Tuesday, January 22, 2019
Student-run newspaper since 1962
www.neiuindependent.org
Volume 38 Issue 11
student sues NEIU for AMERicans with disabilities act violationS inside News | news
Band conductor injured at NEIU last spring sues. See pg. 2
Student sues Northeastern Illinois University, Physical Education Building Director and two police officers on ADA violations, unlawful search and harrassment allegations. See page 6
opinions
What does Gibson’s silence on LWH mean? See pg. 9
arts and life
Local poets publish new book on gender. See pg. 15
online exclusives
Visit neiuindependent.org for more news stories and exclusive event coverage.
Let us know! Next issue is out Feb. 05 Our office is located in E-049 at the main campus.
2 News | january 22, 2019
Independent Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief Robin Bridges News and Co-Managing Editor Nicole F. Anderson Opinions and Co-Managing Editor Amaris E. Rodriguez Arts & Life Editor Robert Kukla assistant News editor Rebecca Denhem assistant opinions editor Will Jones assistant arts and life editor Alejandro Marroquin Marketing Director Frannie Mendoza Payroll Manager Francisco Sebastian Writers Andrew Calderon Armando Flores Keneisha Hoskins Hussain Khemani Charles Sipps Joanna Vaklin Photographers Maleydi Roman Angelica Sanchez Jay Kim The Independent is a public forum for all of Northeastern Illinois University’s campuses and surrounding community. The Independent is entirely student-run and is published bi-weekly, except during summer and semester breaks. The editor-in-chief is responsible for the content of the Independent, and views presented do not necessarily represent those of the administration, faculty and students. The Independent is a member of the ICPA, CMA and ACP. For further details email: theneiuIndependent@ gmail.com.
neiuIndependent.org
Band Director Injured at NEIU Sues Amaris E. Rodriguez
opinions and co-managing editor NEIUOpsEditor @gmail.com
Ralph Wilder, founder of the Rolling Meadows-based Northwest Concert Band, is suing Chicago Flyhouse, Inc. for injuries sustained during an incident at NEIU last spring. On May 6, 2018 during a rehearsal with the Chicago Clarinet Ensemble, a metal frame holding the projection screen fell from the ceiling, pinning Wilder to the floor at NEIU’s Recital Hall. The injuries he sustained left him permanently paralyzed. The lawsuit is against Chicago Flyhouse, Inc., rigging specialists who according to the suit filed by Wilder’s attorney Kevin Durkin, repaired and maintained the hoisting and screening system at NEIU for about five years prior to the incident. According to the Daily Herald, the suit seeks more than $50,000 in damages due to “Chicago Flyhouse’s ‘improper’ repairs to the screen hoisting system and failure to test its ‘full functionality’ before the accident.” Attorney Edric Bautista, from
Photo of Ralph Wilder provided by Jeff Wilder. Sanchez Daniels & Hoffman, the firm representing Chicago Flyhouse Inc. in the suit, said to the Independent when reached out for comment, “As this matter is currently in litigation, we cannot comment on the facts or circumstances of the case. We believe, however, that, after all the facts are revealed in this case, they will show that Chicago Flyhouse is not responsible for
the incident involving Mr. Wilder. We cannot provide any further comments.” Wilder has since returned to NEIU after the accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down. In Dec. 2018, Wilder performed his clarinet at the fundraiser held in his honor. Wilder had to relearn how to play with half his former lung capacity, according to WGN News.
“You can take his physical abilities away from him. You can’t take the maestro that he is away from him,” Jeff Wilder, his son, said to WGN News. Jeff Wilder provided the following statement to the Independent on Jan 16 regarding the suit filed, “We checked with our legal counsel and have been advised not to do any interviews at this time.” Wilder’s son runs a page on the CaringBridge website updating members on his father’s condition. The last update on Dec 4, 2018 provided information to the Benefit Concert hosted by the Chicago Clarinet Ensemble with a link to Ralph Wilder’s GoFundMe page where donations are being accepted to provide further care. In an interview with the Daily Herald, Durkin stated, “He’s at home undergoing therapy, doing his best to improve, but he’s a paraplegic who needs 24-hour care.” NEIU’s Director of Public Relations and Web Communications Mike Hines declined to comment regarding NEIU’s involvement in the lawsuit and their partnership with Chicago Flyhouse, Inc.
multi-level marketing company targets students Hussain Khemani writer
In recent weeks across campus, Vector Marketing (VM) job flyers have been pinned in several NEIU locations such as Lech Walesa Hall (LWH), the Fine Arts Building (FA) and even in bathrooms. The flyers state the job pays $17 base/appt (appointment), offers a flexible schedule, among other benefits, with no experience needed. VM is a multi-level marketing (MLM) subsidiary company of Cutco Corporation. Brian Langenberg, NEIU professor and CFA of Langenberg & Company, explained an MLM “is a strategy that some direct sales companies use to both mark and recruit
new distributors. The established distributor participates in both their own “production” or sales and a percentage of their sub-distributors or recruits.” MLMs target college students because according to Langenberg, “Generally, college students do not have a lot of money. If it is a legitimate organization and I perform, I can do well. But some will show up looking for the gullible; when you are young, you generally have fewer tread marks.” As of Nov. 26th, the website from the VM flyers, WinterBreakWorkNow. com, was an application, first requesting a zip code, name, email, phone number and which of the following age groups you fit into: 18 years old; 17 years old
in high school (graduating in 2018); or none of the above. The website stated, “We’re filling positions here in Niles on a first come, first serve basis. Pay is $17.00 base – appt., schedules can be full to SUPER part time, and best of all, we do not require any previous work experience. Apply today and you could be working within the week! -Danny Lewis, VM’s division manager.” On Nov. 28, Wilde and Lewis were at NEIU’s Student Union sitting at the VM informational table. When pressed for more information about VM, Lewis told the Independent he would send over the information for VM’s Campus Relations Team (CRT) at a later time; however, he did not send
any information along. The VM website didn’t offer any information about the CRT and Lewis became difficult to get into contact with. NEIU’s Student Union and Career Services Department have both stated their policies do not allow outside companies to freely post flyers. Director of Career Services Kris Pierre said because NEIU is a public university, NEIU has to “provide access,” meaning VM can vend and occupy Student Union spaces as long as they pay the
Continue reading on page 8.
