Volume 73, Issue 15

The Highlander

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE

VOL. 73, ISSUE 15

For the week of Tuesday, February 4, 2025

est. 1954

THE FIGHT FOR EQUALITY ACROSS DECADES ► Page 4

GO BACK AND GET IT: AFRICAN STUDENT PROGRAMS SPOTLIGHT ► Page 14 ADELIA URENA / THE HIGHLANDER

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NEWS

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

News

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Trump’s Plan to End Birthright Citizenship Faces Legal Challenges LAWSUITS ARISE OVER ALLEGED VIOLATION OF THE 14TH AMENDMENT. SARAH TABEL Contributing Writer

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resident Donald Trump and his administration have made historic moves, signing an executive order attempting to revoke birthright citizenship.

The executive order will prohibit children from claiming citizenship if one parent is “unlawfully present in the United States.”

This includes parents whose presence in the United States (U.S.) was “lawful but temporary” through documentation such as a work visa.

Birthright citizenship is a constitutionally protected right granting individuals born in the U.S. immediate citizenship. The right is safeguarded by the 14th Amendment which states that “all persons born or naturalized in the United States are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.”

On Jan. 20, the Trump Administration set the parameters by which individuals can claim the birthright. The edict states that in order for an individual to qualify as a citizen they must have at least one parent who is a citizen or a lawful resident, claiming that the amendment does not apply to individuals whose parents are non-citizens.

The motion to end birthright citizenship has prompted a wave of lawsuits.

On Jan 20, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) filed a lawsuit charging the

Trump Administration with disregarding the Constitution, calling the edict reckless and ruthless. On Jan. 21, 18 states filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts, claiming that President Trump’s initiative violated the 14th Amendment.

In the lawsuit, California Attorney General Rob Bonta called the executive order “un-American.” Later that day, federal Judge John Coughneour in Seattle, set a temporary restraining order blocking the President’s mandate after four more states filed their own lawsuit in Washington state directed towards the executive order.

Republican representatives who are sympathetic to Trump’s efforts have begun proposing bills to support the executive order. Rep. Brian Babin (R-Texas) introduced a bill claiming to reestablish the 14th Amendment to “its original purpose”, by only granting citizenship to individuals that have at least one parent who is a lawful U.S. resident.

Babin claimed that the executive order marked a “critical step forward” and that these “reforms” must be solidified and codified. Other Republicans disagree with the motion. Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla), representing Florida, believes that if an individual is born in the U.S. they are auto-

matically an American citizen. He insists that the 14th Amendment has made this “pretty clear cut” and that no President has the power to roll back this right.

Birthright citizenship has been a core American value with its roots tracing back to the Antebellum period. The issue of whether enslaved people qualified for U.S. citizenship arose in 1857 when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7-2 majority against Dred Scott, an enslaved person.

The Court’s decision stated that Black people were not entitled to citizenship due to perceived inferiority. The Dred Scott decision was overturned after the Civil War, when Congress ratified the 14th Amendment in 1868, guaranteeing citizenship for all individuals born on U.S. soil, including formerly enslaved people. The Amendment prohibits any state from enforcing laws that would “abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States.”

President Trump’s proposal to end birthright citizenship could impact approximately 1.3 million Americans who are born to undocumented parents, including H-1B work visa holders. However, the longstanding legal history of the 14th Amendment continues to raise criticisms and debate over legality of this executive order.■ H

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NEWS

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THE FIGHT FOR EQUALITY ACROSS DECADES SENNA OMAR Editor-in-Chief

CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENTS FROM THE 1950S TO TODAY.

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From massive protests against racial segregation and discrimination in the 1960s to the fight against police brutality, African Americans have advocated for equality for decades. In the Post-Reconstruction era, the Supreme Court ruling Plessy v. Ferguson in 1896 implemented the “separate but equal” doctrine, allowing for racial segregation in the United States (U.S.).

This system of segregation had persisted for many decades and resulted in some of the most brutal treatment toward African Americans. By 1954, efforts of activists from organizations like the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) culminated in Brown v. Board of Education, a Supreme Court case challenging the Plessy v. Ferguson ruling. After a long legal battle, the ruling began the disintegration of American schools. Although Brown v.

Board of Education ended the legal battle for desegregation, the fight for equality was far from over, and it would be years until America’s public schools would be fully integrated.

In a similar strive for equality, in 1955, Claudette Colvin — a high school student in Montgomery, Alabama — boarded a city bus. In accordance with Jim Crow laws, public transit was segregated and Black passengers were legally required to yield their seats to white passengers. During her ride, Colvin was asked to give up her seat to a white passenger. She refused to do so, replying to the bus driver that it was her “constitutional right” to remain seated. Colvin was removed from the bus and arrested because of her refusal.

Months later, NAACP member Rosa Parks similarly refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus, and like Col-

vin, she was arrested. This refusal mobilized the community, beginning the Montgomery Bus Boycott. 90 percent of Montgomery’s Black residents stayed off the buses for 13-months. Despite efforts to stop the demonstrations by city officials, protesters were determined to continue their boycott until their demands were met, and in 1965, they were met by the Supreme Court case Gayle v.

Browder, which ruled that segregation was unconstitutional on buses.

By the late 1950s, Civil Rights movements in Montgomery, Alabama had amassed national attention. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — bolstered as a leader of the Civil Rights Movement — during a demonstration, was arrested alongside hundreds of protesters. From his jail cell, Dr. King wrote his renowned “Letters from the Birmingham Jail.” Following his release, in 1963, Dr. King joined a quarter of a million people for the historic March on Washington, where he delivered his iconic “I have a Dream” speech.

Following decades of Black struggle, President Lyndon B. Johnson passed the Civil Rights Act in 1964, which prohibited “discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin.”

Later on, President Johnson passed the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which outlawed discriminatory voting practices adopted by many Southern States after the civil war.

Although the Civil Rights Movement made strides to end segregation, the fight was far from over. The Black Power Movement, persisting from the 1960s to the 1980s, was another fight for African American political, economic and cultural agency. Spearheaded by Malcom X, this movement centered around self-reliance and self-determination for

African Americans.

According to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, “The Black Power movement frightened most of white America and unsettled scores of black Americans.” Instead of focusing on integration, this movement “insisted that African Americans should have power over their own schools, businesses, community services and local government. The movement also focused on combating centuries of humiliation by demonstrating self-respect and racial pride as well as celebrating the cultural accomplishments of black people around the world.”

In 1966, the Black Panther Party was created as a Black marxist political organization. California activists, Huey Newton and Bobby Seale — party founders — organized young, poor and disenfranchised African Americans to continue the work of the Civil Rights Movement – a movement they saw as a failure. The founders sought to improve conditions for Black people outside the South.

Like Malcom X, the Black Panthers did not believe that nonviolent resistance was truly liberating. Seale insisted, “We don’t hate nobody because of color. We hate oppression.” The Black Panthers, known for their protection of Black citizens from brutality and “survival programs,” was labeled an extremist organization by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The group provided food, clothing and transportation to the African American community.

The Black Power Movement embraced iconic figures like Angela Davis, a Black Panther Party member and activist. Known most for her work during the George Jackson trial in the 1970s, Davis has continued her activism all through-

out her life, and presently she is a distinguished professor at the University of California, Santa Cruz.

As the Black Power Movement came to an end, the Black community faced new challenges. President Richard Nixon’s war on drugs and tough on crime policies disproportionately targeted Black communities, leading to mass incarcerations and an extreme rise in police brutality.

After a long journey through Congress, the Civil Rights Act of 1968 was signed into law by President Johnson.

This act served as an extension of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The Federal Fair Housing Act, prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability and familial status.

In 1992, following the acquittal of four police officers who brutally beat Rodney King, an African American man, a series of riots erupted throughout Los Angeles (LA). During these five days of rioting, residents set fires, looted buildings and engaged in large-scale protests until California Gov. Pere Wilson declared a state of emergency, and deployed thousands of national guard soldiers on protesters.

The 1990s also saw the emergence of a new kind of activism, including the 1955 Million Man March. This political demonstration brought hundreds of thousands of African American men to Washington, D.C. in order to promote unity and civic engagement.

In 2010, scholar Micelle Alexander laid forth an argument in her book, “The New Jim Crow,” that the post-Reconstruction judicial system was a modern day recreation of Jim Crow laws. Her novel highlighted how mass incarceration during the war on drugs functioned as a new form of racial control over African Americans, continuing segregation.

In response to the growing police brutality against African Americans, the 2010s had a resurgence of large-scale activism. After the acquittal of George Zimmerman, a police officer who fatally shot and killed 17-year-old Trayvon Martin, the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement became a cry against racial injustices and police brutality. The movement gained further momentum in 2014 after the police killings of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, and Eric Garner in New York, sparking nationwide protests and demands for police accountability.

The murder of George Floyd by police officers who kneeled on his neck for over nine minutes ignoring his pleas to let him breathe ignited one of the largest protests in U.S. history. Millions took to the streets across the globe to call for the “defunding of the police.”

From the Civil Rights movements of the 1950s to the BLM protests, African American activism has continued to evolve to meet new challenges. Modern concerns of police brutality often mirror the discrimination enacted in the 1950s, showing the progression of civil rights movements from America’s earliest H movements to now. ■

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NEWS

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

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ASUCR

ASUCR’s State of the Association DINARA GODAGE Assistant News Editor

During the Associated Students of the University of California, Riverside (ASUCR)’s fourth meeting of the quarter, the Executive Board (ECAB) announced their State of the Association (SOTA) reports.

Vice President of Finance (VPF) Cooper Kumar began the reports by explaining that he and the Finance Committee were pleased with the increase in grants and funding for clubs. He stated that improving club resources and capabilities were a main goal from last year, and they have made significant progress.

Previously, there was $420,429 allocated to clubs and student organizations. However, there was a $75,000 increase this year.

Following VPF Kumar, Vice President of External Affairs (VPEA) Vivian Herrera gave a report on deliverables for the upcoming quarter. In 2022, Congressman Mark Takano had visited for an event, and after reaching out to have another, his office agreed. VPEA Herrera plans to host an event for undocumented students to understand their rights due to the administration changes and immigration policies. She hopes for this event to be a collaboration with California State University, San Bernardino and possibly other members of the Riverside community.

