Michigan win By TYLER COADY Daily Sports Writer
While this weekend’s Michigan Invitational was technically just a tuneup for next weekend’s regular-season opener, the Michigan women’s tennis team’s trio of junior Ronit Yurovsky, sophomore Alex Najarian and freshman Brienne Minor played like it was anything but against Tennessee. In all of the singles matchups between the 14th-ranked Wolverines and the Volunteers, leads evaporated and deuce points went either way. As the madness ebbed and flowed, these three Michigan standouts found ways to get wins. Yurovsky, who was named AllBig Ten last season, fell into an early hole in her singles match against Tennessee’s Eve Repic. Facing a deficit and having made numerous unforced errors, Yurovsky looked out of sorts and out of sync. Then, Yurovsky surfaced as she served her way to a 6-0 second-set win before pulling out a 6-3 thirdset win to clinch the match and seal an overall singles victory for Michigan. “We all had slow starts,” Yurovsky said. “We all had that fight to get back into the match. It is nice to have all those girls
playing by your side … and to get points for the team.” With a seasoned veteran like Yurovsky setting the tone for a comeback, that spirit clearly rubbed off on Minor. Minor, a newcomer to the team, played with a sense of composure and confidence in her first set, come-from-behind victory. Minor, down 5-4 with the game score tied at 30-30, laced a backhand shot down the line that nestled itself within the white chalk. That shot — a graceful but powerful backhander — proved to be the much-needed momentum boost that Minor needed. While she went down again, this time 6-5, Minor quickly rallied to send the set to a tiebreaker. In the tiebreaker, it was a painless win for the true freshman as she won, 7-2. With a set victory in hand, Minor never looked back, dictating the play with her serve and groundstrokes, and winning the clinching set, 6-3. “Usually when I am down, I just think about the team and that I need to pull this win out for the team,” Minor said. “I needed to make (the team) my number-one priority.” As Yurovsky and Minor labored for wins, more drama unfolded on Najarian’s court. The sophomore, an All-Big Ten selection last year, had to channel all she had in order
to fend off a valiant Volunteer challenge. Najarian, after a 7-6 first-set victory, ran into a bit of trouble in the second set. After a string of unforced errors and trouble dealing with her opponent’s lefthanded serve, she found herself on the brink of having to play a third set. “I knew I had to keep my energy up and not let her dictate the points as much, which led to me being down,” Najarian said. “She was hoping I was going to miss, and I just tried to take control.” And take control she did. Najarian reasserted her service game, becoming more comfortable with her opponent’s serving and notching a string of winners to secure a 7-5 set victory. Michigan coach Ronni Bernstein, who traversed much of the tennis facility throughout the day as she sought to keep an eye on all of her players, was happy with what she saw in the comeback victories. “The matches are long, and you have to be able to keep your foot on the pedal,” Bernstein said. While Yurovsky, Minor and Najarian didn’t cruise past their opponents, they were able to find the right gear at just the right time.
FILE PHOTO/Daily
Ronit Yurovsky clinched a Michigan win over Tennessee by winning her final sets, 6-0, 6-3, over Eve Repic.
EMILIE FARRUGIA/Daily
The Michigan women’s gymnastics team participated in the Autism Awareness Meet over the weekend.
Wolverines shine in front of Leone, Hahn, Connors By AVI SHOLKOFF Daily Sports Writer
Michigan women’s gymnastics coach Bev Plocki believes there are two core aspects central to the collegiate athletic experience: “One part of it is winning championships, being on a team and learning about teamwork,” Plocki said. “The other part of it is learning to be humble, learning that it isn’t always all about us.” While the top-ranked Wolverines are well on their way to fulfilling Plocki’s first core aspect, Plocki’s second core aspect made itself apparent this weekend in Michigan’s meet against Ohio State (1-0-1 Big Ten, 1-0-1 overall). Michigan learned firsthand about appreciation and gained insight into the experience of living with autism. Saturday, the Wolverines (1-00, 3-0-0), defeated the Buckeyes, 196.950-195.275, in front of Abby Hahn and John Leone, two individuals on the autism spectrum who have both spent significant time with members of the gymnastics team. Hahn performed a magnificent floor routine before the meet began, and the crowd graciously applauded. After Hahn’s routine, Brian Connors, another individual with autism, sang a roaring national anthem, which was also
met with cheers of approval. The meet offered freshman Olivia Karas, as well as her teammates, a unique opportunity to bring familiarity to the public about the disorder. “It was awesome to compete for something bigger than just Michigan, for a greater cause,” Karas said. “(It was) a great honor having the (autism) symbol on our cheeks.” Karas lived up to her expectations. She finished with the highest all-around score in the meet and also set a career high in the uneven bars, achieving a score of 9.850. John Leone, a college student at University of MichiganDearborn, has spent many hours in the gym with the Michigan team over the years, growing in comfort after each visit. Because of the amount of time he has spent with the Wolverines in the gym, the older members of the team have established an ongoing relationship with him. Junior Nicole Artz, in her third year of taking part in Autism Awareness Meet, praised Leone and his influence on the team. “(Leone’s) been a true inspiration and a really good friend to us,” Artz said. “(He is) a number-one Michigan supporter, (he) cares so much about us, and we love him as well.”
Artz also thrived in the meet, garnering the second best allaround score and earning the top score in the floor event with a 9.900. She also tied her season bests in both the vault and the balance beam. Many individuals on the autism spectrum had prominent roles in Saturday’s meet, perhaps highlighting Plocki’s message that individuals with the disorder enjoy participating in the same activities as those without it. “We want people to learn from what we’ve learned and from our experiences,” Plocki said. “When we can have Abby come out and demonstrate her ability or Brian come out and sing like he sang, (it is) hopefully changing ideas or perceptions of the people who were here at this meet.” Plocki shared one final story about Leone and his experiences in Michigan’s team huddle after each practice. “We put him with (the) girls around him, close to him and touching him to do a ‘Let’s Go Blue,’ ” Plocki said. “After that, he immediately ran back over to his mother, and he was like, ‘I did it! I did it!’ ” On a day when the Wolverines showed why they are the No.1 team in the nation, it was ultimately their humility and appreciation that stood out.
