The Commonwealth Times; September 11, 2017

BEST SMALL, NON-DAILY — 2017 Virginia Press Association The independent press of Virginia Commonwealth University

September 11, 2017 • Vol. 59, No. 3

NEWS VCU Helps Houston • 2

SPORTS Volleyball • 5

SPORTS Sanders signs • 6

OPINIONS Celebrities during crisis • 9

SPECTRUM Islam Awareness Week • 8

PHOTO BY ERIN EDGERTON

NEWS Student protests • 3

SPECTRUM VCU Southern Film Festival • 7

Trump to phase out DACA on to contribute to our society.”

The VCU Student Government Association released a statement on Twitter reminding students of on-campus resources like the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, University CounFollowing a week of rallies and seling Services and the Wellness meetings, immigrant rights groups Resources Center. The statement and the VCU community have encouraged students to contact vowed to protect those affected by their representatives in Congress the Trump Administration’s deci- to advocate for the protection of sion to rescind the Deferred Action undocumented immigrants. for Childhood Arrivals program.

“Our DACA students assist in VCU President Michael Rao cultivating a diverse and unique ensaid the university stands by its vironment at VCU,” the statement DACA recipients as the it looks at read. “The student government its next steps following the Trump stands behind all of its students.” administration’s announcement it Political Latinx United for will end the program.

Movement and Action in Society “We remain certain of VCU’s at VCU was at the forefront of the unequivocal support of our DACA action following the announcement students,” Rao said. “DACA stu- on Sept. 5 by U.S. Attorney Generdents are an integral part of our al Jeff Sessions to dismantle DACA. community, and VCU will continPLUMAS at VCU was joined by ue to assist DACA students as they Richmond Peace Education Center complete their educations and move and Virginia Interfaith Center for HIBA AHMAD News Editor FADEL ALLASSAN Contributing Writer GEORGIA GEEN Staff Writer

Public Policy the night of the announcement for a rally, march and vigil at Abner Clay Park.

“We’re here to defend our community, we’re here to defend DACA,” said Lana Martinez of the Virginia Interfaith Center.

The following morning, PLUMAS at VCU met with Rao and other high level university administrators. There, the organization called on the university to advocate, protect and provide financial support for the university’s undocumented students.

Directly after the meeting, PLUMAS at VCU held a rally on campus to put pressure on the university’s administration to keep their promises.

“We deserve dignity. We are not asking for it, we are demanding it,” said Ana Diaz Casos, president of PLUMAS at VCU. “We have that right and no one can tell us otherwise.”

During the meeting, the execu-

tive board of PLUMAS demanded that the university advocate on their behalf to state and federal government representatives to pass legislation to protect undocumented immigrants.

They also urged Rao to instruct the VCU Police Department to not ask for immigration status if a student calls to report a crime, and to adopt programs similar to other state universities to financially support undocumented students who are at risk of losing their in-state tuition status.

Rao agreed to many requests and promised to do everything he can within legal limits to help protect undocumented students.

The university is exploring the possibility of starting a fund, similar to a program at George Mason University, known as Mason DREAMERS. —continued on page 3

Come together: Sports as one of society’s great healers

ILLUSTRATION BY MAI-PHUONG BUI

Sports fans - how many times has a friend, colleague or family member told you “it’s just a game?”

As someone who has had sports play a huge role in my life since I was just a boy, I lost count a long time ago.

Sports bring me peace. They provide a distraction from life’s sorrows. They bring happiness. So, don’t tell me it’s just a game, because it’s not. It’s more than that.

Much more.

On this 16th anniversary of the tragic events that unfolded across the country on Sept. 11, 2001, I can’t help but think about the ways

VCU “Dreamers” in limbo facing uncertainty around DACA program FADEL ALLASSAN Contributing Writer

Meet the “Dreamers”

Press Box

NICK VERSAW Staff Writer

PHOTO BY ERIN EDGERTON

Rao, administration and student organizations rally around program’s recipients at VCU

in which sports bring us together in times of crisis and tragedy. They have become a great equalizer - a sort of healer that help mend fresh wounds, both literally and metaphorically.