VPEA Herrera and her committee are currently working on pamphlets entailing undocumented people’s rights if they were to encounter Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. The committee is also working on distributing red cards, a smaller version of the pamphlets, that can be obtained at the ASUCR office.

These resources will also be in four different languages, English, Spanish, Chinese and Arabic. Along with these, the new Lanken Riley Act motivated the VPEA to create a know your rights handbook.

Additionally, VPEA Herrera explained the annual lobby days are currently being planned and that registration will open soon. Apart from the annual Latina Lobby Day, the committee is attempting to host a South West Asian and North African (SWANA) Lobby Day. She hopes to bring 10 to 15 students to Sacramento.

President Abby Choy was not present, so a First Year Fellow presented on her behalf. He shared that R’Gear day would be Thursday, Jan. 30. The budget for the stickers

and sweaters that were handed out was approximately $9,000 She also has new initiatives planned and currently being implemented. ScottyEats is a program to assist food insecure students with obtaining meals for lower costs.

President Choy also plans to work on creating meditation and prayer rooms in the dorms and a free legal clinic available twice a week for undocumented students. She hopes to create a medical school pipeline program and to get a referendum for the R’Garden to receive funding for more staff.

Elections Director Kevin Arizmendi announced that candidacy for ASUCR positions opened on Jan. 9 and the form will close a week later to ensure more submissions.

Personnel Director Grace Su is planning engagement events for Women’s History Month and a tailgating event.

Vice President of Internal Affairs Nadia Aierken explained wanting to collaborate with the UCR libraries for new academic programs for students.

Executive Vice President Naia Pizzaro followed up by confirming the Town Hall meetings for each school and that her First Year Fellows are planning mental health initiatives.

For the Legislative Review Committee, the Senate reviewed five pieces of legislation. The first one was SR-W25-001; a referendum to change the type of waste disposal in the ASUCR office. The resolution was passed 11-0-0.

Next, they discussed SB-W25008 which proposed amendments to the Non-Traditional Students Committee to include the presence and involvement of undocumented students. The bill was approved 110-0.

SB-W25-009 covers adjustment of resources and international students’ involvement on campus. A friendly amendment was made to adjust the background commentary.

The amendment was passed 10-0-1.

The next bill was to rename the Indigenous Student Union and keep the student organization. This bill was approved 9-0-1, and an amendment was made to adjust the member numbering system and passed 11-0-0.

The final bill discussed was the creation of an Oversight Committee to manage creation of clubs such as the Black Student Union and Indigenous Student Union. This bill was approved 10-0-1.

For senate, President Pro Tempore Leila Haidar was excused, College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (CHASS) Senator Nathan Baw was absent, CHASS Senator Carter Anderson was excused, College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences Senator Vinisha Lalli was excused and Bourns College of Engineering Senator (BCOE) Senator Uma Akundi was absent.

For ECAB, President Choy was excused, VP of Sustainability Ellen Nguyen was excused and VP of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Ahman Greene was absent. ■H

FOLLOWING SOTA, THE SENATE PASSED FIVE LEGISLATIVE PIECES.

GRACE SUN / THE HIGHLANDER

NEWS

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Negotiation efforts for ceasefire underway

THIRD HOSTAGE EXCHANGE OF ISRAEL-HAMAS CEASEFIRE. SENNA OMAR Editor-in-Chief

In the third hostage exchange of the six-month Israel-Hamas ceasefire, on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, Palestinian group Hamas released three Israeli captives in exchange for the release of 183 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails.

This ceasefire halted over 470 days of genocide in Gaza, where Isreal has killed more than 46,000 Palestines — over half of whom were women and children.

In the first of two handoffs — televised by AlJazeera — French-Israeli dual citizen Ofer Kalderon and Israeli citizen Yarden Bibas were handed over to the Red Cross in Khan Younis — a southern Gaza Strip city.

One hour later, AmericanIsrael dual citizen Keith Siegel was released from northern Gaza.

After the exchange, the process to free the 183 Palestinian prisoners began. At least 73 of these prisoners were serving life sentences. According to Al-Jazeera, the first bus arrived at Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, carrying 32 Palestinians from Israel’s Ofer prison.

Of the 183 Palestinians released on Saturday, 111 were taken by Israeli forces in Gaza on or after Oct. 7, 2023 — these Palestinians were released in Gaza on Saturday.

Israel has approximately 4,500 Palestinian’s held in Israeli prisons, 310 of whom are currently held under administrative detention — meaning they were imprisoned without trial.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

COURTESY OF FMT

arrived in Washington, D.C. on Monday to begin negotiation efforts for the second phase of this three-phase ceasefire agreement. The second phase is expected to cover the release of the remaining captives and discussions of more permanent ends to the war.

Prime Minister Netanyahu will be the first foreign leader to meet with the newly inaugurated U.S. President Donald Trump. Before his departure, Netanyahu told reporters he and President Trump would discuss “victory over Hamas, achieving the release of all our hostages and dealing with the Iranian terror axis.”

President Trump has called for the transferring of Gaza’s entire population to Egypt and Jor-

dan. Foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, the Palestinian Authority and the Arab League rejected this plan which included “the forced displacement of Palestinians from their land.”.

In a joint statement, the five countries stated, “We affirm our rejection of [any attempts] to compromise Palestinians’ unalienable rights, whether through settlement activities, or evictions or annex of land or through vacating the land from its owners … in any form or under any circumstances or justifications.”

Since the beginning of the ceasefire in Gaza, Israel has begun an intensive attack on cities in the West Bank. On Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025, the Israel

military blew up at least 20 buildings in the West Bank city of Jenin, according to the Washington Post. The Palestine Red Crescent Society confirmed that at least five people were killed by this strike and two were critically injured — among those murdered was 16-year-old Ahmad al-Sadi.

Launching just days after the ceasefire was announced, Israel has officially called these raids on Jenin the “Operation Iron Wall” campaign.

Since the beginning of the ceasefire, Israeli forces have killed at least 20 Palestinians across the occupied territories and wounded dozens more.

In addition to the attacks in Jenin, the Israeli army also carried out intensive military opera-

tions in Tulkatem city and the refugee camp for over a week, forcing Palestinians to evacuate. On Saturday, Feb. 1, Israel forces also stormed and raided multiple areas of the occupied West Bank, including the Balata camp, Nablus and the alEin refugee camp.

The Israeli military has also stormed the residences and arrested multiple individuals in the occupied West Bank. Since Oct. 2023, the Israeli military has killed over 880 Palestinians in the West Bank. According to Al-Jazeera, Palestine’s Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa described what is happening in the occupied West Bank as “a systematic effort to destroy the foundations of the Palestinian state.” ■ H

OPINIONS

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

Opinions THE HIGHLANDER EDITORIAL

President Trump’s immigration directives deserve more attention from UC and UCR UCR’S COMMUNITY MAY BE IMPACTED IF UC AND UCR DO NOT TAKE ACTION AGAINST TRUMP’S INCREASED IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT AND ANTI-IMMIGRANT RHETORIC. In his first week, President Trump signed dozens of executive orders addressing immigration, including cutting off federal funding for sanctuary cities, ending birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, shutting down an app used by asylum seekers to apply for entry into the United States and sending 1,500 additional troops to the southern border.

California has been outspoken about leading the resistance against President Trump, particularly in immigration. Gov. Newsom called a special legislative session in Nov. 2024 and vowed to “defend our Constitution and uphold the rule of law.”

However, shortly after Trump took office, a memo from the Department of Justice — instructing state and local officials to comply with the administration’s immigration directives — was sent to public officials, raising questions about how successfully California can resist Trump’s intimidation tactics.

Several local governments, like that of Los Angeles County, are resisting Trump’s immigration orders by remaining steadfast in their commitment to continue being “sanctuary cities” and complying with California’s Senate Bill 54 (S.B. 54) — a state law that prevents state and local resources from being used to help federal immigration enforcement and protects certain sensitive areas like schools, hospitals, courthouses and places of worship.

In a vote of 4-0, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors passed a measure on Jan. 28 to promote inclusion and support immigrants by launching a website to help undocumented residents “access legal resources” and filing a review of how agencies collect data on immigrants. This action sharply contrasts with Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who has openly criticized S.B. 54 and said that he “would cooperate” with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) if they were to conduct mass deportation efforts in the county.

This is a highly concerning statement for the Riverside community since it is estimated there are 132,000 undocumented immigrants in the area, 86 percent of which migrated from Mexico and Central America.

However, Sheriff Bianco’s opposition to the state’s sanctuary law is unlikely to affect campuses like the University of California, Riverside (UCR), which has its own policies and procedures to physically protect undocumented and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students from immigration enforcement.

Currently, campus police are barred from contacting ICE or sharing personal information about an individual for immigration enforcement purposes. Federal immigration enforcement officers cannot access certain areas like residence halls and facility buildings without a judicial warrant, and staff and faculty do not need to immediately comply in most cases. Additionally, if an officer were to engage in immigration enforcement, the campus chancellor would be immediately notified.

Despite these protective steps, more actions should be taken to make undocumented and DACA students feel safer. Additional security protections, such as increased campus police patrols near residence halls

NEORAH DAVIS / THE HIGHLANDER

and facility buildings, would provide another level of safety. Updated training about immigration threats and enforcement should be required for faculty and staff so they are prepared for any possible scenario and understand the rights of students and campus policies.

From a young age, undocumented and mixed-status students — or those with family members of different citizenship statuses — experience high levels of anxiety and fear about their families being ripped apart.

Known as “undocumented anxiety syndrome,” fear of family separation due to deportation or increased anti-immigrant sentiment significantly impacts undocumented and mixed-status students’ mental health, hindering their psychosocial outcomes and academic performance.

Thus, the most pervasive effects of Trump’s immigration policies will be the mental and emotional toll on vulnerable students. As a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) with 58 percent first-generation undergraduate students, UCR students will be threatened by President Trump’s agenda. The negative impact of Trump’s policies could be felt heavily in this campus community if UC and UCR do not provide students with adequate supportive programs and resources.

UCR’s Undocumented Student Programs already provide key services to these students, such as legal advice, information about their rights and peer support groups. However, more accessible, culturally appropriate mental health services through The Well and the Undocumented Student Programs by counselors who know and understand immigration-related trauma may be needed to address the specific concerns, anxieties and fears of undocumented and mixed-status students, given President Trump’s hateful rhetoric and actions.

