Harambee
African American Student Union's mission is uniting our community through diversity to achieve greatness. While creating support, friendships, and bonds that ______ will last a lifetime.
AASU was formed in 1987, it was created to bring unity among the African American community. AASU wants to promote cooperation among African Americans and all students Any person can be a part of AASU regardless of race or ethnic background. As long as there is a sense of respect towards the heritage and cultures of African American people
Heritage of Latino Americans (HOLA) promotes a sense of comm unity and pride among Latino American students at Otterbein. The organization promotes friendship and cooperation among all students and fosters encouraging, academic excellence and cultural appreciation of Latino American students.
The group sponsors a variety of events throughout the year. Notable past events include the Latin Fiesta Mixer and growing the salsa garden during the summer. Group outings have also been popular in the past.
Staff Advisors: James Prysock jprysock@otterbein.edu
Dr Phyllis Burns pburns@otterbein.edu
Contributing Writers
Nana Agyepong
Abi Agyepong
Abdinajib Liban
Cameron Change
Lydie Dorelien
Men of Vision (MOV) is an organization of Otterbein male student leaders. Men of Vision promotes male leadership within the Otterbein community and recogMEN OF VISION nizing the importance of developing and exchanging views and ideas among college men on campus. The goals are to encourage Otterbein males to become active in leadership roles and service on and off campus, in addition to enhancing and further developing the skills and talents of male student leaders. Men of Vision works collaboratively with other student organizations.
When I began to let others know about the idea of Haram bee coming back into publication I received many questions about the purpose of a magazine dedicated to showcasing the African American culture and other minority cultures on campus It is the same question that comes up when people wonder why there are such orginzations as African American Student Union , H.O.LA, and the like. Why Harambee? Why now?
There was a time in our history that by law , African Americans were considered less than animals We were stolen from our homeland of Africa , bought and sold like pieces of objects , raped and beaten into working for those that we were trained to believe we were inferior to. As a nation , have we grown from our times of slavery and even segregation? Of course we ha ve , but just because we have grown in some ways, it does not mean we have completely solved the problem of race relations in our country
The repercussions of that time period have left impending damage on not only the way the African American views themselves but it has also taken a major toll on the way society views us. Our culture has become a joke and a stereotype instead of a natural way of life Our music and our media glorify the thug lifestyle so much that not only do those outside our community automatically be lieve we act , talk , and think this way but we have come to see this lifestyle as be i ng truly "black " . No matter ho w far we go in life, in this country , we will always have something to prove
The idea of a place for a student to pick up a magazine and feel like those w ho w rite it
Why Harambee7 Why Now?
are writing it while they go through same struggles and hopes as them , is something that is rarely found on any campus. It is easy for those who have never been classified as a minority to not understand the pu r pose of a magazine such as this When you are the majority, what the minority does can not only be looked at as different and w eird but the hardships that they go through can be overlooked and seen as a nation of sensitive people. Therefore , we need this magazine to show our struggles But we also need this magazine to sho w our triumphs!
We Have Not Reached The Promise Land Just Yet
Though we w ere freed by the 13th amendment in 1865 from slavery and freed from segregation la ws, we have now imprisoned ourselves We have bought into the lie that we are truly nothing more than second class citizens We hold ourselves back and try to hide our culture because it is not accepted in the professional realm We have refused to claim the lighter skin brother because his features and skin tone are too " white" to be black. We have demeaned the darker skinned kinky haired sister as holding less beauty , making her feel like she is a God given mistake. To make matters worse , not only have w e held oursel ves back but w e did it w hile the w orld was watching The repercussions of slavery have left the African American community wanting to leave their entire culture behind and embrace what the society around them says is the norm,
just to have success This is w hy we need this magazine!
This magazine is here to highlight the achievements of the African American community as well as to embra c e w ho we a re as people While in every other part of our media we may be highlighted as ghetto, loud , criminals , or just overl y sensitive, we will show our true colors We will discuss issues that appl y to our community openly and honestly
This maga zine sheds the harsh truth about the problems that our communities have to face on a daily basis and also give ideas for solutions on ho w w e as a community on this campus can activel y make changes for the betterment of ourselves and our society. This magazine also hopes to highlight many of the people who are defying the odds and making changes in their community, their families, and just living up to the "Dream" Martin Luther King Jr once talked about.
Who is Harambee For?
