The Reveille 7-25-22

Vo lum e 132 · N o. 36

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CHANGE COMING Mond ay, Ju ly 25, 2 022

Todd Manuel named first-ever VP of Inclusion, Civil Rights & Title IX.

Read on

page 2 NEWS

p ag e 3

Two LSU students earned the honor of being named Astronaut Scholars for the 2022-2023 academic year, the 13th and 14th recipients from LSU.

SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

p ag e 5

With the season just over a month away, Brian Kelly and LSU faced the national media at SEC Media Days last week to preview what is to come this season.

OPINION

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The politicization of the Supreme Court has turned it into a Republican emergency kill switch for any law that doesn’t align with the party platform.

L SU Re ve i l le.co m @l s u r e ve i l le

page 2

MEET TODD

@ r e ve i l lel s u

Todd Manuel named to new position aimed at healing LSU

BY DOMENIC PURDY @tigerdom16 Returning to his alma mater after almost 30 years, Todd Manuel was named LSU’s firstever Vice President of Inclusion, Civil Rights and Title IX, taking an office created amidst a national Title IX scandal, the tremors of which are still reverberating through campus.

Manuel, who officially takes over the role from interim Vice President Jane Cassidy in September, said that his first action will be to get to know the university.

“The top priority will be listening, understanding what is happening on campus,” Manuel explained. “Understanding the complexities of those challenges in this space of equity, you really have to understand people’s lived experiences if you are going to meet the needs that exist. The second piece of that is applying intentional solutions that really make sense for those groups.”

Graduating with a bachelor’s in accounting from LSU in 1995, then earning a law degree from the Southern University Law Center in 1998, Manuel has specialized in organizational diversity since 2015, holding a position as director of organizational health and diversity at Entergy.

Since 2021, Manuel has also been the vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion transformation at the Edison Electric Institute, which represents electric companies.

Manuel has no previous experience working in higher education.

“LSU is not unlike a corporate space when you think about the size of LSU, when you think about the various constituency groups that exist within the LSU community,” he explained. “And so if I were to look at similarities, the size, the scope, the breadth of the work that needs to take place, it is relatively the same.”

Despite lacking experience in higher education, Manuel assured

B-16 Hodges Hall Louisiana State University Baton Rouge, La. 70803

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Editor-in-Chief PIPER HUTCHINSON News Editor PETER RAUTERKUS Digital Editor GABBY JIMENEZ Senior News Reporter ALLISON ALLSOP Investigative Reporter DOMENIC PURDY Entertainment Reporter ARIS WILLIAMS Sports Reporter HENRY HUBER Columnist CLAIRE SULLIVAN THE REVEILLE ARCHIVES

LSU architecture senior Harris Quadir holds a sign while blockading entrance on March 8, 2021 during the Tigers Against Sexual Assault sit-in at the Football Operations Center on Skip Bertman Drive. the campus community that his previous roles in organizational diversity have adequately prepared him for the task of tackling the ongoing issue of diversity on LSU’s campus.

Still, he is aware of the learning curve the new job, like any, will have.

“When you step into a new environment, you do the best that you can in terms of making sure that you actively seek out opportunities to engage with folks. And that is how you’re able to manage that learning curve,” Manuel said.

“For me, one of the priorities will be engaging with folks on campus, getting to know folks and getting to understand this culture as it exists today.”

Returning to LSU’s campus after 30 years, Manuel has noticed how things have changed, like how his old dorm hall, Hatcher, has been transformed into office space, and the union arcade, where he spent time between classes playing Pac Man, has also

ALLISON ALLSOP / The Reveille

Todd Manuel delivers his open forum presentation in the Holliday Forum on Wednesday, June 29.

been repurposed.

Still, Manuel emphasized that he is not a stranger to LSU’s community and hopes to engage thoroughly to make the transition as smooth as possible, while learning about what issues matter most to the community.

“I want everyone to have that same experience in terms of the value that LSU provides for them as a student,” Manuel said. “One of the things that will be a top priority is making sure that we are well grounded in terms of the things that are important to students of faculty and alumni and that we are addressing those needs.”

Manuel’s position, effective Sept. 1, is one that seeks to “build a true national model for an integrated approach to serving protected classes and improving institutional climate on a large college campus,” reads a July 13 news release announcing Manuel’s new role.