For now, President Michael V. Drake is the only UC administrator who has publicly responded to students’ worries. In his statement, he acknowledged the “fear and uncertainty” among undocumented and mixed-sta-

tus students by saying, “We don’t know all yet that lies ahead, but we remain steadfast in our values, our mission, and our commitment to caring for and supporting our entire UC community.”

UC and UCR may be trying to keep a low profile to avoid becoming targets for the new administration.

Still, it is disappointing that the UC system and UCR Chancellor Kim A. Wilcox haven’t more forcefully acknowledged students’ concerns or announced what the university will do to better support vulnerable student body members.

Despite establishing some services, it’s important to note that UC has also failed undocumented students before. Last year, the UC Regents did not pass Policy 4407, the “Opportunity for All” plan, allowing undocumented students to work legally on all UC campuses. After postponing the decision twice, the Regents bowed to political pressure in a presidential election year. Given the recent election results, it is improbable that Policy 4407 will be reintroduced — let alone passed. The inability to work on UC campuses and fear of Trump’s hardline immigration policies are added barriers undocumented students must now manage.

As Trump’s policies stoke xenophobia, UCR’s community must rally together to protect and support all members of its student body. After all, UCR’s standing and advancement as the number one university in the nation for social mobility is built on low-income students who strive to advance themselves and their families economically.

UCR, now is the time to stand up and fight for this H campus community. ■ The Highlander editorials reflect the majority view of the Highlander Editorial Board. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Associated Students of UCR or the University of California system.

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OPINIONS

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highlandernews.org/category/opinions

UCR students and community reactions to President Trump’s executive orders Compiled by: Cecile Diroll, Opinions Editor & Spandana Janapati, Asst. Opinions Editor Since his inauguration in Jan. 2025, President Donald Trump has signed 37 executive orders, many within his first week, focusing on immigration, healthcare, education and environmental policy. One order halted gender-affirming healthcare for transgender youth, while another required the federal government to recognize only male and female genders on official documents. Immigration policies have also shifted, including an order redefining birthright citizenship and

another banning the “catch-and-release” process, which previously allowed some migrants to stay in the United States (U.S.) while awaiting court proceedings.

Trump has also eliminated diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs in federal agencies, and has withdrawn the U.S. from the Paris climate agreement once again. Some states have already taken actions to protect their citizens and combat Trump’s onslaught of executive orders.

To understand how these policies are being received, The Highlander conducted a poll asking UCR students and community members to describe the Trump Administration and its executive orders in five words.

Responses were collected anonymously, allowing participants to express their opinions freely. The results provide insight into how people feel about the Trump Administration’s actions so far.

Statistics:

37

executive orders were signed by President Trump within his first week in office, 10 of which were related to immigration policy.

78 123

executive orders approved by former President Joe Biden were rescinded by Trump on his first day, including those related to environmental protections and healthcare costs.

lawsuits were filed by the state of California against the President Trump’s first term.

45%

of Americans said they approve of Trump’s first round of executive orders, dropping from 47 percent.

22

ADELIA URENA / THE HIGHLANDER

FROM IMMIGRATION TO HEALTHCARE, THE RIVERSIDE COMMUNITY SHARES THEIR THOUGHTS ON THE IMPACT OF PRESIDENT TRUMP’S RECENT POLICIES.

states have already taken action to sue Trump’s changes on birthright citizenship. ■H

highlandernews.org/category/opinions

OPINIONS

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

9

The legacy of racial hatred in the January 6 Insurrection TRUMP’S PARDONS FOR THE JAN. 6TH RIOTERS SHOW A DANGEROUS TREND OF LETTING WHITE NATIONALIST VIOLENCE SLIDE. LILIANNA ANGEL Contributing Writer

On Jan. 6, 2021, the United States (U.S.) Capitol was stormed by a violent mob, many of whom were affiliated with far-right extremist groups like the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers. Their goal was to overturn the 2020 presidential election results by force, fueled by misinformation and inflammatory expression from then-President Donald J. Trump.

Despite the severity of the attack, which resulted in extensive property damage and many law enforcement officers’ injuries and deaths, President Trump decided to issue sweeping pardons for over 1,500+ of these perpetrators. The pardons granted to the Jan. 6 attackers reflect a dangerous precedent that reinforces racial disparities in the justice system, undermines accountability and signals deeper political and racial divides in the U.S. — especially ironic on a day to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr., a man who fought tirelessly for racial equality.

This decision is not an isolated event. It is part of a broader historical pattern in which white nationalist violence has been excused or ignored by those in power. By pardoning Jan. 6 rioters, Trump demonstrated that political violence is permissible as long as it is carried out by his supporters.

These pardons cleared the rioters’ entire criminal records, deepening existing racial and political divides and echoing America’s long struggle with white supremacy and democracy. The election showed how deep political divisions, fueled by tribalism and an “othering” mentality, led to extreme actions like the Jan. 6 insurrection to hold onto power. It shows how these divides are being used to justify violence and erode democratic values.

The lenient treatment of Jan. 6 rioters stands in stark contrast to the aggressive crackdown on racial justice protesters in 2020. During the Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests following the unjust murder of George Floyd, demonstrators were met with militarized police, mass arrests and excessive force. Many peaceful protesters who were showing support endured tear gas, rubber bullets and violent crackdowns.

By comparison, Capitol rioters engaged in overt acts of violence, caused 2.9 million worth of damage,

chanted threats to then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Mike Pence, beat Capitol security with various weapons and forced both chambers of Congress to go on lockdown. Many of the rioters were escorted out calmly after the ordeal and were even allowed to leave without immediate arrests despite injuring a majority of Capitol security.

Although some argue the attack was purely political, rioters carried white supremacist symbols including Confederate flags and anti-Semitic slogans and sought to overturn an election largely decided by Black and minority voters in swing states.

Political violence in the U.S. is often intertwined with racial oppression.

From the Wilmington coup of 1898 to the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921, white supremacists used violence to suppress positive progress. Both of these events were violent and racially charged with white supremacists targeting and attacking prosperous Black communities. The U.S. has a long history of white-led efforts to undermine democratic progress and Jan. 6 fits this pattern of raciallycharged violence.

Now, with Trump’s pardons, every remaining consequence for these insurrectionists has been erased. This glaring difference reflects a historical bias in American law enforcement where predominantly white, rightwing extremists receive leniency within the criminal justice system, and Black and minority-led movements are met with disproportionate force.

By pardoning Jan. 6 attackers, Trump has consistently condoned political violence, especially when perpetrated by his supporters.

Presidential pardons are typically used for “clemency, encompassing not only pardons of individuals but several other forms of relief from criminal punishment as well.”

Federal crimes are forgiven, and the punishment for those crimes essentially makes them free people — restoring their franchisement and other civil liberties. However, presidential pardons are typically reserved for cases of wrongful conviction or excessive sentencing, not for domestic terrorism. Trump’s pardons cleared these terrorists’ entire record some of which include rape and domestic violence.

This action emboldens extremist

groups and further erodes trust in the justice system. However, the Supreme Court of the U.S. (SCOTUS) has already ruled in the case Trump v. United States (2020) that political violence influenced by a president is allowed as long as it is called an “Official Act,” referring to the president’s day-today actions like making or directing agencies. This essentially means that Trump can continue this egregious and horrific behavior.

President Trump has a record of minimizing and excusing white nationalist violence. A clear example is the 2017 Charlottesville rally where white supremacists marched with Nazi symbols and clashed violently with c o u n t e r- p r o t e s t e r s .

Despite the deadly outcome, Trump famously responded by saying there were “very fine people on both sides.” By comparing the violent acts of white supremacists with innocent members of a community of color, Trump blatantly showed that he tolerates white supremacy and racial violence.

His pardons for the Jan. 6 attackers follow the same pattern of enabling white nationalist violence. Trump’s new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cabinet member — and X CEO — Elon Musk, openly made a Heil-Hitler salute gesture twice at a Trump rally. While his apologists claim it wasn’t, they refuse to repeat the gesture. Trump’s non-reaction to this incident shows a broader disregard for the integrity of democratic principles, like the commitment to upholding the rule of law, equality and social responsibility.

This signals an alarming trend where figures like Musk feel emboldened to make such gestures without consequence.

Misinformation, racial resentment and political polarization have only intensified modern extremism. Farright groups continue to thrive under the illusion that they are defending America. With Trump still in office for the next four years, future attacks on democracy become increasingly

ADELIA URENA / THE HIGHLANDER

likely.

This is concerning because it will erode the very institutions and freedoms that allow for accountability, fairness and representation in government, leaving the country vulnerable to authoritarianism. What’s even scarier is the apparent desensitization or apathy of many Americans as they become accustomed to these threats and normalize Trump’s erosion of democratic norms — making it harder to recognize the long-term damage that is being done.

Trump’s pardons reinforce racial disparities in the justice system, weaken accountability for political violence and deepen the nation’s divides. The insurrection was not just a political event; it was a manifestation of America’s ongoing struggle with white supremacy.

To prevent history from repeating itself, Americans desperately need to confront this framework.

Americans can start with demanding accountability, continuing the fight for racial justice through protests, boycotting places not complying with diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and following Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s framework of non-violent civil disobedience.

Without meaningful consequences for insurrectionists, the threat to democracy will only worsen. ■H

10 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

OPINIONS

highlandernews.org/category/opinions

President Trump’s recall of DEI programs reinforces the white patriarchy

UNIVERSITIES SUCCUMB TO TRUMP’S EXECUTIVE ORDERS AND PREEMPTIVELY REMOVE DEI PROGRAMS, CREATING REGRESSIVE CAMPUS COMMUNITIES. MATA ELANGOVAN Managing Editor

On Jan. 27, 2025, the Executive Office of the President’s Office of Management and Budget released a memo on a “temporary pause of agency grant, loan, and other financial assistance programs.”

Implementing this pause would affect programs passed by President Donald J. Trump’s executive orders such as “Protecting the American People Against Invasion” and “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government.” The planned pause has paved the way for universities to take unnecessary preemptive actions to comply with the memo and reinforce the patriarchy, despite the office rescinding the memo less than two days after they issued it.

The effects of an order such as this are imminent and pressing as it sets the tone for the future of America under the Trump Administration. Colleges across the nation reacted promptly.

Northeastern University, while renaming its “Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” (DEI) to “Belonging in Northeastern,” has made no fundamental changes to the university’s core values. By only changing its department name, Northeastern slyly defies Trump’s attempt to hurt minorities.