The first thing that comes to mind is the way baseball was able to bring the country together following the deaths of thousands 16 years ago. Since a big chunk of VCU’s student body are too young to remember, I’ll try and paint a picture.

Oct. 30, 2001: With the Arizona Diamondbacks up two games to none, the World Series descends upon New York. Less than 50 days after 9/11, the Big Apple - and the country as a whole - are still picking up the pieces.

Baseball made that happen. Sports made that happen.

It wasn’t “just a game,” it was so much more.

Nick Versaw, Staff Writer, That night, some 55,000 baseball fans piled into historic Yankee Stadium. But this isn’t just any old

baseball game. It’s not even like any World Series game before it.

Security is tight. Bomb-sniffing dogs and police officers with machine guns are scouring the premises - the president is throwing out the first pitch.

A little after 8:30 p.m., George W. Bush walks out of the dugout, clad in a thick jacket with “FDNY” emblazoned across the back and a thick, heavy bullet-proof vest tucked underneath. There are Secret Service agents disguised as umpires up and down the baselines. Everyone is on edge.

—continued on page 5

The CT staff remembers • See page 2

You can imagine it’s hard to forget illegally crossing the United States/Mexico border.

For VCU sophomore Nicte Diaz Cortes, the memory of being in the backseat of a small car with forged documents and two nuns pretending to take her to an orphanage is obscured, but by no means forgotten.

At three years old, she was oblivious to what was going on, but crying nonetheless. She had been shedding tears since she’d boarded a plane from Mexico City to near the border to drive past the frontier into California.

This was the journey that her parents believed promised to give their family a better life.

“I just thought of it as moving when I was a lot younger. I didn’t think of crossing the border in terms of how people see it now,” Diaz Cortes said. “It didn’t strike me as that until I was in like middle school.”

In the fall of 2016, Diaz Cortes started school at VCU, where she met Haziel Andrade-Ayala, a sophomore with a similar story.

Andrade-Ayala was three years old when her aunt encouraged her parents to let her take her niece to the United States on a tourist visa, which they would overstay. They would be leaving behind their native Bolivia, which was mired in an economic crisis after a 1998 crash.

The pair are “Dreamers,” a term used to describe a generation of young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children and who, in many cases, identify as American. The term is derived from the DREAM Act, a proposal which failed to pass Congress five times between 2001 and 2011.

In 2012, President Barack Obama took matters into his own hands when he announced his administration would not deport undocumented immigrants who matched the criteria of the previously proposed DREAM Acts. A month later, Obama introduced Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, letting undocumented immigrants apply for protection from deportation and for work permits if they fall under the following criteria: • Arrived in the U.S. before their 16th birthday • Were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012 • Have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007 • Are currently in school or have a high school diploma or General Educational Development certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States • Have not been convicted of a felony or significant misdemeanor or three or more other misdemeanors —continued on page 3

2

news

The Commonwealth Times

CRIME LOG

Monday, September 4 Theft 1213 E. Clay St. Pending

Richmond introduces new bike share program

Harassment 1200 E. Marshall St. Pending Destruction of Property 1220 E. Clay St. Pending Destruction of Property Broad St. Deck 1111 W. Broad St. Pending Drunkenness/Trespassing Siegel Center 1200 W. Broad St. Closed Hit and Run 1000 Floyd Ave. Outside Agency Shoplifting ABC 1217 W. Broad St. Outside Agency

Tuesday, September 5 Destruction of Property 401 N. 12th St. Closed Drug/Weapon Violation 810 W. Franklin St. Closed Dating Violence B1600 W. Cary St. Pending

PHOTO BY ERIN EDGERTON

Hit and Run West Broad St. Deck 1111 W. Broad St. Pending Robbery B1100 W. Grace St. Outside Agency Hit and Run 700 W. Main St. Outside Agency Hit and run 901 N. Lombary St. Outside Agency Hit and Run 1100 W. Leigh St. Outside Agency Drug Violation 1200 W. Marshall St. Outside Agency