Manuel “will develop, deliver and oversee LSU’s Title IX compliance programs and obligations,” as well as “provide leadership in the prevention of and response to all matters of discrimination on LSU campuses and will oversee initiatives that ensure students from historically underrepresented populations matter and belong in the LSU community,” the news release reads.

He explains that his “office will be tasked with really understanding what best practices are” in regard to ADA, Title IX and racial equity.

With complaints of Americans with Disabilities Act compliance appearing at a more frequent rate, two reports being filled regarding the university’s handling of Title IX procedures and an ongoing debate about national racial injustice, Manuel feels there is no bet-

ter time than the present to work on these equally important issues in parallel with one another.

“A priority is making sure that in everything we do equity is a part of that conversation,” he said.

“I think when we look at the civil rights issues that have been bubbling, not only on campus, but across the entire United States, we can reach solutions that really are of value to the university and students and faculty alike.”

Similarly, Manuel plans for his office to keep an eye on discriminatory bills targeting transgender people, as well as education based on race and sexuality, especially where the bills directly impact the LSU community.

“As with anything that touches the space of this office, whether we’re talking about inclusion, civil rights, or Title IX, we have to advance the interest of our faculty, our students, our alumni,” he explained. “We have an obligation to make sure that we are tied to the community and that we are applying best practices as it relates to everything that we do and touch.”

Manuel explained that, while plans of changes are great to have on paper, his new position will be defined by more than just what he says.

In addition to understanding student needs and putting programs in place to protect the LSU community, actively applying solutions is the most important theme of Manuel’s upcoming tenure as Vice President of Inclusion, Civil Rights and Title IX. “I think it goes back to an old adage that actions speak louder than words,” he explained. “As I sit here today, my words are one thing, but the action that we have to put in place around these words, that’s where the real meaning is going to take place.”

Columnist CHARLIE STEPHENS Stringer JOHN BUZBEE Stringer MADDIE SCOTT Stringer MORGAN ROGERS Stringer COLE HERNANDEZ Head Copy Editor HANNAH MICHEL HANKS Copy Editor MADISON COOPER Copy Editor EMMA DUHÉ Senior Photographer XANDER GENNARELLI

CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS The Reveille holds accuracy and objectivity at the highest priority and wants to reassure its readers the reporting and content of the paper meets these standards. This space is reserved to recognize and correct any mistakes that may have been printed in The Daily Reveille.

If you would like something corrected or clarified, please contact the editor at (225) 578-4811 or email editor@lsu.edu.

ABOUT THE REVEILLE The Reveille is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Reveille is an independent entity of the Office of Student Media within the Manship School of Mass Communication.

A single issue of The Reveille is free from multiple sites on campus and about 25 sites off campus. To obtain additional copies, please visit the Office of Student Media in B-39 Hodges Hall or email studentmedia@ lsu.edu. The Reveille is published biweekly during the fall, spring and summer semesters, except during holidays and final exams. The Reveille is funded through LSU students’ payments of the Student Media fee.

NEWS ASTRONAUT SCHOLARS

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Two LSU students named 2022-23 Astronaut Scholars

BY COLE HERNANDEZ @Ct_hernandez LSU students Rachael Coates and Cale Locicero were named 2022-23 Astronaut Scholars by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation and are LSU’s 13th and 14th recipients of this award.

The scholarship recognizes the best and brightest minds in STEM who show initiative, creativity and excellence in their chosen field. The scholarship provides up to $15,000 in aid while commemorating the legacy of America’s Mercury 7 astronauts, each of whom sponsored and fundraised to establish the current scholarship program.

Coates, an honors biological sciences senior, said that she applied because of her extensive research background at LSU. “The research I have partaken in has potential for large impacts and a change in the way we think about breast cancer,”

Coates said, adding that she has engaged in research at LSU for six years. “In conjunction with my research experience, I think my publications and my experience with Research Ambassadors, an LSU organization that aims to provide undergraduates with opportunities to get involved in research, made me competitive for this award.”

Coates is currently working under Elizabeth Martin, studying the effects of MAPK15 overexpression in triple-negative breast cancer. MAPK15 is an enzyme that is commonly overexpressed in a subset of Black women with triple-negative breast cancer.