January 22, 2019 | news
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NEIU recieved grant on Violence Against Women Rebecca Denham Assistant News Editor Last October, NEIU was awarded a $300,000 grant lasting 3 years to “help with proactive prevention and education on sexual assault and stalking,” according to NEIU’s Director of Equal Opportunity, Title IX and Ethics Natalie Potts. All NEIU students, staff and faculty are protected from sexual misconduct, sexual harassment, stalking, dating violence and domestic violence under the Title IX federal law, which prohibits discrimination based on sex in any educational program. The Title IX office on campus works with the university police department to make assistance easily accessible to anyone experiencing any form of harassment.
There is the option to file a complaint anonymously online through a link on the Title IX tab of NEIU’s website. Alternatively, students can reach out to the university’s campus confidential advisor, Rae Joyce Baguilat, at confidentialadvisor@neiu.edu. The confident advisor runs separately from the police department, so students are able to speak privately about their options without having to take immediate action or file a police report. While the NEIU Police Department is independent from the Chicago Police Department, students are still able to file a no contact order on campus, which prevents unwanted verbal communication, physical altercations, text messages or social media messages from any other NEIU
New Organizations approved by COC: Black Heritage Gospel Choir (re-chartered)
Events approved for funding by COC since November 29
Council of Clubs Updates
Sigma Gamma Rho, MSA and ChiMexLa MLK Event $900 Sigma Tau Delta 2019 International Conference $1192.96 Pre-Law Society Moot Court/MIG $8074.36
NAfME Illinois Music Education Conference $1847.69 NEIU CEO Southeast Entrepreneurship Conference $854.50 Gamma Phi Omega Yesika Salgado $3,347.96
expulsion or degree revocation. While this no contact order is only applicable while on campus, any message or action taken off campus will be accounted for as well. If a student feels that they need assistance outside of what the university offers, the NEIU Police Department is able to help in filing a restraining order with the Chicago courts system. The NEIU Police Department works in unison with the Chicago Police Department to ensure the safety of students on and off campus. The grant that the university received will also be used to protect NEIU’s students. A coordinator will be hired to train staff and develop bilingual material for students to have access to on campus.
student, staff or faculty. Potts stated that NEIU “definitely takes cyber stalking seriously.” Students also have the option of requesting an NEIU police officer to walk across campus with them, drive them to bus stops or wait with them for their transportation to arrive. In some cases, Title IX can work with the Dean’s Office to rearrange class schedules or even housing at The Nest if necessary. This type of assistance should not impact the student’s tuition or financial aid. “There should be no disincentives for students to come forward,” said Potts. “We try to remove those barriers entirely.” Should the recipient break the order’s explicit rules, a formal investigation by the Dean of Students can be executed that may result in the student’s suspension,
It will also connect the campus with non-profit agencies and the state’s attorney to give students access to secondary assistance, should they need it. According to Potts, the university is looking to “enhance cultural competency on and off campus, as well as to aid the LGBTQ community. Especially the trans community, which is under siege right now. We want everyone to feel safe here.” In the past year, there have been three cases filed involving stalking on NEIU’s campus. “Three people per year is still three too many,” said Potts. “To get the full picture, we need people to come forward. I am more than happy to help them any time of day or night.” Natalie Potts can be reached at titleix@neiu.edu.
Student Leadership Development THURSDAY, JAN 31ST Freshmen Meetup Pedroso Center 3pm–4pm
NEW APPOINTMENTS • •
black caucus
•
JAN 25, FEB 1, AND FEB 8 General meetings FA 203 1pm–2pm
TUESDAY, FEB 5TH Words of Taylor Recital Hall 3pm–5pm
FRIDAY, FEB 1ST Tribute to Black Icons Alumni Hall 6pm–10pm
MONDAY, FEB 11TH Love is Kind Alumni Hall 4pm-6pm
PR/Communications: John Rayburn Senator: Candace Cook-Bey
COC Representatives: Reyna Espinoza, Wendy Cruz, Gabriel Salceda, Marion Tellez
Student Government Association members are part of various committees aimed to better NEIU. If you have any concerns or issues please visit the SGA offices located in the lower level of the E building near Health Services.
united greek council THURSDAY, JAN 24TH Meet the Greeks Alumni Hall 2pm–4pm
If you need accommodations to attend these or any University event, please contact Student Disability Services within 48 hours of the time of the event at (773) 442-4595 or SDS@neiu.edu.
4 News | January 22, 2018
neiuindependent.org
Standstill on Lech Walesa Hall Charles Sipps Writer Lech Walesa Hall (LWH), located on NEIU’s main campus, was named in honor of Polish politician and Noble Prize winner Lech Walesa in 2009 for his part in the Solidarity movement in Communist Poland and dedication to the rights of workers. Walesa made homophobic comments at a political rally in 2000. He described gay people as “sick” and said, “I believe those people need medical treatment.” He also stated LGBTQ people should have no place in politics. While speaking on Polish Television in 2013, he said LGBTQ people must “…know that they are a minority and must adjust to smaller things.” NEIU’s LWH is where the political science and social justice classes are held. Sociology professor Christine Jenkins said, “It is the president’s responsibility to focus on a large number of issues that affect students. That doesn’t mean that this issue should be ignored. Students and faculty have made it clear they do not support someone who’s words belittle a large part of the student body. As an administration we need to heat student’s concerns and not dismiss how they feel. We need to make sure they feel safe and welcome at NEIU.” When asked if she has concerns about teaching sociology classes in LWH Jenkins said, “It’s a contradiction that sociology classes are taught in this building. The sociology department’s core mission is to explore diversity and inequality, and much of what we teach he (Wałęsa) is in opposition of.” Former NEIU President Sharon Hahs, who stated Walesa’s name is synonymous with freedom, overturned the University Advisory Council’s unanimous vote to change the name. Despite hope from some faculty and students, current NEIU President, Dr. Gloria J. Gibson, has not made any efforts to address or change the building’s name. Gibson
said in a recent statement to the Independent that she “needs to better understand the complexities of the issue before taking any action.” According to Director of Strategic Communications, Mike Hines, Gibson is currently focusing on “reversing a declining trend in enrollment, managing our budget realities and fundraising for student scholarships.” Jae Kim, a junior majoring in CMT, said, “In light of the reality of low enrollment rate to the school, I can understand why the issue hasn’t been addressed. But it is a very weak excuse because this is an opportunity for NEIU to be known as an ally to any oppressed groups. The school can attract more students from all over the world as a safe and welcoming school that embraces all cultures and backgrounds.” In response to the idea that Walesa’s past good deeds excuse his current actions, Chris Zavaleta, a senior marketing major, said, “Past glory doesn’t excuse future mistakes. Just because he has done good doesn’t excuse what he said.” Zavaleta also said by not changing the name it “feels like the university doesn’t stand behind their own beliefs. By not changing the name, they stand behind his words.” The external NEIU community also doesn’t stand for the homophobic comments. The Office of Alderwoman Margaret Laurino of the 39th Ward said, “There is no place in the 39th Ward for intolerance against the LGBTQ community or anyone else- this is the birthplace of ‘Hate has No Home Here’.” As of now there are no plans to change the name of Lech Wałęsa Hall. Hines said, “she (Gibson) has been talking about the issue with many members of the University community, and those conversations have been helpful to her in understanding perspectives and points of view.”