This is just one example of a university taking the dignified route.

By standing firm in their stance and values, Northeastern University sent a message to both state and federal officials that its campus will not be pressured to comply with discriminatory practices. It also sends a message to minority students at the university that Northeastern is by their side and will continue to support the diversity present on campus.

Other universities are failing their students by eliminating their DEI

COURTESY OF FLICKR

LAYNA LAPIKAS / THE HIGHLANDER

programs entirely. The University of North Carolina System Board of Governors voted in 2024 to replace their policy on diversity and inclusion with a new one to comply with “institutional neutrality.” As a result, the University of North Carolina, Charlotte (UNCC) dissolved three DEI-related offices. Despite their claims that the policy is to protect their faculty’s academic freedom, it only serves to further inequality in the academic settings.

This preemptive move is dangerous considering the current political climate. It gives the Trump Administration the upperhand in carrying out their vision of a white supremacist nation. UNCC’s decision sets the precedent for other universities to succumb to the regressive ideologies being spread by the Trump Administration.

Without DEI programs and centers present at universities, students lay at the whims of the white men in power at these institutions. Banning DEI in college is dangerous, as these programs and affinity spaces exist to reduce achievement gaps and enrich learning experiences through the development of an inclusive learning environment. For many, DEI programs encourage students to be more engaged with their communities and foster a more racially diverse and rich culture on campus.

The memo that was initially released and the subsequent action that followed is diverging onto a dark path for America’s future. Take into account the executive order, “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government.” Who bestowed the power of so-called “defending” women to the federal government?

Absolutely no one. Masking antitrans directives under the guise of protecting women. This demeans transgender people as it paints them as sexual predators — reinforcing negative and hurtful stereotypes about the transgender community.

It’s almost like the Trump Administration is afraid of people gaining a conscience. Banning DEI programs and pulling out funding for them is a way to crack down on race-consciousness that is starting to appear in this neoMarxist time period. In alignment with his Administration’s fear of bodily autonomy, Trump insists, “Accordingly, my administration

will defend women’s rights and protect freedom of conscience by using clear and accurate language and policies that recognize women are biologically female, and men are biologically male.”

The only thing women need protection from at this rate is the federal government itself. The socalled simplification of gender to biological sex is a degradation, down to the chromosomal level. It is complicated and genetics makes it even more so, with over 25 genes contributing to sex differentiation, various mutations can alter the so-called gender of an individual.

Firmly driving in the point that the “clear and accurate language” that the Administration in this executive order isn’t so clear at all, as even “biology” alone cannot dictate “sex.”

One of the most disturbing parts of the rollout of these executive orders is that it targets minorities and labels them as the problem. The model citizen for the United States is a cisgender, straight white man.

Anyone who does not align with this model is immediately an outlier.

DEI programs exist to lessen the racial and gender disparities seen in the nation, making inclusion more achievable. The lack of acknowledgement on how repealing DEI programs will negatively affect minority communities, only exacerbates the power given to the white man. The path to equity will remain obstructed until the need for these programs is recognized and prioritized. ■H

FEATURES

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/features

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

11

Features

Scotty-Scopes:

Midterms schmidterms By: Natalie Dahl, Features Editor

HOW TO AVOID BURNOUT (OR AT LEAST TRY).

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22): The Moon

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21): Queen of Swords

Let yourself have a little (or big) cry sesh this week. Release those negative emotions you’ve been bottling up and get on with it.

Don’t listen to your friend who tells you that you can lock in later — the time is, and has been, now. Tell your bestie that the movie night can wait.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19): Justice

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18): Four of Pentacles

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20): The World

Hold yourself accountable this week so you can get what you need to get done, done. Tell the truth — you need to study more for that one class. Don’t lie to yourself.

Stock up on some snacks to get you through those midterms. Saving money is great, but sometimes splurging on a little treat can get you through.

Travel is your best friend, Pisces. That doesn’t mean to another country or state — you can rejuvenate by stay-cationing wherever you are.

Aries (March 21 – April 19): Six of Swords Don’t let those assignments and responsibilities pile up now that crunch time is upon us. Take it one item at a time on the to-do list and avoid multitasking.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22): Queen of Pentacles Your room is not the best place to study at the moment. Keep yourself out of family or roommate drama this week, and stick to campus study spots.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Six of Cups Remembering how easy your life was in high school will not help you pass your next chemistry test, Taurus. Stop reminiscing and get your butt to the library.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22): Five of Pentacles Staying isolated this week will just cause you to spiral and feed your anxieties. Find a friend to study with to keep you motivated and on track.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21): Seven of Cups Take your studying one test at a time, Sagittarius, and don’t let it overwhelm you. Wishful thinking will not pay off in the lecture hall while you’re filling out your scantron.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20): The Lovers We all love love, but right now, school should be your first priority. Keep up your relationship through kind gestures, but nothing that takes up too much of your precious study time.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22): Knight of Pentacles Avoiding your to-do list won’t make it go away, Virgo. The sooner you start, the better you’ll feel in the short and long term. ■H

LAYNA LAPIKAS / THE HIGHLANDER

12 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

FEATURES

highlandernews.org/category/features

NORM’S NOOK SPOTLIGHT UCR Brick GABRIELA GALVAN Assistant Features Editor

Let’s go brick for brick! The University of California, Riverside (UCR) has its fair share of niche facts and details like any other university, but there’s no denying that this is a special case.

Buildings around campus, like Orbach Science Library, Pierce Hall, Genomics Building, CHASS Interdisciplinary North and South, are seemingly normal. But they all feature the same characteristic: being big, red and bricked up.

These buildings hold their charm in one place, and you didn’t guess it – it’s bricks! UCR brick, a that was coined over 55 years ago, is a type of brick specially made for the university’s buildings. While the color shifts from building to building, the clay used has been locally sourced ever since its inception, highlighting the neutral color palette that makes up the Southern California image! UCR bricks are longer in length and have a different texture than the standard ol’ bricks used elsewhere. Unreplicable, classic and probably able to withstand the blows from 100 big, bad wolves, UCR brick is special in its own right! ■H

(Easy)

Pierce Hall Neorah Davis / The Highlander

STUDENT POLL QUESTION: Which Black historical figure resonates with you the most?

Answer our weekly question on the Highlander Instagram for the opportunity to get featured in the next issue!

James Baldwin

Katrina B.

Angela Davis

Iris A.

Hank Mobley

Gabriela G.

Toni Morrison

Mata E.

Langston Hughes

Aaliyah B. ■ H

GRAPHICS BY LAYNA LAPIKAS / THE HIGHLANDER

FEATURES

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

13

■H

SEEING DOUBLE

COURTESY OF PEXELS

By Natalie Dahl Features Editor

ANSWERS

(DON’T PEEK!) MAIN ST Across

1. Kind of line 6. Defeat decisively 10. Jamaican wrinkly ____ fruit 14. “He’s ___ nowhere man” (Beatles lyric) 15. Taboo 16. Oversupply 17. Minimum 18. Higher than a tenor sax 19. Fine-tune 20. Winter ______ dance 22. Ad ____ 24. Loud thud 25. Lends a hand 27. Slip-on formal shoes

29. Itty-bitty pasta, commonly mistaken for a grain 33. Engine need 34. John Green’s brother 35. Baby buggy 37. Old gold coin 41. “___ be a shame if...”

42. Oohed and ___ 44. Egg cells 45. Decided 48. Sweep under the rug 49. Like Marilyn Monroe or Superman 50. Alternate spelling of Hajj 52. Song by Ariana Grande, Jessie J, and Nicki

Minaj 54. Gave Mom and Dad a night out, in a way 58. The game or the cereal 59. ET’s ride 60. Cupid, to the Greeks 62. Idiots 66. Reduced Instruction Set Computer Abbr.

68. “Christmas in ___” (1940 comedy) 70. Transfix 71. Chow 72. Fluish feeling 73. Egypt’s capital 74. Coop group 75. Actress ____ Perlman

76. Provide with a permanent fund

Down

1. Baby cow 2. Cookie often twisted apart 3. Not far 4. Firefighter’s protection 5. Eurasian language family 6. Genetic chain of letters?

7. Sushi selection 8. “Wait __ Dark” 9. Minor scrape 10. “Bleah!”

11. Shakespeare’s theater 12. Like some calendars

ORANGE ST

13. List components 21. Drug to treat Parkinson’s disease 23. Remarked 26. Soft, twilled silk 28. Bird ___ 29. All the rage 30. Word of honor 31. Reverse 32. Indian honorific 36. Olympian’s prize 38. ___-Cola 39. Big name in cosmetics 40. Zingy taste 43. Jeans material 46. Like a wallflower 47. “___ on Down the

Road” 49. Peninsula comprising Spain and Portugal 51. ___ ___ Binks 53. Aerospace measure 54. Scottish town 55. In flames 56. Petty officer on a merchant ship 57. Like some luck 61. Turn on a pivot 63. “Metamorphoses” poet 64. Adopted son of Claudius 65. Stash away 67. Its logo keeps an eye on TV H 69. Nay’s opposite ■

14 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

Go back and get it:

FEATURES

African Student Programs spotlight

SHAREE HUGHES’ INSIGHTFUL LOOK INTO AFRICAN STUDENT PROGRAMS.

GABRIELA GALVAN Assistant Features Editor

Before you proceed, be sure to “go back and get it.”

Channeling and preserving the past is a culturally formative sentiment amongst the African community and best captured by the term Sankofa. Sankofa is a Twi expression coming from the Akan people of the Ivory Coast and Ghana that translates to “go back and get it.” Often represented by an insignia of a mythical bird reaching behind itself for an egg, the term expresses the importance of recognizing the past as a building block for the present. The symbol also preserves history for future generations.

Resonating with this message and the image of the Sankofa bird is the University of California, Riverside’s (UCR) African Student Program (ASP) and its program coordinator Sharee Hughes; “at ASP, we have our emblem, the Sankofa bird, and we go with the spirit of Sankofa… but the whole premise behind the Sankofa is to give back to the communities that poured into you.”

In the face of marginalization and discrimination, ASP’s origin on campus in 1972 beautifully revived the sentiment of Sankofa through the delivery of a space for Black students. The center’s support system acknowledges the struggles of the past as a reference to best support Black excellence at school. In time for Black History Month, an interview with Hughes delivers an incredible look into her involvement with ASP and an insight on ASP’s presence on campus as a whole.