Haram bee is the Swahili word that means pulling together and that is exactly w hat we hope to do with this magazine We hope to bring together the different ethnic communities on campus through informing them on w hat is happening on campus , giving them a place to print their opinion , and encouraging them to freel y live out thei r culture with a sense of pride and dignity
Whil e at the same time having a place to discuss issues that target our communities from a political , social , and
Young Alumni Update: Karen Castro
Why Harambee? CONT. economic view
Showing how these different views can play a role on our campus as college minority students We will provide a home for minorities to freely express their frustrations and openly share their victories.
This is a place where those who have never had the opportunity to learn much about minorities, can learn about the issues and causes that we deal with , can send in questions and get honest answers, as well as learn of different events that will help them get more plugged into ethnic life here on campus.
This is an open platform for all those who are searching for a place to express their needs and desires as a student of color on a predominantly white campus. Haram bee is here to act as a safe haven for students of color who are looking for a place that encourages their culture. Harambee is not here as a place to compete with any other magazine nor to demean other ethnicities or promote black supremacy That is not our goal. We are here to enlighten , uplift, educate, and encourage.
As you begin to dive into Harambee , our hope is that in the midst of these pages you find a place to be yourself!
Natasha Shorts
Karen Castro is an Otterbein alumnus of the class of 2012
Finishing school
and many other activities. Not only was she impacted by the campus , but she also left her own mark on Otterbein University
Castro ex plains that being involved at Otterbein allowed her to gain valuable leadership and time management skills. In her free time she also held a position at the early in December Office of Diversity as a Student Assistant to of 2011 , Karen walked as well as Dr. Lisa Phillips where she was instrumental in helping out with projects that needed to spoke at the class be completed. of 2012 commencement cere-
mony When asked what made her want to attend Otterbein, Castro ex plained she was the first in her family to obtain a bachelor's degree so she had no idea where to begin w hen looking at colleges. Fortunately, she had supportive high school mentors who encouraged her to look at smaller private colleges w here she could grow and develop as a person One of Castro ' s guidance counselors attended Otterbein and urged her to visit the campus; so that's exactly what she did!
Castro states, " When I drove to Westerville , I immediately fell in love with the small to w n atmosphere. When I arrived on campus I loved the brick roads and the academic buildings. Aside from the superficial aspects , I enjoyed talking to everyone on my campus visit , the fact that people waved " hello " to each other walking to class was pretty cool. It made me enjoy the warm and caring environment Otterbein has " Castro found that the staff and faculty of the University truly cared about her well-being
Student Involvement
Castro speaks of her time at Otterbein in a
Academic Triumphs and Challenges
Karen Castro started at Otte rbein University as a Business Administration major with a focus in International Business and a minor in Spanish She had the exciting opportunity of studying abroad in Cordoba, Argentina , where she took a business class , which demonstrated another side of international business that she rarely heard about. One of the most valuable lessons she learned was that some of the most successful U S. companies will go into foreign countries to use their resources , ex ploit their employees , and pay corrupt politicians to rela x labor la ws. She Ka re n with Co ngresswoman Joyce was determined that she w ould not w illingly participate in such malpractice However , w hen Castro returned to Otterbein, she was thoroughly confused because she didn 't want to major in International Business any longer After consulting with her mentors very positive light. She was actively involved and her Otterbein support system, she realin campus life as founder of HOLA , and in ized that she wanted to do something that Shades Of Success , Tau Epsilon Mu Sorority would allo w her to help people but still had
Young Alumni Update: Karen Castro
international focus Half-way through Castro's junior year she switched her major to International Studies It seemed like the perfect choice for her because she learned about politics, business , sociology, and international relations; all of the things that interested her
Experiences After Graduation
Since graduating, Castro has been making her mark on the community. She w as selected out of hundreds of applicants to be an intern in Senator Sherrod Brown 's
constituents to ensure they received a proper response
Connecting With The Community
Since Castro was interning in the Columbus office , one of her jobs was to do out-
supporting and representing her community
Castro 's tip for minorities is to get involved , find a mentor , educate others about your culture, and don't be afraid to speak up when someone is politically reach to constituency groups. At the time , incorrect in the classroom. Karen Castro the Columbus office was lacking outreach to the Hispanic community so Castro took the initiative to work alongside one of the Constituent Liaisons to contact and connect w ith Hispanic leaders in Central Ohio. She had the opportunity to make a
office She describes applying as the best significant contribution through her indecision of her life , though she w as very ternship, which paved the way for future doubtful of herself as she didn 't believe communication between the Hispanic she knew enough about the government. There , she learned a gre at deal of life lessons and was instrumental in improving communication between the Hispanic community and Senator Sherrod Brown ' s office
"We may be minorities but our voices and actions are very powerfu I."