8A— Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Sports
The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
Wolverines prepare for Minnesota ‘M’ selects trio of WOMEN’S SOCCER
captains for 2016
By SIMON KAUFMAN Daily Sports Editor
Two weeks ago, when the Michigan men’s basketball team looked at its schedule, it held its breath. It was readying for a Minnesota daunting threegame stretch at Michigan of top-25 talent Matchup: featuring then- Minnesota No. 20 Purdue 6-12 ; on the road, Michigan 13-5 then-No. 3 When: Maryland at Wednesday home and then- 8:30 P.M. No. 16 Iowa in Where: Iowa City. The Crisler Arena Wolverines TV/Radio: came out with BTN only one win — upsetting the Terrapins — but also put up a good showing against a stronger Hawkeyes team. This week, as Michigan (3-2 Big Ten, 13-5 overall) looks ahead, it can breathe a small sigh of relief. The menu for the next 10 days includes a helping of the Big Ten’s bottom feeders, starting with Minnesota (0-6, 6-12) on Wednesday night at Crisler Center and ending with Penn State (2-4, 11-8) in a neutral-site game at Madison Square Garden in New York on Jan. 30. Sandwiched in between is a trip to Lincoln to take on Nebraska (3-3, 11-8) and a home bout against Rutgers (0-6, 6-13). To simplify the difference between the last two weeks and the next two weeks: Michigan’s past three opponents have totaled 46 wins this season; it’s next four have combined for 34. The slate of lesser opponents offers the Wolverines a chance to bounce back from a challenging stretch. But, of course, don’t tell that to Michigan coach John Beilein, who is as likely to discount an upcoming opponent as Rick’s is to let you skip the line when it’s not your birthday. “Still no must wins, you know that — not this time of the year,”
By BRAD WHIPPLE Daily Sports Editor
SAM MOUSIGIAN/Daily
Junior forward Zak Irvin has come alive for the Wolverines in the absence of senior guard Caris LeVert.
Beilein said of the upcoming slate of games. “But yeah, this is the way you got to look at it always: every home game. You saw how difficult it is to win on the road. You know that; we all know that. … (Our game against Minnesota is) an opportunity to win at home against a team that’s scrappy, that’s feisty.” Despite that scrappiness and feistiness, Minnesota has little to show for it. The Golden Gophers are still looking for their first conference win and are riding a seven-game losing streak into Ann Arbor, looking for their fist win since Dec. 16. Statistically, it’s easy to see why Minnesota is in the gutter. The Gophers’ 41.2 shooting percentage ranks last in the Big Ten, and their 77.3 points allowed per game is the second highest in the conference. In his third year at the helm, Minnesota coach Richard Pitino has struggled to find the same success as he did in his first season, when he led the Gophers to a 2013-14 NIT title. Since taking
over, he has lost nine players to graduation, and his roster this year is underclassman-heavy. The past two contests, Minnesota’s starting five has featured three freshmen and two sophomores. One of those sophomores, guard Nate Mason, leads the team in minutes and is pacing 12.3 points per game. He’s one of four Gophers averaging double-digit scoring. Forward Joey King (12.9, 3.4, 1.6) has been one of Pitino’s first options off the bench in the last two games, and Minnesota has also gotten contributions from guard Carlos Morris (10.8, 3.9, 1.4) and forward Jordan Murphy (10.5, 8.1, 0.5). After getting mauled by Nebraska last week, Minnesota hung with an Indiana team Saturday that is undefeated in the Big Ten, though the Golden Gophers ultimately came up short. On Michigan’s side, Beilein all but confirmed that it would be without senior guard Caris LeVert for the fifth straight game as he continues to recover from a left-
foot injury. “We continue to get encouraging news about Caris,” Beilein said. “He’s doing more and more right now on and off the court. We expect (more work) on and off the court going forward. We have no date yet, and we’ll see how he tolerates any pain going forward.” Michigan might miss LeVert’s on-court leadership the most. In its two most recent losses to Purdue and Iowa, it was able to fight back, but never able to completely close the gap, allowing the Boilermakers and Hawkeyes to go on late runs. “We talk about losses that we have had this year, there’s always been that four-minute stretch in the first half or the second half we just fell apart,” said junior forward Zak Irvin. “We just got to stay together as a team. We can’t have mental lapses. (Against Iowa) we had one in the beginning of the game which hurt us, and then we had one late in the second half also. We got to stay strong mentally and just come together as a team.”