Starting off with her time at UCR as an undergraduate student, Hughes retained a history for program coordination as a program assistant for student-parents under the Women’s Resource Center. Following her graduation, Hughes was offered a position as a substitute program coordinator for ASP. She eventually assumed the role of a permanent coordinator in 2016.

Approaching the 10-year anniversary of working for ASP, Hughes reveals her motivation for continuing her involvement with the program: “It’s the love of the scholars and being able to give back to a population that I come from, and being a resource… [and] wanting to give back to a space in a community that really poured into me while I was a student here.”

Hughes’ presence in ASP has promised the forward movement of Black students

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pursuing academic and personal endeavors.

By coordinating events and promoting a positive college experience by facilitating grounds for a safe space, they prepare students “for a life outside of the university.”

Hughes shares, “While providing this safe space to grow and flourish, [we] also prepare you for what’s to come outside of this space… We do that through mentorship, both peer mentorship and mentorship from Professional Staff.”

ASP provides an extensive list of resources that include not only mentorship, but also cultural programs, tutoring, academic advising, student advocacy and social justice education. Additionally, the program maintains the goal of improving or implementing more resources by refining their goals yearly basis, as Hughes mentions. These resources and the effort to implement them can take years to advocate for.

In reference to ASPs new Black Student Success coordinator, Victor Moreira, who serves students with any academic advising question, Hughes mentions, “We fought hard via Black experience committees.

It was years worth of work that we put into it. From what I know, we are the only [student program in Costo Hall] that has a success coordinator.” According to Hughes, Moreira’s services proved to be the most sought after by students, being the most visited coordinator in the entirety of ASP. Even as ASP remains a heavily serviced program, it never falters in making improvements for its students.

Looking to encourage community engagement, ASP holds many events throughout the year that serve to promote the program’s seven pillars: Capital building (advertise resources), Professional development, my Black matters (exploring Black identities), Blackademically speaking (resources that help navigate academic endeavors), Personal wellness (focusing on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health in students), Responsible citizenship (civic engagement programs), and Leading while Black (leadership program).

Some of the biggest events held by ASP are their Black History Month events, which will include guest speaker Kevin Powell.

Powell will be present on campus on Feb. 4 from 6 p.m. to 8:20 p.m. at the Highlander Union Building (HUB) 302. During this

NEORAH DAVIS / THE HIGHLANDER

month, there will also be performances by student groups on campus. ASP will also be hosting a basketball night in collaboration with athletics on Feb. 20 to honor Black scholars. On Feb. 22, the Black Alumni Chapter will be holding a Preserving Black Brilliance scholarship gala. Any further interest in other events and collaborations can also be found in ASP’s newsletter.

ASP’s Black History Month celebrations prove to highlight the importance of recognizing Black history and excellence.

However, beyond the 28-day limit of February, Hughes highlights the celebration of Black success is a year-round celebration that isn’t limited to the past, but also revolves around present successes. Hughes insists, “Well, we have a saying in ASP, that Black history is celebrated 365 days.

And we also look at Black history in that we feel like our scholars that are coming through these doors are Black history in the making.”

Hughes continues by encouraging those that don’t celebrate the month-long holiday year-round to make time to uplift Black student and community voices. Fourthyear public policy major and president of the Black Student Union at UCR, Chantelle

Miller, who frequents ASP mentions, “Honestly, every day, every month is Black History Month. To us, at this point, were really surrounded by each other like that.

So I think, [Black History Month], it’s more of a time to reflect on what we want to put out there in the world and what we want for our futures. Because yes, it’s important to acknowledge, Black History Month, but also we are shaping people who are going to be contributing to Black History Month.”

However, ASP’s lively nature is not limited to its events! Apart from having quiet hours in the morning, ASP is hustling and bustling with the spirit of Black scholars. Working towards bettering their program, Hughes advertises ASPs opendoor policy and its dedication to remain vigilant about catering towards all of its students: “ASP is a space for all scholars that come here on campus, so we don’t want anyone to feel like the resources that are here aren’t available to them.”

Anyone who is interested in knowing more about the resources, events and collaborations that ASP offers to the entirety of UCR’s student body can view their newsletter and social media, which H detail the program’s limitless opportunities.■

FEATURES

highlandernews.org/category/features

TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2025

WHAT UCR LANDMARK ARE YOU? CHECK OUT THIS QUIZ TO FIND OUT WHAT UCR LANDMARK YOU ARE!

NATALIE DAHL Features Editor

What does your ideal Friday night consist of?

A. Game night in B. Seeing a local band C. Hitting the town D. Anything with friends Where would you most like to spend a weekend?

A. City B. Forest C. Beach D. Mountains What’s your drink of choice?

A. Hot coffee B. Chai latte C. Lemonade D. Kombucha What would people say is your greatest strength?

A. Hard work B. Creativity C. Empathy D. Spontaneity What’s your Taco Bell order?

A. Doritos Locos Taco B. Quesadilla C. Build Your Own Cravings Box D. Crunchwrap Supreme

JOS

EPH

If you answered mostly A, you are the Bell Tower.

You’re a natural leader who is set on achieving their goals. You go through life at a fast pace and know just what you want.

RO

DA

RTE

/ TH

EH

IGH

LAN

DE

R

If you answered mostly B, you are the Rivera Arches.

You’re one artsy person who always has imaginative ideas at the ready. Originality is your M.O. and inspiration strikes you daily.

If you answered mostly C, you are the Highlander Union Building (HUB).

You’re a social butterfly at heart. People love to be around you because of your bubbly and bright personality.

If you answered mostly D, you are the Box Springs (“C”) Mountain.

You’re someone who lives life on the wild side. Adventure always calls your name and you always answer. ■H

Helping the romantically hexed & love-struck navigate the unpredictable weather of love.

Love is in the air-- or is it? Submit love queries to our very own Highlander Radar Editor Maribel Gamez-Reyes for a chance to share your own story and stay tuned for the latest updates on the love forecast. Broadcasting her verdict of clear skies or stormy weather across our campus one love forecast at a time, don’t miss the chance to get all your love questions answered! Submit your relationship advice questions to the QR code below!

Questions?

Email features@highlandernews.org

15

16 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

Radar

RADAR

Artist Spotlight:

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BOBBI MONAE MANDOUR / THE HIGHLANDER

Izze Mora’s multimedia exhibition

Where the artist, the institution, the media, and capitalism converge.

BOBBI MONAE MANDOUR Assistant Radar Editor

On the second floor of the Arts Building, in room 245, lives the everchanging Phyllis Gill Gallery. Throughout the quarter, the gallery is a venue for student undergraduate exhibitions within the Art Department, ranging from photography showcases, performances, multimedia works to screenings. During week three of the Winter 2025 quarter, fourth-year art major and queer studies minor student, Izze Mora, graced the gallery with their exhibition titled, “TAKE! TAKE! TAKE! Around campus, Izze provoked intrigue by plastering bulletin boards with the show flyer, which stood out with its stark red background and big, bold white lettering – existing as a piece of art itself. Inside the gallery, the artwork took on several forms – physical, visual and thoughtful. Colorful clothing littered the gallery’s floor, appearing like a messed-up yard sale. The walls were decorated with seven large format prints and clothing. This time, though, the monochromatic design resembled the aesthetic of a Depop post.

Immersed in Izze’s world, the viewer was invited to walk amongst the controlled chaos and sit upon the lone, clothing-covered bench in the middle of the room. Amidst the gallery, the lively human spectator moved in juxtaposition to the meticulously-placed clothing on the ground, which resemble lying bodies. This depiction created an especially ominous relationship with the living visitors around them.

Izze Mora identifies themselves as “an artist, photographer and local nuisance.” However, within the context of being the creator of TAKE! TAKE! TAKE!, their identity shifts to “the Institution, the Media, and the Capitalist,” in their own words.

What was your process in organizing and creating the work for TAKE! TAKE! TAKE!? What was the show’s message?

Izze: “I used seven different cameras to shoot the seven different photographs – four on digital and three on film. I started with a camera worth about 12 grand ([that was] of course only accessible because I go to the prestigious institution that is UCR) and ended with a twenty-dollar point and shoot. As for the images themselves, I was emulating a format that’s common on Depop, Pinterest and Instagram to show a ‘marketed, manufactured identity.’ The photographs represent how ‘crafted’ our media apparatuses are – be it legacy news outlets or the art institutions as arbiters of culture. Everything is designed, a narrative to be told, and more importantly, to be sold.

In some ways, the show seemed to reckon with themes of messiness, external perceptions of the self, youth and style. What themes did you have in mind when working on the show?

Izze: “Capitalism seeks eternal growth; in order to obtain more and more of the market, it co-opts and adapts its ways of marketing. Clothing trends cycle, and the market is quick to adapt to those cycles. With the advent of faster and faster production models coming out of the fashion industry such as Shein, DollsKill, Zara, H&M or whatever – culture is sold for cheap, trends are quickly made and killed, bought and then thrown away. Every twenty-year-old knows this, yet it’s so seductive. Our natural urge to express ourselves so explosively is preyed upon and indulged; the consequences of that are hard for many of us to admit.

The show mostly used textiles to tell its story – how was this different from your past creative pursuits?

Izze: “I would say it’s less focused on the personal. However, I am not unimportant in this work. I also aimed to make the audience incredibly aware of their active participation. The outside observer is not sacred, they play an active role in continuing this cycle. But I as ‘the Institution’ created this situation in the first place. I dictated what was shown. As one explores the room, the images degrade, and as the media apparatus collapses over time, and the bullet holes become more and more obvious, so do the bodies.”

What, and who, inspires you to create?

Izze: “My daily life, my relationships, everything anyone else will tell you. Personally, I find that my art acts as a way to process my own emotions, intellectually and spiritually. Especially for this show in particular – I mean the clothes on the floor, the ‘bodies’, resulted from my own doom-scrolling habits.

Contrasting consumption and indulgence in fashion with the GoFundMe’s of Palestinian families and the reports of their deaths. As for artists who inspired me, Félix González-Torres would be the main one. If you don’t know him, Google him. His work is currently being erased. Cycles of resistance and cycles of oppression seem to be eternal.”