Through the internship Castro began to . learn more about government, ho w it w orks, and the key factors for legislation to become la w She also served as a constituent response intern , w hich required her to keep track of the calls of
community and Senator Sherrod Brown 's office.
Though Castro was busy learning about government, her passion to directly impact her community never w ent away. To that end , she volunteered with the Center for Latin Hope, a non -profit organization that provides services such as free English classes to the Hispanic community. Castro states, "Volunteering at the center helped me understand further the problems of underprivileged families. I learned that there is a lack of opportunity and a lack of quality education in poor communities. This is something I w ant to change These experiences validated that changing my major was crucial" .
Words of Advice
Castro is continuing to make her mark in the community and the w o rkplace. She is currentl y working w ith Congressw oman Joyce Beatty as a District Aide. She believes that this position w ill create a strong foundation for her future , where one da y she w ill be one of the few women . Ka ren Ca st ro n speak in g at t he 2012 Co m me nce me nt Cere mo ny leaves us w ith this thought to ponder , " We may be minorities but our voices and actions are very powerful. "
Abi Agyepong
Valentino Dixon, Attica Maximum Security Prison inmate, sits in his cell and masterfully concocts detailed pictures of golf courses. According to a documentary on the Golf Channel in July 2012 , Dixon has always had an artistic eye and started creating his portraits early in elementary school. He did not begin drawing golf courses, however, until his Time in Attica Penitentiary. It came about when the Warden took notice of Dixon's ability and asked him to create an image of the 12th hole of the famous Augusta National Golf Course Impressed with Dixon's portrayal of the course, the warden decided to give Dixon the materials and inspirational images to continue drawing his masterpieces
The Fight That Started It All
The year is 1991 and Valentino Dixon is a young man out passing the time with a few other friends on the streets of Buffalo, New York. After some time passes, a few other characters approach Valentino and his crew. Unfortunately, some unfriendly words are exchanged between the two groups Tensions flare and before long an altercation occurs; escalating into fists and guns. A shot rings out and a young man by the name of Toriano Jackson loses his life and all fingers point to Valentino Dixon ; who is arrested and convicted (Golf Channel 2012).
Evidence
Some might consider this a pretty open and shut case ; a fight breaks out and a young man ends up dead Dixon was opposite Jackson during the fight,
PROGRESS?
it's very possible that Dixon could have slain Jackson But let's check the facts : According to the case's details , Dixon ' s fingerprints were not on the gun determined to be the weapon used to kill Jackson and there was no gun powder residue on Dixon to indicate that he was holder of the gun when it was fired (Televised documentary on Dixon 's trial) Of the three witnesses introduced by the prosecution in Di xon's trial , none of them could conclusively identify Di xon
fight for Dixon's freedom Dixon ' s family has fought for 21 years to clear his name Especially his daughter , Valent ina Dixon, a Senior Earlychildhood Education right here at Otterbein. Even with all of this in his favor, there are still many obstacles that stand in the way of Dixon and his freedom Obstacles like the apathetic New York legal system and the financial disparities that keep him from affording adequate legal representation So for now Valentino sits in his cell and continues to create portraits of beautiful golf courses , hoping only for absolution and to one day be free to continue his life with his friends and loved ones
as the shooter Not long after the trial had concluded, the man responsible for Jackson 's death publicly confesses to a local news station Even with all of this evidence indicating Dixon ' s innocence , he is not released from prison where is just finished serving year 21 of a 39 year to life sentence
Clearing His Name
Several years and three appeals later, Valentino Di xon is still incarcerated despite the appearance of several more witnesses willing to give a testament to his innocence. In spite of his bleak situation, there are still those w illing to
"Not long after the trial had concluded, the man responsible for Jackson's death publicly f ,, con esses ...
Some of the many portraits Dixon completed while in prison
1ntern at ion aI Perspective: What to do when stuck in the US7
Guangzhou, China is in many ways different than Westerville but Yongjun Zhi does not mind Yongjun Zhi who goes by "Jackson " is an international student at Otterbein University Born in China , Jackson studied in the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology (USST) , before attending Otterbein as part of his junior year study abroad experience
Since most international students stay in the United States all year long some students
Washington, DC". She noted that the District of Columbia appeared less crowded and cleaner At the U.S Capitol she was elated to see the White House and the U S Capitol Building on Capitol Hill.