POLICE BLOTTER Jan. 14 – 5555 N. Bernard: NEIU police officers responded to a “disabled vehicle” in the middle of the road.The driver was found to have a suspended driver’s license and no insurance. The driver was cited for the suspended driver’s license and their vehicle was towed.
a former NEIU student whom is allegedly involved in an open case.
Jan. 10 – B-Building: NEIU police officers approached a female in the building when the alarm went off. The female was seen in other buildings but denied it. She was issued a stop card which is a receipt from the police stating why the person was stopped with the officer’s information.
**According to Lt. John Schulz from the NEIU Police Department, there weren’t any incidents reported from Dec. 20 to Dec. 31, 2018.** Dec. 19 – NEIU: NEIU Police Officers conducted a well-being check on a student who has insinuated to violence and self-harm on several social media posts.
Jan. 9 – Bryn Mawr/Bernard: NEIU police officers responded to the scene of a person hit by a car. The victim refused medical treatment but was transported to the hospital by his father. Jan. 9 – P.E. Building: An unknown person graffitied on the P.E. Complex’s exterior electrical boxes. NEIU facilities were notified for clean-up. Jan. 7 – El Centro: An unknown person graffitied on the garage doors of the old warehouses by El Centro. NEIU facilities were notified for clean-up. Jan. 5 – D-Building: A student broke a hallway window because they leaned against it while sitting on the floor. The student didn’t sustain any injuries. Jan. 2 – CCICS: An NEIU employee slipped and fell on a patch of ice in the parking lot; they sought out medical attention the following day. Jan. 1 – Off Campus: Chicago police officers contacted NEIU police about
Jan. 1 – Access Road: Chicago and NEIU police officers responded to an accident with a rolled over vehicle. The driver wasn’t injured but was cited and has a pending court date.
Dec. 17 – Off Campus: The Title IX
Officer and Counseling Services were notified of an NEIU student stalking another student. The victim now has an order of protection against the stalker. Dec. 16 – 7-Eleven (5610 N Kimball Ave): A 7-Eleven employee was robbed at gunpoint by an unknown person. The robber left before the Chicago Police arrived. Dec. 6 – BBH: The Chicago Fire Department arrived to NEIU after electricians accidentally set off the fire alarm while working on the fire panel. Read the full police blotter on our website NEIUIndependent.org.
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January 22, 2019 | News 5
Freshman Cohort Program Coming to CCICS This Fall Kenisha Hoskins writer
College can be intimidating; almost every student experiences some level of anxiety during their first school year. Whether it’s an overwhelming course load, frustration with financial aid or fear of social interaction; anxiety is ever present.
As a result, these factors can affect how a student performs their firstyear of college. It’s important that incoming freshmen at NEIU have a safe space that provides resources and assistance during their transition from high school into a college setting. Starting fall of this year NEIU’s Jacob H. Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies (CCICS), will introduce
the Freshmen Cohort Program (FPC). This program is aimed to help NEIU’s incoming freshmen. Incoming freshmen will benefit of smaller class sizes, specialized student advising, a range of multidisciplinary courses and classes taught by professors committed to helping students grow personally and professionally. The FPC is a beneficial way
for students to learn in a tight-knit classroom environment. Shonda Ghoston, recruitment specialist, said “The Freshmen Cohort Program will be used as a tool to increase retention and build community.” Throughout the first year, students will receive comprehensive academic support, learn in an environment that fosters community team-building
and leadership skills. Nekenya Walker, coordinator, said, “It is important for incoming freshmen at NEIU to have a safe space that allows them to learn in an environment that is less stressful. “Incoming freshmen will receive intrusive advising which will assist them in being more effective in their communities, families and workplace.”
CCICS campus embraces culture, community and family Andrew Calderon writer
View of Chicago from CCIC’s “Bird Nest.” Photo by Andrew Calderon
NEIU has roots on the Southside of Chicago. In the heart of Bronzeville on 700 E. Oakwood Blvd. lies the historical building of the Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies (CCICS). CCICS, NEIU’s South Side campus, is more than just another location; it has a cultural history and students ready to change the world. Not too long ago, predominant figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Ida B. Wells, Fred Hampton and Gwendolyn Brooks have all been walked on the grounds of CCICS. Today CCICS houses the program of Inner City Studies for students intrigued by the cultures, communities and experiences of the Inner City populations. Inner City Studies student Gerardo Gonzalez said, “The Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies has developed my understanding for the Inner City plight. Its style and educators make it a welcoming environment which allows my conscious to awaken to Inner City issues and the solutions for the Inner City community. Carruthers Center is a great institution for NEIU, but is underutilized.”