After missing two straight NCAA Tournaments, the Michigan women’s soccer team will need to do everything in its power to break the trend next season. Tuesday afternoon, that campaign began with the naming of three captains for the 2016-17 season: junior forward Madisson Lewis, junior midfielder Jessica Heifetz and redshirt sophomore forward Ani Sarkisian. “Jess, Madi and Ani will make a great trio of captains to lead our 2016 team,” said Michigan coach Greg Ryan in a statement. “Spread evenly throughout the pitch, with Jess in the midfield, Madi on the back line and Ani up top, we will have a great leader in each area of the field. “These three captains are supported by an outstanding senior class. We view the whole class as a leadership team, and we are enjoying the meetings we are having as we create a shared vision for our 2016 team.” Former captains Maddie Clarfield, Corinne Harris and Christina Murillo now hand over the reigns to another trio composed of three players who have each had vastly different experiences as Wolverines. During their freshman seasons, both Lewis and Heifetz were part of the Michigan squad that reached the 2013 Elite Eight. Heifetz saw almost no action that season, though, and played in only one game — against Oakland. Lewis, on the other hand, was one of the team’s differencemakers on the frontline that year and rarely played like a freshman — a statement often backed by Ryan. After Michigan’s NCAA Tournament first-round
win against Milwaukee, he even compared Lewis to being “faster than a rocket ship” to describe her ability to quickly break any opponents’ backline and find a scoring lane. After ending the season ranked second on the team in goals (six), assists (nine) and points (21), Lewis was a unanimous selection for the All-Big Ten Freshman team. Since coming to Michigan, she hasn’t missed a game. The next season was a turnaround for both future captains, as Lewis played more minutes as a defensive back and still notched five goals, and Heifetz went from playing only one game to 18 while adding three goals as well. Though the Wolverines’ season was short-lived that year, it marked the arrival of Sarkisian, a Florida State transfer who missed the 2013 season due to injury. Returning from an injury was no problem for Sarkisian, who has started every regular-season game since donning the maize and blue. She hasn’t skipped a beat, finishing last season with seven goals, three assists and 17 points — tying all three categories for first on the team with sophomore forward Taylor Timko. “All three captains have been key impact players on our team since arriving at Michigan,” Ryan said. “They have the complete respect of our coaching staff and of their teammates for how they carry themselves on and off the field.” Michigan will soon begin its strength and conditioning regimen in addition to a competitive spring season, but the Wolverines will have to wait until August to see meaningful results. The election of Lewis, Heifetz and Sarkisian is a start, though, and it might just be Michigan’s antidote.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Barnes Arico, Wolverines get much-needed day off Michigan takes advantage of rare break to rest bodies and minds By BRAD WHIPPLE Daily Sports Editor
GRANT HARDY/Daily
Sophomore defenseman Cutler Martin will sit out two conference games following an on-ice fight against Ohio State.
Martin, Dancs suspended By JUSTIN MEYER Daily Sports Writer
The Big Ten announced Tuesday that Michigan sophomore forward Dexter Dancs and sophomore defenseman Cutler Martin would be suspended following an on ice brawl involving the two after Sunday night’s contest against Ohio State. The announcement was expected — Michigan’s pair of disqualification penalties each automatically carry a one-game punishment — but each player earned extra-game suspensions. In addition to serving conference suspensions, neither player will be permitted to suit up for the exhibition matchup against the United States National Talent Development Team on Thursday. “I think our players have to take some responsibility for (the suspensions),” said Michigan coach Red Berenson. “Our team doesn’t condone that. We don’t teach that. We expect players to play with emotion, but to play with discipline. When the whistle goes or the horn goes, the game is over. I can’t speak for the other team, but that’s not how we play. I’m disappointed, but if we got suspended, then we deserve it.” Martin, who will sit out two conference games, made waves on the internet over the weekend as a highlight circulated of his hard right punch landing square on a
Buckeye facemask. Dancs will sit only one Big Ten game for retaliating with a high cross-check. It appeared that Ohio State’s Dakota Joshua instigated the extracurricular activity when he hit Dancs with the butt end of his stick after the final whistle. The Buckeyes had two players suspended for the minimum of one game. “I don’t think it was brewing, it just exploded at the end,” Berenson said. “Obviously, their team was frustrated, and our team has to understand that.” Dancs plays left wing on the fourth line for the Wolverines. He has suited up for 19 games this year, recording five goals and five assists on 20 shots. Martin has started 20 games, recently taking the ice alongside freshman defenseman Nicholas Boka. Martin has eight points and leads the team in blocked shots with 39. The Big Ten elected not to tack on any additional suspension for junior forward Alex Kile, who was penalized for leaving the bench. In an official press release, the conference said: “Following a review of the incident by the conference, the Big Ten imposed additional suspensions and issued public reprimands of Michigan’s Dancs and Martin for violating the Big Ten Sportsmanship Policy.” The fight catapulted the rivalry
matchup into larger news circles, but Berenson was unwavering in his view. “You win the game on the scoreboard, you’re not going to win it after the game is over,” Berenson said. “We made it clear to our team that we don’t want to be a highly penalized team. We don’t want to be a team that retaliates. We’re not a team that takes cheap shots. We don’t recruit players that we think are going to help us run the other team out of the building. We don’t play like that. “It’s not good for college hockey. It’s not good for the Big Ten. It’s not good for Michigan.” Michigan has a clear option for replacing Martin in sophomore defenseman Sam Piazza. The Chicago-area native has cracked the lineup several times since the Great Lakes Invitational tournament. Meanwhile, Dancs will be replaced by either sophomore Niko Porikos or junior Evan Allen. However, the potential absence of Zach Werenski from Thursday’s lineup — the sophomore defender did not practice due to “bruising” — leaves the Wolverines in a tight spot. Kevin Lohan is still out with a back injury, and it is likely that Michigan will have to dress every available player on its 22-man roster if Werenski is not ready to go for the NTDP exhibition game.
Monday morning, Kim Barnes Arico dunked a basketball. No, the Michigan women’s basketball coach wasn’t on the floor of Crisler Center. Nor was anybody else. The Wolverines never have Monday practice, but Barnes Arico told her staff and players not to show up for any reason whatsoever. With Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday came with the added benefit of no class, so the Wolverines truly had a day off. Having played five games in the last two weeks, they need all the rest they can get ahead of a grueling Big Ten stretch — starting with No. 7 Ohio State on Thursday. As for Barnes Arico, she could’ve spent her morning doing the usual: watching film, preparing for the next game, etc. Instead, she asked her kids what they would want to do if she had a day off. Next thing she knew, she was at Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Canton, Mich. With a ball in her hand, she flew toward the basket and dunked. And yes, of course she got the whole thing on camera. “I was just gonna watch (my kids) and maybe do some work on the e-mail, bring my computer and watch some film,” Barnes Arico said in her weekly radio show. “And they said, ‘Mommy why don’t you come out?’ So I paid, and I joined the fun.” The fun didn’t end there. With her mother visiting town, Barnes Arico took her out to lunch for Ann Arbor Restaurant Week.