Wednesday, September 6 Drug Violation 1300 E. Marshall St. Pending

Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney cut the ribbon for the opening ceremony for the city’s new bike sharing program. Bikes will be spread around the city.

of the Bewegen Technologies, said the company will supply the bikes and docking stations for the public The RVA Bike Share program bike share system. debuted on Aug. 29 at the Kanawha “It’s the last mile solution. There Plaza in downtown Richmond. are buses, there are cars to park, but The $1.34 million program was there’s always that last mile to get primarily funded by a grant from to work,”said King. “That’s where the Federal Highway Administra- bike share comes in.” tion’s Congestion Mitigation and The program includes 220 eightAir Quality Program. speed bikes and 20 docking staChris King, marketing director tions located around the city. The JASMINE STITH Contributing Writer

Larceny 810 Cathedral Pl. Pending

high-tech bikes are equipped with lights, adjustable seats and a GPS that can be unlocked through a mobile app. Riders can take a bike from any station and return it to any convenient station.

To access the bikes, people can either pay through an app, website or a pay station located around the city.

There are plans for expansion according to King. He said the

program is planning to double the “I’ve hired one veteran so far number of the bikes including the his name is Henry Williams and introduction of electric bikes to he’s a great man,” Duffney said. make it easier to travel uphill.

“He was homeless for six years and The equipment is managed by we’re looking out for him now.”

Corps Logistics - a Baltimore RVA Bike Share is available at based business owned and operated any time of the day with a time by military veterans. Jim Duffney, limit of 45 minutes and costs $1.75. it’s CEO, hopes the program will If riders are interested in long-term create jobs for veterans, especially memberships, the prices vary from those at risk of housing insecurity $18 per month to $96 for a year. in the Richmond area.

VCU police officers return from relief efforts in Houston

Sexual Assault B600 W. Cary St. Pending Theft Cary St. Gym 101 S. Linden St. Pending Stalking 901 Floyd Ave. Pending

Diamond. The team was able to fill three tractor-trailers with supplies for the victims of the hurricane.

Rams coach Mike Rhoades, a former Houston resident, was also at the Diamond to help with fundraising efforts.

Theft Cary St. Gym 101 S. Linden St. Pending

Thursday, September 7 Drug Violation 401 N 12th. St. Pending Stalking 201 W. Marshall St. Pending City Code Violation 1100 W. Franklin St. Closed Theft 1510 W. Broad St. Outside Agency Larceny 1500 W. Broad St. Outside Agency Hit and Run 200 Shafer St. Outside Agency Hit and Run 520 W. Franklin St. Outside Agency

Download the VCU LiveSafe mobile phone app to report crimes anonymously.

To contact the VCU PD: (804) 828-1196.

For an on-campus emergency: (804) 828-1234.

For an off-campus emergency: 911.

The CT staff remembers Most members of our staff were between the ages of four and six years old when airplanes flew into the Twin Towers and Pentagon that Tuesday morning.

It’s a testament to the power of the events of the day that nearly all of us recall exactly what we were doing at the time.

Something as complex as a terror attack on American soil was hard for the majority of us to understand at the time. It wasn’t until much later that we realized it was an attack on American ideals, morals and values — the foundation of what makes this country great.

The perpetrators of the attacks sought to shatter the bedrock of our resilience through destruction and hate. Instead, they proved the country can come together following calamity, as evidenced by actions of first responders and the way which we rallied and mourned together in the following months.

We learned a lot about our enemies because of the attacks, but we also learned a lot about ourselves.

The most valuable lesson we absorbed is one that may at times be tested, but it’s a test we’ll never fail. — we will never be divided.

We need you to contribute and assist all those in the Houstonarea who were decimated by this terrible storm.

COURTESY OF VCUPD

Destruction of Property 1000 Floyd Ave. Outside Agency

From left to right: Andrew Riggot, a local Houston police officer, Nicholas Finch and Chris Kesler.