Her research explores the role MAPK15 overexpression may play in women with this type of triple-negative breast cancer.

Coates is also a part of LSU’s Maximizing Access to Research Careers Program, which provides high-impact research experiences to a diverse pool of un-

dergraduates and prepares them for entry into graduate programs in the biomedical sciences.

As a high school sophomore, she began working with LSU Chemical Engineering Associate Professor Adam Melvin to research the effects of fluid shear stress on tumor cells.

“I would like to thank Dr. Melvin and Dr. Martin for their mentorship before and throughout the process of applying for the Astronaut Scholarship. I’d also like to thank Dr. Fontenot for putting the resources of the Office of Fellowship Advising behind me which led me to be successful in this competition,” Coates said.

Coates has big plans after she graduates from LSU. She will enroll in either a medical scientist training program or pursue a Ph.D. in either cell or cancer biology. Coates’ favorite part of the research she has participated in at LSU has been seeing other

We’re looking for a highly motivated graphic design student to join our office.

This is a great opportunity for the right student to build their portfolio in an ad agency type setting.

Must be accepted into the Graphic Design or Digital Art program at LSU to be considered.

students that she has trained become fully functional lab members and scientists.

Coates shared advice to students who are interested in getting involved in research, urging students to stay engaged with their peers.

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions,” Coates said. “Research is a constant learning process, and sometimes the simplest questions can create an entire avenue of study.”

Locicero, an honors chemistry senior, performs research in the Chemistry department with the Kartika Group. Locicero said their research centers on the development of new synthetic reactions that can be used in developing pharmaceuticals.

Locicero is also a Louis Stokes Louisiana Alliance for Minority Participation Scholar and was also recently selected for the American Chemical Society Scholars program.

Locicero also offered advice to other students who might be interested in getting involved with research projects at LSU. “My first piece of advice is to find labs that are doing research that interests you,” Locicero said. “After that, read into the research to know what the respective lab’s current research focuses on. Then email the professor and mention specifically what interests you about their research and that you would like to join their group.”

Locicero’s favorite part of his research at LSU has been being able to intellectually contribute to the advancement of science in a tangible way. The scholarship helps give him an opportunity to do that and continue his research at LSU. Locicero said he wants to pursue a Ph.D. in chemistry.

“Through my research, I intend to chemically advance biomedical science,” Locicero said.

SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

page 5

FOOTBALL

IN YOUR STARS Your horoscope for the week of July 25 Leo July 23 - Aug. 22 The arrival of your birthday season will propel you to decompress and start living more. A needed change of pace is coming, and it may inspire you to start doing things differently. The festivities you put together will reveal who your tribe really is.

Virgo Aug. 23 - Sept. 22 This week’s events will require you to put your pride aside and have an uncomfortable conversation. Remember that the goal is finding a solution; not being right. You may find yourself less than pleased by the general public and reluctant about confirming plans.

BY ARIS WILLIAMS @jonetaw

Libra Sept. 23 - Oct. 22 You will experience good luck in finances this week and may feel called to share the wealth. If you find someone becoming clingier than you’re comfortable with, consider what their motive may be.

An ideal for solidifying travel plans.

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Oct. 23 - Nov. 21

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

You experience sudden shifts this week as you become proactive about your new chapter. Plan out your execution, then secure the funds to make it happen. Some of you are making significant changes to your appearance, specifically piercings and revamping wardrobes.

Aquarius Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

An unsavory discovery may compel you to withdraw for a bit. Avoid skipping sleep this week and watch the caffeine consumption. Know that it’s OK to occasionally be in your feelings, and this will eventually come to pass. Friends provide helpful insight and emotional support.

Taurus April 20 - May 20 You’ll receive accolades for your work this week and experience some positive exposure. Be direct when communicating with others, and don’t emit parts to avoid shaking the table. You may end up saying things that someone actually needed to hear.

You’re actionoriented and logical this week, as you finalize what you’d like your immediate future to consist of. One-sided relationships are cut and you will begin moving forward. You may receive an overdue apology, but it won’t sway your decision.

