NYU’s Independent Student Newspaper | est. 1973

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Monday, Febrary 12, 2018

Volume L, Issue 4

ARTS

FEATURES

OPINION

SPORTS

‘Black Panther’ Breaks Barriers On Screen and Off

Tech and Creativity Fuse in New Tisch Program

Liberate NYU Liberal Studies

Sporting Love: The Couples of NYU Athletics

ON PAGE 6

ON PAGE 10

ON PAGE 11

ON PAGE 5

NYU RECOGNIZES TODAY’S REVOLUTIONS at 50th MLK Week with Spike Lee

By ALESHA BRADFORD Staff Writer

During NYU’s 50th annual Martin Luther King Jr. week, social justice activists in fields ranging from journalism to comedy came together to emphasize a singular message — the revolution started by MLK is far from over. The campus-wide showcase, “The Revolution is Now,” drew a full house

Thursday night at the Skirball Center for Performing Arts. Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Diversity Initiatives Monroe France serves as chairperson for the MLK Week committee. He said that everyone has a role in making MLK’s dreams for social justice a reality. “Our hope [is] to inspire the whole university — and especially our students — to determine what their role is

in making a difference in the spirit of Martin Luther King and all the social justice trailblazers that have come before us and to continue the work to liberate all of us,” France said in an interview with WSN. “To engage in social change, to engage in our communities to make a difference through intersectional-intergenerational coalition of making a difference here in NYU and also more broadly in our world.”

The event began with a welcome and introduction by France before President Andrew Hamilton took the stage to award the 2018 NYU Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award to film director, Tisch School of the Arts professor and alumnus Spike Lee. “So often when our great people die, they try to sanitize them,” Lee said in his acceptance speech. “The radical stuff, they don’t want you to know

PHOTO BY ALESHA BRADFORD

about those speeches. They don’t talk about Dr. King being one of the first people to say the Vietnam War was immoral. They don’t focus on the poor people’s campaign. They don’t talk about why he was in Memphis when he got assassinated. He was there for the sanitation men, brothers who were on strike.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 2|

Hamilton Admits University Bungled NYUAD Visa Denials By MACK DEGEURIN News Editor

Nearly four months have passed since NYU Journalism Professor Mohamad Bazzi went public about his visa denial to teach at NYU Abu Dhabi — a denial, that he claims, was predicated by religious discrimination from the United Arab Emirates Government. Since then, another tenured professor has opened up about his own visa denial, multiple national news

outlets have reported on department boycotts of NYUAD and a swarm of educational and activist groups have written critical letters to NYU’s president. Nine NYU departments have also come out in defense of the two professors. In January, the Faculty Committee on NYU’s Global Network — which is made up of over 30 NYU professors, faculty member and student senators — drafted a statement addressed to NYU administrators summarizing the commu-

nity’s concerns and listed seven points of contention. Throughout the entirety of this process, the university has remained predominantly silence to the public. On Friday, that silence ended. In an email sent out to NYU faculty members, Hamilton acknowledged that NYU mishandled its internal communication with professors and laid out several new measures aimed at improving mobility within the global network. “In these two cases, we were

deficient in our communications to the individuals involved, and I regret that this exacerbated an already difficult situation.” Hamilton wrote in the email. “I am consequently committed to immediately improving how we deal with future cases.” Hamilton’s initiative was in direct response to the seven point requests laid out by the Faculty Committee on NYU’s Global Network. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2| COURTESY OF NYU.EDU

Washington Square News | Monday, February 12, 2018

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NEWS

Edited by Sakshi Venkatraman and Mack DeGeurin news@nyunews.com

NYU Honors Spike Lee, Recognizes Today’s Revolutions at 50th MLK Week | CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Lee ended his speech with a call to action — and to education. “You all have phones, go to a library over here, get the information and educate yourself,” Lee said. “Don’t go for the okie dokie.” After Lee’s acceptance speech, NYU alumna, musician, poet, activist and educator Amy León awed the audience with her combination of soft piano and powerful vocals. Her musical performance was immediately followed by the main discussion among three panelists prominent in today’s activism. Journalist and television commentator Clay Cane asked panelists Charles Blow, Amanda Seales and Munroe Bergdorf about experiences and struggles in their activism through their respective mediums, along with their thoughts on how social media, liberal racism and today’s political landscape affect modern revolution. The discussion ended by stressing the responsibility of younger generations to continue King’s work by actively carrying on the revolution. “Our hope is that, from participating in programs, engaging in dialogue, from the interactions that we have throughout the week that people really are motivated to show up and to determine what their role is helping us to find liberation for all people,” France said to WSN. “Especially for those that are most marginalized throughout our society and across the globe.” Another MLK week program, “Forgotten. Remembered. Reimagined,” was designed to allow stu-

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dents to do just that. The event was hosted in the NYU Center for Multicultural Education and Programs on Wednesday. This roundtable discussion analyzed past revolutions in an attempt to contextualize those of the present day. Before the discussion started, students were encouraged to define revolution in their own words before reading their definitions aloud to compare everyone’s different interpretations. Some definitions were as simple as “change” and “commitment” while others spoke of drawing power through a collective group or through “kinetic energy”— the power of movement. Students were then divided into three groups that focused on either the Haitian revolution, the revolution of queer culture or the revolution of indigenous land resistance. In each of these circles, one of the MLK Week committee members gave a brief history of the particular revolution, and students explored its obstacles, outcomes and significance. After these individual discussions, everyone reconvened to talk about what they learned. A recurring theme in the debrief was that revolution requires shifting power from the oppressors to the revolutionists, often through the use of force. Secondly, revolution fundamentally requires perseverance, commitment and determination. At the end of the discussion, students were encouraged to apply what they had learned in the context of those specific revolutions to current social issues, such as gentrification, sexual assault and un-

even distribution of resources. Steinhardt graduate student and CMEP staff member Danialie Fertile challenged all who attended to think pragmatically, not just academically, about the implications of the event. “How can we connect these conversations to see that it’s bigger than the communities that we’re in?” Fertile said. “How do we zoom out and say ‘I’m not the only one experiencing this and I’m more powerful with another group if I recognize that they also need help?’” Email Alesha Bradford at news@nyunews.com.

CRIME LOG

Student Assaulted by Partner in Weinstein Residence Hall By ALEX DOMB Deputy News Editor

accord. Police notification was declined, and the case has been closed.

From Feb. 4 to Feb. 10, the NYU Department of Public Safety received two reports of controlled substance violations, two reports of disorderly conduct, one report of harassment, three reports of larceny and one report of simple assault.

HARASSMENT

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE VIOLATION On Jan. 5 at 12:10 a.m., an NYU resident assistant reported that he recovered alcohol from a dormitory room while he was doing rounds in Alumni Residence Hall. Police notification was declined, and the case was referred to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards. On Jan. 6 at 3:50 p.m., Public Safety responded to a report of an alleged controlled substance violation in Founders Residence Hall and recovered a small amount of marijuana from the residence. The case was referred to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT

PHOTO BY ALESHA BRADFORD

Students discussing and critiquing the Queer Revolution, at “Revolution: Forgotten Remembered Reimagined” one of the MLK Week Events.

On Feb. 4 at 6:55 a.m., a member of Public Safety reported disorderly conduct due to intoxication in Weinstein Residence Hall. A police report was filed, and the case has been referred to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards. On Feb. 6 at 4:25 p.m., Public Safety responded to a report of a disorderly patient in the NYU Dental Center. The patient left on their own

On Feb. 6 at 4:15 p.m., an NYU student reported being followed by his partner without his consent between Rubin Residence Hall and Weinstein. Police notification was declined, and the case has been referred to Title IX officers.

LARCENY On Feb. 4 at 10:39 a.m., an NYU student reported that she was pickpocketed on Bleecker Street. Police notification was declined, and the case is open and under investigation. On Feb. 5 at 9:55 a.m., an NYU staff member reported that a Microtome Blade was missing from her desk at the Dental Center. A police report was taken, and the case is open and under investigation. On Feb. 8 at 9:20 p.m., an NYU student reported that his wallet was missing from the second floor lounge at Third Avenue North Residence Hall. Police notification was declined, and the case is open and under investigation.

SIMPLE ASSAULT On Feb. 6 at 4:15 p.m., an NYU student reported being pushed and hit by her partner in Weinstein. Police notification was declined, and the case has been referred to Title IX officers. Email the News Team at news@nyunews.com.