According to the Institute of International Education (IIE) , a non -profit organization which tracks study abroad statistics , there were over 764 ,000 international students that enrolled in U.S. colleges use Winter and Spring break as an and universities last year. On the other opportunity to explore the United States hand, only a little over 270,000 Jackson spent the Spring break of the 2012- American students studied abroad. IIE 2013 school year in San Francisco After his President Allan Goodman argues that American Airlines flight landed , like most tourists , he was impressed by the city 's iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge. Besides sightseeing, Jackson also reunited with friends that are currently
American students should study abroad because it will better prepare them for the global workforce. Since the majority of U.S students do not pursue a study abroad , he argues that the increasing studying in different campuses including San amount of international students on U S Francisco State University and UC Berkeley. campuses is a positive trend because it
Fellow Juniors Luyi " Gloria" Gao and Yifan "Kiki" Wu, both international students from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology (USST) , also enhanced their study abroad experience by travelling during spring break.
gives American students a chance to interact with someone from another country.
piano since she was a child. Mrs. LaJoyce
teacher at A-Plus Art Academy, as well as the director for all the theater productions. She is also a vocal and piano instructor where she works with people of all diversity from children who have disabilities to adults who want to fulfill a childhood dream.
Otterbein University Gospel Choir is a non denominational Christian based choir on campus. The Gospel Choir performs for many Otterbein occasions such as Homecoming weekend, the Martin Luther King Convocation, Ash Wednesday , and also Advent services. The choir has been filled with students from all backgrounds.
encountered and learned from a diverse array of people and cultures. Jackson enjoys his coursework and the ample opportunity he has to practice speaking EEnglish.
Abdinajib Liban
Studying abroad can have its own set of Pros and Cons For Gloria, one of the challenges of studying abroad has been that it can lead to homesickness Like Jackson, Yifan Wu also spent time on Gloria's favorite aspect of her study the West Coast. His journey included stops in abroad has been that she has San Francisco , Los Angeles, Las Vegas in addition to the Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Park. Gloria, however, spent her spring break on the East Coast. After previously visiting Chicago in the Fall of 2012 , she was eager to now see New York City and Washington, DC. Gloria described New York as a modern city with a plethora of museums Nevertheless she states, " I prefer
The song selections are pieces from Mrs. LaJoyce 's childhood and also songs suggested by students. " The biggest difference I' ve noticed are the ratio of students but, the faithbased and enlightenment of the student has remained consistent. " Mrs. LaJoyce said.
Lydie Dorelien
Past To Present 50th Anniversary of The March On Washington
Standing with their ears glued to each word Used to the bright lights and large audience, Burley were so moved by the event that every speaker began to say, eyes fogged by Donica enjoyed a different way to preform they each accepted the opportunity imagining the images that the speakers discussed, they watched captivated. Some only coming to the event for a class
"This was actually a little more casual for me than being on stage in front of people. The atmosphere was different, because assignment, others just to support their people were there to celebrate a great man theater peer as he spoke, they began to see and a moment in history that changed the
the true reason of why they had to be at
Dr Lisa Phillips introducing sophomore Jo rdan Donica before his speech. that program. It was the 50th Anniversary of The March On Washington and the nation took notice. Thousands of people leaving their homes and going to the steps of the Washington Court House to hear various speakers discuss the progress and the continued battle since Martin Luther King Jr gave his infamous "I Have A Dream" Speech.
Dr Lisa Phillips, Director of the Office of
presented to the crowd allowing anyone to speak about what they just heard and their feelings, each one left lasting moments. They each took what could have felt like a very long walk up the Campus Center steps, stood behind the podium and each spoke what was on their hearts.
nation. The experience was very similar to theater for me in the aspect that I was not giving the speech for my benefit, but in "I think the two students that came up on honor and celebration. We were all there for their own and spoke were pretty powerful." a common cause , both audience and speakers, so it made for a very unique, almost rally-like, atmosphere. " Donica remarked.
Wanting to make sure that he delivered the speech with respect and dignity, Donica took the time to find his own way to present it. "I knew that there was no way to try to copy his dialect or how he sounded, so I instead examined his speech pattern and the tambour of his voice , and tried to create my own interpretation through the many antithesis in the speech "
another performance. Donica was able to really relate to the entire theme of the speech " I can identify with speech,
Dr Phillips said discussing
Though the ceremony only drew about 100 students, the thoughts expressed , the history discussed, and the issues addressed left a lasting impression on
"We were all there for a common cause, both audience and speakers,
But it was more than just an ordinary Diversity, and James Prysock, Programming speech that Donica had to give, or just a so it made for a very unique, almost rallylike, atmosphere Coordinator in the Office of Diversity wanted to make sure that the Otterbein community had the same chance to reflect right here on cam pus as the rest of the nation
those who came
Looking back on the program, Donica felt especially in today's society. Growing up in a that it not only touched his heart but others
So right on the steps of the Campus Center single parent, white household, I was around him it happen . Students and staff, in the program, and spontaneously began to take
always taught never to see other people as " Many of my peers came in full support and "colors" , but as people I truly believe that is ended up staying through the entire the stage and speak about what the " I Have the main emphasis in this speech." program because they felt it was moving."