Once all was said and done, though, Barnes Arico returned home to start preparing for the Buckeyes. As for her players, Monday was probably the most rest they’ve had all season. This is the Wolverines’ first season that games consistently fall on both Thursday and Sunday, which has led to the same weekly routine: game Thursday, practice Friday, travel Saturday, game Sunday, class Monday. Yes, it’s as exhausting as it sounds. “Our players haven’t had a true day off,” Barnes Arico said. “I don’t know if we’re gonna get another one for a really long time — and we haven’t had one for a long time. “Sometimes less is more. They need to be reminded this point in the season to make sure they’re resting both their minds and their bodies.” Last season, the Wolverines had eight games on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. This year, that number is down to four. Michigan players have lost their weekends, and having to rest their legs on Mondays with no practice doesn’t mean they can just skip class. According to Barnes Arico, she would prefer her team to have more full days off. Regardless, she has worked around the jampacked schedule to the best of her ability. “This is the first year that we’ve had to do it like that,” Barnes Arico said. “I don’t particularly love it, because of the weekend aspect, but I do think there is something to be said for the routine. I think it makes the kids feel comfortable — they know what they have every week, they’re set.” The schedule has also taken a toll on the coaching staff. One of Barnes Arico’s assistants hadn’t been home for the last four weekends, and that didn’t go unnoticed by the head coach. “I could tell she’s wearing it
a little bit on her face,” Barnes Arico said. “I said, ‘You know what, you need to get out of this office a couple days, and you need to go home and spend some time with your family. You being here an extra hour is not gonna make the difference between us winning or losing this basketball game.’ “I think it’s important for us to remember to tell the people we’re surrounded by that it’s important to do that — whether that’s our players or staff. We will get more in return.” Of late, the Wolverines have been getting more in return. They’ve won three of their last four games, all of which have been decided by an average of nine points. Michigan dropped a close game against No. 8 Maryland last Thursday, but it was the Wolverines’ only loss in the two weeks following a three-game losing streak. As for Michigan’s recent success, it completed a 17-point comeback against Iowa and held on down the stretch against Minnesota on the road. Most importantly, the Wolverines changed the storyline against Penn State. In 2013 and 2014, Michigan had been the Nittany Lions’ third-to-last and final game, respectively. Both times, Penn State earned a win to clinch its share of the Big Ten Championship. Both times, Michigan players hung their heads as confetti rained from the ceiling and fans stormed the court. Thursday, though, Barnes Arico helped eliminate the pit in her stomach as her team pulled off its first win in Happy Valley since 2001 — evening out its Big Ten record at 3-3. And if that’s what Michigan can do while battling great fatigue, there’s no telling what it could do on Thursday, against a ranked Ohio State squad with a full day off.
statement THE MICHIGAN DAILY JAN UARY 20, 2016
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Wednesday, January 20, 2016 // The Statement
The Legend of Mike
OSCAR NOMINATIONS
B Y M I K E F LY N N
M
ike walked into his boss Mike’s office. “Sit down,” Mike, Mike’s boss, said to Mike. Mike sat down. “Mike,” said Mike, “you’ve been having a rough couple of weeks here. Your productivity’s way down.” “Sorry, Mike,” said Mike. “Things with Mike have been rough lately--” “Oh!” said Mike’s boss Mike, clapping his hands. “I’m so glad you and Mike finally got together! We were all rooting for you two.” “What?” said Mike, employee of Mike. “Oh, you mean...no, not Mike from the office. Mike, my boyfriend.” “Oh,” said Mike, slumping a little in his chair. “Well, anyway, Mike…” “Yes, Mike?” inquired Mike, employee of Mike, coworker of Mike and boyfriend of Mike. “You can’t let your personal life interfere with your work anymore, Mike.” “I completely understand, Mike.” “Take a few days off. Take care of your problems with Mike.” “Sounds good. Thanks, Mike.” “Anytime. Now get out of my office, Mike.” “This is my office, Mike.” “Wha...oh, cause we’re both named Mike?” “That’s right, Mike.” “Ha. Good one. You’re pretty funny, Mike.” “Thanks, Mike.” *** “What the fuck is your problem, Mike?!” shouted Mike, Mike’s boyfriend. He bolted into the kitchen of Mike and Mike’s shared apartment, keeping his back to Mike. “Nothing!” shouted Mike, boyfriend of Mike. “What’s your problem, Mike?” “That night last weekend, after we got back from the club…” “That was a fucking week ago!” shouted Mike. “Don’t yell at me, Mike!” yelled Mike. Mike recoiled in shock. “Sorry,” said Mike sheepishly. “You know I hate it when you yell at me.” “Sorry, Mike,” said Mike. “I’m just...I dunno, frustrated! I feel like you’re accusing me.” “You know what you did, Mike,” Mike said firmly. “We were having sex, and when you climaxed you yelled ‘Mike.’” Mike stood confused for a minute, before finally speaking. “So...what’s the problem?” “You didn’t mean me!” shouted Mike, his eyes brimming with tears. “What?! Of course I meant you! What are you talking about?!” “I could tell by the way you extended the ‘i’ sound,” said Mike. “You were totally thinking about your coworker Mike when we were having sex, weren’t you, Mike?” “Absolutely not!” “I don’t believe you, Mike.” “Trust me, Mike!” said Mike, struggling to keep himself from yelling. “Look, I know it’s hard, being a couple of Mikes in a world where everyone seems to be named Mike. But you can’t let that get to your head, Mike! You’re the only Mike for me, Mike.” Mike looked up at Mike. “You promise, Mike?” “I promise, Mike.” Mike and Mike embraced. After a while, Mike felt the completely annoying need to fill the tender moment of silence with humor, and said: “I can’t wait to tell Mike about this.” “Mike!” “Just kidding, Mike!” “Oh! Haha. You’re pretty funny, Mike.” “Thanks, Mike.” They embraced for a few more seconds, and then Mike looked up at Mike with a confused look on his face. “Mike, your boss?” “No, Mike. Mike, my coworker. Why would I tell Mike, my boss?” “Oh. Yeah, I guess that would be pretty unprofessional, Mike.” “It certainly would, Mike.” COVER BY SHANE ACHENBACH