Hamilton Admits University Bungled NYUAD Visa Denials | CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

The committee asked NYU to acknowledge that these visa denials were a widespread problem, requested the appointment of a point person to answer concerns regarding NYU’s global network and asked for better communication between faculty members on issues of academic freedom. They also requested a reevaluation of the university’s Global Mobility Report so as to clearly indicate the number of visa denials and to identify any potential trends. According to Hamilton’s email, faculty members who experience issues regarding their visa status will immediately receive notification from their home campus’ provost. Hamilton said that NYU will also install a point person, as per the committee’s requests. “The provost will also connect the faculty member to Josh Taylor, Associate Vice Chancellor, Global Programs and Mobility Services, who has recently taken on supervision of the Office of Global Services, which handles student and

scholar mobility in New York,” Hamilton wrote. “[Taylor] will become a day-today point of contact for the faculty member as his or her visa application continues to work its way through the system.” Hamilton also said NYU would post clear procedures and timelines for visa applications. Each of these new measures are to be enacted immediately. While Hamilton said he did not believe either Bazzi or Middle Eastern Studies Associate Professor Arang Keshavarzian represented security threats, he would not affirm that the two were denied visas as a result of religious discrimination. “While there has been much speculation about why our two faculty members were denied entry into the UAE, we simply don’t know,” Hamiton said in an email. In a phone interview with WSN several days before Hamilton’s email, Bazzi stressed the importance to identify the denial as a form of discrimination. “I did not pull these concerns of religious discrimination out of thin air,” he said. “Bazzi, who spent one semester

teaching in Abu Dhabi in 2012 as a ‘consultant,’ said he had been informed years ago by then-Senior Provost for Global Faculty Development Ron Robin that his Shiite religion would pose issues. Bazzi said that he had stayed silent on this for years hoping NYU would improve the situation. After having his visa denied this year and hearing of other professors experiencing similar problems, he decided to speak out.” Neither Bazzi nor Keshavarzian were immediately available to comment on the contents of Hamilton’s email. While it remains to be seen how efficiently NYU will administer these new changes, several members of the Faculty Committee are pleased. “I was very pleased with the memo,” Faculty Committee Co-Chair and Professor of Russian Eliot Borenstein wrote in an email to WSN. “[Hamilton] clearly took the Faculty Committee’s recommendations to heart, and I look forward to having the committee continue to work with the administration on improving processes surrounding mobility at

the university.” NYU Professor of Drama and English and Faculty Committee member Una Chaudhuri also said she was she was satisfied with Hamilton’s response. “As a member of the Faculty Committee on the Global Network, I am very pleased with President Hamilton’s detailed, specific and practical response to our committee’s recommendations,” Chaudhuri said. “This reassures me that NYU’s administration is listening to faculty concerns and ideas as our university pursues its ambitious and important vision of a genuinely global dimension to our educational program.” Committee member Sylvain Cappell, who teaches mathematics and is on the Faculty Senators council, told WSN that even though these changes were unlikely to solve all the issues regarding mobility, he still was impressed with the outcome. “This won’t forestall all problems, [like] those occasionally imposed by governments of the states in which NYU has campuses.” Cappell said. “But I hope it leads to more coherent, coordinated and

hopefully ultimately successful NYU responses to challenges to freedom of academic mobility.” And while most of the committee members who spoke to WSN appeared in agreement, at least one member of the committee refused to include his name on the committee recommendations. In an interview with NYU Local, Physics Professor and Faculty Committee on Global Mobility Member Matthew Kleban said he held reservations on the committee’s statement. “I thought it came across as a little bit too much as if we’re apologists for NYUAD,” he said. “I think it’s clearly a serious problem for NYU’s global network that faculty from one portal cannot travel to another.” NYU Journalism Director Ted Conover was not immediately available for comment. Additional reporting by Alex Domb. Email Mack DeGeurin at mdegeurin@nyunews.com.

Washington Square News | Monday, Feburary 12, 2018

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NEWS

Edited by Sakshi Venkatraman and Mack DeGeurin news@nyunews.com

Cuomo Proposes Tax for Properties Near Subway By CLAIRE TIGHE Contributing Writer

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo recently proposed that owners of property close to the subway should face a tax increase to fund Metropolitan Transportation Authority improvement projects. The proposal is the latest effort to create revenue for the overburdened, underfunded transportation system. But the potential impact on renters — among them NYU students — is unclear. In January, Cuomo presented his executive budget for 2019, which suggests that the city of New York shoulder a significant portion of the cost for much-needed repairs of the MTA. The proposed property tax would leverage the increase in property value that owners experience as the subway system around them improves. As a tax-exempt organization, NYU would not be directly affected by the proposed property tax but the impact on students, especially those living in off-campus housing, could be significant. “This should have been done long ago,” said John Falcocchi, professor of transportation plan-

ning and engineering at the Tandon School of Engineering. In a study he completed last fall with fellow Tandon professor Constantine Kontokosta, Falcocchio suggested property owners near existing subways should help fund the MTA because they benefit from its service. As for the proposed legislation, the remaining question is how property owners would afford the increase and if they would increase their rents because of the tax. “I think it’s a great idea,” said Jessica Saab, a CAS senior who lives off campus in Brooklyn. “The only negative is that higher property tax will pass on to residents.” Saab thinks that increasing rents would likely further the city’s gentrification and force students to move further away from campus. “[The tax] would definitely push the rents up and push students further and further out,” she said. Saab predicted that students might consider moving to areas of Brooklyn where the rent might be more affordable. “It’s a tricky balance to keep it equitable,” Saab said. “If the city could plan it so it wouldn’t affect lower income people who are in

the midst of struggling to stay in the city, that would be great.” Hassaan Qazi, a Tandon freshman, said the property tax proposal is long overdue. “It is a good thing that the governor is moving in this direction,” he said. “I say this while I’m completely aware of the fact that this probably means I have to pay a higher rent when I move off campus. But I believe the benefits outweigh the costs.” Qazi said that one part of the proposal should be a stricter form of rent control to help renters who already struggle to afford New York City. Rent stabilized apartments near campus would be one way for students to catch a financial break. “As a student, I would want to live close to a subway,” said CAS senior Mariana Castro who lives off-campus in StuyTown. “Increasing the rent — that’s already absurd — is something that would not be sustainable. But StuyTown wouldn’t be as affected as other buildings that are not rent-controlled.” CAS senior Bryan Kachakji currently lives on campus but wants to find an apartment in New

PHOTO BY SAM KLEIN

The entrance to the 168th Street Subway Station.

York City after graduation. A potential increase in cost of living would change his outlook on staying in the city. “Tuition is already so much — rent is so much,” he said. “People might start to think, ‘Should

I just move home when the prices become too much?’ Everyone has their point at which they ask if New York is worth it anymore.” Email Claire Tighe at news@nyunews.com.

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ARTS

nyunews.com Edited by Ryan Mikel arts@nyunews.com

Zadie Smith Talks New Book ‘Feel Free’ By ALEX CULLINA Contributing Writer

“It’s a profound misunderstanding of what life is for,” Zadie Smith said last Thursday, speaking about the nature of celebrity and those who strive for it. “What are you aspiring to?” she asked. Smith was speaking in conversation with Doreen St. Félix, a staff writer for The New Yorker, about her new book of essays, “Feel Free.” The talk, at the Barnes & Noble on 82nd Street and Broadway, covered a wide range of topics in her essays, including, but not limited to: authenticity, the writing process, the old guard of hip-hop, Billie Holiday impersonations, the internet, Brexit and Justin Bieber. An acclaimed novelist, essayist and short story writer, Smith has been a professor at NYU’s Creative Writing Program since 2010. “Feel Free,” her second essay collection and her first book since 2016’s “Swing Time,” contains pieces written between 2009 and 2017 for a variety of publications, including The New Yorker and The New York Review of Books, as well as previously unpublished work.

VIA TWITTER.COM

British novelist and NYU Professor Zadie Smith.

St. Félix, in her questions to Smith, called “Feel Free” “a book about process” and processing the world that “embraces ambivalence.” Discussing one of the most famous essays in the collection, 2010’s “Generation Why?” the conversation moved towards the role of the Internet in society, how it has changed since she wrote the piece and why she’s not on social media. “If I’m online, it takes up my entire day,” she said. “I like that space of [independence and freedom].” Turning toward the idea of identity as a place of authority, Smith discussed fellow NYU professor Kwame Anthony Appiah’s concept of the Medusa Syndrome. Smith referenced conversations she had with Appiah, a professor in NYU’s Department of Philosophy, to describe the ways that, in having one’s identity recognized, “something which was ambiguous, ambivalent and moving, becomes frozen in place.” She cited the idea or stereotype of the “righteous black female subject” and how that influences how her students see and interact with her. “I’m not interested in the pedestal,” she said. “I want to be a human being.” Moving to politics, Smith talked about her experience lunching at the White House with President Obama and several other prominent writers. “His presence makes you feel peaceful,” she said. “If asked, I wouldn’t have said he was a politician, I would have said he was a writer.” Smith’s extemporaneous, spoken voice is much the same as the one her written work is known for. She was incisive, thoughtful, a little cutting and extremely funny. Email Alex Cullina at books@nyunews.com.

NYUAD Exhibit Comes to Washington Square

show a different side of their lives. They are far more sombre, capturing open wounds from stunning angles. The fine photographs, especially in black and white, present poignant conundrums. In one of the photographs, a girl stands innocently with a loudspeaker pressed to her mouth, with other young girls lined up behind her and a man hovering over her. Another photograph shows a man’s reflection in the rear view mirror of his motorbike, driving along a wide road in the middle of rolling fields with a group of lean men walking down one side. The very placement of the photographs in the exhibition room gives the viewer a sense of place. The black and white photographs mirror the color photographs, and seem to give the bright colors their shadow. The aim of the exhibition is to present the life of the Yemeni refugees with dignity and represent them in the way they wish to be represented. This wish itself can raise questions, making one wonder if it is indeed a wish to conceal the harrowing truth and continue to subsist on hope and love. Looking outside at the Washington Square Park from the sunlit room of the NYUAD exhibit makes one realize the alterity of Djibouti’s reality. The old and young, the happy and sad and the made and unmade merge in these heart-wrenching photographs, directing and calling for the lens of the world.