CCICS was birthed from Dr. Jacob Carruthers and Dr. Anderson Thompson, both of whom developed the curriculum to be taught from an African American perspective in 1968. Since then, the curriculum has been evolving alongside the development of the Inner City populations to reflect the multicultural perspectives of NEIU’s students. The Inner City Studies program offers a bachelor’s and master’s degree for students who are willing to immerse themselves in the urban environment and understand the issues that surround the cultures that inhabit the Inner City. The program gauges truth on perspectives that are directly affected by major social issues like the disparities in education, gentrification and the modernity of Jim Crow. Its curriculum is a tool to dissect the injustices of today’s society and develop methods to combat these injustices to heal our communities. The CCICS student body and employees embrace culture, community and family for anyone seeking an intimate learning
experience. The professors, staff and the faculty remember all who come through the doors and praise educational attainment. NEIU should be proud to behold the legacy of the Carruthers Center because of its significance in defining the perspective of those within the Inner City and giving those students a voice to project their presence in the educational and professional fields. CCICS employees empower students of the Inner City to pursue educational achievement and continue to build upon that success with is Director Dr. Andrea Evans. Her mission to build upon its student body and bring more fields of study to the Southside campus brings new life and meaning to CCICS. All NEIU students are invited to visit CCICS for their celebration of African American and Black achievement during Black History Month. Students are also welcomed to look around the library’s collection of books and view Chicago’s skyline in the 360-degree “Bird Nest.”
6 News | january 22, 2019
NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG
student sues neiu FOR AMERICANS Nicole F. Anderson
News and co-managing editor
NEIUNewEditor @gmail.com
First page of complaint. Source: Case: 1:18-cv-04831 Document #24; filed on 11/08/18, page 1 of 16. Page ID #162.
The front of the Physical Education Building on NEIU’s main campus. Independent stock photo.
NEIU student alleges employees and campus police officers harassed and discriminated against him based on his race, physical and mental abilities based on a lawsuit filed in July of 2018. On Sept. 9, 2018 the Independent received a tip from an anonymous email stating, “Big story the new pres. Does not want anyone to know about: Federal Civil Rights Case: 1:18-cv-04831, Jackson v. Northeastern Illinois University. Courtesy of your friends at North Park, you all might cost much less, but your claims of diversity are worthless.” The litigation, Jackson v. Northeastern Illinois University, complaint states the NEIU student, Curtis K. Jackson Sr., suffers from a variety of disabilities: bipolar disorder; cluster migraine headaches; chronic allergic rhinitis and sinusitis; bilateral torn ligaments; osteoarthritis in his knees; a dislocated left shoulder; hypertension; sleep apnea and morbid obesity. These disabilities, according to the complaint “substantially limit more than several major life activities of his, such as: working; caring for oneself (bathing and cooking); learning; reading; traveling; walking; standing; lifting; pushing; pulling; shopping; sleeping and exercising.” In July 2017, Jackson fell in the Physical Education Building (PEB)’s main shower due to an uneven and wet floor and sustained injuries due to the fall that left his face swollen and unable to eat or communicate. These injuries resulted in a trip to Cook County Hospital’s emergency room, where the emergency room doctors, according to the complaint, diagnosed him with Bell’s Palsy. Due to this, he requested
accommodations from the PEB staff to use the PEB facilities in a safer way. These accommodations including receiving extra towels to walk on while in the shower, locker room, steam room and the use of the handicap accessible door at the main entrance. According to the complaint, after receiving the accommodations, he began experiencing harassment from the PEB staff, student workers and NEIU police officers. The initial complaint named 15 different NEIU employees but has since been dropped to the following defendants: Northeastern Illinois University; Director of Campus Recreation, David W. Merrill; NEIU Police Officer, Pablo F. Castro; and NEIU Police Officer, Arturo Galindo Jr. NEIU does not comment on any ongoing litigations. The Independent sent emails to the defendants on Oct. 29, 2018. Merrill said, “Thank you for reaching out. I do not have any comments at this time.” Police officer Castro replied, “Not interested.” Jackson replied to the Independent’s attempts to request him via email on Dec. 24, 2018, stating, “First, I would like to say that I appreciate your tenacity and willingness to reach out to me and offer a forum for me to talk about my experiences contained within my complaint. “What I will say... is that my experiences and opportunities to learn and work towards my degree have been mostly been positive, particularly at NEIU’s Jacob H.
Continues on page 7.
NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG
January 22, 2019 | news
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WITH DISABILITIES ACT VIOLATIONS
Page nine of the complaint of more allegations of harrassment and discrimination towards Jackson by NEIU police officers. Source: Case: 1:18-cv04831 Document #24; filed on 11/08/18, page 9 of 16. Page ID #162. (continued from page 6)
Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies (CCICS). However, due to my experiences contained within the complaint in federal court, this is as much I as I should say
at this time. I’m hopeful a mutual resolution can be met so that I can feel comfortable and safe enough to return to campus, because I only need two more courses in my major, a natural science and math
courses required to graduate with honors. But, if this is not the case, I will have to continue focusing on my health and a surgery I have coming up, and pursuing justice in this case. Therefore, this all I can say
at this time, but, thank you for the opportunity to be heard.” The complaint filed with the courts claims the PEB employees routinely kept the handicap accessible door locked and denied Jackson his accommodations, causing him to suffer physically and emotionally. According to the complaint, on March 10, 2018, Galindo and Castro approached Jackson in the PEB shower area while Jackson was naked. According to Jackson’s complaint, Castro and Galindo illegally searched his locker, pulling out his medication and publicly humiliating him. The complaint alleges Castro pulled out medicine bottles from Jackson’s backpack that were prescribed by Dr. Nelda F. Akinbile, his psychiatrist, and yelled, “I got lithium over here!” Immediately after this, the complaint alleges Galindo Jr. said, “That’s all we need on this campus is some crazy ‘brotha’ roaming our campus up here on the north side.” The complaint goes on to allege that this harassment continued for 20 more minutes with Castro and Galindo searching through his belongings and attempting to go through his cell phone, with Galindo Jr. allegedly stating, “Maybe you should get to know the rules around here and stop complaining about a d—m cripple door.” According to the complaint, “On June 20 or 21, 2018… defendant Dave Merrill, Director of Campus Recreation, driving a silver-colored four-door sedan with black tire rims, wearing a blue shirt and white or tan pants, sped through ‘stop’
sign without stopping, and turned eastward through the crosswalk of the P.E.B. south parking lot entrance with only a few feet to spare, in front of the plaintiff… . Merrill responded sarcastically saying: ‘It’s a message to you, smart guy. “Stop with screwing with staff people and crying to Kerr about the handicap door not being turned by the staff. You don’t run s—t around here, all this disability accommodation bulls—t needs to stop. Have a nice day.’” Northeastern Illinois University, Galindo Jr., Castro and Merrill are all being represented by Husch Blackwell LLP. Jackson is being represented by Shaw Legal Services, Ltd. In an email to the Independent on Jan. 7, Jackson said, “I’m hopeful that NEIU students, staff, instructors campus police, and administrator will see my experiences as an opportunity to listen, learn and teach about the true meaning of: compassion, empathy, real diversity, understanding the daily challenges students have with disabilities and the lawful, meaningful access to NEIU programs, services, and activities students lawfully preserve.” Jackson is a senior at NEIU, majoring in inner city studies, minoring in social justice, has a 3.55 GPA and has 12 credit hours left to graduate with a bachelor’s degree. The next status hearing for Jackson V. Northeastern Illinois University is set for Feb. 6 at 9 a.m. The Independent will continue to follow and report on this event.