ON THE RECORD
“Begging for acknowledgement, or even asking, diminishes dignity and diminishes power. And we are a dignified people. And we are powerful. Let’s not forget it. So let’s let the Academy do them, with all grace and love. And let’s do us.” — Actress JADA PINKETT SMITH on why she is boycotting the 2016 Academy Awards Ceremony for its lack of diversity ***
“As I see it, the Academy Awards is not where the ‘real’ battle is. It’s in the executive office of the Hollywood studios and TV and cable networks. This is where the gate keepers decide what gets made and what gets jettisoned to ‘turnaround’ or scrap heap.” — Director SPIKE LEE on the lack of diversity among Hollywood studio executives
D I S COV E RY
THOUGHT BUBBLE
ZOEY HOLMSTROM/DAILY
“I chose astronomy because it’s the only thing I’ve taken a class for so far and just loved it. I’ve always been math and science oriented but I never knew what do to with it until I took a few courses in the major here at U of M.” – LSA sophomore ALEX MEILSTRUP
Wednesday, January 20, 2016 // The Statement 3B
THE Magazine Editor:
statement
Photo Editor:
Karl Williams
Zoey Holmstrom
Deputy Editor:
Creative Director:
Nabeel Chollampat Design Editor: Shane Achenbach
Emilie Farrugia Editor in Chief: Shoham Geva
Managing Editor: Laura Schinagle Copy Editors: Emily Campbell Alexis Nowicki Jose Rosales
T H E L I S T B U Z Z F E E D, B U T B E T T E R PEOPLE WHO HAVE ENDORSED DONALD TRUMP—SO FAR Donald Trump has been leading the polls for the Republican primaries for a while now—despite having made a number of controversial statements along the way. Here’s a list of some of the people who have his back.
1 S A R A H PA L I N
“He’s been going rogue left and right. That’s why he’s been doing so well. He’s been able to tear the veil off this idea of the system.”
2 MIKE DITK A
“I think that he has the fire in his belly to make America great again and probably do it the right way. I do like him, yes. I do like him.”
3 HULK HOGAN
“This country needs to be shaken up. It needs to be shaken to its very core, and Donald Trump is doing that.”
4 MIKE T YSON
“He should be President of the United States. Let’s try something new. Let’s run America like a business, where no colors matter.”
5 TED NUGENT
“Donald Trump is the hellraiser America has needed for a very long time. He and Ted Cruz may be the only hope to end the criminal jihad on America by our own corrupt punkass government.”
6DENNIS RODMAN
“@realDonaldTrump has been a great friend for many years. We don’t need another politician, we need a businessman like Mr. Trump! Trump 2016”
My Cultural Currency: The Silent Type B Y TA N YA M A D H A N I I’ve always been the silent type. My mom once told me that she was in constant anxiety while she was pregnant with me because, unlike most fetuses, I didn’t move or kick. Things got so bad, she said, that she had tearfully gone to the doctor to find out if anything was wrong. “Nothing was wrong,” she would then say. “It was just that you were too quiet, like you still are now.” I’d just stare at her whenever she said this, unable to think of an appropriate response. Growing up, I had the same dilemma. In my preschool, while other people would play pretend games and tag during recess, I’d sit in a corner and play with sticks or little pieces of plastic I’d find. My mom has still kept my preschool report card where, in between the rainbow stickers and purple smiley faces, my teachers commented, “While Tanya is doing well with recognizing colors and shading, she is very quiet and does not interact with other children.” Scientists wanted to do tests on me to find out what was wrong, my mother still says, but I’m going to take that with a grain of salt. I don’t want to say that I was a “precocious child,” because that really wasn’t the case. I never showed any signs of being exceedingly mature or intelligent for my age. In reality, I was just an extremely awkward person who had no idea what to say or do. I was painfully shy and hyperconscious about that fact. This is something my family took a long time to understand. The concepts of “nervous” and “shy” don’t exist among the kids in my family, and much of that has to do with the city that most of us grew up in. Living in Bombay breeds a sharp tongue and an acute sense of street smarts. My parents, all my aunts and uncles and several of my cousins are products of Bombay’s upbringing. My five-year-old baby cousin, who currently resides in the city, has a biting vocabulary, speaks five different languages — English, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi and Marwari — with a hostile intensity and looks like she’s always ready to pick a fistfight. But somehow, the inheritance of this Bombay personality skipped me, despite having grown up there for the first six years of my life. So, instead of being brazen and self-assured like the rest of my family, I’m timid and selfconscious. Furthermore, Indians in India grow up in joint families — your grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins all live with you under one roof. There’s no room to feel awkward and uncomfortable. Wanting to be left alone was never an option and often frowned upon. As I’ve grown up, my introverted personality has taken the form of a seemingly cold and aloof demeanor, especially with strangers, when really I’m still the same awkward and anxious preschool girl at recess — confused about who to play with, how to talk to people and what to say. ILLUSTRATIONS BY EMILIE FARRUGIA
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Wednesday, January 20, 2016 // The Statement
Wednesday, January 20, 2016 // The Statement
Navigating campus with physical disabilities:
DISABILITIES ON CAMPUS: problems and possibilities