COURTESY OF NADIA BENCHALLAL

A photo by Nadia Benchallal currently on display at 19 Washington Square North as part of a new photography exhibit portraying refugee life in Djibouti. The exhibition will be on display until May 30.

By DEVANSHI KHETARPAL Staff Writer

A new photography exhibit portraying refugee life in Djibouti from NYU Abu Dhabi opened at 19 Washington Square North on Feb. 4. The photographs on display represent the work of professional photographer Nadia Benchallal, Yemeni refugees in Djibouti, NYUAD professor Nathalie Peutz and her students. The twin exhibition in Abu Dhabi opened on Feb. 4 at the Project Space on the Saadiyat Island campus. Djibouti, a small country in the Horn of Africa with a population of nearly 950,000, has taken in over 4,500 Yemeni refugees. A refugee camp called Marzaki hosts

approximately 1,200 refugees, while others live in Djibouti City. While their lives in Djibouti are largely unknown, this photography project, as well as the research and studies conducted on-site by the faculty and students of NYUAD, has helped to uncover various aspects of the situation Yemeni refugees are in. On the left side of the exhibition are black and white photographs, whereas color family portraits are on the right. The color portraits are immensely surprising. Their subjects are posing for the camera, and in several portraits –– one sees smiling, unscarred and hopeful faces –– in blithe albeit discomforting contrast with their surroundings. Some of the black and white photographs, however,

Email Devanshi Khetarpal at arts@nyunews.com.

Peter Hujar: A Lover and a Fighter By JEMIMA MCEVOY Editor-in-Chief

The Whitney Museum of American Art, the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art should all watch their backs because there’s a new kid on the block –– the Morgan Library & Museum. Well, it’s more of a long-time neighbor who you never really knew existed, but nonetheless, this historic building and its fine art, literature and music are all too often overlooked by NYU students sticking to the popular names in the museum scene. The Morgan is currently hosting an exhibit, “Peter Hujar: Speed of Life,” which will run until May 20. This collection of photographs, curated by Joel Smith, chronicles the works of Peter Hujar — an influential photographer whose art is predominantly associated with the public unfolding of gay life in downtown New York City between the 1969 Stonewall uprising and the AIDS crisis of the ’80s. Hujar himself died of AIDS-re-

lated pneumonia at the age of 53. Despite his life spanning only a handful of decades, Hujar’s legacy has ticked onward over time. Whether it be in the form of his monograph, “Portraits in Life and Death,” or the collection of nudes,

candid photos of city life and intimate profiles that dominate the Morgan exhibit, his photographs have remained relevant to this day. Walking around the exhibit, I caught glimpses of my own experience in New York — haunting black and white depic-

PHOTO BY JEMIMA MCEVOY

A current photography exhibition at the Morgan Library & Museum features work by Peter Hujar, who documented New York City gay life from the 1969 Stonewall Uprising to the AIDS crisis of the 1980s.

tions of corners of the city I’ve visited and snapshots of the expressions of joy and hurt that have been worn by the people around me. Hujar’s overarching tendency to capture the unconventionally attractive leaves visitors feeling oddly comforted and more in tune with the universal human experience. Hujar’s own story and character exude from the collection –– so much so that looking at certain prints feels like intruding on a private moment. One specific picture of his parents, standing uncomfortably next to one another, reads like retribution. Hujar moved away from home at 16 because his mother, Rose Murphy, couldn’t reconcile herself with her son’s homosexuality. He never forgave her. In the photograph, Hujar’s parents stand meek and wideeyed. It feels like a shift in power and an effort to relieve the anguish of years of rejection. He was very much governed by his emotions — both in his life and in his art — and was constantly seeking

the approval and recognition of the art community, despite a carefree bohemian appearance. Hujar vocalized his frustration with photographers like Robert Mapplethorpe, who he thought promoted only idealized bodies but received copious attention. Surrounded by stars like Andy Warhol and Susan Sontag in his personal life, Hujar wanted the same level of recognition for his own art but held few of his own shows and didn’t attract the attention of the press. Seeing his work, it’s hard to fathom his insecurity and constant desire for attention. His photographs are powerful and meaningful, and they drip with history, sex and aesthetic appeal. But without the context of Hujar as person, part of the pictures’ power would be lost. It was the artistic struggle of wanting fame while portraying the opposite that defined his career and makes his work significant. Email Jemima McEvoy at jmcevoy@nyunews.com.

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ARTS

Edited by Ryan Mikel arts@nyunews.com

‘Black Panther’ Breaks Barriers On Screen and Off By ZULEYMA SANCHEZ Deputy Social Media Editor

VIA TWITTER.COM

Movie poster for Marvel Studio’s “Black Panther.” Even before its Feb. 16 release date, the movie has already broken Fandango’s ticket sale record with advance tickets sales.

Marvel’s latest superhero story hasn’t yet hit theaters, but it’s already catalyzing change for all future films of its genre. Audiences have been pushing for diversity in their favorite franchises for a long time, and it seems that major studios are finally taking note. From Patty Jenkins’ “Wonder Woman” to Diego Luna’s induction into ‘Star Wars,’ more people are getting the opportunity to see themselves represented as main members of the most prolific on-screen universes. “Black Panther” isn’t slated for release until Feb. 16, but its impact has already been felt by audiences and studios alike. The film boasts a 98 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes and has outsold every preceding superhero film in advanced ticket sales, according to Fandango. com. This anticipation can be attributed to many things — including Marvel’s devoted fanbase — but to ignore the aspects of the film that diversify it from its predecessors would be to downplay the importance of diversification in the media as a whole. Often, when discussing the relationship between race representation and media, criticism arises when the representation feels contrived. Audiences can sense when a studio doesn’t wholeheartedly support a diversity push because significantly less marketing and budget is allocated to it than to other projects. Marvel, contrarily, spared no expense and devoted $200 million to bring Wakanda to life –– a budget comparable to successes like “The Avengers” or

“Captain America.” Instead of trying to mask the narrative’s roots in black culture, Marvel chose to surround the project with black artists, including award winning filmmaker Ryan Coogler, Academy Award Winning actress Lupita Nyong’o and Grammy Award Winning rapper Kendrick Lamar, who made significant contributions to the film’s soundtrack. The film is also being released during Black History Month and features a predominantly black cast — the first film of this scale to do so. By choosing to treat diversity as an inextricable part of the movie’s production, Marvel ensures that the universe will feel honest and authentic. Additionally, the preemptive praise and excitement proves that diversity and differentiation will help prevent the superhero genre — which has become fairly standardized — from becoming irrelevant. NYU students and professors echo the industry’s demonstrated positive inclinations toward the film. Tisch Professor and Chief Film Critic at IndieWire Eric Kohn tweeted support for “Black Panther” on Jan. 30. “#BlackPanther is riveting on many levels: visually astonishing, but more importantly, so unpredictable. Incredible to watch a major blockbuster celebrate blackness while exploring its relationship to various facets of pop culture. ‘Stop scaring me,’ colonizer!” #wakanda4ever,” Kohn said in a tweet. Tisch junior Jeremy Lawrence reinforces the notion that diversity seems to be an advantage for “Black Panther.” “It looks like a serious deviation from every other Marvel movie so far, which

makes me more excited for it,” Lawrence said. “So far everyone I’ve talked to seems excited too.” To be clear, “Black Panther” is a movie that needed to be made not because it deserves to be, but because it is the kind of story that has been denied to audiences for a long time. It is an instance in film history where black characters not only take the stage but are given the stage with the support of other black creators. While this may feel like a step forward in a changing industry, some are still skeptical as to whether the change happened organically. “What Hollywood was doing before worked well enough for hollywood –– money-wise, at least –– and they wouldn’t really have had a reason to change anything unless people who cared said there was a problem,” Lawrence said, pointing out that change stemmed from the will of the audience. By championing films that celebrate diversity, audiences inform studios that diversity in film shouldn’t be considered a risk. Producers have a responsibility to create better and more inclusive content just as consumers have a right to expect and demand more from the content being produced. Movies have always been about reaching and touching audiences, and if companies want to keep and expand viewership, they owe it to viewers of all races, sexes, genders and identities to be included as essential members of the stories being told. “Black Panther” opens in theaters on Feb. 16. Email Zuleyma Sanchez at film@nyunews.com.