While Izze’s show was only on display for the duration of Winter 2025’s week three, they are a regularly practicing artist within UCR’s Department of Art. With graduation coming up in the spring, fans of Izze hope to see the artist’s works continuously embraced. ■H

COURTESY OF IZZY MORA

RADAR

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

17

Remembering David Lynch and his legacy AN INTRODUCTION TO HIS WORK AND WHERE TO START.

COURTESY OF FLICKR

IRIS ARANDA Contributing Writer

On Jan. 15, 2025, David Lynch, the visionary director, died from an ongoing struggle with lung cancer.

He was a lifelong smoker, which led him to being homebound and dependent on an oxygen tank for his last couple of months of life.

On Facebook, his family released a statement on his passing: “It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch. We would appreciate some privacy at this time.

There’s a big hole in the world now that he’s no longer with us. But, as he would say, ‘Keep your eye on the donut and not on the hole.’ It’s a beautiful day with golden sunshine and blue skies all the way.”

Lynch originally developed his skills as an artist at Corcoran School of the Arts and Design, The School of Museum of Fine Arts and The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts.

He preferred social life to academics.

He believed real learning happens outside of school. Lynch had a long film career from the 1970s to 2017, but he was most famous for directing and writing the TV show “Twin Peaks” with co-writer Robert Frost.

His work has a cult following because he managed to move audiences with his unique films.

Lynch’s popularity is evident in his frequent visits to Bob’s Big Boy in Burbank, CA; he ate there almost

everyday in the 1970s. When learning of the surreal storyteller’s passing on Jan. 16, fans began to flock to Bob’s Big Boy. They not only wanted to enjoy “a damn fine cup of coffee” in honor of the director but also to see the framed picture of Lynch.

In his book, “Catching the Big Fish: Meditation, Consciousness, and Creativity,” Lynch devoted page 39 to Bob’s Big Boy: “I used to go to Bob’s Big Boy restaurant just about every day from the mid-seventies until the early eighties. I’d have a milkshake and sit and think. There’s a safety in thinking in a diner. You can have your coffee or your milkshake, and you can go off into strange dark areas, and always come back to the safety of the diner.” Lynch fans in the Los Angeles (LA) area have gathered around the diner to create a shrine in remembrance of Lynch’s legacy.

Fans left cigarettes, Heineken beers, candles, flowers, coffee cups, money and other Lynch inspired items.

Lynch’s films are known for their surrealism. Surrealism is “a movement in art and literature seeking to express the subconscious mind by any of a number of different techniques, including the irrational juxtaposition of realistic images [or] the creation of mysterious symbols.”

Lynch used surrealism to help craft a story with the use of visual elements, such as color, composition, bizarre

editing techniques and camera angles. His approach would leave readers confused. This makes the quality of his films special – so much so that a term was created for them – Lynchian films “Lynchian” films are described as “characteristic, reminiscent, or imitative of the films or television work of David Lynch.” Lynch is noted for juxtaposing surreal or sinister elements with mundane, everyday environments and for using compelling visual images to emphasize a dreamlike quality of mystery or menace.

Lynchian films are filled with absurd imagery and content, which forces the audience to think for themselves. This was his main philosophy: independent interpretation. Lynch didn’t like explaining his films to his viewers.

Instead he urged them to close read for themselves. Lynchian films require careful attention to detail to all visual and narrative elements.

What makes David Lynch’s work so unforgetable is the way he’s able to tell a story and push the limits through a visual medium. He was not afraid to be experimental. When you watch a Lynch film, you don’t forget the red curtains on top of the black and white zigzag floors from “Twin Peaks” (1990) or the red flowers against the bright blue skies from

“Blue Velvet” (1986). From strange bunnies on the television in “Inland Empire” (2006), to mysterious characters and possible possessions in “Twin Peaks,” this imagery drives viewers to be more engaged with the media they consume.

For newcomers to the Lynch archive, the cult classic “Twin Peaks” is a good place to start. At its core, it’s a “whodunit” detective show about solving the murder of Laura Palmer, a local prom queen in a small Washington town. The show employs added elements of sci-fi and mystery. The series begins when Pete Martell from the Sawmill finds the prom queen wrapped in plastic on the beach. This prompts the FBI to get involved, which is where Agent Dale Cooper comes in. Cooper is a coffee and pie-obsessed, lovable character, who is played by Kyle MacLachlan.

The viewer learns more about the town through his lens, through which the town’s darker secrets end up being revealed.

The loss of David Lynch is not only felt by his family and friends, but also by his fans and the film industry.

David Lynch was the filmmaker of his generation. The type of films he made are one of a kind. Lynchian films explore darker elements that feel like a fever dream. ■H

RADAR

18 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

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“SMB” by Odetari ft. Hongjoong of ATEEZ is a fun, fast paced track with attitude ODETARI IS BACK WITH ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL HYPERPOP TRACK FEATURING K-POP ARTIST HONGJOONG. JOANNA SIMON Contributing Writer

Odetari is a music producer known for going viral on platforms such as Tiktok, with energetic beats and a unique style of music. He has contributed greatly to the hyperpop genre that’s become popular on social media, with many clips generating choreographies and fan edits.

The collaboration with Hongjoong got leaked when fans noticed an accidental release of a song with ATEEZ on Odetari’s Spotify. Odetari confirmed that there would be a feature from ATEEZ on a future song, and confirmed the release of “SMB” later on.

Hongjoong is the leader of the K-pop group ATEEZ, who has recently gained success abroad. The band is currently announcing the Europe leg of their tour.

Hongjoong is known best for his rapping in ATEEZ, as well as his production and songwriting for many ATEEZ songs. As with most K-pop artists, he’s also admired for his dance skills.

“SMB” is a hype song that’s fun to dance to, and would probably satisfy most fans of the hyperpop genre. It has

classic traits that are common to this genre and most of Odetari’s songs. The lyrics are repetitive and rather minimal in substance, and the same could be said of Hongjoong’s verse. Both artists focused more on delivery rather than profound lyrics, which makes sense for the style of this song. The snappy introduction and autotune in Hongjoong’s verse feels fitting. The slowing down of Odetari’s final verse is a deliberate stylistic choice; it’s reminiscent of slowed versions of songs that many hyperpop producers release.

The beat itself is punchy and has energetic bass, but overall isn’t anything particularly unique compared to similar songs in the genre. Odetari’s production choices are solid, though, especially in regards to autotuning choices and signature trap beats.

ATEEZ fans enjoyed the song and highlighted Hongjoong’s verse on social media, frequently posting clips from the visualizer video of his parts. Fans also talked about how they found the song catchy in spite of their unfamiliarity with the genre beforehand. A choreographed dance made by Korean dance crew, B.B. Trippin, also became a popu-

lar dance challenge.

Some of Odetari’s fans, however, expressed that they didn’t enjoy Hongjoong’s verse on the track, and would have preferred the song to only have Odetari on it. On the other hand, there were fans of both ATEEZ and Odetari who were looking forward to this collaboration eagerly, and most liked the song after it was released.

Fans of ATEEZ also noted Hongjoong’s verse allegedly dissing Bang Sihyuk, better known as Hitman Bang, a prominent founder of the Korean record

label and talent agency HYBE Corporation. The founder is most known for managing BTS, one of the most successful K-pop groups of all time. However, HYBE came under fire recently due to leaked documents in which Kpop artists were harshly criticized. Since ATEEZ was included in the documents, Hongjoong’s mentions of Bang’s name might be referencing this controversy.

Verdict: “SMB” is a fun song to dance to, and is a likeable track for most fans of hyperpop as well as a good introducH tion for some listeners new to the genre.■

COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP

The Bellrays represent Riverside rock n’ roll royalty HEAVY STEADY GO! WITH THE BELLRAYS.

MAXEN OLVERA Contributing Writer

Riverside is home to countless creative individuals with a passion for music. Bands play at venues like Birdcage Comic Cafe or Back To The Grind. If asked about local influences, many bands would undoubtedly point to The Bellrays as a backbone of the scene.

The Bellrays were founded by University of California, Riverside (UCR) alumni and married couple Lisa Kekaula and Bob Vennum in 1990. Both of them received a bachelor’s degree in English from UCR. When Bob first locked eyes with her, Lisa worked at Bull ‘n’ Mouth (now the Getaway Cafe). Bob describes the encounter as “love at first sight.” Bob started going to Bull ‘n’ Mouth more frequently to see her. One day, the owner offered Bob a job as a busboy. Bob happily accepted the job and began working with Lisa. They immediately hit it off as they shared a burning passion for music.

Bob had a band called The Rose Thorns that he played with. Soon enough, Bob offered Lisa to sing for his band after hearing she participated in the UCR jazz band. After playing with each other for some time, they decided to change the band’s name to “The Bellrays.” Lisa and Bob clicked musically as her striking singing voice had the power to elevate Bob’s godly guitar riffs.

The band would play legendary Riverside venues that aren’t here anymore, like Spanky’s and The Go-Go Club. Bob and Lisa weren’t concerned with becoming the biggest band in the world. The loving couple wanted to play music and feel the rhythm in their hearts. They express, “We always put music first, along with our desire to make the best possible record.”

This past summer, The Bellrays toured all of North America with the help of punk legends, Social Distortion.

Their North American this summer was far from their first rodeo. The Bellrays have been an opening act for landmark bands like The White Stripes and Pixies.

They closed the North American leg of their tour with Social Distortion on New Year’s Eve at Riverside’s Municipal Auditorium. The rock ‘n’ roll duo praises the Riverside Municipal Auditorium: “The acoustics in the venue are beyond belief and compete with some of the greatest concert spots in the country.” In the spring, the tour will resume and take place throughout Germany.

The Bellrays have a new record, called “Heavy Steady Go!” featuring their classic multi-genre sound that is generally associated with the band. The record is the first new major album published under their very own Sweet Gee Records.

Bob and Lisa were encouraged by their manager to open their record label. Luckily, they held 100 percent ownership of

COURTESY OF FLICKR

every song they ever recorded. Shortly after starting the label in February of 2024, they released a self-titled album with some of their first songs.

Looking at their new record, there’s a song for every type of music fan. “Heavy, Steady, Go!” is locked and loaded with twelve head-banging tracks to make work commutes feel like a rock show.

The “California” track is a love letter to the Golden State that has served as the duo’s home since the beginning of the band’s journey. The Californian melodic thank-you note opens with a psychedelic pop guitar riff that allows Lisa’s vocals to soar like a California breeze. The guitar riff came from an old demo they saved because they knew it would serve a purpose one day.