“After watching Hurricane Harvey hit Houston and seeing the devastation it has caused, I Three VCU police officers trav- decided to do something about it,” elled to Houston to help with the read the page. rescue efforts for those affected by Donations went directly to supHurricane Harvey last week. plies, gas and food. Any leftover Officers Chris Kesler, Andrew money was donated to RAM. The Rigot and Chris Finch returned GoFundMe surpassed its $5,000 from their four-day relief effort last goal by $700 a little more than a week. They partnered with Remote week of its launch.

Area Medical and conducted search “We routinely encourage officers and rescue missions. and staff to be involved in comSince the officers travelled on munity service and outreach,” said their own dime, Kesler set up a Go- VCU Police Chief John Venuti in FundMe page to help cover the costs. a statement. “Those of us at VCU MARY LEE CLARK Staff Writer

gladly contributed personal donations to the officers’ fundraising efforts because we know the people of Houston have an immediate and serious need for help. Our officers really stepped up and took the initiative to find where their time could best be spent helping others in crisis.”

Accompanying efforts were made in the city to send support to those affected by flooding in Texas.

The Richmond Flying Squirrels, VCU, WTVR and Hilldrup Moving and Storage teamed up to raise money and collect donations at The

Mike Rhoades, VCU Men’s Basketball Coach “I know RVA will once again come through for those that need our help,” Rhoades said in an interview with WTVR. “We need you to contribute and assist all those in the Houston-area who were decimated by this terrible storm. This initiative will directly make it better for those that need it.”

St. Edward-Epiphany Catholic School in Chesterfield continues to raise funds to help their counterparts such as True Cross Catholic School located in Dickinson, Texas, which suffered from severe flood damage.

Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Church in Chesterfield also took a truck of supplies as well as boats to assist in the rescue efforts.

www.commonwealthtimes.org

Monday, September 11, 2017

3

With DACA’s fate unknown, “Dreamers” look to the future —continued from page 1

The program sought avenues for young undocumented immigrants to further assimilate to an American lifestyle. For the first time, they had a safeguard against deportation, often allowing them to travel, get a driver’s license or apply for college.

More than 1.2 million immigrants are eligible for DACA in the U.S. — 740,000 of which were already approved for protections by 2016, according to U.S. Customs and Immigration Services.

Cortes Diaz, Andrade-Ayala are among 58 VCU students are part of the more than 12,000 who are protected in Virginia under the program.

Those immigrants now find themselves unsure of what the future holds following U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions announcement last Tuesday the program will end in six months. The decision, Rao said, “leaves us with many unknowns.”

Pres. Trump urged Congress to step in and turn the program into legislation before it ends. On Sept. 5, hours after Sessions made the announcement, Trump tweeted “Congress, get ready to do your job - DACA!”

On June 16, 2015, Donald Trump descended from an escalator and into the lobby of his Manhattan tower to announce the launch of his campaign for president in the 2016 election. With deprecating remarks about Mexican immigrants, Trump set the tone for what would be a theme in his White House bid — a focus on illegal immigration.

“When Mexico sends its people, they’re not sending their best …” Trump said. “They’re bringing drugs. They’re bringing crime.

They’re rapists. And some, I assume, are good people.”

Trump made a habit of lambasting President Obama’s policies on immigration during the eightmonth campaign, often saying Obama did not have the authority to use executive action to sign DACA or DAPA, Deferred Action for Parents of Americans, a nowstalled Obama-era initiative which protected undocumented parents of children born to U.S. citizenship.

Trump promised in multiple campaign rallies the laws would be rescinded “immediately” under his presidency.

Less than a week after Trump’s inauguration, VCU President Michael Rao appeared to support DACA in his annual address to the university saying “who we support as a university says the most about

PHOTO BY ERIN EDGERTON

“Congress, get ready to do your job”: Trump made decision amid political and legal pressure

There are 58 VCU students who are protected by the Obama- era Defferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. who we are as a university.”

An email sent to students and faculty the by the Office of the President the next day was less ambiguous.

“President Rao and his senior leadership team fully support the federal DACA program and our students who are enrolled at VCU under guidelines approved by the state Attorney General,” the email read. “All of our students contribute uniquely to the fabric of this community and deserve the opportunity to engage in educational pursuits that advance their careers, their families and our society.”