A Dream Speech " and the March On Washington meant to them personally.
Jordan Donica , a sophomore Musical Theater major, had the privilege to do a rendition of the I Have a Dream Speech
Many students and staff that attended were Donica said, "It spoke true to the character more than moved by the performance of the of those that I choose to surround myself speech that Donica presented and also the with. It meant the world to not just me but other students and staff that spoke. to everyone that was involved with the Sophomore Amber Horton and Senior Will program "
A wise man once said " When you control a man's thinking, you do not have to worry about his actions " (Carter G. Woodson). This holds painfully self-evident in the rap industry Let's turn on our radios for a second. What do we hear? First of all , tune out the mesmerizing beat in the background. That 's just inserted in the song so you don't fully pay attention to the words. Now move on to the hook The hook or chorus is a catchy grouping of words that "hook" you into the song. These hooks often become anthems to those who hear it. How many times have you heard someone say " I'm different, I'm different", "Started from the bottom now we're here " or " Gold all in my chain , gold all in my ring Gold all in my watch , don't believe me , just watch"? You may not remember other parts of the song, but you remember the hook. However , if it's alluring enough , you will soon find yourself memorizing other parts of the song which are the details of their message. Now at face value , these hooks don't app,ear threatening or negative in any way. But as one delves deeper into the lyrics, you start to see more and more of what the artist values
The Truth Behind The Lyrics
On the outliers of a chorus lies a set of beliefs. The chorus is just an anthem of those beliefs In Trinidad James ' song, All Gold Everything we see how he values money as his god as well as his lack of respect for w omen. In 2 Chainz 's I'm Different , w e see the same values as he references women in a derogatory manner, his love for drugs and how he is better than his competitors (his own people) This is just a
SLAVES ONCE MORE
microcosm of the values within the industry's game
How Slavery and Our Music Relate
In order to understand the present we must comprehend the past. Therefore, here's a little history lesson
Hip Ho p Art ist 2 Chain z In times of slavery, slave masters would have competitions with their strongest male slaves. These competitions were called Mandingo Fighting. They would travel to different plantations and have their slaves fight each other to death The slaves that succeeded were given special privileges , fame and compliments. For example, they may be given a special nickname or invited to eat dinner with the maste rs and gamesman. Some fighters took pride in their new identity and that they were the strongest and most skilled Other slaves envied the fighter's position or desired to be like him Due to the perks , some of them overlooked the fact that they were being used as property and the masters were making money off of them. Does this sound familiar? Let's fast forward to the present. The majority of rap labels are owned by someone other than an African American The owners build characters and allo w them to have nicknames like Trinidad James, Nicki Minaj, 2 Chain z, Chief Keef or Cash Out.
Now these characters actually become caricatures of what prejudice people already think about us , w hile also influencing individuals who are not to become prejudice In addition, these characters feed the community with selfconsciousness, greed , hubris , materialism and false morality. For example , Nicki Minaj did not always look like she currently does. Thanks to plastic surgery , she has become the " ideal" wornan with a prett y face and an almost impossible to naturally recreate body She also did not always rap the way
Fe
she does now. She started doing underground real hip hop. However, when she was discovered, she was influenced to change her appearance and lyric content to appease the masses of mainstream rap Secondly, 2 Chainz presents himself as an ignorant, uneducated rapper who boasts on his ability to be "different". Ironically , his possessions , appearance and music content do not make him different. What makes him different is that he has a college degree from a HBCU. But education doesn't sell records so he chooses to be another clone in the industry.
The Result
By building "successful " and commercial characters , the impressionable people in the community bu y into the
m al e Hip Ho p Arti st Ni cki Mi naj
I \ z
Featured Poet Matthew Quinn
Slaves Once More CONT. char- living a gangsta life is validated. acters and follow suit. They are That's why there is virtually no also awarded outrageously with progression in a rapper's mesmoney, cars, executive dinners sage. An artist may come out and fame. And who gets paid on with one "non-commercial" altop of all of this? That's right, bum such as Theater of the the label owners and executives. Mind by Ludacris or Paper Trail
Not only are they making money by T I. Unfortunately, their full but they are capitalizing on a social dichotomy which causes consumers to hate and compete with each other How better to destroy people than by orchestrating a system of division within the underrepresented communities. By doing so, people who want to kill us won't have to because we are killing ourselves . We see seeds of this system in the simplest of situations This mindset influences a woman to clutch her purse faster while at the same time dance provocatively in the club. This causes a man to carry a gun while simultaneously calling a woman out of her name.