MoMA Welcomes Paintings by Tarsila do Amaral By EUGENIA CARDINALE Contributing Writer

Brazilian painter Tarsila do Amaral was born in São Paulo, where she studied piano, sculpture and drawing. In 1920, she moved to Paris to study at Académie Julian, a private art school for painting and sculpture. An exhibit focusing on Amaral’s life and career, “Tarsila do Amaral: Inventing Modern Art in Brazil,” opened at the Museum of Modern Art on Feb. 11. This exhibition focuses on her famous work beginning in the 1920s, during which she was a part of both the São Paulo and Paris art spheres. Amaral played a critical role in the emergence of modernism in Brazilian art. With her artwork, Amaral aimed to represent common themes of Brazilian culture. Themes in her pieces include bright colors, clean lines and bold shapes. Elenne Carroll and Grace Steite, MoMA members who attended a special after hours preview of the exhibit, expressed how they were impressed by Amaral’s use of colors and were especially drawn to her piece “O Lago” (1928). One piece that reflected these themes was “Manacá” (1927). This

oil on canvas painting gets its name from the manacá flower, which is found in Amazonian regions and is native to Brazil. The bright purple and pink flower is painted beautiful with simple and clean lines. The shape of each petal is rounded perfectly, and the stem of the flower resembles a cactus. This piece reflects the importance of nature and bright colors in Amaral’s work, as she aimed to express themes native to Brazil. The theme of nature in Amaral’s pieces did not go unnoticed by Tracy Boachie, another spectator of the exhibit during a preview event. “I really like the depiction of nature; that’s what I’m paying attention to as I’m going through this exhibition,” Boachie said. Amaral had a vital involvement in an artistic movement inspired by the Manifesto of Anthropophagy, or the Cannibal Manifesto. Inspired by her piece “Abaporu” (1928), Amaral’s husband Oswald de Andrade transformed the motif of cannibalism into a symbol for taking in or “ingesting” European art into his practice. He wanted to create a new style of art that was unique to Brazil. “Abaporu” became the face of the movement, as the title means “a man who eats human flesh.” “Abaporu,” is featured in this ex-

hibit along with sketches of the work in ink. It is fascinating to see the original versions of such a significant piece of art, and the process in which Amaral reached her final version which led a movement. MoMA employee Justin Nissley eplained that Amaral’s work was monumental because of her take on cubism and surrealism. “She was using elements of cubism and surrealism,” Nissley said. “She’s using her voice, the Brazilian voice, with the tools of surrealism and cubism.” Later in Amaral’s career, she moved from general themes of Brazilian culture to a focus on political activism. This change is specifically reflected in her work “Operários” (1933). The coloring is darker than her other pieces, the lines are less sharp and the faces are more detailed. Her other pieces include simple shapes and less detailed faces and people. This piece leans away from the cubism, and toward a more lifelike depiction of the people portrayed. This exhibit is a must-see. Amaral is an important modern Latin American artist, who deserves more exposure in the United States The art pieces are bright and colorful and evoke happiness, while also urging spectators to

PHOTO BY EUGENIA CARDINALE

“Manacá” (1927) by Brazilian painter Tarsila do Amaral displayed at the MoMA.

think about serious issues and delve into Brazilian culture. This exhibit is an educational experience, from learning about anthropophagy to learning about basic imagery found throughout Brazil; it is phenomenal. “I think it’s important to have

her shown here, [as an example of providing] exposure for female artists who haven’t had a lot of exposure,“ Nissley said. Email Eugenia Cardinale at arts@nyunews.com.

Washington Square News | Monday, February 12, 2018

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FEATURES

nyunews.com Edited by Yasmin Gulec features@nyunews.com

Let the Good Times Roll with Mardi Gras

PHOTO BY JAIME OSTROW

Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans include many colorful costumes and parades.

By TIANNE JOHNSON Staff Writer

Born in the Big Easy, my sisters and I were always excited to build cardboard floats filled with candy and beads to imitate the huge floats that flooded the French Quarter and Bourbon Street for Mardi Gras parades. If I was lucky, I’d be the one to find the small plastic baby inside the tasty purple, green and gold King Cake. I remember going to

parades and seeing the second-liners fill the streets, catching beads thrown to us from the floats above and being picked up in the wave of bounce music, jazz bands and dancers. And how could I forget gathering to eat crawfish and gumbo after the long day of festivities? If only I could go back. Tisch freshman Abby Tawiah doesn’t feel that she can personally identify with Mardi Gras. “I’ve never been one to celebrate a

Live Fast, Die Old: Intermittent Fasters Do It Well By MISHA VAID Contributing Writer

For years, our mothers, cereal brands and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have been spooning us the big claim that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Recently, a growing number of health professionals have been recommending intermittent fasting, a kind of diet that turns up its nose to morning-time meals. Intermittent fasting is not a diet but a way of life. In other words, it doesn’t attempt to change what you eat; it changes when you eat. According to Healthline, fasters go 12 to 18 hours without food. There are other variations which entail picking one or two days a week to only have one meal or to limit your calories to 500 to 600 calories twice during the week. These two variations ensure normal eating on the days you’re not fasting. Renowned nutritionist, portion-size expert and Steinhardt adjunct professor Dr. Lisa Young believes in embracing more of a lifestyle change as opposed to not eating at all for an extended time period like intermittent fasting encourages. “The goal of a plan should be to lose weight and improve health by reducing the total amount of calories consumed rather than focusing on when those calories are consumed,” Young said. Intermittent fasting comes with multiple health benefits, but people mainly fast to lose fast, and rightly so. To just touch upon the science behind this, let us look at the difference between fed state and fasting state — two concepts vital to intermittent fasting. According to James Clear, a lifestyle blogger who intermittently fasts, our bodies are is in the fed state right after you eat. The fed state allows our bodies to digest and absorb

ingredients. During this state, we can’t lose weight due to high insulin levels. Around eight to 12 hours after consuming food, we enter the fasting state when our insulin levels are low and fat can burn off easily. This is why intermittent fasting yields results. However, many experts believe that everyone’s body is different, and these popular diets are usually not as good for us. Young offered a word of caution for those attempting intermittent fasting. “I also believe that it is important to get a handle on your portion sizes and understand how much you are eating,” Young said. For the past few months, Gallatin junior Matthew Babcox has been an avid intermittent faster. “[Intermittent fasting] is probably the most effective way to lose weight, especially for somebody who knows little to nothing about macronutrients and meal planning,” Babcox said. Babcox said that eating within a specific time window and letting the body fast for most of the day will bring about results, but people should try and eat healthily while doing this. He has seen significant results through this practice. There is a growing debate in nutritionist circles over the efficiency and longterm effects of intermittent fasting. The results are not only inconclusive, but also vary too much from individual to individual to draw definite conclusions. No one can determine whether intermittent fasting will work for you, but it could be worth consulting your doctor and seeing if it’s an option. Email Misha Vaid at dining@nyunews.com.

holiday that I have no connection to,” Tawiah said. “I’m from West Africa and have no family from here. I’m sure the holiday means more to the native people of Orleans, and I wouldn’t want to appropriate that.” Due to the French influence in New Orleans, Mardi Gras remains a rich custom for the Cajun and Creole people of Louisiana. Krewes, which are organizations that arrange parades during the carnival season, have remained a paramount part of the carnival culture in New Orleans over the years. There are tons of Krewes in New Orleans, such as the Krewe of Zulu, the Mardi Gras Indians and many others. Nonetheless, we can give credit to the Krewe of Rex for establishing purple, green and gold as the official colors of Mardi Gras. Each color has a special meaning: purple symbolizes justice, gold signifies power and green represents faith. Colored purple, green and gold, King Cake is essential for any Mardi Gras celebration. This cake, rich in color and flavor, originated in France in 1870 as a cross between a coffee cake and a French pastry. In every glittery King Cake comes a tiny

doll, which many people say represents baby Jesus. The meaning of finding the baby in the cake isn’t very clear, but it either signifies prosperity and good luck or marks you as responsible for providing a King Cake at the next celebration. While most NYU students have heard of Mardi Gras, few students plan to celebrate the festive holiday this year. CAS freshman Lauren Rodriguez stated that she did not share the excitement of some of her peers. “Yeah, I’ve heard of Mardi Gras before, but I don’t plan to celebrate it this year,” Rodriguez said. CAS freshman Charlotte Dankwah is not celebrating the festival this year. “I’ve heard of Mardi Gras, and I know that it’s a big French holiday celebrated in Louisiana,” Dankwah said. “I even know of a few events happening in [New York City] to celebrate, but I’m just too busy to go.” SPS freshman Matthew Oscodar is more willing to see how New York City celebrates Mardi Gras. “I’d be willing to celebrate it if I knew of any events happening here in the city,” Oscodar said.

Some students, like Steinhardt senior Marco Chan, are trying to keep the Mardi Gras spirit alive even if they are not in New Orleans. “I have heard of Mardi Gras but never celebrated it in the past,” Chan said. “But this week, the [Faculty Fellows in Residence] on [Lipton Residence Hall’s] 11th floor are having a party in their room to celebrate and will be welcoming residents in with foods from Louisiana. I definitely plan to stop by.” The city that never sleeps doesn’t sleep on this holiday either. There are various bars, jazz lounge and dance clubs that give you a taste of the Big Easy right here in the Big Apple. If you want a funk-filled night, check out B.B. King Blues Club & Grill. The House of Yes in Brooklyn is hosting its annual Mardi Gras event with circus performances, good company and great music. Whether you plan to travel down to Canal Street in New Orleans for the holiday or Canal Street in New York City, Mardi Gras is a time of fun and celebration that everyone should experience. Email Tianne Johnson at features@nyunews.com.