The ADA: The Americans with Disabilities Act celebrated its 25-year anniversary last July. The bill, enacted by the U.S. Congress under President George H. W. Bush in 1990 and amended by George W. Bush in 2009, protects individuals with medical conditions — mental and physical, temporary and chronic, severe and mild — against discrimination. The law universally requires employers and institutions, including schools, to provide public accommodations for disabled people. Currently, the University is interviewing new candidates for its ADA coordinator position, as current director Carole Dubritsky will retire after the winter semester. “The Americans with Disabilities Act has been a wonderful way of opening the University to many more people,” said Prof. Petra Kuppers. “But at the same time, the ADA is constantly undercut; it’s constantly being taken back or not being enforced in appropriate ways by local council.” Kuppers, who operates in a wheelchair, chairs the University’s disability studies program, a field that didn’t exist when she began her higher education around 20 years ago. After a decade at the University, she said the University was doing an OK job being ADA accessible. “I might be able to get everywhere, but I might have a very complicated route,” Kuppers noted. The bare minimum: As a large public institution, the University definitely feels greater pressure to enforce ADA requirements, though often at
By KAREN HUA Daily Arts Writer
Editor’s Note: While some communities prefer disability firstlanguage (“disabled person”), others prefer person first-language (person with disabilities). Terminology in this article is adapted to specific communities’s preferences. When referring to disabilities in general, the person first-language and disability first-language are used interchangeably. There’s a reason why Michigan refers to its second term as winter semester instead of spring, unlike most other colleges in the nation. From the New Year to the beginning of April, the roads and sidewalks of the city and on campus are both often obstructed with unplowed snow and unsalted ice. Navigating the 780-square acre campus by foot is already difficult enough for the able-bodied individual. For physically disabled students, or 5.7 percent of the student body, the neglect to shovel makes ramps slick, entries circuitous and commutes more dangerous. As I trudged 20 minutes from my home on South Campus to the Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) office in Haven Hall, I was already in a position of privilege with a body I take for granted. I sat down with SSD Director Dr. Stuart Segal, who also received his clinical psychology doctorate at the University about 40 years ago. SSD’s primary mission is to fulfill academic accommodations meant to mitigate discrimination of disabilities in the classroom. Equity is the goal. “Extended time is our number one accommodation,” Segal explained. “This is an incredibly competitive school. By allowing (disabled students) to demonstrate what they know, the idea is that we’re leveling the playing field.” In his 23 years coordinating the program, Segal proudly said SSD successfully advocated for 63,000 accommodations last year — from extended time to interpreters for the deaf to special wheelchair access. Not a single one was denied. The catch is, though, that students must register and request these accommodations themselves. This raises issues of self-identification, stigma and awareness. Segal summed it up: “(Disabilities are) an area of progress — just not as much progress as we’d like to see.”
the most minimal staffing level. According to the 2014-2015 SSD Annual Report, the University admitted 727 new students with disabilities last year — an increase of almost 10 percent from the year prior, as well as a record high in SSD’s 41-year history. The current total of 2,474 students registered with SSD has more than doubled over the past five years. This increase of student diversity is tremendous progress. In fact, compared to all 15 schools in the Big Ten and CIC (Council for Independent Colleges), Michigan serves the most students with disabilities. Yet, of the 15, Michigan also employs the least number of specialist faculty members, a disappointing total of seven — just under the legal staff minimum for disabilities offices. In short, the University has the least number of people to help the largest group of people who need the help. Why is this? Simply an issue of timing: Segal speculated that in the past, Big 10 colleges with lower admissions criteria housed the larger disabilities offices. For example, the Ohio State University’s open admissions policy, which they no longer implement, attracted and amassed more disabled students earlier than Michigan did. Now though, OSU’s disabled student body comprises 3.1 percent of their total student population, 2.6 percent less than disabled enrollment on Michigan’s campus. Nevertheless, even with fewer students, OSU has developed its resources for decades longer than the University.
“Historically, as a lot more students with disabilities were going into these other less exclusive schools — Michigan State, Wisconsin, Minnesota — it was during an economic time (the ’80s and the ’90s) where there was more money to put resources toward (disabilities offices),” Segal explained. The surge in Michigan’s SSD student enrollment necessitated new developments only over the past five years. Since then, disability registration has doubled as the SSD budget has been nearly halved. From $32,000 eight years ago, the SSD now must operate on $18,000. While budget cuts do not in any way affect ADA accommodation requests (the office for student life and the Provost’s office cover all extra costs to uphold the law), they do hinder SSD’s outreach potential. “I believe there are still many more students out there who should be registered, but they don’t know we exist,” Segal said, citing the restriction of outreach as SSD’s predominant problem. His solution: “We can do a better job frontloading. Students and parents need to know from the very beginning that we’re here.” Simple, right? Unfortunately, consistent funding cuts are what limit solutions like frontloading. “(Monetarily), when I have to make a decision between an accommodation and a program for awareness, well, it’s the program for awareness that’s not going to happen.” And we’re back where we began.