body of work speaks louder than the one album where they actually put more of themselves into Especially since the albums that followed reverted back to their past commercial messages
Shared Blame
However, the industry only deserves a portion of the blame. Who deserves the rest? Let's look in the mirror for that answer. We drive the industry. We decide what is popular and what is not. If we stop supportThe message of the mainstream ing, they will stop producing We industry is to "tell everyone your rags to riches story so they can relate to your past. Once they relate to you, they will look up to you. But the catch is that you
have a choice of rather to follow or to lead. Let's lead. In times of slavery, we were more forced to act according to someone else's plan So the biggest question is have to keep your past relehow much have we truly provant" If rappers keep their nega- gressed in society? The worst tive past relevant then people will continue following, hence some people in the African American community think that drugs, degrading women and part about this is that now our people actually choose to build our own self-destruction.
Anonymous
Dead conscious;
As blood drips from her thighs to the floor
I ask God "Why" Why does emptying her soul, replenish mine?
She divides and I conquer It's a matter of time, Or more like 5-12 minutes But a week is all I need to forget who she is;
Time flies
God, who taught us this? I wonder, who taught us these lessons, I know my Father didn't
But could it be?
Nine months in the womb just so she can push us away, 13 years of providing just so she can push us away, "You're a man now, take care of yourself. I can't do everything for you anymore"
This rings around our thoughts, as we cry "but I love you" "Silence"
Then our resentment starts. And as she moans "I love you" Our response is silence But for 5-12 minutes you feel like she can,
You feel like she does, You feel like the sun 's rays decayed all the darkness in your world
And you feel like Heaven, But in a week, you'll forget who she is, • Time flies I wonder, who taught us these lessons, I know my Father didn't
Matthew Quinn
I I \ \
I AM NOT MY HAIR
Confessions of a Black Woman Gone Natural
I could not take it anymore! I was tired of looking in the mirror and only thinking
fact, my hair was made to praise Him! Lifting its curly hands to the sky, it is in constant worship of His glory He made my hair grow out that I looked beautiful or in style, or put together, if my hair was straight. I was tired of having unhealthy strands surrounding my face and receiving compliments for it just because my hair
Junior Natasha Shorts
and up, purposely defying gravity so that people would know this was God given. Too bad the rest of the world can't see my hair like this. resembled every other race They pet it, they poke it, and most of all, they of people but my own. I wanted to look in the stare at it. mirror and see the beauty that God saw in me when He first created me. He did not It is a joke tossed around by the ignorant, make my hair fall assuming that to the floor in since my hair is curls or hang low proudly standing near my waist in out, I must be a the straightest stereotyped hip most elegant shaking-finger-
way
He gave my hair rhythm, making it dance up into the sky with the curly beats it dropped. He provided tension between my tightly wagging-attitude having black girl. Giggling as I walk into the room, wondering why I wound curls to symbolize the struggle that I
just will not straighten
I would have to endure in my life. But just like my life, I can patiently detangle the frustrations and struggles out of my hair. Combing away the self hate, moisturizing the roots of my inner soul, leaving a soft puffy afro Filled with the love of my culture, the love of who I was created to be, and the love of an amazing God who wanted to display His creativity on my head
must be a hippie if I rock my afro and hoop earrings Or better yet I am "sassy"!! (Man how I HATE that word! But that is an article for another day.) I cannot even braid or twist my hair straight back without their eyes immediately filling with fear, thinking that I must be a part of some gang. Truth is I braid my hair to wear while I sleep and sometimes I decide to rock it the next day. Days like this one just make me want to ask God "WHY ARE YOUR OTHER CHILDREN SO IGNORANT!"
That is when I remember Titus 2:7 : "Show by using something as simple as my hair. In yourself in all respects to be a model of
good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity."
So that is what I do While they may laugh or look confused, just like how I detangle my kinks, curls and knots, I patiently detangle their ignorant minds with words sprayed with the hope of educatingjust one person on black hair.