Tech and Creativity Fuse in New Tisch Program By AMELIA MCBAIN Contributing Writer

The Interactive Telecommunication Program floor of the Tisch School of the Arts building looks like a tech startup. It has 3-D printers, a Virtual Reality room and gizmos galore, including, curiously, a mirror made of wood. ITP is a graduate program that concentrates on meshing technology and art. From it will stem a new bachelor’s program called Interactive Media Arts, which will launch fall 2018. The two programs plan to work closely with each other and will both move to Brooklyn next year. “The [undergraduate] program here is going to be informed by the culture and students in the [graduate] program, at least to start,” Shawn Van Every, director of graduate studies at ITP, said. “The sheer number of courses that we have in the grad program … we can really cherry-pick the best ones. We can pick the best faculty and create the best program out of the gate.” IMA seems fairly open-ended: it focuses on mastering technology and using it as a creative force — in Van Every’s words, “to make the world a better place.” Students take electives in art and design, computation and data, media and entertainment and experimental interfaces and digital computing, but the program centers on a liberal arts core curriculum. The major culminates in a capstone project. “We’re taking all the best things that we’ve learned over the last 40 years and applying it to undergrad, where people are sort of forming their passions, where people are just entering into adulthood, where people are really looking at the world critically,” Van Every said.

SCREENSHOT BY TONY WU

Yining Shi’s p5.playground is an interactive programming tool for p5.js which allows people to visually understand a lot of the math that goes behind drawing on canvas. Yining was one of the 16 to 17 research residents at NYU ITP.

“They’re exploring media and technology and art and we have a chance to work with them then.” IMA, however, is not a new program. Versions of it are already offered at the NYU Shanghai and NYU Abu Dhabi campuses. “IMA in Shanghai has been hugely popular,” Van Every said. “I think it’s the second most popular major after business. It was kind of like, ‘how could you not do it here?’” Daniel O’Sullivan, the chair of ITP and associate dean of Emerging Media, said that there has been an impetus to implement an undergraduate program at NYU’s New York campus since ITP’s start. He thinks it’s about time the program got off the ground. “Technology is so deeply baked into the culture that it’s a form of thinking,” O’Sullivan said. “It’s a necessary form because the world is operating that way. We felt like the world had changed to the point where undergrads needed to be able to speak in this kind of inter-

active language.” Though both O’Sullivan and Van Every are excited to be starting the program at the New York campus, they both agreed that in the future, they hope a university program like IMA won’t be necessary. “We are training people that go and teach everywhere around the world,” Van Every said. “It’s kind of like … the more we can get ourselves out there, the less reason they have to come here. Our goal is the same either way: it’s to get people to have a digital penmanship and put ourselves out of business.” “This program started on the basis of videotape technology,” O’Sullivan said. “Across 38 years, other important technologies like the internet, mobile phones, [artificial intelligence] showed up. There’s always something new. Putting ourselves out of last year’s business doesn’t mean we’re out of the new business.” Email Amelia McBain at features@nyunews.com.

Washington Square News | Monday, Feburary 12, 2018

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FEATURES

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CVS So Sick and Tired of the Photoshop By CAROL OLIVEIRA Contributing Writer

Back in 2008, the French cosmetics brand L’Oréal came under fire for “whitening” the skin of Beyoncé, a black singer, in its advertisements. Four years later, Vogue followed suit and transformed Adele with doll-like features, making her practically unrecognizable. New Zealand singer Lorde complained that a Canadian magazine gave her a new nose in 2014. The list goes on. As more women discuss issues surrounding companies’ over-editing, the pharmaceutical retailer CVS joined the growing, natural beauty and empowerment wave when it announced on Jan. 15 that it would stop “materially altering” any images displayed or associated with its brand. That, of course, doesn’t mean the end of Photoshop in post-productions. But the plan is to use it wisely and sparingly. In an email to WSN, CVS explained its definition of “materially altered” and said the Photoshop process might end up “changing or enhancing individual characteristics such as a person’s shape, size, proportion, skin or eye color or wrinkles during post-production editing.” The goal is to reach the standard in all images by 2020, and starting later this year, non-modified images will receive a disclaimer named by the campaign as “CVS Beauty Mark.” CVS is not the first to do this. In 2014, Aerie, American Eagle Outfitters’ lingerie line, committed to not retouching anything from online product images to billboards. But the power of 9,700 CVS stores across the United States — positioning it as one of the 15 biggest retailers in the world — represents an important milestone in the Photoshop discussion, and might lead others in the right direction. In fact, the CVS Beauty Mark project also includes an effort to persuade brands, such as Maybelline and L’Oréal, to ease up on their Photoshop use as well. If these Photoshop-heavy brands don’t align with the Beauty

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Mark mission by 2020, CVS will label those brands’ images as “digitally modified.” “[CVS is] hopeful this effort will start an important conversation,” Director of Public Relations for CVS Erin Pensa said. However, are CVS’s actions a true push toward female empowerment, or are they just a marketing strategy? CVS argues that it has made some other purpose-led decisions in the past, such as adding more natural and organic products. In 2014, CVS set out to remove harsh chemicals from beauty items and removed tobacco products from its shelves. The desire for authenticity might offer other benefits as well. This new approach to advertising and marketing could also be pleasing to customers on an aesthetic level. Aenne A. Brielmann, a doctoral candidate researching beauty and aesthetics at NYU’s Department of Psychology, co-authored a study called “Nobody likes a fake,” in which she found that perceived authenticity correlated to whether participants found something more or less beautiful. “Authenticity was actually a very determinant factor in perceiving beauty,” the study said. She pointed out, however, that previous studies have shown there’s still a large tolerance for heavily edited images among U.S. customers compared to other countries. Steinhardt sophomore Melody Salisbury said she hadn’t heard of the CVS Beauty Mark campaign, but agreed that advertisements should portray women’s natural beauty. “In a way, Photoshop is falsifying what women should look like, because it’s unrealistic, nobody actually looks like that,” Salisbury said. Nursing junior Tyla Leach agreed that heavily-edited images can mess with women’s self-esteems — it has even affected her. “If you’re seeing all those unrealistic images on the screen, of course, you’re gonna internalize that,” Leach said. Email Carol Oliveira at bstyle@nyunews.com.

Not All Tiny Sunglasses Are Created Equal By AMANDA BURKETT Violet Vision Editor

Tiny sunglasses may not cover your whole eye, but at least they’re stylish. They are just the right balance between dorky and charming and diluting the seriousness of the fashion industry. Although the revival of smaller frames is greatly welcomed, not all tiny sunglasses are created equal. All pairs are often crowded under the same umbrella, but there are two distinct styles to the trend. First, the futuristic. This style deviates from the traditional small frames because it is plastic, more angular and elongated on the sides. These glasses were made popular in large part due to celebrities like Kendall Jenner, the Hadid sisters and Selena Gomez — all of whom have been photographed in their tiny frames. The Jenner sisters even released a pair of futuristic style sunglasses under their brand KENDALL + KYLIE. Le Specs is a popular brand for this style as well; it is most famous for its ‘Last Lolita’ cat eye glasses. Because of the slippery nature of outlandish trends, exact pairs of glasses are copied from celebrities and are spread all over the internet. Copying one style of

STAFF PHOTO BY SAM CHENG

STAFF PHOTO BY SAM CHENG

A Third North resident sports the tiny sunglasses trend.

Paltrow. In addition, Bella Hadid and Kourtney Kardashian have been seen wearing the ‘Black Doris’ frames from Roberi & Fraud, a modern brand’s take on the classic style. These glasses are truly timeless and flattering in a surprisingly charming way. Email Amanda Burkett at aburkett@nyunews.com.

Valentine’s Day Menus You Will Heart By CELINE KHORMA Contributing Writer

Heart-shaped chocolates and lifesized teddy bears, red roses and even redder wine — it’s no wonder Valentine’s Day is the most romantic day of the year. Luckily, you and your significant other’s celebration can live up to its full potential at these New York City dinner spots that guarantee a wonderful meal and a night to remember.

TRAPIZZINO

144 Orchard St. Trapizzino has you covered for that perfect bite to accompany a romantic walking date through the park. Trapizzino, a Roman street food, consists of classic Italian dishes such as Parmigiana Di Melanzane with eggplant and parmigiano reggiano all stuffed in a toasted pizza pocket. Both inexpensive and flavorful, Trapizzino is a favorite among many with its signature trapizzinos and fried risotto balls.

CECCONI’S DUMBO

An un-airbrushed Dove advertisement at the CVS on Astor Place.

sunglasses diminishes originality and saturates the market. The trends like this are often thrown away after being overdone. Whereas sunglasses are traditionally worn as an accessory or accent, these sunglasses are attention seeking — they are worn as a focal point. This makes it easy for people to throw on a pair of futuristic glasses and claim to be stylish, when it’s obvious that little thought or style is involved. There are a number of perks to this futuristic accessory, but a few drawbacks are that everyone will likely be wearing the same look as you and that these sunglasses probably won’t remain popular forever. Although the hottest celebrities are sporting the futuristic style, I definitely prefer the classic throwback style. These sunglasses are usually round and colorless. They have thin metal frames that are effortless and cool, consider them a homage to John Lennon’s classic look. Instead of being overtly outlandish and attention-seeking, the casual vibe is captured authentically by the geek-chic silhouette. Celebrities have rocked this style ever since its conception. My favorite photo is the matching set of the glasses on ’90s Hollywood power couple Brad Pitt and Gwyneth

55 Water St. The only thing more romantic than revelling in the New York City skyline is revelling in it over an equally enticing meal. Cecconi’s waterfront views and tempting menu selection make this spot an excellent Valentine’s Day dinner choice. There is no special menu for the day, but you

can still enjoy its classics, such as the Black Truffle and Zucchini Blossom Pizza for $46, or keep it simple with the $16 Pasta Arrabiata, all while sipping on your wine of choice from its extensive list.