Rao signed the Pomona statement, joining more than 600 university and college presidents advocating for DACA to be upheld and said the university would “consider the legality and appropriateness of university action” to protect DACA students.

But Trump softened his stance on the program after the election.

DACA recipients “shouldn’t be very worried,” he said in an interview with NBC’s Chuck Todd.

“DACA is a very, very difficult subject for me,” Trump said in a February press conference. “We’re going to deal with DACA with heart.”

On June 15, 2017, the Department of Homeland Security issued a memo rescinding the DAPA program. In a FAQ posted on the DHS website the same day, the department made it clear DACA would remain untouched by the memo and people could continue applying for DACA protections and extensions.

The move ended DAPA before it started. The Obama Administration had never implemented the measure due to a court injunction. It was seen as grandstanding by hard-line anti-immigration Republicans after a campaign in which Trump had not only talked the most anti-immigration rhetoric of all candidates, but specifically promised to remove DACA. Less than a month later, Trump began to suffer blowback for not rescinding DACA. 10 Republican State Attorneys General, led by

2012, her father was detained by Arlington Police for expired tags.

He was handed over to the custody of Immigrations Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, who detained him in Farmville for a month.

After two years of legal battle, political pressure and an online petition by created by Haziel’s sister, Hareth, ICE decided to close her Living undocumented father’s case. The experience was Despite immigrating to the U.S. distressing for Haziel. at age three, Andrade-Ayala didn’t “It was not even coming from know she was undocumented until shame. It was just a place of demiddle school. tachment. It’s not that I didn’t care, Her older sister watched on with it was just too much,” Andradeconfusion as her peers got driver’s Ayala said. “I felt very depressed.” licenses and applied for college and For undocumented immigrants, her parents urged her not to do the the fragility of residency in the Unitsame, until they broke the news — ed States — knowing you could be they were in the country illegally. deported at any time — is a weight “I didn’t know what it meant at on the shoulders, Diaz Cortes said. the time, it didn’t impact me until That, and coming to terms with the high school,” Andrade-Ayala said. fact that many in this country have A harrowing experience during hostile feelings toward those who her sophomore year of high school came here illegally. forced Andrade-Ayala to under“I grew up listening to the news, stand the reality of her status. when they started describing us On a summer night in May as vermin. It was then that I felt

Texas AG Ken Paxton, threatened a lawsuit on the basis the president had no authority to protect people from deportation if Trump did not rescind DACA by Sept. 5 -- The same day Sessions made the announcement the program would phase out.

shame and a little bit of fear because I realized that’s what I am to them,” Diaz Cortes said. “They don’t want me here. It’s really weird thinking that you’re not wanted in the only place you know as home despite all the love and connection I feel to it.”

Diaz Cortes and Andrade-Ayala said they took a risk by giving the U.S. Customs and Immigration Services their private information when they applied to receive DACA five years ago. One they hope doesn’t come back to haunt them.

“Under this current administration, I feel like he could take advantage of the fact that there’s information on people like us out there,” Diaz Cortes said.

The women fear returning to their respective birth countries, but understand this is just one of the possibilities that hinge on what the president announces Tuesday.

“At this point, the U.S. is what I know,” Andrade-Ayala said. “Bolivia is where I’m from.”

Following DACA decision, VCU student advocates meet with Rao, hold rally in Compass

Virginia Commonwealth University Virginia Commonwealth University of Virginia University University of Virginia George Mason University George Mason University University of Mary Washington University of Mary Washington Radford University Radford University Old Dominion University Old Dominion University Longwood University Longwood University James Madison University James Madison University College of William & Mary College of William & Mary

—continued from page 1

alleviate the cost of tuition and fees for students who risk losing The fund consists of donations their status of in-state tuition.

Rao also said the university from outside donors including alumni, corporations and com- would not release any informamunity members — none from tion to the public about unthe university itself. It would help documented students’ status,

in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.

“I don’t want students at VCU to be living in any fear,” Rao said.