“California” is a fantastic tune perfect

for riding on a motorbike down Route 66. “I Fall Down” kicks off the new album with a silent but deadly boom! The track is a spectacular showcase of Lisa’s vocal range and Bob’s Hendrix-level guitar skills. Lyrics on the song were written to inspire listeners to overcome obstacles.

The Bellrays live by their signature musical mantra: “Blues is the teacher.

Punk is the Preacher. It’s all about emotion and energy. Experience and raw talent, spirit, and intellect. Exciting things happen when these things collide.”

Fans new and old can catch The Bellrays in Mission Groove at the concert lounge in Romano’s Chicago Pizzeria (located at 285 Alessandro Blvd, Riverside, CA 92508) on Saturday, Feb. 8 H 2025. ■

RADAR

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

19

“You’re Cordially Invited” is a rom-com that forgot to be a rom-com THE REESE WITHERSPOON AND WILL FERRELL-PRODUCED FILM IS SO BOGGED DOWN WITH SUBPLOTS AND HIJINKS IT FORGETS THE ROMANCE.

RAMITA SETTY Staff Writer

With the exception of 2022’s “Anyone But You” rom-coms have largely been relegated to streaming experience. While there’s still an audience for them, the romantic comedies that were so popular in the 2000s have definitely changed in structure. Occasionally, the same stars who made these films their bread and butter during their heyday take another swing at bringing them back. In “You’re Cordially Invited” Reese Witherspoon and Will Ferrell undeniably miss the mark. On the surface, the premise seems promising enough- a venue accidentally double-books two weddings on the same weekend. Further misunderstandings lead to wacky hijinks and hilarious consequences. The film starts out promisingly introducing Jim (Will Ferrell) a widower facing the prospect of his only child getting married. His relationship with his daughter Jenni (Geraldine Vishwanathan) is goofy and sincere in an endearing way. Elsewhere, Witherspoon is in fine form as Margot, executing the Type-A, upper-middle-class blonde woman she’s perfected her entire career. She vows to give her sister (Meredith Hagner) the perfect wedding at all costs- even as Jim and Jenni’s presence complicates that plan.

After a slightly contrived set-up (that relies on a venue in 2025 not having online booking) the film falls apart pretty quickly. Perhaps the hijinks would be more enjoyable if they weren’t populated by the most insufferable ensemble of characters. Jim is the worst offender, an overgrown manchild who can’t get over his rivalry with a woman he met two days ago to properly focus on his daughter’s wedding ceremony. There’s so much meanness and petty jealousy that it’s hard to root for any of these characters to have a happy ending. Reese Witherspoon and Will Fer-

rell are talented enough to (mostly) rise above the mediocre script and show off their comedic skills, even as their characters make horrendous choices over and over again. Watching the two face off as they fight to protect their respective

There is no charm, no wit, no joy to be found anywhere within this film. All of its attempts to make its audience laugh fall flat as they drag on almost every comedic beat for too long. The film is so obsessed with the characters committing mean, petty stunts.against each other that they forget to actually establish a romantic connection between our two protagonists, in what is supposed to be a rom-com. Realizing their mistake at the end of the film, the filmmakers attempt to compensate with a goofy montage, but it isn’t enough to hide how little chemistry or connection Witherspoon and Ferrell have had throughout the entire film.

Watching this film, you can’t help but feel frustrated by how much the rom-com genre has stagnated. Reese Witherspoon’s spunk and girlish charm was a delight in “Legally Blonde”, but that film was over twenty years ago now and no one appears to have stepped in to take her crown.

Most of Hollywood’s newest young stars have never even starred in a rom-com, which feels like a waste. A romantic comedy may be lightweight in comparison to an action franchise or a serious Oscar-minded drama, but it’s a perfect opportunity for an actor to show off their charisma and star presence- qualities that elevate an actor into a movie star. A message to Hollywood- fresh talIMAGE COURTESY OF AMAZON MGM STUDIOS ent in a well-written rom-com wouldn’t be the family members’ weddings is enjoyable. But worst thing in the world. Until then, you’re probthe rest of the supporting cast definitely suf- ably better off just watching older rom-coms. fers. Geraldine Vishwanathan showed promise in last year’s “Drive-Away Dolls” but all of her attempts at comedy here fall flat. It isn’t fully A humourless, romance-less attempt at a romher fault- the filmmakers make the gag-inducing choice to add incestuous undertones in her rela- com that forces you to spend almost two hours tionship with her father, and few actors can over- with the worst movie characters in the world as they behave horrendously. ■H come that.

VERDICT:

‘Dear Basketball’ – A poetic farewell A love letter to basketball from a Laker Legend.

KARL BOUDIWAN Contributing Writer

Five years ago, the world mourned a tragic loss with the deaths of Lakers legend, Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and seven other individuals when their helicopter crashed in Calabasas. Reflecting on this emotional anniversary, the Academy Award-winning animation, “Dear Basketball,” is a fitting tribute to Bryant’s legacy.

Released in 2017, “Dear Basketball” is narrated by Kobe Bryant, animated by Glen Keane and features composition by John Williams. The short film is based on Kobe’s heartfelt letter released by The Players’ Tribune, in which he announced his retirement from the National Basketball Association (NBA). In his story, Kobe recounts his journey from a young boy shooting socks in a trash can to becoming a basketball champion.

The film opens with the shot clock winding down, and viewers see Kobe soaring down the lane for a dunk. From there, he begins narrating his poem, his voice filled with sincerity and nostalgia. His words, delivered with raw authen-

ticity, allow the audience to feel the depth of his emotions. Every frame shows a brief but beautiful moment in Bryant’s career, from his 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors to winning his fifth NBA finals in 2010, and even his tragic Achilles injury in 2013 while playing against the Golden State Warriors.

Known for his work on “The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast,” Keane’s stunning hand-drawn animation, paired with John Williams’ masterful score, elevates the film’s emotional impact and brings it to life. The fluid and expressive pencil strokes bring Kobe’s biggest moments to life with breathtaking beauty. Keane’s minimalist approach ensures that every frame resonates with the audience, letting the visuals and narration tell the story with powerful simplicity.

Williams’ score enhances the film’s warmth and nostalgia, perfectly complementing Bryant’s words and Keane’s artistry. The music swells at key moments, mirroring the highs and lows of

Bryant’s career such his time with the Redeem Team in the 2008 Summer Olympics, and even his childhood memories. Thanks to all that, he was able to make “Dear Basketball” a deeply moving experience for basketball fans and film fans alike.

At under six minutes, “Dear Basketball” is more than just an animated short. It is a love letter to the sport, a farewell from a legend and a profound story. Basketball fans and general audiences will both enjoy watching it, as it is also a story about passion, dedication and sacrifice.

Bryant also reminds audiences that having goals can shape a life in unexpected ways – and the legacy of his story emphasizes the importance of gratitude, even when a life is cut short. Five years later, this short remains as one of the best and poignant tributes to a legend of the game and his legacy. It is also a reminder that his competitive spirit will never be forgotten. ■H

20 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

RADAR

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‘Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man’ swings into streaming Graphic courtesy of Freepik

The iconic wall-crawler is back in action with a new and modern interpretation.

IAN PALMA Contributing Writer

After the release of “Spider-Man: No Way Home” with its bombastic ending, no one was sure what direction the franchise was going to take. Spider-Man, or Peter Parker to be exact, had already progressed into a fully-functioning adult capable of juggling priorities, as shown through many of his present iterations. For many longtime fans of the series, the only plausible course of action would be to tread back on his origins, a story in which many people are familiar with at this point.

With the help of the multiverse trope, the early days of the web-slinging hero can be told in a way that doesn’t interfere with the consistency of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) version of Spider-Man while at the same time presenting something new. The television series, “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man,” presents an updated look into Peter Parker’s early years as a bumbling teenage wallflower trying his best to keep up in school while fighting crime as a novice Spider-Man. Even though the prospect of taking a glimpse into the salad days of Spider-Man already seems enticing to fans, the show now has to stand on its own without treading on familiar ground on previous Spider-Man interpretations.

The show follows Peter Parker as a freshman in high school as he attempts to maintain a normal social and academic life in spite of his role as a superhuman crime-fighter. Given that he’s just received his superpowers, Peter also has to contend with learning how to become an effective hero; he often makes evident mistakes when saving the day. Alongside his journey are familiar faces and names such as Aunt May, Doctor Strange and even Norman Osborn. The show also introduces characters never-before-seen in Spider-Man media such as Nico Minoru, a fellow classmate and best friend of Peter akin to the MCU’s Ned Leeds. Another new character is Pearl Pangan, Peter’s long-time crush.

Right off the bat, “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man” strives to distance itself from many of the previous iterations. Just like the MCU’s Spider-Man films, the show trusts the audience when it comes to knowing basic Spider-Man lore. To many well-versed aficionados of the superhero, this can be a sigh of relief.

Additionally, the show does a superb job creating a vibrant world of its own that mixes the colorful pastiche of 1960’s Silver age comic

books with present day references such as current social issues and the mainstream use of social media. Even though many fans are more familiar with a more mature Peter Parker as Spider-Man nowadays, it is still a welcome surprise to witness the rise of Peter as he tries to find his way in the world.. Even with all these changes, Spider-Man still retains his usual loudmouth demeanor heavily contrasted with Peter’s high

Courtesy of Disney+

All in all, “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-man” follows the chain of other critically acclaimed Spider-man related films, books and novels in which it is able to balance out both soap opera-esque drama with breathtaking action sequences.

Despite the show’s creative direction being its greatest strength, some of the liberties that “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man” has taken, especially in regards with its lore and characters, can be a bit off-putting to long-time fans of the series. While the show is set in an obviously different universe, much of the established canon of Spider-Man has been tampered with to the point of looking like fanfiction. Many familiar characters with established ties to Spider-Man have been placed in the back seat for newer characters to shine.

The show has a slight problem when it comes to addressing the social issues that it presents, especially regarding gentrification. Although there’s a lot of time for these societal problems to be thoroughly touched upon, the show seems to be more interested in showing the daily life of Peter as both a high school student and as Spider-Man. All things considered, “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man” succeeds in portraying a grounded, humble beginning of the famous webslinging hero in a way that’s invigorating for both fans and newcomers alike. Besides a few key details, the show refuses to regurgitate material that can already be seen from the franchise.