JANE RESTAURANT

100 W. Houston St. This classic SoHo bistro serves American fare year long, and on Valentine’s Day, a three course $55 prix fixe meal is on the menu. Start with the Braised Octopus or the Lobster Bisque. Then indulge in the Lamb Shank Ragu, with Pappardelle and Ricotta or a Warm Winter Grains plate for a hearty entree. You and your sweetheart can then share a Red Velvet Cake for Two with vanilla gelato, all while sipping on seasonal cocktails. At $14 per drink, the cocktail menu for the night is far too gendered, including a “His” drink with a whiskey base, and a “Hers” with rum and raspberry.

DANTE

79-81 MacDougal St. This quintessential New York City eatery has been welcoming locals, stars, artists and literary geniuses since 1915. It has maintained its pleasant atmosphere to this day. The $65 per person set menu begins with a complimentary mini rose petal martini flavored with rose water. The three-course meal that fol-

lows includes items such as Hiramasa Kingfish crudo with avocado, wakame and a lime and cilantro garnish or Kumamoto Oysters with a champagne mignonette. Indulge in the Pavlova topped with white chocolate whipped cream, Turkish delight and rose petals for dessert to conclude a romantic and delectable dinner.

BOBO

181 W. 10th St. The West Village’s charm is embodied by this Italian eatery, creating the perfect ambience for a romantic Valentine’s dinner. You could go for the $75 three-course fixed price menu and start with a Black Truffle Cauliflower Veloute, progress onto the Seared Diver Scallops with Saffron Risotto, then curb your sweet tooth with the Bittersweet Chocolate Tart — or, maybe go all the way with the six-course menu. At $95, your feast will include items such as a Chicory and Kale Salad, Roasted Cod and Lamb and that same decadent chocolate tart. Set the mood with Sommelier Wine, which pairs excellently with each menu. When your kitchen skills fail you, it’s always great to know that the New York City restaurant scene never will — especially on the date night of all date nights. Email Celine Khorma at dining@nyunews.com.

Washington Square News | Monday, February 12, 2018

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OPINION

nyunews.com Edited by Tyler Crews opinion@nyunews.com

CULTURE

Tide Pods, Barstool and Our Need to Go Viral By TYLER CREWS Opinion Editor

Without the watchful eyes of our parents or looming curfews, we are able to do things at college that we felt unable to do in high school. This is natural for students who are newly exploring the freedoms of adulthood. However, the presence of social media has pushed this experience to its limits, and these explorations now include the consumption of laundry detergent and dangerous stunts. Students are constantly trying to outdo each other with their antics, so much so that many students’ well being have been superseded by their desires to go viral. The most relevant example of this

as of late is the notorious Tide Pod Challenge. Starting off as a meme on Twitter, the Tide Pod Challenge encourages the consumption of Tide Pods due to their candy-like appearance. While this originated as a joke, people took this concept and ran with it, ingesting the laundry detergent-filled pouches in commitment to the trend. In January, a Utah State University student was hospitalized after eating a Tide Pod, proving that this trend has permeated college culture. The trend has become so serious that Tide began to release advertising to discourage consumption. In its original form, meme culture is amazing. However, in their attempts for recognition, students have failed to allow a meme to be simply what it is –– an

online expression of humor –– by taking it to dangerous lengths. We see this toxic relationship between students and the media occur frequently on Instagram accounts like Barstool and 5th Year. These accounts are fueled by direct submissions from college students and cultivate content that focuses on partying and outrageous antics. Although it is generally assumed that NYU students do not partake

in the same party culture as other universities, this past academic year, a Barstool spinoff account was created solely for NYU students. This account showcases the same content as the other two pages but submissions are specifically from NYU students, for NYU students. While some videos are funny and relatable, like the ones that feature students falling asleep in class, this account also displays content of students, often intoxicated, pulling off dangerous stunts, such as crashing onto a table after jumping off of a banister or breaking through a door. While these videos could have been taken without the intent of exposure, the attention these videos garner encourages other students to do the same.

Social media has been beneficial for our generation in many ways. We are able to connect with different people and cultures in ways that we otherwise would not be able to. It allows for us to share information and build a greater community beyond our immediate ones. Despite this, we can not ignore the toxicity that has erupted from the desire to go viral –– to have more likes, views and comments. I understand that it is easy to jump on the bandwagon by liking and commenting on content that profiles dangerous behavior, but I would urge students to consider how their contributions to these trends shape our generation and our culture. Email Tyler Crews at tcrews@nyunews.com.

EDUCATION

Multilingualism Is a Great Investment in Your Human Capital By DIEGO MAGUINA RAZURI Contributing Writer

If you walk around Manhattan and stop paying attention to your phone, you can hear several incomprehensible phrases from languages you might not even know existed. As a person who grew up in South America, this is exactly what happened to me during my everyday life in Chinatown. Most of us have faced the challenge of learning a new language — all the time, effort and money that goes into it might make you question its merit. However, learning a new language is a rewarding effort and should be encouraged at NYU. We have all heard the mainstream arguments about why learning a new language is beneficial, such as it increases your cognitive skills and helps you

understand other cultures. While everything has an opportunity cost, there is a practical reason why you should learn a foreign language — it boosts your future income. A recent study has shown that there is a two to three percent increase in wages for college graduates who speak a second language. While this may seem modest, an article by The Economist explains that if you additionally include an annual one percent real wage increase and compound all for 40 years, you end up with an extra $67,000 by retirement. However, not all languages have the same value. In the same article, The Economist points out that the premium for speaking a second language differs depending on each language. For example, a study in the United Kingdom showed that German and Arabic speakers’ incomes are on average greater than

those of Italian speakers. No one can tell you which is the best language to learn, but there are rational choices if you plan on increasing your earnings. Despite tangible evidence that bilingualism has been linked to higher earnings, education systems in the United States do not stress the importance of knowing another language. Only seven percent of college students are enrolled in a language course, and less than one percent of adults can claim they are fluent in a foreign language they learned in

a classroom. The U.S. is trailing behind other countries. It is true that European geography makes it easier and more compelling to adopt policies requiring multilingualism compared to an isolated U.S. But NYU offers many resources for students to learn new languages. As a global institute, NYU’s foreign language policy is exceptional. The College of Arts and Science; Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Human Development and the Global Liberal Studies program require undergraduate students to speak a foreign language at an Intermediate II level before graduation. Meanwhile, students from the other NYU schools and programs are still able to take a language as an elective course. NYU offers courses for more than 15 different languages, and the Columbia Language Exchange program allows

NYU students to enroll in even more language courses. The Speaking Freely non-credit program allows students to engage in short weekly learning sessions to learn popular languages at no cost and without any graded assignments. Additionally, NYU offers fully immersive language experiences at a variety of campuses across the world, so that students can be taught their courses in French while in France, for example. Learning a new language, while difficult, is rewarding. Whether speaking a new language increases your future earnings or allows you to immerse yourself in different cultures, there are many benefits to be reaped, so try it out. What do you have to lose? Email Diego Maguina Razuri at opinion@nyunews.com.

CITY

The Destruction of a Black New York Community By TIANNE JOHNSON Contributing Writer

Before there was Central Park, there was Seneca Village — Manhattan’s first prominent community of African-American property owners. Located between Seventh and Eighth Avenue. from 81st to 89th Streets, this was a community of approximately 264 people — mostly African Americans. However, this town was razed and rightful citizens were wrongly forced out of their community and into a state of unresolved quandary. In 1851, due to a push to introduce open park spaces in New York City, Mayor Ambrose Kingsland ruled to have a park implemented in the huge stretch of land between what is now

59th Street and 106th Street. This chunk of land was home to many settlements of African-American landowners — the most distinguished being Seneca Village. Under the law of eminent domain, the power of the government to take private land for public purposes, Kingsland managed to carry out this plan to build Central Park by 1854. Prior to this undertaking, many blacks purchased land in Seneca Village because, at the time, land ownership provided political advantages such as allowing black men who owned at least $250 worth of property to vote. Many notable abolitionists owned land in Seneca Village, such as Albro Lyons and Levin Smith. Seneca Village was their megaphone: their way of ensuring their

voices were heard. Despite a majority of the Seneca Village population having ownership of the land they lived on, they were labeled with microaggressions such as “squatters,” and their community as “n***er village.” After protests, about 250 residents of Seneca Village were forced to evict their homes with little to no compensation. With issues such as hikes in property value, seg-

regation in schools, lack of voting rights and the absence of their once structured community, these people struggled to regain the property and middle class status they once had. The community was torn apart. The act of uprooting communities and dividing them into circumstances of uncertainty is a moral flaw acted by communities’ majorities. Sadly, this process of revoking land through eminent domain is still happening today such as Mount Pleasant’s acquisition of 2,900 acres of local land in Wisconsin. Until the formation of a group called the Seneca Village Project in the late ’90s, there were no efforts to maintain the legacy of Seneca Village. In 2001, with a lot of pressure on the city, this

group managed to get a small plaque installed in the park to commemorate and pay homage to the souls of Seneca Village who, over time, have endured great erasure. We should take inspiration from the Seneca Village Project. We must not merely seek to appreciate various cultures but also strive to reach a deeper level of cultural consciousness regarding the hardships those cultures faced. By prioritizing black history and allowing the truths of those who came before us to become a focal point in political conversations, we can reshape the broken parameter of society and create a push toward justice and equality. Email Tianne Johnson at opinion@nyunews.com.