“If you call to report a crime, you should feel safe and know that

Information provided by the State Council for Higher Education in Virginia Information provided by the State Council for Higher Education in Virginia

INFOGRAPHIC BY ERIC NGO

DACA students students enrolled enrolled DACA in the the commonwealth commonwealth in

er’s licenses and in-state tuition for college students.

However, those whose DACA status will expire within the next six months must apply for renewal by Oct. 5 of this year. The Department of Homeland Security is no longer accepting new DACA applications.

Those who do not reapply in time for an extension of their status risk deportation. Presi- 61 dent Trump called on Congress --61 24 to pass legislation to protect the 24 children of undocumented im-- 171 migrants in the next six months.

- 171 -7 However, in Yanet Limon7 -- 11 Amado’s case — a DACA recipi--11 ent and VCU student — her situ13 ation leaves her in limbo.

- 13 -1 During the rally on campus, 1 - 22 Limon-Amado shared her story - 22 with a crowd of onlookers and -5 DACA supporters.

-5 “Do I look different? The only thing that separates me from you is my legal status,” Limon-Amado said. “The fear I once had is your immigration status will not back again.” be questioned.”

Limon-Amado’s DACA staThe Obama-era legislation tus expires in Oct. 2018, preventprotects DACA recipients until ing her from renewing her apMarch 5, 2018 where they will plication in this coming October, receive benefits including Medic- leaving her without legal status aid, being able to apply for driv- come March 2018.

“I’ve been here at VCU for two semesters and I love it,” LimonAmado said. “The fact that I won’t be able to continue in the next two semesters because my DACA will expire … I can’t even cry.”

58 VCU students are part of the more than 12,000 protected

by DACA in Virginia.

Even with Rao’s support, PLUMAS at VCU said that they will continue to observe the university’s actions and advocate for those who cannot speak up without the fear of revealing their immigration status.

“We are here to hold President Rao’s promises accountable because people’s lives are at stake,” Casos said.

PLUMAS at VCU is encouraging students to attend DACA renewal clinics throughout the month of September before the pending October deadline. They are also holding “UndocuAlly” trainings for people who are interested in advocating for the undocumented community in the coming weeks.

news

The Commonwealth Times

4

Information sourced from the Department of Education data base.

INFOGRAPHIC BY ERIC NGO

VCU named among top 100 schools producing minority degrees

VCU ranks #53 #49 For total amount of bachelor degrees awarded to minority students

For total amount of professional and doctorate degrees

VCU placed in the top 10 universities to award degrees to African-American students in the following areas: PHYSICAL SCIENCES, VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS, PSYCHOLOGY, AREA, ETHNIC, CULTURAL, GENDER & GROUP STUDIES AND MARKETING .

VCU placed in the top 10 universities to award degrees to Asian-American students in the following areas: BUSINESS, PHYSICAL SCIENCES, HOMELAND SECURITY AND EMERGENCY SERVICES

SARAROSE MARTIN Staff Writer VCU was recognized as one of the nation’s top producers of degrees for minorities.

Using the U.S. Department of Education’s study, ‘Diverse: Issues in Higher Education’ said VCU ranks 53 out of 100 for total minority bachelor’s degrees and 49 for total minority professional and doctoral degrees.

The analysis ranks the total number of degrees claimed by African-American, Latino, AsianAmerican, and Native American students at every institution of higher education in the United States.

VCU was ranked in the top 10 for bachelor degrees by AfricanAmerican students in psychology, marketing, gender and group studies, visual and performing arts, physical sciences and dentistry in the doctoral category.

VCU was also ranked in the top 10 for Asian-American degrees in business, homeland security and health professions as well as degrees by Hispanic students for master’s in business.

“The honor reflects the hard work and persistent commitment of VCU students, faculty, staff and administrators to support student success and our work to create an inclusive academic community,” said Kevin Allison, interim vice president for inclusive excellence.

“The honor is also humbling because we know and acknowledge that we have much more work to do.”

Allison said VCU has success with diversity in part to the enrollment process, the University College’s support in engaging students’ first year experience, student advising, faculty and a commitment to financial resources and scholarships.