This week, you’ll experience a change in fortune right as you’re about to throw in the towel. Once relief arrives, kick up your feet for a bit and try to decompress. Many of you are exiting a period of high stress and should focus on self-care before moving onto the next thing.

Pisces

Aries

Feb. 19 - March 20

Mar. 21 - April 19

The karmic scales are balancing this week — swallow your pride and right your wrongs. Your home life may experience a quicker pace, so be conscious about who’s entering your space. An ideal time for reflection and seeking closure.

Gemini May 21 - June 21 If you experience a lack of motivation this week, give yourself some grace and try to find the root of it. You may be overextending yourself, and should try to draw back and tend to your burnout.

Unexpected travel plans — somewhere you haven’t been before.

This week, you’ll be inspired to expand your horizons and move forward from a complicated situation. Utilize friends and a good time to lift your spirits, and try to have some optimism about the future.

Unexpected texts/calls is a prominent theme for you as well.

SEC Media Days Recap: A preview of the season

BY PETER RAUTERKUS @peter_rauterkus Though it wasn’t on the field, Brian Kelly and LSU took the national stage for the first time last week.

The occasion was SEC Media Days, the annual week-long event where fans and media members get to hear from players and coaches from all 14 SEC teams.

It serves as the official season preview event, but for Kelly and LSU, it was the first time in front of a national audience since Kelly was named head coach.

Along with Kelly, LSU sent three players to speak to the media: sophomore wide receiver Jack Bech, junior linebacker Mike Jones Jr. and junior defensive end BJ Ojulari. It was each player’s first time at SEC Media Days, giving them an opportunity to introduce themselves to the national stage.

Kelly was the first coach of the week to take the podium, setting the tone for the rest of the event.

Kelly used his time to touch on the quarterback battle, Name Image & Likeness and Kelly’s favorite Louisiana foods, among other topics. Though many around Baton Rouge and LSU had heard all these things from Kelly over the past eight months, the general response from national media was positive.

Since the legalization of NIL deals last summer, many have speculated that LSU can’t compete financially with some of the bigger programs in the SEC. Losing Jacoby Matthews to Texas A&M and Eli Ricks to Alabama were considered by many to be

proof of that, but Kelly pushed back on the claim that LSU is falling behind. Schools like Alabama and Texas A&M have introduced multi-million dollar collectives, which are booster-funded groups independent of the university that can help pool money and organize NIL deals for players.

“I feel very comfortable, quite honestly, as I stand here talking to you that what we’re doing relative to NIL is as competitive as anybody else,” Kelly said. “I don’t feel like we’re being out-bid by anybody. I don’t think that’s the place of NIL anyway. So if we were being out-bid, then we’re going to be out-bid if we have $50 million in our collective.”

NIL has changed the landscape around recruiting and roster management, especially among major SEC programs.

With reports of million-dollar bidding wars for top players, many schools are putting more focus in organizing collectives and being able to pay that type of money for recruits and possible transfers.

Kelly also addressed how he would fit in the culture at LSU and in Louisiana, coming from Notre Dame, a catholic university in a midwestern state.

“Well, I think fit is about the ability to run a program at the highest level,” Kelly said. “I’ve done it for 32 years. I’ve had success at Notre Dame, Cincinnati, Central Michigan, wherever I’ve been. So running a program and then player development, I think those are the most important things.”

see FOOTBALL, page 7

Cancer June 22 - July 22 An important revaluation will prompt you to make some needed changes in your life. As your next chapter unfolds, it becomes more evident who and what aren’t for you anymore. Take this as a sign to create a healthier, more balance way of living.

JOHN BAZEMORE / Associated Press

LSU coach Brian Kelly speaks during an NCAA college football news conference at the SEC Media Days, July 18 in Atlanta.