Natasha Shorts
Top 10 Annoying Questions About Black Hair
1. How do you make it "frizzy" like that?
2. What is a "weave"?
3. Are you wearing a "weave" now?
4. Do you wash your hair?/How often do you wash your hair?/How do you wash your hair?
5. If you are both black why is her hair not like your hair?
6. How did you do that with your hair?
7. Can you straighten your hair?
8. Are those dreads?
9. Can I touch it?
10. Why do you pat your hair?
*Answers in the next issue
Senior Makeda Schulark
Junior Michelle Baffi
my hair. Clearly
Junior Lydie Dorelien
[_ Mark Your Calendars! 11
September 4 @ 7pm: Mix & Meet (with CAB & CSA) - This program a series of scenes that aim to educate and challenge them to think provides students an opportunity to engage with other students more deeply about issues of oppression. At the end of the tour, parthrough a quick and personable process that resembles "speed da - ticipants are provided with the opportunity to discuss their experiting" Through guided conversation, students will be able to make ences with each other. Facilitators help participants reflect on their connections on are as tl1 a t bring out tl1eir similarities and differences experiences and put their new found knowledge to use in their everyday lives. Before leaving, participants will receive information
September 8 @ I pm: Office of Diversity Cookout (Alum Creek Park) - about opportunities for involvement in addressing some of the issues Come meet the staff of the Office of Diversity and learn about the presented at the Tunnel of Oppression diversity-based student organizations on campus. There will be games, food, and music
September 2 I @ 5:30pm: Harambee Magazine Launch Event (Roush Hall: Fisher Gallery)
September 24@ 7pm: Crossing Boarders: Latino Culture (Towers I 12) As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize that what we call the Hispanic Culture, is really a combination of many
November 13 @ 6:30pm- Native American Heritage Month Program: ApacheB(Towers 112)
APACHE 8 tells the story of an all-women wildland firefighter crew from the White Mountain Apache Tribe, who have been fighting fires in Arizona and throughout the U.S.,for over 30 years. The film delves into the challenging lives of these Native firefighters Four extraordinary women from different generations of the Apache 8 intersecting cultures. Through an exploration of history, food, music, crew share their personal narratives with humor and tenderness. and dance this program will explore the influences of Hispanic cul- They speak of hardship and loss, family and community, and pride in tures on our society
October 7@ 8pm: Allow Me to Introduce Myself (Roush I 14)White or Caucasian, Black or African American, he, she or ey! There
being a firefighter from Fort Apache (Retrieved from) http//wwwimdb.com/title/tt 1326191 /?ref -fn al tt i). This documentary will be followed by a discussion are numerous ways that we identify ourselves. In this program Otter- Thursday, November 21: Activism & Social Justice bein students will speak on how they choose to be identified and explore the language that accompanies their identity
Activism has played a key role in the development of each country When we look at freedom and justice overall, we often see both rapid and slow progression of human rights This event highlights October 23@ 6:30pm: The "In" Crowd: Widening the Circle (Towers some of the many activists who have strived for human equality and I 12) - This interactive program is designed to engage first year stu- both the successes and challenges of the rights they fought to imdents in meaningful and genuine conversations about the elements plement In addition, we discuss our role in activism and the opporof identity, privilege and difference. Participants will have the oppor- tunities we have to further the progression tunity to develop a better understanding of their own identity, hear about the experiences of others and discuss the influence of media, December 5 @ I 2pm- Winter Celebrations community and institutional perspectives on issues related to inclu- Campus Center sion
There are many unique traditions, celebrations, and holidays that occur during November, December and January This educational
Monday, October 28: The Dream Continued fair is Otterbein's own celebration of winter holidays from around During this program, students will have the opportunity to explore the world I This fair will introduce you to different cultures, as well as the dream within We each have our own goals and ambitions that providing insight on the origins of the traditions we are most familiar drive our daily journey. However, there are social and institutional with I systems that we encounter which can prevent us from fulfilling our dream. This program takes an in depth look at the relationship between our dreams and the systems that have been put into place
November 7@ (4:00 -7:00 PM) - November 8 ( I :00 -4 00 PM)Tunnel of Oppression The Tunnel of Oppression is an interactive event that highlights contemporary issues of oppression It is designed to introduce participants to the concepts of oppression, privilege, and power. While the Tunnel of Oppression may be disturbing, it is an effective tool used to teach people about how it really feels to be in the various situations. Participants are guided through
I
Featured Artist Benjamin Wi lli s
Study of God Created with graphite and charcoal, this a study of a homeless man depicted into a Godly manner.
Goddard Using mixed oil and spray pa int, Wilson is in the p rocess of creating this 4' by 7' mural. It is a painting inspired by a poem that is by Anis Mojgani called These orchards are heavy and these branches are fool
Contrast ofAfrica Is an abstract expressionist piece depicting Africa.