Retrofitting campus buildings: During her 12-year presidency, completed in 2014, Mary Sue Coleman helmed over 1,830 projects affecting 313 campus buildings, a tab of just under $5 billion. Her Residential Life Initiative alone cost the University $626 million. Positively, renovations such as East Quad and North Quad have modernized the historic dorms to be more accessible than ever before. On the other hand, buildings constructed prior to the ADA’s passage rarely considered codes of accessibility, and they still dot the campus. West Quad, originally erected in 1937, had serious accessibility issues long before its $114.5 million renovation, finished this past fall. “The University probably could’ve done something about it at the cost of several million dollars,” Segal admitted. “But A: was there several million dollars to give to such a project? And B: given that the master plan was to rehab the building in a few years, it didn’t make sense to do something that would be naturally done in the course of the rehab.” For the Hatcher Graduate Library, last reconstructed in 1920, the iron-ground foundation is especially difficult to retrofit. English prof. Melanie Yergeau, who specializes in digital disabilities communities, called this a “design apartheid.” “In (retrofitting buildings), accessibility is seen as aesthetically this ugly kind of thing, so ramps and accessible entrances tend to be cloistered toward the back or side,” Yergeau said. “Then, the elevator might be all the way down the hall, then once you get up there, you have to navigate these labyrinth-ian hallways to get where you need.” Ironically, her own office is tucked away in a closed corridor of the English department, where the lack of a handicap button requires one to circle around the narrow halls to the other side’s entrance. Social alienation: Issues with physical access create social impediment, as well. Prof. Kuppers cited the irony behind University-sponsored events and conferences at inaccessible venues, such as Sava’s restaurant where the handicap bathroom is blocked, and The Espresso Bar, on Literati’s second floor with no elevator. “Can you imagine being a student and you can’t do the hangout side of things?” Kuppers said. “It’s not just about the thing being accessible, but it’s about being socially and culturally connected, and that’s really hard to do if some of the support structures are not accessible.” Navigating campus with mental disabilities: Mental disabilities encompass anything related to the brain, including learning, psychiatric, intellectual and developmental impairments. Examples range from autism to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder — as well as mental health conditions, such as depression and obsessive compulsive disorder, and chronic illnesses, such as Crohn’s disease or multiple sclerosis. “A big part of the problem is that students come in and don’t realize that mental health issues are technically considered a disability which are all protected under the ADA,” Segal said.
Invisible disabilities: Physical disabilities (such as visual, auditory or mobility disabilities) comprise only seven percent of all SSD registered students and are almost always visually apparent, whereas ‘invisible disabilities’ make up more than 80 percent. Learning disabilities are the most commonly registered across campus, followed by mental health and chronic health conditions. The most prevalent among learning differences include ADHD and autism spectrum disorder/Aspergers. Yergeau personally identifies on the autistic spectrum, but she noted, “nobody would know that unless they Googled me … Sometimes people can pass; (disability) is a huge part of their lives, but it’s not always the part of life that people readily notice.” Stigma: College campuses — essentially, pools of highly intellectual individuals — are especially difficult climates to disclose any type of disability, especially invisible ones. “This problem of stigma is not unique to Michigan. I just think people really keenly feel it here because it’s a really prestigious university, so to say that you have a disability, it makes you very vulnerable,” Yergeau said. As a consequence, many students neglect to request accommodations even though they need them. Ignorance: For disabled individuals, the problem of ignorance surrounds lack of awareness to SSD’s existence and the accommodations available. For nondisabled students, ignorance often causes well-intentioned charity groups whose missions run counter to the disabled people they serve. For example, the autistic community has long struggled to boycott Autism Speaks, arguing that the organization, while seemingly well meaning, actually promotes the eradication of autistic people and suggests backwards cures. Both the foundation and its college chapters don’t include any autistic voices either. Yergeau understands how hurtful the group can be on campuses, but she said the well-meaning students simply don’t recognize the true motives of the organization. “I’d like to see people being more open to conversation,” she suggested as a potential solution. “Autistic people constitute 1 to 2 percent of this campus … (so it’s important to) defer to autistic students, staff, faculty in conversations pertaining to autism.” The solution? Finding community: Segal, Kuppers and Yergeau all mentioned community as a way to mitigate ignorance and galvanize advocacy. One glance at Kuppers’s cluttered bulletin board demonstrates how vibrant the disabilities community really is. Each October marks a month of disability workshops and panels where both disabled and able-bodied students may join the conversation. Upcoming events include a wheelchair basketball game at Crisler Center; the Disability Culture Salon visual arts showcase in late January; Crip Futurities conference in early February — and too many more events to note. Later this semester, SSD will host its 41st Anniversary All-Day Conference.
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“Often, when people talk about disabilities, it’s always either how do fix them or fix the problem medically,” Yergeau said. “Even accommodations can have that kind of focus.” Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and the Active Minds student group certainly offer numerous support services for mental health, but students who newly develop conditions like depression during college have varying comfort levels with treatment. “It’s hard to think about (community) in terms of depression because often people’s experiences are so overwhelmingly bad,” Yergeau said, “but I think that people do want to be in community with people who are having the same experiences and not always in the context of a support or therapy group.” Another integral community is The University of Michigan Initiative on Disability Studies. UMInDs began as an interdisciplinary collaborative between grad students and staff, of which Prof. Tobin Siebers, who passed away last year, devotedly chaired. Funded by LSA, Rackham Graduate School and the offices of the Provost and Vice President for Research, UMInDS offers formal graduate-level classes as well as workshops and seminars. “UMInDs is more culturally focused,” Yergeau said, addressing how UMInDs veers away from medical perspectives of disability. “What does it mean to have a disability culture? How do we generate a network of support? Thinking about diversity on campus socially, narratively.” Disability as Diversity: At a leadership breakfast last February, University President Mark Schlissel launched a campus-wide conversation to improve diversity — an initiative he would continually update throughout 2015. Major themes in his strategic diversity plan included creating scholarships to increase economic diversity and aiming to hire more racial minority staff to boost ethnic diversity. The disabled community wasn’t specifically encompassed in diversity. Anna Schnitzner, the coordinator of the Council for Disability Concerns and the disability issues informationist at Taubman Health Sciences Library, has worked on campus since the ’60s. She hopes to see disabilities further integrated into Schlissel’s “ground-breaking” campaign. “Before, disability was not recognized under the umbrella of diversity along with race and gender and sexual orientation,” she recalled from her half a century on campus. “We have not concentrated on real diversity — for everybody. And what could be more diverse than disability?” Yergeau agreed. “When people encounter disability, especially something like learning disability, the tendency is to think ‘I don’t know if this student can make it here’ rather than to think ‘wow, this will add such a great dimension’ to diversity,” she said. In addition to growth in disabled student counts, interviewees indicated the need for neurodiversity among staff, such as Yergeau and Kuppers, as well. “I would love to have more faculty with disabilities, but at the same time I would love to have more support systems in place to ensure that they can succeed in this environment,” Kuppers said. “They include thinking about access but also adjusting.” Ultimately, progress is slow and often frustrating, but progress is evident. Progress is possible.