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THE Daily Commuter Puzzle ACROSS 1 Fruitcake container 4 Hidden supply 9 Mop the deck 13 Baby’s cry 14 Arbor Day’s month 15 Bum 16 Coveted statuette 17 Promising; favorable 19 Name for 13 popes 20 Lets go of 21 Takes a break 22 Plumber’s concern 24 Kuwaiti export 25 Coils of yarn 27 Ballpark lunch 30 On or about 31 Incline 33 Paid athlete 35 Neighbor of Colorado 36 Eyeglasses, for short 37 Stretch across 38 Encountered 39 Pocket bottle 40 Slice the turkey 41 Deodorant brand 43 Slammers 44 “It __ to Be You”; Sinatra song 45 November tally 46 Play a ukulele 49 U.S. state capital 51 Wild blue yonder 54 Take __ over; displace 56 Berry plant 57 Squealer’s squeal 58 Reason to take Mylanta 59 Level; balanced 60 Alphabet learners 61 “God __ America” 62 Peg for Els

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Created by Jacqueline E. Mathews

6 Cut short 7 Pelvic joints 8 Inventor Whitney 9 Protective plate 10 Courts 11 Lie next to 12 Person in charge 13 Brooks or Blanc 18 Like a cliché 20 Comedian Carvey 23 Well-to-do 24 Klutz’s word 25 Bathtub ring, e.g.

26 High-flying toys 27 Leave at a pawn shop 28 Burdensome; brutal 29 Sliced turkey topper 31 Run-in 32 Man’s nickname 34 Dollars DOWN 36 Winter toy 1 Easy to handle 37 Word attached to 2 Excessive name or keep 3 Bill-killing vote 39 Picture border 4 Short slacks 40 Dove shelter 5 Clothing protector 42 Connors & Norris

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©2022 Tribune Content Agency, LLC All Rights Reserved.

43 Baffling questions 45 Moral faults 46 Blemish 47 Blind Mice or Little Pigs 48 Torn asunder 49 Actress Catherine

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50 In the past 52 Joint most commonly replaced 53 Tokyo’s currency 55 “Rub-a-dub-__, three men…”

56 Nov. honoree

Monday, July 25, 2022 FOOTBALL, from page 5 He went on to talk about his adjustment to being in Baton Rouge and his relationship with the community.

“I don’t think that needs to be geographical in a sense,” Kelly said regarding fit. “I’ve gotten to love where I’m at in Baton Rouge.

I love the people. They love football. They love family. They love food. That fits me really well. I guess I should have been in the

page 7 South all along.”

Kelly didn’t tip his hand one way or another when talking about the ongoing quarterback competition, but he did address the depth at the position and the general confidence level heading into fall camp.

“We have four quarterbacks.

The spring really was for us to lay down our offense. We weren’t really going to gear it towards any particular skill set,” Kelly said. “I think the depth at the

quarterback position is much different. Jayden [Daniels] and certainly Myles [Brennan] bring us obviously starting experience. Garrett obviously for me is an exciting quarterback. Walker [Howard] is a true freshman, but there’s great depth there.”

Though LSU was only present on day one, the week ended with the media voting on the SEC preseason poll and the preseason All-SEC teams. LSU was voted to finish fifth in the SEC West, only

ahead of Auburn and Mississippi State and behind Alabama, Texas A&M, Arkansas and Ole Miss.

LSU had four players earning All-SEC recognition, though, with Kayshon Boutte and BJ Ojulari earning first team honors, Ali Gaye earning second team honors and Maason Smith earning third team honors.

LSU preseason All-SEC selections may have been the most telling aspect of the week in regards to LSU’s success this sea-

son. The Tigers had three defensive linemen recognized, more than any other school, and had their top wide receiver named one of the top two in the SEC. These are by far the two strongest positions on the team, and they will be critical in regards to LSU’s success this season. While Boutte was injured last year, LSU was just one big play away from adding multiple wins, games the Tigers will look to steal this season.

BR COMMUNITY

These three open-air bars are perfect for an outdoor outing

BY ARIS WILLIAMS @jonetaw Dinner and a few drinks at an outdoor setting has become a sought-after excursion for young adults. Here are a few of my favorite open-air bars that manage to offer ambience, eats and a good time.

The Chimes on Highland The Chimes on Highland is conveniently located on the outskirts of campus, and has gained prominence for its diverse, fromscratch menu. The Chimes’ management decided to turn things up a notch in 2019, installing a rooftop space with a bar and dining areas that feature a rooftop view

of the surrounding area.

Chimes also boasts a tap room that offers an array of beers to try.

From Abita flavors to local brewers such as Tin Roof, the selection is diverse. If you’re feeling more refined, you can try out their specialty cocktails — with the Chimes Tea and Tito’s Lemon Drop being customer favorites.