,Aim I Something A self portrait that shows the confusion o f finding oneself and the questioning that goes along with the search.
Portrait Ofa Black Man "Gomo" is an american bastardization of the black man insomuch, that is what the image symbolizes.
Tips on How to Survive In College
Time Management
Procrastination and misuse of time is probably the biggest enemy to academic success. While it is good to be involved in campus and extracurricular activities , remember that your studies come first! Know when to say no to things and budget your time in a way that will ma ximize your study time. Create a study schedule , but don 't forget to leave room for chill time and sleep!
Get To Know Your Instructors
Make it a point to go to office hours, especially if you are struggling in the course It lets your instructo r see that you are making a sincere effort to understand the material. It is also a chance to build relat ionships, because you never know what connections or insight your professor may have in a particular area Recommendation Letters!!!
Take Advantage of your Resources/
Otterbein offers a wealth of resources to help you achieve success The Academic Support Center is one of such resources; they offer math tutoring , writing help , and tutoring in various other subjects. If you ever need help with anything, just ask! Someone will always direct you to the appropriate office.
Ohiolink is another resource that allows you to reserve books instead of buying them at the bookstore.
Don't lose sight of your goals
Remember who you are and w hy you are doing what you're doing. It ' s so easy to get caught up in school activities , work and your personal life , that sometimes we can forget why we are here in the first place.
Use your goals to motivate yourself to succeed academically!
Balance your life
Don ' t neglect one part of your life for another It's important to maintain all areas of your life (academic , social , personal) to ensure that you can be the best you !
Ne ver give up!
There is always a light at the end of the tunnel, so keep going! You got this!
Nana Agyepong
Black History Trivia Game with Alliance
AASU Campus Carnival 2013
Justin Jordan poses at Shades of Success 2013
Leaders of Diversity programs at the Alliance Dinner in 2012
Amber Horton at 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington
OSU Mime Team preforms at Gospel Fest 2013
Chris Butcher, Will Burley, and Jarrod Howelton at Night of Entertainment
Tavarez
Diversity Sponsored Mix and Meet Program
Montana Jemmott and Kha ma Ii Bartlett at Shades of Success 2013
Aleth Pashi, Kayla Williams, and Sydney Smith hangout at the HBC 2012
Guest Speakers at the Black Men Forum 2013
Humble Dance Ministry 2012-2013
Gloridely Tavarez. ,Kiersten Curtis , and Gloria Urena Sanchez with alum Sandra Urteaga
Diversity sponsored Game Night 2012 -2013
Alumni Tanya Wilhite and Maurice Tilmon singing at Gospel Fest 2013
AASU, ISA,and HOLA at the Global Dinner Spring 2013
Tahirah Murphy Lydie Dorelien , and Jarrod Howelton winners of Evening of Entertainment
AASU Board with Allan Williams Advisor 20122013
John Kengla speaks to Shades of Sucess Students Fall of 2013
Cam Change at MLK Convocation Jan 2013
Students from all Alliance Schools at the Fall 2013 Alliance Dinner
Kiersten Curtis at the Evening of Entertainment 2012-2013
Students enjoy bowling at with Shades of Success in 2011-2012
Behind The Words
Name: Natasha Shorts
Major: Journalism and Media Communication
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio
Year: Junior
Fun Fact: Dancing is my second love next to Jesus!
Name : Abena Agyepong
Major: BMB
Year: Junior
Hometown: Worthington, Ohio
Fun Fact: I love to sing in the shower!
Name: Nana Agyepong
Major: Biochemistry
Year: Senior
Hometown : Worthington , Ohio
Fun Fact: I was born and raised in Germany.
Name : Cam Change
Major: General Biology
Year: Senior
Hometown: Dayton, Ohio
Fun Fact: I have gone bridge jumping during a storm.
Name: Abdinajib Liban
Major: Economics and Political Science
Year: Sophmore
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Fun Fact: My first name means servant of God. My last name means victory.
Name: Lydie Dorelien
Major:
Year: Junior
Hometown : Columbus , Ohio
Fun Fact: I never wear pants, I always wear skirts or dresses
CENTER FOR CAREER l PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
INDIVIDUAL CAREER ADVISING
CAREER & MAJOR EXPLORATION
RESUME/COVER LETTER ASSISTANCE
INTERNSHIP &JOB SEARCH
(CARDINAL CAREERS INTERNSHIP/JOB BOARD)
SELF-ASSESSMENT, INCLUDING FOCUS2
INTERVIEWING & NETWORKING SKILLS
DETAILS AT WWW.OTTERBEIN.EDU/CAREER
OTTERBEIN