ATTENTION NEIU COMMUNITY: if you have a tip on something you would like us to investigate, please email: neiunewseditor@gmail.com
8 News | january 22, 2019
neiuIndependent.org
multi-level marketing on neiu campus (continued from page 2) ...$75 vendor table fee to Student Union. Speaking as to whether or not NEIU could determine what companies, even with questionable business practices, could vend at NEIU. Pierre stated, “We’re really not set up institutionally to to be the judge on that.” Pierre later stated there are students who have expressed concerns over VM. Director of Student Union, Kyle Burke, stated there are terms and conditions that businesses must comply with when vending in Student Union. Former salesman of VM, Matt Fischer, worked for Lewis from 2008 to approximately 2015. He said he loved the seven years he worked for VM but on why he left, he said, “I just got burned out after a while. I wanted to do other things.” While working for VM, Fischer sold Cutco’s knives. He said, “I started with people I knew first and then we branched off from there. My first summer I made 10-grand.” Fischer stated that when he started working at VM, their “most basic knife set” was $945. He said, “The Vector and Cutco warranty are phenomenal. If anything ever happened to your product you can ship it back to the company and they’ll fix it for, well, it depends on how it happened. They’ll either send you a new one for free or replace it for half the retail value.” VM doesn’t help any of their employees find clients and when asked if Fischer had any repeat clients, he said no; his new clients would generally come from referrals, and if they were clients he had before, they were requesting him to come sharpen their knives. When starting for VM, Fischer had to buy several inventory items such as his sample kit and a sharpener, which cost him more than $100. He said, “I wrote up orders after the customers saw
my sample kit. The sample kit was mine. That being said, I always had the opportunity to return the sample kit and get all my money back. I just never had to.” Fischer said he “never paid attention” if VM was a legitimate MLM or not because his goal while working at VM was to make money. It took two weeks for Lewis to provide the information for VM’s CRT, but said he would only connect the Independent with the CRT if it was a three-way call between involving him, the CRT and the Independent. A three-way call was scheduled for Dec. 17 but after several attempts to contact Lewis, the three-way call didn’t happen. Two days later on Dec. 19, the Independent reached out to VM’s Northshore Branch’s Pilot Sales Manager, Abiola Adun, who told the Independent he would call back after their VM holiday finished at 9 p.m.. Adun did not call back or pick
up any attempts to contact him. After further searching, the CRT did end up having a website: www.campusrelations.com. The Independent contacted VM’s CRT and was put in touch with Campus Recruiting Manager, Amanda Sahawneh, located in Arizona. In regard to being unable to contact Lewis, Sahawneh said, “I can shed a little bit of light into the situation. Obviously, the company encourages professionalism and communication. Danny’s role as a division manager is to run an office where he recruits, trains, and manages his sales representatives. I’m sure he probably just wasn’t sure exactly how to handle it. He did reach out to me and let me know and we were waiting on receiving your contact information. A lot of our representatives in our campus department has been traveling over the last two weeks. Not that that’s any excuse, of course, but just to give you a little insight into
the proper channels. I think he was waiting. He knew I was traveling. And I think he might have just been waiting ‘til I got back from my travels versus coming to me directly when you had reached out in order to set up that call.” Sahawneh said, “We work with campuses all across the nation and we’re part of the National Association of Colleges and Employers so it’s very important for us to make sure we adhere to all school policies and obviously to facilitate those relationships. So for us we don’t want to do anything to jeopardize those relationships and one of the first things we do is work with our career centers to find out policy.” She then stated VM representatives don’t have any forced quotas and instead are “very personal in our coaching and our managing of our sales representatives. So we would sit down with our sales representatives
to speak with them on what their particular personal goals and based off what they tell us we help them develop, you know, a guide to schedule into what their next action steps are. So we don’t necessarily terminate performance wise. The only time where there would be any termination with one of our sales reps is if there was a breach of integrity or of the representative agreement that they signed.” All VM employees must go through unpaid training. Sahawneh said, “As our representatives are independent contractors, again, I’d have to get the legal wording for you and because it’s different from state to state as far as policy, it’s not a set hourly wage so it’s very difficult to pay that out. “It is known to our representative when they come on board that what the training is like and it is in their contract as well that they understand. And it is stated in all of our interviews that the training is not paid. Also, it gets difficult because some classes over the country also utilize our sales training program as part of their school. “So, they require their students to go through that program as well. There’s two parts to our training as well. So, there’s the initial training time and then their practice appointments is also part of their training which they are paid for.”
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Opinions Gibson’s Silence on LWH Tells Us All We Need To Know January 22, 2019
9
Charles Sibbs Writer
As much as President Gibson would like to argue that the Lech Walesa Hall (LWH) issue is a complex one, it is not. Polish politician and Noble Peace Prize winner Lech Walesa has made a series of homophobic comments and refuses to apologize for them. His actions have made a major component of the NEIU student body feel unsafe and marginalized. It is the president’s duty to ensure the safety and well-being of all students at NEIU. She is failing in that charge. NEIU’s Executive Director of Institutional Research and Assessment, Blaise Masini, provided the following information about current student demographics: 5938
(73.3%) do not identify as LGBTQ; 441 (5.4%) identify as LGBTQ and 1724 (21.3%) did not answer the question on the application or they applied before we started asking (approx. fall 2014). Masini also said, “We don't have solid data on sexual orientation for two reasons. One, we have only been collecting it from new freshmen and new transfer students for a few years. Second, because the question is optional, many students opt out.” While we don’t have the clearest picture of how many NEIU students identify as LGBTQ, the fact is they make up a part of the student body, which makes NEIU special. Just because someone doesn’t identify themselves as LGBTQ, doesn’t mean they aren’t
negatively impacted by homophobia and bigotry. The truth is, even if no students identified as LGBTQ, which is statistically improbable, the hall’s name should be changed. Walesa’s words and deeds do not represent NEIU. I conducted a survey by asking thirty NEIU students if a building on campus was known as a homophobe should it be changed, 29 said yes, zero said no,and one was indifferent. That sample size shows a statistical majority. There is also the fact that former President Sharon Hahs vetoed the decision to change the name at the last minute. Students and faculty have asked for the name to change and for some reason the powers that be at NEIU refuse to acknowl-
edge them. Perhaps enrollment is low because NEIU doesn’t feel like a place that supports its students. Sometimes when you love something, it is important to be critical of it to ensure it continues to change for the better. Allowing the name of a man, whose harmful rhetoric has damaged countless lives, to be proudly displayed at our school is in opposition of everything NEIU is supposed to stand for. To not condemn Walesa and his words is showing support for what he has said. Silence is agreement and the silence from Gibson and her office is deafening.