Photos by Zoey Holmstrom/Daily
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Wednesday, January 20, 2016 // The Statement
Student Life Spotlight: Disabilities on Campus by Emilie Farrugia, Statement Creative Director
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Personal Statement: The First Days by Avi Sholkoff, Daily Sports Writer
Wednesday, January 20, 2016 // The Statement
e’ve all experienced it — the nervousness and constant selfdeliberation. Do I sit next to that cute girl or boy in lecture? Do I introduce myself before the professor begins her spiel or after? Should I gel my hair on the first day? Jeans or sweatpants? These are the constant questions that many college students (including myself) ask themselves before the first day of classes. I, however, must also deal with a different anxiety — I stutter. And while it’s not a major barrier in my speaking skills, whenever I find myself nervous, I stutter significantly more. It’s just a fact that I’ve noticed, and there’s little I can do to stop it. It’s unfortunate, and I hate it. In high school it was easier, because I generally had classes with the same kids. Thus, I felt comfortable speaking in class and seldom worried about participating in discussions. In college, however, it has proven more challenging. Each of my courses comes with a new set of peers to learn and engage with. As a result, the first days of class are the most difficult for me. Not only am I forced to decide where to sit and who to sit next to, but I am also determined not to stutter. Though I try my best to not let my stutter define my identity and actions, I know that it will always be a part of me. During my years in high school, I spoke in front of the entire student body and broadcasted sports games online. Why, then, do these first days seem so nerveracking to me? Maybe I’m intimidated by my classmates? Like many University students, I was in the top of my class in many academic disciplines during high school. I felt confident in my ability to succeed in classes, be it Honors Spanish or A.P. United States History. In college, I am confronted with the reality that we all come from secondary schools where we strove for the best and achieved it. We all succeeded academically and that’s why we attend this university. In my Spanish course last semester, for example, I stuttered more often than usual because of struggles with the language and because I strived to prove myself in the course. I wanted to prove that not only could I speak the language, but I could speak it fluidly. For the majority of students, the icebreaker questions in those small seminar classes serve as a refuge from the monotony and boredom that may take place in the next 14 weeks. I enjoy these icebreakers as well. I get to learn about where my classmates are from and what they’re studying, for example. They also presents for me a challenge. In order to prevent my stutter from occurring, I try to think of my
“I love to speak my mind, yet sometimes it’s difficult not to articulate my opinion, but to actually ‘speak.’”
ILLUSTRATION BY EMILIE FARRUGIA
7B
answers in advance. As soon as I hear the question, I began to say quietly to myself. “My name is Avi. I’m a freshman from Los Angeles. I’m undeclared but leaning toward American Culture or Public Policy.” For most, these simple questions are, in fact, simple. For the three million Americans who stutter, however, these questions may be the most anxiety-inducing part of the class. Don’t get me wrong — I love participating in class. I enjoy demonstrating my ideas to my peers and professors. Despite my stutter, I enjoy crafting oral presentations (depending on the topic, however). In order for my presentation to come out as fluidly as possible, I must practice and practice. While some may feel comfortable simply reading through slides without practicing, I often must practice multiple times to truly succeed. I enjoy writing because I am judged on the quality of my words, not how they come out of our mouths. In speech, while we would prefer to believe we pay attention to rhetoric, the words often only succeed during a charismatic speech, such as the empowering “Yes We Can!” pioneered by Barack Obama eight years ago. In writing, the writer does not require astounding oratorical skills. They need only “speak” their mind without actually speaking. It’s interesting to me: I love to speak my mind, yet sometimes it’s difficult not to articulate my opinion, but to actually “speak.” Few others have this problem. On the first day of each semester I wish to share my thoughts with my classmates but sometimes refrain because we’re not acquainted yet. I have seen stares and whispering among neighbors after I added a comment in a freshman seminar. Whether it’s about my stutter or the accuracy of my input, I can’t say for sure. But it still brings me anxiety, simply because of my stutter. Obviously, I wish my stutter could go away. As I learned from my speech therapist at a young age, it will always be a part of me. At some points in my life it will improve, and at other points it will get worse. I must learn how to manage it. In some ways, it gives me a determination that many lack. I strive not only to be the best in each course, but also to speak as fluidly as possible. In addition to my academic goals, I set goals based on how infrequently I stutter. While on the first days, it may be challenging, I know that as the course continues — as I develop relationships with my classmates and professors — the stares will disappear and the anxiety will cease, and I can then focus on making friends to study with and sit with.
8B
Wednesday, January 20, 2016 // The Statement
V I S UA L S TAT E M E N T:
SELF PORTRAITS
I chose to portray myself through time, contrasting my face between then, now, and the future. I am 4 or so in the past comparison and the projected future is my mother. (RITA MORRIS/ DAILY)
Members of Photo staff submitted self-portraits, finding themselves on the other side of their cameras.
My current identity is very much affected by being a college student: caffeine, procrastination and finding a sense of style that is my own. (AMANDA ALLEN/ DAILY)
I can’t wait to graduate and be in the Peace Corps, hopefully with a camera by my side. After that I want to be a photojournalist covering international stories and news. (CLAIRE ABDO/ DAILY)
At times, I strive to portray an outer image while my inner identity seems invisible. (ZOEY HOLMSTROM/ DAILY)