Through it’s glamorous art style and alterations to the mythos, the show makes itself distinguishable from any other Spider-Man related media anyone has ever seen. Even with the egregious changes in its presentation, the show never loses sight of the principles that make Spider-Man a universally beloved character. If that isn’t enough, there’s always some cool action sequences in the show to indulge in.

school timidness.

Another favorable contrast the show has to offer is how the show doesn’t only focus on Peter’s struggle with becoming Spider-Man, but also hones in on the supporting characters’ conflicts as well. The show is almost on par to other superhero dramas like “Invincible,” in which the consequences of Peter becoming a wall-crawling vigilante not only takes a toll on him, but on the people he cares about as well.

Many of the villains that Spider-Man has to face aren’t necessarily over-the-top evil master“Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man” minds, but small-time crooks having a hard time is a colorfully fresh take on the Web-Head that getting by in life. The motivations and ground- doesn’t skimp out on heart nor action. ■H edness of these criminals further add moral and emotional weight that Spider-Man has to deal with on top of stopping them.

VERDICT:

Courtesy of Disney+

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SPORTS

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

21

Sports

Highlanders topple UC Davis 60-58 as Nate Pickens drains the game-winning three pointer

ISAAC SOLNICK Sports Editor

O

UCR EXTENDED THEIR WIN STREAK WITH ANOTHER PROGRAM-DEFINING VICTORY.

n Thursday night, the University of California, Riverside (UCR) men’s basketball team edged out Big West rival, the University of California, Davis (UCD), 60-58. Junior guard Nate Pickens drilled the game-winning three-pointer, with just 4.3 seconds left on the game clock.

Pickens hadn’t logged a single point for most of the night, but his 3-pointer to put UCR ahead in the dying moments was by far the biggest basket of the game.

After the game, UCR head coach Mike Magpayo shared, “We did want the ball in Barrington’s hands, and we wanted him to penetrate [the defense] from that right angle, see if we can get something. And he did, he drew [in] the defense.”

When the Aggies defense collapsed on Hargress, they left Nate Pickens wide open in the corner.

Whether it be a chase down block or his alley-oop slam against the Anteaters, Pickens often wows the crowd with an incredible display of athleticism. But last Thursday, the junior guard proved he was ready to take the big shot when his team needed him the most.

Pickens expressed, “It came down to the wire. [Hargress] said don’t pass up nothing, so I knew he was gonna kick it out. I just had to stay ready.”

Senior guard TY Johnson had a chance to retake the lead for the Aggies, but his buzzer-beating threepoint attempt was too strong. With the win, the Highlanders improved to 7-3 in the Big West and rose to third in the conference standings.

Leapfrogging UCD in the process.

The main storyline going into the contest was the head-to-head matchup between UCR’s redshirt sophomore guard Barrington Hargress and

Johnson. Both star guards entered Thursday’s game leading the Big West in scoring.

However, both players were having a hard time putting the ball in the basket. Johnson finished with 20 points, but was inefficient shooting just 8/25 from the field. Pickens may have inadvertently overshadowed

The Highlanders appeared sluggish and failed to find an answer for UCD’s zone defense. . It seemed as if the Aggies might run away with it until Magpayo subbed in his energy guys, redshirt junior guard Gavin Davis and sophomore forward Rikus Schulte.

Both Davis and Schulte made in-

ELENA VERSAGE / THE HIGHLANDER

his defensive accomplishments with his clutch triple, but the Arizona native was the primary defender on Johnson.

Hargress also started slow offensively. He was making plenty of plays on the defensive end with his high basketball IQ. Often poking away the backdoor pass the Aggies were looking for all night. Hargress played a more all-around game and finished with nine points and five assists, but his slow start allowed UCD to jump out to an early 8-1 lead.

stant impacts coming off the bench.

First, Schulte shook the rim with a pair of dunks to get the crowd going.

Then within a minute, Davis got two steals and seven points. Davis’s corner triple forced the Aggies to burn a timeout as UCR fans and players got out of their seats.

Davis and Schulte each don’t get a lot of playing time, but they flipped this game on its head. With the Aggies playing a grittier style of basketball, Magpayo wasn’t shocked to see Davis seize the moment.

Magpayo noted, “Gavin Davis is an elite defender. He’s still learning and figuring it out, and he’s just been biding his time, and he had a really good week of practice, and we knew that he would be a guy that we could put on TY [Johnson] for a little bit.

I’m never more proud than when a guy who’s been working his butt off comes in and gets to showcase what he can do, and it was a big moment, seven points, and those points proved very valuable.”

Unlike the previous three games in which the Highlanders scored over 80 points, the Aggies held UCR to just 60 points. Nevertheless, Magpayo was pleased by his team’s performance and their ability to win a game in this manner.

Magpayo further elaborated, “To win one of these grittier defensive battles is a testament to what these guys can do and sometimes they can get hot. We know that [we’ve] been in the last three games offensively, but tonight, they stood their ground and did the job on the defensive end.”

After beating the Aggies 60-58, the Highlanders hosted California Polytechnic, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly), who entered the matchup 2-8 in the conference. Following a string of close games, UCR blew out the Mustangs 80-62. Hargress dropped 20 points in just 27 minutes while senior center Joel Armotrading added another ten points and eight rebounds against his old team.

The win against Cal Poly makes it five in a row for the Highlanders.

UCR currently sits in third in the Big West with a 8-3 record. They have the opportunity to move into second place on Thursday on the road against the 8-2 University of California, San Diego. ■H

22 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

SPORTS

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Highlander Hot Take: The Kansas City Chiefs will not 3-peat

THE EAGLES AVENGE THEIR LOSS FROM SUPER BOWL LVII BY WINNING THE TRENCH BATTLE. ISAAC SOLNICK Sports Editor

It’s safe to say this exercise didn’t go so well the first time I tried it. However, I will not be deterred. I’m calling my shot again and this Sunday, the Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) will beat the Kansas City Chiefs (152) and crown themselves Super Bowl LIX (59) Champions.

These teams met in Super Bowl LVII (57) two seasons ago. In what would be dubbed the “Kelce Bowl,” the Chiefs outlasted the Eagles 38-35 in a high scoring affair.

Last season, the Chiefs won back-to-back Super Bowls by beating the San Francisco 49ers, 25-22 in overtime. Meanwhile, the Eagles were thrashed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 32-9 in the wild card round.

The Eagles offense had grown stagnant and predictable. The rest of the league started catching up, so the Eagles made big changes in the offseason.

First, they brought in offensive coordinator Kellen Moore to add more motion and dynamism to the offensive schemes. Then, the Eagles signed running back Saquon Barkley from their division-rivals, the New York Giants.

By handing Moore weapons like wide receivers A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith and giving Barkley a high-end offensive line to run behind, the Eagles offense has taken off this season.

They scored 55 points against the Washington Commanders in the NFC Conference

Championship, running up the score with big plays and short drives.

While being one of the league’s best, the Chiefs defense has struggled against teams that can push the ball downfield. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo loves to play aggressively. He’s willing to blitz his linebackers and nickelbacks at every opportunity. This creates negative plays, but it also leaves them vulnerable over the top.

Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts throws a lovely deep ball and he has one of the better offensive lines in front of him. They’ll give him the time to find Brown and Smith down the field.

If the Chiefs defense looks to play safer against Brown and Smith, Hurts can hand the ball off to Barkely, the best running back in the entire league. Barkley’s rare combination of speed and power makes him a threat to take it to the house every time he touches the ball.

They’re the NFL’s most explosive team, but they can also pick up the tough yards when necessary. By utilizing the “brotherly shove,” also known as the “tush push,” the Eagles bully their opponents in short-yardage situations.

While the Chiefs have the ultimate trump card in quarterback Patrick Mahomes, the Eagles defense is more than capable of revealing the magician’s secrets.

It starts with their loaded front seven. All-

Pro linebacker Zach Baun leads a unit that gave up the least amount of yards and points in the NFL, despite playing in the super competitive NFC. They lost linebacker Nakobe Dean, the heart and soul of the team, to a torn patella in the wild card round, but linebacker Oren Burks has stepped up in Dean’s absence.

On the defensive line, the Eagles trio of defensive tackles Jalen Carter, Milton Williams and Jordan Davis dominate the interior. Along the edge, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio rotates an elite group of speed rushers that features the likes of Bryce Huff, Josh Sweat, and the returning Brandon Graham.

Mahomes will be under pressure all night as the Eagles secondary will look to take advantage. The Eagles still have veteran cornerback Darius Slay Jr., but rookie cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper Dejean have been elite in their own right.

Too much pressure is going to fall on Mahomes and no amount of NFL scriptwriting will be able to save the Chiefs. The Eagles will win Super Bowl LIX 30-24 as the Chiefs fall painstakingly short of becoming the NFL’s first three-peat champions.

Saquon Barkley will win Super Bowl MVP thanks to a highlight reel 50-yard touchdown run. The perfect ending to a historic season for the Eagles running back. ■ H

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SPORTS

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025

RIVERSIDE RECAPS MEN’S TENNIS - 1/26/2025

Air Force vs. UCR

4 - 1, L MEN’S TENNIS - 1/26/2025

UCR vs. Northern Arizona

5 - 0, L WOMEN’S BASKETBALL - 1/30/2025

UCR vs. UCD

52 - 41, L UCR Team Leaders: Points: Shelley Duchemin (12) Rebounds: Esther Matarranz (8) Assists: Makayla Rose and Kaylani Polk (2)

MEN’S BASKETBALL - 1/30/2025

UCD vs . UCR

60 - 58, W UCR Team Leaders: Points: Kaleb Smith (14) Rebounds: Joel Armotrading (9) Assists: Barrington Hargress (5)

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL - 2/1/2025

UCR vs. Cal Poly SLO

64 - 56, W UCR Team Leaders: Points: Seneca Hackley and Shelley Duchemin (16) Rebounds: Shelley Duchemin (8) Assists: Kaylani Polk (5)

MEN’S BASKETBALL - 2/1/2025

Cal Poly SLO vs. UCR

80 - 62, W UCR Team Leaders: Points: Barrington Hargress (20) Rebounds: Jack Whitbourn and Joel Armotrading (8) Assists: Isaiah Moses (6)

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Be glistening.

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The Highlander PAUL LEWIS III / THE HIGHLANDER