All of these features make Chimes an ideal spot for a decompression session. Maybe you can check it out after a rough exam or presentation.

Tsunami Sushi Tsunami Sushi is located on the roof of the Shaw Center for the Arts downtown. Best described as an Asian fusion restaurant with

southern undertones, their drink menu features Sake, Japanese Whisky and signature wines.

Assistant General Manager Will Monceaux revealed that Tsunami plans to reconstruct its wine & spirits menu, with a new menu rollout set for next month.

“COVID-19 complicated our menu offering, as many of our options must be imported,” said Monceaux in an interview. “Our new selection offers consistent availability with the same Tsunami touch.”

Tsunami successfully fuses a fine dining experience with cultural excursion. Their menu offers an array of classic and specialty sushi rolls, along with restaurant specialties such as Baked Salmon

and Yellowtail.

If you’re looking for an outing to kick off the fall semester, a trip to Tsunami could help you expand your horizons and enjoy a drink or two.

Mid City Beer Garden This tap room’s indoor-outdoor structure includes tropical plants, open-air dining spaces and a petfriendly patio area.

Mid City Beer Garden also features an eclectic selection of ontap beers, weekly food specials and spirits such as tequila and rum. They aim to please with their extensive menu and have something for everyone.

There’s a menu specifically dedicated to brunch if you’re look-

ing for a midmorning excursion, with pancakes and specialty biscuits being customer go-to’s.

If you’d rather come later in the day, you can enjoy a classic from their sandwich and wrap menu.

My personal favorite is the Grilled Cheese & Tomato Basil Soup.

Mid City Beer Garden successfully merges classic bar eats with an earthy approach to the wining and dining experience. A great outing for friends winding down for the weekend.

All three of these establishments caught my eye with their unique interiors, proximity to campus and relative affordability.

Check one out when you’re feeling fancy and tell them Aris from the Reveille sent you.

OPINION

page 8

The Supreme Court has become a radical Republican tool CHARLIE’S ANGLES CHARLIE STEPHENS

@charliestephns The politicization of the Supreme Court is nothing new given its slow but steady drift from neutral arbitrator to a Republican emergency kill switch for any law that doesn’t align with the party platform.

The Supreme Court was initially imagined as an apolitical organization with political impunity and thus the ability to make independent decisions.

The court’s ability to make independent decisions not steeped in party ideology was severely weakened as the political climate outside meant that nominations to the court were increasingly scrutinized to glean insights from the potential justices.

We learned in the aftermath of the overturn of Roe, that whatever justices say during the

confirmation process is nothing more than a job interview and accountability is nonexistent.

When confronted about their statements during their confirmation hearings, legal scholars argue that the justices don’t truly answer questions regarding how they are going to rule due to their consistent vagueness.

In recent years the court has taken numerous steps in the wrong direction and against the American people.

During the Obama years, then Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell refused to provide Republican votes to move forward with Merrick Garland’s nomination to the Supreme Court due to the imminent presidential election.

Today, Merrick Garland is the United States Attorney General but his absence on the court is still felt.

During Donald Trump’s four years in the White House, he was able to fill three vacancies on the Supreme Court including

the one that Garland was nominated for during Obama’s tenure.

His three appointments to the nation’s highest court reshaped the court in an even more extreme conservative image.

The Ideologues on the court are no longer outnumbered by sane Americans hoping to interpret the law on sound and reasonable grounds which has led to numerous disappointing and widely impactful decisions from the court this session.

The most well-known decision this session is the overturn of Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey which constituted the foundation of the right of reproductive health care in the United States.

That decision by a 6-3 conservative court is not likely to be decided differently anytime soon due to the lifetime appointments of Justices.

Roe and Casey were not the only impactful decisions to be decided by this court that further cemented its decline into

just another partisan political institution, but they are the headliners.

The Supreme Court this session also gutted the Environmental Protection Agency’s enforcement powers on power plants emitting large amounts of emissions among other decisions that will impact us all for years to come.

The court also hinted that it

may come after additional personal freedoms, including interracial marriage, same-sex marriage and contraception.

How far must the court go before we decide that it has gone too far? Will we be too late to save our nation’s highest court?