“His actions have made a major component of the NEIU student body feel unsafe and marginalized. It is the president’s duty to ensure the safety and well-being of all students at NEIU. She is failing in that charge.”
HAVE AN OPINION? SHARE IT! SEND SUBMISSIONS TO: NEIUOPSEDITOR@GMAIL.COM
Executive Director of Institutional Research and Assessment, Blaise Masini, provided the following information about current student demographics: 5938 (73.3%) do not identify as LGBTQ; 441 (5.4%) identify as LGBTQ and 1724 (21.3%) did not answer the question on the application or they applied before we started asking (approx. fall 2014). Graphic by Amaris E. Rodriguez
JANUARY 22, 2019 | OPINIONS 10
neiuindependent.org
Why Do Celebrities Get Away With Sexual Assault?
Robert Kukla Arts & Life Editor
neiuartslifeeditor@gmail.com After Lifetime aired “Surviving R. Kelly,” a docuseries focusing on years of abuse, sexual assault and assault on minors performed by the famous singer, national outrage sparked. That anger has many people chanting and preaching “Mute R. Kelly.” But why
was nothing done when allegations surfaced years ago? We live in a society where, if you are in the right position, you can essentially get away with whatever you want. Depending on your fame, you will either be ostracized or given a free pass for a sex scandal. According to an article on the news website, Life Site, writer Jonathan
Van Maren wrote, “It’s been pointed out that the decision of progressives to give Bill Clinton a pass on credible rape allegations may have emboldened dozens of predators everywhere, since it gave them a simple, toxic message: If you hold the right positions on progressive issues, then you can do whatever you want.” In 2017, many male celebrities were
outed for the atrocities they committed, and rightfully so, were shunned from Hollywood. But even so, celebrity sex scandals have been occurring for years and these men were given free passes. When the former President Bill Clinton’s sex scandal broke out in 1998, Monica Lewinsky, an intern at the White House during Clinton’s administration, was the one who faced scrutiny over her sexual affair that occured with President Clinton. A lot of people were quick to blame her, rather than place blame on President Clinton for what should have been viewed as sexual harassment. It is sexual harassment, in the sense that Clinton abused his power and took advantage of Lewinski’s vulnerability. In an article by the National Review, Jonathan S. Tobin wrote, “Monica Lewinsky is entitled to hold
whose side to take when a sex scandal breaks out? I think it has a lot to do with the rape culture of our country. Society likes to victim blame whenever a scandal occurs. We hear it all the time with phrases like “she should have known better” or “she shouldn’t have been wearing that.” In regards to R. Kelly, people all over social media are targeting the victims saying that they are just making allegations to receive money from the singer. It is this victim blaming mentality that causes victims to be fearful of coming forward and speaking out against their predators. According to the Rape, Assault and Incest National Network (RAINN), out of 1000 sexual assaults, only 235 are reported and one of the top three reasons a victim doesn’t come forward is due to fear that the police wont do anything about it.
“According to the Rape, Assault and Incest National Network (RAINN), out of 1000 sexual assaults, only 235 are reported and one of the top three reasons a victim doesn’t come forward is due to fear that the police wont do anything about it.”
Singer R.Kelly at a Pre Grammy Party. Photo Credit: CreativeCommons
a grudge. No one, especially no one in their early 20s, should be subjected to the sort of scrutiny she faced as her affair with President Clinton exploded into a scandal of unprecedented proportions…She committed the sort of mistake that many young people have made, getting involved with a predatory employer. And since the man who exploited her foolishness happened to be the president of the United States, she became the focal point of an investigation into the moral abyss that was Bill Clinton’s White House.” So why do we pick and choose
As a society we need to change how we view celebrity sex scandals. They need to be taken more seriously. After news breaks regarding celebrity sex scandals people soon forget and move on to whatever the next big news story is. Now that the allegations have resurfaced regarding R.Kelly after all these years, we need to listen to the victims and actually do something about their reports, let them know we stand with them. Don’t just let it blow over like we did before. Don’t mute the victims, “Mute R. Kelly.”
January 22, 2019 | opinions 11
neiuindependent.org
golden perspectives: was ‘Birdbox’ a good movie? Will Jones
Assistant opinions Editor
NEIUOpsEditor@gmail.com
“I sat down and I realised my wife, my
“Personally, I liked the movie, “BirdBox,”
one true love, Sandra Bullock is in it.
because I thought about IT by itself. I
I think that’s why I like it a lot more
wasn’t personally comparing it to the
than some other people. She stole my
other movies that everyone saying
heart ever since “Miss Congeniality. “
that it is like. If you don’t compare it
My goodness! I personally like the
to The Happening, A Quiet Place or The
movie. It’s such an interesting concept,
Sixth Sense, I think it’s interesting. I
but I feel like they did not take it as
thought it was a great movie and I
far as they could’ve.”
would give it a great review online.”
- Michael DiVita, NEIU Student
- Elizabeth Carlson, NEIU Student
“I thought it was terrible to be honest. I thought the story was interesting. I
“At the end of the day, the movie had meaning to it. One thing I grabbed from it
thought they had a good idea of where they were going. The movie didn’t do a
was that you shouldn’t look back on the past and just focus on the present
good job with the details though. I thought there was something missing and
even if that means keeping your eyes closed and just focusing on what is
the ending was kind of stupid too. I would give it a 5, they overhyped it.”
really important.”