Washington Square News | Monday, Feburary 12, 2018

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OPINION

Edited by Tyler Crews opinion@nyunews.com

UNIVERSITY LIFE STAFF EDITORIAL

WaSquaPa Is Not Just Ours By WAYNE CHEN Staff Writer

The year is 1826. New York City just adopted The Commissioners’ Plan, which ruled that all of Manhattan above Houston Street will be parceled into blocks with a grid system. City Hall purchased a piece of land by Minetta Creek, flattened it and named it the Washington Military Parade Ground, which soon became one a favorite destination for New Yorkers. Established as the third park in New York City — after Battery Park and City Hall Park — the neighborhood surrounding the then-called Washington Military Parade Ground instantly became desirable. New Yorkers’ love affair with Washington Square Park goes way back. After the park’s first five years, a new attraction enclosed and dictated the area around the park — NYU. After all these years, the NYU population should rethink their loose ownership over Washington Square Park, or as surrounding residents lovingly call it, “WaSquaPa.” WSP has hosted many notable

events, including a civil rights movement led by preservationist Jane Jacobs. The movement stopped vehicular traffic from entering the park. The park continues to be a gathering place for many political rallies in New York City. None of these historical moments have anything to do with NYU. Here at NYU, however, not only do we take WSP for granted but we also claim many of its assets as our own. The Arch, perhaps WSP’s most recognizable landmark, is frequently used as a symbol of NYU’s identity. Our promotional photos include it. Our publications display it. It is printed inside our acceptance letters. In fact, WSN, this very publication, is named after the park and uses it as the featured image of its Editorial Board. The rationale behind taking WSP,

especially the Arch, as a part of our identity is understandable. Unlike traditional colleges, NYU lacks a typical campus setting, and WSP is the closest thing to a quad for NYU students. It is often used by Tisch School of the Arts’ Film and Television students as a backdrop for film projects, and the student body in general loves it as a leisure space. Perhaps, this is all justified for the fact that we don’t have any other open space. But even under these circumstances, we should keep in mind that WSP does not belong only to us. Maybe it is enough for NYU students to know that WSP is indeed a public park. The current usage of the Arch as a central part of our campus symbol can be highly misleading and causes confusion for some newer students and people unfamiliar with New York City. It is reasonable to brand WSP as a recreational space enjoyed by the people of NYU, but we definitely should avoid marketing it as a symbol of our campus. Email Wayne Chen at opinion@nyunews.com.

CITY

Don’t Ignore the Homeless By IGNANGELI SALINAS-MUÑIZ Contributing Writer

The Silver Center for Arts and Science stands strong as thousands of students walk through its doors each day. However, many students with rushed schedules, overwhelming amounts of work or other circumstances seem to ignore the less privileged group of people who spend hours outside those same doors. Homeless people outside the building should be a reality check for all students. They are a daily reminder that life extends beyond the academia and that there is no time to help like the present. Since my first day of class, I was struck by the contrast between these people and those inside the prestigious CAS Silver building with the NYU flag hanging above. One day, I stopped and gave a man some fruit and orange juice, and he asked me if I was a college student. When I gave him the affirmative, I was rewarded with a blown kiss and a smile. This man experiencing home-

SUBMITTING TO

lessness is just one among more than 60,000 others in New York City. According to the Coalition for the Homeless, “homelessness in New York City has reached the highest levels since the Great Depression of the 1930s.” Contrary to what many might think, homelessness is not a byproduct of addiction, but a lack of affordable housing. The groups more vulnerable to homelessness come from low-resource backgrounds and are more likely to be African-American or Latino. The total number of staff and students at NYU exceeds 50,000. Representing the honorable violet of their institution, they can contribute to mend this problem that directly or indirectly affects everyone. NYU student-run clubs

like Two Birds One Stone address this issue by providing food to shelters and breaking the stigma surrounding homelessness. However, there are many ways students can contribute. Students may feel that they are not ready to help — that it’s a task better left to their future selves. However, if they were brave and strong enough to come to New York City to learn and grow, I believe that they are ready to help transform the city for the better. There are so many things a student can do to give a little light to someone’s life; offering a warm meal, a kind “good morning,” a “what do you need?,” partnering with an NYU club, signing a petition, volunteering, protesting or organizing a coalition are just some of the many actions you can take. Students have tough, stressed and rushed lives. However, it only takes a moment to recognize the life and humanity that surrounds us. Email Ignangeli Salinas-Muñiz at opinion@nyunews.com.

Liberate NYU Liberal Studies

On Thursday, Feb. 8, students and faculty members met for their monthly University Senate meeting. One of the topics discussed during the meeting was the Liberal Studies program, and whether or not it should be recognized as its own school within the Senate, apart from the College of Arts and Science. We believe that LS runs independently from CAS and should therefore be recognized as its own school, both within the Senate and the university as a whole. The meeting was composed of the Student Senators Council, the Tenured/Tenure Track Faculty Senators Council, the Full-Time Continuing Contract Faculty Senators Council, the Administrative Management Council and senior-level administrators. One of the senators, LS sophomore Ghania Chaudry, was active in vocalizing the the desire to designate an open Senate seat to another LS student and recognizing LS as independent from CAS. The SSC is made up of 23 Student Senators elected by the students of NYU’s various schools and colleges and 14 Student Senators appointed at large by the elected Student Senators. Several of these senators echoed Chaudry’s sentiment and called for LS to be recognized as its own school. The Student Senators reached a unanimous agreement in deciding that the remaining seat should be given to an LS student. This means that LS can have more say in the allocation of resources on a university-wide scale. We agree that LS should be recognized as its own school within the Senate and be treated accordingly, and we would like to see this recognition on a larger scale within the university. LS students follow their own curriculum and attend classes separate from CAS. For example, LS freshmen and sophomores do not take Texts and Ideas, Cultures and Contexts or Writing the Essay, which are core courses for all CAS students. Also, some LS students are either required or given the option to study abroad their freshman year, and Global Liberal Studies students specifically are required to study abroad for their entire junior year. In contrast, CAS students are not required to study away. Both the LS Core Program and the GLS major have their own professors, administration and dean. Furthermore, LS is not a new program, having been introduced to NYU in 1972. What is most convincing, however, is the fact that the LS undergraduate student population is the second greatest among all of the schools at NYU, with about 1,250 students per class. Considering all these factors, it is unclear why LS would not be recognized as its own school. Perhaps it comes down to NYU not wanting to allocate more resources to the LS program. If it was named a school, that might imply that it should have its own building and greater individualized resources. Regardless of historic reasons, it is clear that LS has its own culture, identity and structure and it should be deemed a separate school as a result of that. Until then, hopefully the added representation on the SSC will allow LS’s unique voice to be heard.

Email the WSN Editorial Board at opinion@nyunews.com EDITORIAL BOARD: Tyler Crews (Chair), Paola Nagovitch (Co-chair), Alison Zimmerman (Co-chair) STAFF PHOTO BY ANNA LETSON

Send mail to: 75 Third Ave. #SB07, New York, N.Y. 10003 or email: opinion@nyunews.com WSN welcomes letters to the editor, opinion pieces and articles relevant to the NYU community, or in response to articles. Letters should be less than 450 words. All submissions must be typed or emailed and must include the author’s name, address and phone number. Members of the NYU community must include a year and school or job title. WSN does

not print unsigned letters or editorials. WSN reserves the right to reject any submission and edit accepted submissions in any and all ways. With the exception of the staff editorial, opinions expressed on the editorial pages are not necessarily those of WSN, and our publication of opinions is not an endorsement of them.

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SPORTS Keeping up with the

BOBCATS

Edited by Maddie Howard sports@nyunews.com

Fencing on Feb. 14

Swimming and Diving on Feb. 14

Men’s Volleyball on Feb. 14

at Columbia University

vs. Emory University

vs. Stephen’s Institute of Technolgy

Tandon Athletes Endure Sporting Love: The Couples of NYU Athletics Disproportionate Struggles By NALANI OGAWA Staff Writer

By BELA KIRPALANI Contributing Writer

WSN profiled two couples in which the pair are both involved in NYU Athletics. Check out their budding or developed romances below.

COURTESY OF IZZY TURNER

Izzy Turner and Owen Smith have been dating for 10 months. They both play on NYU soccer teams and are currently studying abroad together in Florence.

Izzy Turner and Owen Smith are both LS sophomores who play on the men’s and women’s soccer teams at NYU and have been dating for 10 months. They are both currently studying abroad in Florence and have been having the experience of a lifetime traveling the world together. When did you realize you were falling for this girl? Owen: Izzy surprised me with tickets to the Bronx Zoo in February of last year and that’s when I realized how much I liked her. I had mentioned to her months before that I wanted to go to the zoo, and she remembered this small detail. What is one of your favorite memories with Owen? Izzy: One of my favorite memo-

ries with Owen was when we went to the Juventus vs. Fiorentina game in Florence. We both love soccer so being around fans who are so passionate about the sport made it so exciting to watch. What are your favorite things about each other? Owen: I have never been more comfortable around anyone except Izzy. She is very welcoming toward everyone. Izzy: My favorite characteristic about Owen is that he constantly makes me laugh; I am never bored when I’m with him. Describe your significant other in three words: Izzy: Owen is very sarcastic, confident and funny. Owen: Izzy is generous, caring and outgoing.