Charlie Stephens is a 21-year-old political communication senior from Baton Rouge

JOSE LUIS MAGANA / Associated Press

Abortion-rights activists protest outside the Supreme Court in Washington, July 4. The Supreme Court has ended constitutional protections for abortion that had been in place nearly 50 years, a decision by its conservative majority to overturn the court’s landmark abortion cases.

It’s time to ditch car-centered cities for walkable communities SULLY’S SCOOP CLAIRE SULLIVAN

@sulliclaire

Anyone who’s walked down Highland Road won’t be too surprised to learn that Baton Rouge was named the fourth deadliest city for pedestrians in 2018.

Crossing the street is an exercise in faith.

Most American communities are built around the almighty car, and Baton Rouge is no exception.

LSU offers some reprieve to the honking and traffic of the rest of the city — unless, that is, you’re trying to find a parking spot in time for your 9 a.m. class or beat the commute out at the end of the day.

While it has flaws in need of solutions, LSU is still a relatively pedestrian-friendly community.

For many students, it’s the first and last walkable community they’ll ever live in.

Personally, I love that aspect of campus living. My apartment, my work, my classes and my friends are mostly all in a roughly one-mile radius of each other.

I can walk to get groceries, and if I’m running late to something, all

I need to do is pick up the pace.

Our communities would be healthier, happier and more equitable if we designed our cities around pedestrians, bikers and public transport instead of cars.

It’s a no-brainer that a commute that includes more walking than sitting is better for our health. But this conclusion extends beyond common sense and into real data. The Endocrine Society said that living in walkable communities that support daily activity reduces rates of diabe-

tes and obesity. One study found that adults living in less walkable communities were 30 to 50% more likely to develop diabetes.

Cars are a scourge not only on the environment — making up a fifth of all carbon emissions and a third of all air pollution in the U.S. — but also on our health.

There were around 385,000 premature deaths globally due to car exhaust in 2015 alone, according to a 2019 study from the International Council on Clean Transportation.

There are also social benefits to living in a walkable community. If you live in on-campus housing, you understand this.

Most, if not all, of your friends live just a few-minute walk away.

If you want to go for a late-night adventure or meet up for a study break, all you have to do is take a short journey outside your dorm.

When you live in a place centered around cars, it’s often necessary to drive farther from where you live for necessities and social activities. Many hardly

JULIAN COOPER / The Reveille

People line up their cars Jan. 30 in the parking lot for Street King BR’s Caffeine and Octane car meet on Nicholson Drive in Baton Rouge, La.

Editorial Policies and Procedures EDITORIAL BOARD Piper Hutchinson Peter Rauterkus Claire Sullivan Charlie Stephens

Editor-in-Chief News Editor Columnist Columnist

The Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University.

The Reveille is an independent entity of the Office of Student Media within the Manship School of Mass Communication. Signed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, The Reveille or the university. Letters submitted for publication should be sent via e-mail to editor@lsu.edu or delivered to B-39 Hodges Hall. They must be 400 words or less. Letters must provide a contact phone number for verification purposes, which will not be printed. The Reveille reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for space consideration while preserving the original intent. The Reveille also reserves the right to reject any letter without notification of the author. Writers must include their full names and phone numbers. The Reveille’s editor in chief, hired every semester by the LSU Student Media Board, has final authority on all editorial decisions.

interact with their neighbors, as they spend much of their time outside their immediate community. Neighborhoods centered around pedestrians naturally support closer community bonds.

It’s also important to consider the way car-centric communities further disadvantage residents without resources. Baton Rouge public transport can be limited and difficult to navigate. This makes it challenging for residents who rely on it to get groceries, visit the doctor’s office or get to work without significant time sacrifices.

Increasing investments in citywide public transport would make it easier for all residents to navigate the city and may also alleviate the heavy traffic that clogs much of Baton Rouge.

Many look back on their college years fondly. We should take city-planning notes from some of that nostalgia and think about ways we can make our cities less car-reliant and more accessible for everyone.

Claire Sullivan is a 19-year-old coastal environmental science and mass communication junior from CT.

Quote of the Week “Without publicity, no good is permanent; under the auspices of publicity, no evil can continue.”

Jeremy Bentham Philosopher 1748 — 1832