- Salvador Aragon, NEIU Student
- John Rayburn, NEIU Student
All PHOTOS BY ANGELICA SANCHEZ
neiuindependent.org
12 January 22, 2019
One CCICS Student’s Experience Kenisha Hoskins writer
Photo provided by Kenisha Hoskins. Used with permission.
I was starting a serious journey in my life; yet, it didn’t feel like it. During high school, I was labeled “at-risk.” I was the student considered less likely to transition into adulthood, have academic success, be job ready or be financially independent. In a way, I began to believe these things. What was my purpose in life? Who was I? These were questions I battled continuously with. In the alternative school setting, I wasn’t prepared for college or even given the resources to decide the next steps for my life. Jacob Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies (CCICS) helped me find that direction. Upon enrolling at NEIU, I started at CCICS. I enjoyed the energy and attention I received at orientation. The staff were very attentive and was excited about the new wave of students. A mentor of mine told me about CCICS so I checked it out; I had no idea what I wanted to major in. After taking a few courses in the Inner City Studies (ICS) program, I knew I wanted to major in the field. It was after enrolling in this program, I
began to learn more about my cultural background. I felt betrayed; I was robbed of my cultural knowledge during my entire high school experience. What did I really learn in high school? What did I know about being an African American woman in a world systematically built against me? The smaller class settings made lectures more intimate and dialogues more intense. With comprehensive academic advising, my advisor Nekenya Walker suggested I should double major. A undergraduate degree in ICS requires only 30 credit hours but would need 90 hours to graduate. This academic advice was very beneficial and helped me step outside my comfort zone as I dreaded having to travel up north to the main campus for class. I was grateful for the convenience of my entire course schedule being on the southside campus. CCICS was my safe space. I didn’t have to travel far or spend money on gas; I was winning. I soon realized I was cheating myself. After completing my classes for Inner City Studies, I began taking classes at the main campus. By that time, I already decided to major in communications, media and the-
atre. For me, it went hand-in-hand with my ICS degree. Jacob H. Carruthers expressed the importance of “researching the researcher,” and understanding that media does not always report on the behalf of the reported. It is important that people of color are in the midst of the driving forces behind media outlets. Reflecting back, I realize that I was scared. Scared of larger class sizes, diverse social interaction and most of all I was scared of failure. Currently I am a senior at NEIU. I am a double major in inner city studies and communications, media and theatre. I have a 3.94 GPA. Even though I was scared of larger class sizes, diverse social interaction and failure, CCICS prepared me for it all. Despite the Freshman Cohort Program being introduced fall 2019, in a way it has always been in effect. I am a prime example. I am a scholar that has grown both professionally and personally. Due to hands-on training and lectures from brilliant professors such as professor Kimya Barden, professor Lance Williams, professor Zada Johnson, professor Sunni Ali and professor Robert Starks, I am able to be more effective in my community.
attention CCICS and EL CENTRO STUDENTS: Are you a student at CCICS or El Centro? Do you enjoy writing? Join the Independent newspaper. We’re looking for writers to write for our opinions, news and arts and life sections! If interested in writing about your opinions, email: NEIUOpsEditor@gmail.com If interested in news writing and covering campus events, email: NEIUNewsEditor@gmail.com If you’re a movie, TV show, music, art or theatre lover and enjoy writing reviews send an email NEIUArtsLifeEditor@gmail.com
13
Arts & Life
‘aquaman’ gives redemption to dc universe franchise Alejandro Marroquin assistant a&L editor artslifeeditor@gmail.com As a comic book reader, I feel fortunate to live in a time where my favorite characters are being adapted to the big screen. As a lover of quality film making, the DC cinematic universe has left a sour taste in my mouth with “Wonder Woman” being the only exceptional movie they produced. To be honest, the “Aquaman” character has been the butt end of jokes and has been viciously mocked, which made a serious adaptation of him laughable. But with his introduction in “Justice League” as a “rad surfer bro,” left me wanting more. Right off the bat, “Aquaman” (2018) is stellar! I enjoyed everything about it, and honestly believe this movie is better than “Wonder Woman.” Strong performances from Jason Mamoa, Amber Heard, Nicole Kidman and Willem Dafoe offer the audience a good time in the theaters. The dynamic between Aquaman and Mera was a joy to watch; their dialogue scenes were executed well. Themes of duty, belonging and power are prevalent, as the film offers social commentary that viewers can relate to in the real world. James Wan is popular for directing horror movies, notably directing “Saw (2004),” “Insidi-
ous (2010),” and “The Conjuring (2013)” duology. What he does so brilliantly is pay homage to his horror background in the Trench scene. It involves darkness and sea monsters, offering jump scares. It’s pleasing when directors does such things and is consistent with his aesthetic. The movie is a visual masterpiece. I was astounded with what I was seeing. Watching the depths of the ocean and seeing what’s hidden deep within was magical. It’s by far DC’s brightest movie in terms of tone and color palette. Other entries in the DC universe pale in comparison to this film. I can see that de-aging technology is becoming a trend in Hollywood, and the film puts that technology to good use. Willem Dafoe was de-aged for a couple of scenes and the results were flawless. Overall, the computer generated imagery (CGI) was wonderful and puts other DC universe movies to shame. I felt conflicted with the run time; I felt that it is too long for its own good, but then I look back and see that every scene is vital to the structure. The great thing about “Aquaman” is that I was never bored watching it. Other than a bland soundtrack, especially Pitbull’s ridiculous Africa cover, the film is a must see in theaters, and a breath of fresh air from the inconsistency of the DC cinematic universe.