COURTESY OF KAT PIORKOWSKI

Kat Piorkowski, who plays for NYU softball, and Zach Cohen, who plays for NYU baseball sharing a cute moment.

CAS sophomore Zach Cohen and Steinhardt sophomore Kat Piorkowski, both pitchers for the NYU baseball and softball team, recently celebrated their one year anniversary — a year that has been filled with laughter, Vine references and comfort food. How did you celebrate your one year anniversary? Kat: We had class all day and lift at night, so we went to dinner at almost 9 p.m. and then went to Max Brenner for dessert, which is like this amazing chocolate restaurant. Zach: We had fondue. What is your favorite memory with Zach? Kat: My favorite memory was surprising Zach for his birthday in August. So Zach is from Northern California and I’m from Long Island, but I had been taking summer classes here at NYU. I told him I was going to visit

family in Florida and turned off my Snapchat location. His whole family was in on it and didn’t crack even when Zach kept asking if I was coming. Zach: Yeah, even my 15-yearold brother told me ‘dude, why would she come all the way out here to see you?’ What are your favorite things about each other? Kat: It is honestly really nice being able to talk to Zach if something didn’t go right at practice because we both understand — not just each other’s sport — but each other’s position. Zach: Not just that but Kat is a huge baseball fan and we actually had a full conversation about the MLB draft a few days ago, which I think is insanely cool. How did you guys meet? Kat: The first night we met we

ended up going out to an event where there was typical hip-hop dance music. I feel like Fetty Wap was playing. Zach then asked me to salsa dance because why, you know, why not? Zach: OK, well I felt that anything I did was going to embarrass myself, and I am a terrible dancer, but once on a vacation, I went to Cuba and learned how to salsa. Kat: So there we were, having just met, doing the salsa to Fetty Wap. Describe your significant other in three words: Zach: Kat is funny, cute and caring. Kat: Zach is compassionate, smart and down-to-earth. Read more at nyunews.com/sporting-love Email Nalani Ogawa at sports@nyunews.com.

Finding a balance between school and sports is a challenge that all student athletes have to face, but the problem is even more prevalent for students in the Tandon School of Engineering. Commuting to and from practice, missing classes and having to make up missed exams or laboratory exercises are just a few of the many struggles that Tandon varsity athletes face on a daily basis. Tandon sophomore Neil Ferraro, a member of the men’s volleyball team, commented on the life of a Tandon athlete. “I often can’t make team lifts due to my class scheduling, and sometimes I have to miss practice or travel alone to games because there are a limited number of Tandon classes available,” Ferraro said. NYU Senior Director of Athletics Janice Quinn said she understands Tandon student athletes have concerns, but explained that the NYU Athletics Department does its best to support all students, regardless of which NYU school they attend. “All of the student athletes at NYU are highly supported compared to anyone’s standards at any other school,” Quinn said. “When it comes to all of the athletes in every aspect, as much time and attention is spent on each individual regardless of whether they are located on the Washington Square campus, commuting from different boroughs or coming from Tandon.” Tandon sophomore and women’s soccer team member Callie Delane said that one of the most difficult aspects of being a student athlete in Tandon is the daily commute from Brooklyn to Manhattan. “Commuting back and forth every day for class and practice takes up a lot of time and can be stressful when on a time crunch,” Delaney said. “Time that could have been spent studying or sleeping is instead spent on the subway.” The Academic Affairs Office is responsible for assisting all NYU varsity athletes with their class scheduling and providing “an opportunity for students to simultaneously excel academically and participate in intercollegiate varsity athletics,” according to the NYU Athletics website. Approximately five percent of all varsity athletes at NYU attend Tandon which is significantly lower than the College of Arts and Science or the Stern School of Business. Quinn highlighted the fact that students from all schools have to make decisions about commit-

STAFF PHOTO BY ALANA BEYER

The front entrance to the Brooklyn Athletic Facility is currently under renovation.

ting to sports. “It’s the nature of NYU that there’s an awful lot to do, and the students have to make tough choices about whether or not they can afford to take on two or three extracurricular activities,” Quinn said. When asked how NYU could help make life easier for Tandon athletes, Delaney suggested alternative travel options to and from games. “Last semester, I missed one class three times within a two-week span, and then was expected to take my midterm my first class back,” Delaney said. “If I had been able to have alternative travel to these classes, I believe I would have felt much more prepared for my exam.” Ferraro, meanwhile, wondered if more use could be made of athletic facilities in Brooklyn. “Tandon has a full gym that can be used for our lifts and a nice gym that can host practices,” Ferraro said. “I don’t know why we don’t use the Brooklyn gym for practice instead of going to Pace University.” While finding the balance between school, sports and a social life can be difficult, Tandon athletes feel that they are learning how to better manage their time. “I always have a checklist of things I need to do for when I have time to get work done,” Delaney said. “That way I know exactly what I have to work on instead of wasting time trying to figure out what to do next. I’ve also found that it’s important to give yourself down time to do something that relaxes you, whether that’s watching Netflix or meditating. Once you feel de-stressed, you’ll be much more productive in the work you have to do.” Email Bela Kirpalani at sports@nyunews.com.

Washington Square News | Monday, Feburary 12, 2018

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SPORTS

Edited by Maddie Howard sports@nyunews.com

The Evolution of Title IX in Sports By WARNER RADCLIFF Contributing Writer

Since the enactment of Title IX in 1972 by the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights, academic institutions have increasingly set forth efforts and policies to promote gender equality for all students, staff and faculty who participate in academic programs and activities. In recent years, increased attention and scrutiny has been placed on Title IX in respect to collegiate athletics on the grounds of gender equality, specifically the lack of resources and opportunities for female athletes as compared to those available to their male counterparts. The OCR states that “no person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” NYU is an affirmative action and equal opportunity institution that heavily enforces Title IX. The university’s Office of Equal Opportunity provides members of the NYU community with resources to understand the policy and assists in the filing and resolution of sexual misconduct and discrimination complaints. The OEO serves to “promote and

support the university’s commitment to creating and fostering an inclusive and diverse community of faculty, administrators, staff and students” through a “consistent and uniform procedure for responding to and resolving internal discrimination complaints,” according to the office’s mission statement. Beyond the legislation of Title IX, progress made in the professional ranks by female athletes and organizations has sparked a top-down movement to lessen the inequality that exists between the treatment of male and female athletes. The U.S. Women’s Hockey Team has been a seminal leader in the fight for equality. In the spring of 2017 the team ended a 15-month negotiation with USA Hockey over compensation disputes. The two sides were able to come to an agreement after the team threatened to boycott the World Hockey Championship. Jocelyne Lamoureux-Davidson, a forward on the U.S. national hockey team, highlighted the greater influence the team’s win will have on younger female athletes in regards to equal opportunities that make the sport more accessible. “We just feel like there’s also going to be a trickle-down effect,” Lamoureux-Davidson said in an interview with Time. “It’s going to impact the younger generation. We’re going to

have more publicity and more marketing, which is a piece to the puzzle. We’re very excited moving forward.” The trickle-down effect projected by Lamoureux-Davidson has been evident at the collegiate level over the past year as numerous athletic programs, most notably Michigan State University and the Larry Nassar case, have increased efforts to ensure Title IX compliance by their athletic programs. CAS freshman and goaltender on the NYU hockey team Aidan Levi-Minzi thinks NYU is adequately upholding the values of Title IX. “If you go on any major university’s athletic site, you’ll see that there are almost always a larger group of men’s sports than women’s,” Levi-Minzi said. “Again, there could be an argument for the economic benefit of having a major football team, but it’s time for universities to look past the money and actually do what they were supposed to do: educate kids. And I think NYU does that, not only by being a top university, but by having an equal opportunity for both men and women to play a sport.” Those looking to further educate themselves on Title IX policies at NYU should visit the OEO website for office hours, location and contact information.

Email Warner Radcliff at sports@nyunews.com.

STAFF ILLUSTRATION BY ECHO CHEN

Page 12

Washington Square News | Monday, February 12, 2018

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Washington Square News Staff Editor-in-Chief Jemima McEvoy

BLOGS

Managing Editor Sayer Devlin deputy Pamela Jew assistant Veronica Liow

ADVERTISING

Creative Director

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Copy Chiefs

the highlighter Anubhuti Kumar under the arch George Hajjar,

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Content Specialist, W Media Group Alex Hanson

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ADVISING

SENIOR STAFF

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editor Tyler Crews deputy Paola Nagovitch,

Alison Zimmerman

Editorial Adviser Rachel Holiday-Smith Editors-at-Large Natasha Roy, Taylor Nicole Rogers, Kaitlyn Wang, Jordan Reynolds, Abigail Weinberg, Andrew Heying, Miranda Levingston

About WSN: Washington Square News (ISSN 15499389) is the student newspaper of New York University. WSN is published in print on Mondays and throughout the week online during NYU’s academic year, except for university holidays, vacations and exam periods. Corrections: WSN is committed to accurate reporting. When we make errors, we do our best to correct them as quickly as possible. If you believe we have erred, contact the managing editors at managing@nyunews.com or at 212.998.4302