send your movie reviews to the arts and life editor: neiuartslifeeditor@gmail.com
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14 arts & life | January 22, 2019
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‘Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse’ Soars As Best Spider Man Movie Alejandro Marroquin assistant arts & life editor
neiuartslifeedior@gmail.com I hated the idea of an animated Spider-Man movie, especially for a character like Miles Morales. I would’ve prefered he have his own live-action movie because he’s Afro-Latino. I truly believe audiences need and want to see themselves portrayed in this popular genre. After the film’s promotional material was released and I saw the animation, Sony had my money. Directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey and Rodney Rothman, the film follows Miles Morales, a teenager living in Brooklyn, New York, whose life is turned upside down when he is bitten by a radioactive spider. On top of that, a dimension opening device traps other Spider themed heroes in his dimension. With the task of helping his new allies get back to their dimensions, Miles Morales must
learn to control his new found powers while saving everything he cares about. Morales is a relatively new character in comic book lore, making his debut in 2011. The character became really popular and already made appearances in tv shows and video games. Naturally, it was time for him to make his debut on the silver screen. The voice cast for this movie is stellar; Shameik Moore (Miles Morales), Jake Johnson (Peter B. Parker) and Hailee Steinfeld (Gwen Stacy) stood out. They feel authentic to the persona that they are playing, most notably Johnson. Appearing in the show “New Girl” and other comedy movies, the audience can see his personality translate into Peter B. Parker. The film’s biggest accomplishment is its animation. It’s unique, creative and is literal eye candy. Watching the movie is like opening a comic book, the tiniest details make their way
into the movie. t is just impressive seeing how committed they were to making this like a comic book. Art styles in comic books vary, and the movie takes full advantage of that. With the introduction of Spider-Man Noir (Nicolas Cage), Peni Parker (Kimiko Glenn) and Spider-Ham (John Mulaney), they all have different animation corresponding with their universe, for example, Peni is designed in anime fashion and is portrayed with a lot of attributes that an anime character has. Avid comic book fans will find themselves floored with the amount of easter eggs and references this movie has. As a comic book fan myself, I had the biggest smile on my face seeing details that would go over the general audiences’ heads. The film feels real and full of heart. It is a coming-of-age tale about power and responsibility. The film also deals with themes of adaptation and loss. Loss is prevalent through the entire-
‘bumblebee’ transforms movie franchise Alejandro Marroquin assistant arts & life editor
neiuartslifeedior@gmail.com Michael Bay destroyed any enjoyment I had for the “Transformers” franchise. His first film, “Transformers” (2007) is the only tolerable one. When word got out that “Bumblebee” was going to be released, I rolled my eyes because I refused to see anything involved in that universe. Admittedly, the trailer won me over, and so did this movie. Off the success of his directorial debut, “Kubo and the Two Strings,” Travis Knight does something Michael Bay couldn’t do in five films: make an amazing “Transformers” movie. It has been a good month for Hailee Steinfeld. Having provided the voice for Spider-Gwen in “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” she again has the opportunity to shine in this film.
ty of the film, portraying how it can leave someone defeated but also inspire hope in life’s darkest moments. What makes this movie great is that it’s weird, and not in a bad way. It takes risks and the end result is that
it becomes one of the best superhero movies ever. Overall, the movie is a must see and one of the best films of the year. It’s filled with comedy, action and heartfelt moments that are more than worth the price of admission.
Dealing with the loss of her father and having to spend her 18th birthday without him, Charlie Watson comes across the Autobot who would come to be known as Bumblebee. On the run from two Decepticons from his wartorn planet of Cybertron, Bumblebee must protect himself and his new companion from the Decepticons and Sector 7, a government agency led by John Cena’s Col. Jack Burns. It felt incredibly refreshing to have a Transformers movie that actually had a story and characters that I actually care about. The story was really heartwarming, as I got to see two characters who are lost, in their own way, come together and develop a special bond. Dealing with the themes of loss and perseverance, Knight does an incredible job of getting a great performance out of Hailee Steinfeld, whose character can be easily relatable to those who have lost someone dear to them. John Cena has been on a role lately,
having starred in “Blockers” earlier in the year. One thing I would give the “Transformers” franchise credit for is their stunning visuals and CGI, and “Bumblebee” is no different. A lot of fans will appreciate the original design of the Transformers, from the TV series in the 80’s, make an appearance, as it rises the nostalgia levels. The action in the movie was really great as well, I felt like a kid again watching this iteration of Transformers duking it out. I watched the first “Transformers” movie when it first came out in 2007, and I loved it for what it was. The older I got, my opinion changed, but watching “Bumblebee” gave me the same feeling of excitement I had when I was an 11 year old kid. Overall, “Bumblebee” is an incredibly fun, action packed and heartwarming film that is definitely worth a watch for general movie goers and especially for fans of the 80’s series.
January 22, 2019 | arts&Life 15
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Seeds Corner
Artist: zahra sajwani
Photo of transgender pride flag. used under Creative Commons license.
transworks lAUNCHES BOOK ON GENDER Robert Kukla arts & life editor neiuartslifeeditor@gmail.com On Jan. 11, my favorite book store in Chicago, Women and Children First, hosted a poetry reading sponsored by the nonprofit TransWorks. TransWorks is an organization that provides mentorship and employment assistance to individuals who identify as transgender or non-binary. Some members of the organization were present at the event and performed their own poetry at the mic. The readers included Angelina Nordstrom, Bex, Carolyn Leach, Casper Hanney, Cassie, Latham and Mara Williamson; all of which either identify as transgender or non-binary. Women and Children First had copies of TransWork’s book for purchase; the proceeds going to the organization. In the books’ acknowledgements, it says, “We celebrate the mentors and mentees who have made this cohort meaningful and whose many visions of life fill these pages. Your words are reminders, beacons, and prophecies, and we have been so fortunate to read them.”
One poem that stuck with me from the event was “Surpassing Certainty” by Casper Hanney. Hanney writes, “I am fluid in my skin / I exist from one / to / next / in this I find comfort. / Gender connects and / disconnects / I am a sailor on the breath of exploration / diving into the seas of masculinity / yet the white peaks of the waves / are my French nails of womanhood.” The imagery was powerful even though I identify as cisgender. I felt it captured the mind of Casper, who identifies as non-binary, and what it must feel like to feel like you don’t belong in your own body. The biggest thing I gathered from the event was something I’ve always felt as being a member of the LGBTQ+ community, even if I didn’t know anyone in the room, it always feels like being with family. I don’t know any of the readers, but hearing their words and hearing their love for one another felt like being part of a big, happy family. Events like this one are important because it gives people an opportunity to be heard, and to express themselves and it is great to know that there is a book store in Chicago allowing these events to happen. Women and Children First is located in the Andersonville neighborhood at 5233 N. Clark.
“Distorted Vision,” a visual poem.
“Feeble Flame,” a visual art piece.