“During my time at VCU, we have seen the success of work that has closed the gap in graduation rates between underrepresented groups, at the same time we have been increasing our graduation rates overall,” Allison said. “It has been an impressive and laudable accomplishment but we are always striving to do better.”

It has been an impressive and laudable accomplishment but we are always striving to do better.

Kevin W. Allison, Interim Vice President

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Wilder School poll explores free speech, discrimination on campus

Graduate and Professional School Fair ILLUSTRATION BY IAIN DUFFUS

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Explore now. Plan ahead.

HIBA AHMAD News Editor Half of Virginians think universities should protect students from discriminatory rhetoric even if it imposes on the freedom of speech, according to a new poll released by the L. Douglas Wilder School.

In contrast, the other half of the more than 800 people who were interviewed said freedom of expression should be limitless regardless of who it affects.

This comes at a time when universities around the nation are grappling with issues of freedom of expression on their campuses. The Office of Public Policy Outreach in the Wilder School is tasked with spearheading polls that explore relevant topics and national trends.

Thursday, Sept. 28, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

University Student Commons 907 Floyd Ave. Wondering if grad school or a career change is right for you? Come meet representatives from multiple schools showcasing their programs.

Robyn McDougle, director of the Office of Public Policy Outreach, said this is the first poll about this topic. She was surprised by the results.

“When you half the population for free speech and the other protecting from discriminatory language it shows that it is a current issue, a public policy issue, but not one that has a clearly defined plan for universities, faculty and administration,” McDougle said.

Sixtyone percent of minority respondents and 56 percent of women were in favor of protection from discriminatory language and behavior.

When asked about campus safety and how prepared students felt walking out of college into the workforce nearly 80 percent of respondents said that their schools

were safe spaces for them to attend and learn.

“We found that the commonwealth does an outstanding job at protecting students, faculty and administration in our college and universities,” McDougle said.

In regards to students who are either entering or leaving college, both groups felt that they were well prepared for the next phases of their lives in the commonwealth.

The Office of Public Policy Outreach plans to conduct another poll in December to follow up on the poll in July and again in the following summer in hopes of finding trends on relevant social issues.

Stop by, take a look around, ask questions and explore your options!

Free and open to the public. go.vcu.edu/GradFair VCU does not discriminate in admissions, treatment, employment or access to its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, sex, pregnancy, political affiliation, veteran status, family medical and genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or disability. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding VCU’s nondiscrimination policies: Laura Walsh Rugless, director of equity and access services and Title IX coordinator, Moseley House, 1001 Grove Ave., Box 842549, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284-2549, (804) 828-1347, equity@vcu.edu. 003502-11

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Monday, September 11, 2017

5

Stat of the Week

Central Virginia filled three semi-trailers with Hurricane Harvey donations in an event hosted by the Richmond Flying Squirrels and VCU basketball.

Volleyball cements in-state supremacy RODNEY ROBINSON Contributing Writer VCU volleyball reeled off four victories last week — including three at UVA’s Jefferson Cup -- to extend their winning streak to six games.

The Rams squeaked by Howard University Saturday evening in five sets, finishing the weekend unbeaten in the Jefferson Cup. It was a back and forth affair in which both VCU and Howard threw their best punches. The Black and Gold won the first two sets of the match, but Howard rallied and took the next two, forcing a final fifth set.

In the final set, VCU out-hit Howard .240 to .071 and prevailed to win a nail-bitter, 15-11.

Offensively, the Rams were led by senior Alicia Kandler, as she registered a season-high 20 kills.

Steadfast defense and mistake-free offense from the Rams were the deciding factors of the match.

The Black and Gold blocked 34 attacks from Howard, while the Bison only turned away 22 from VCU. Sophomore middle blocker Jasmin Sneed recorded a match-high 11 blocks while senior libero Rebakah Strange recorded 31 digs on the day as she anchored the backline of the Senior libero Rebekah Strange (middle) recorded a staggering 31 digs Saturday evening against Howard University. defense. Howard committed 45 hitting errors, while VCU commit- and 7 kills on the day. against UVA, taking the first set fense against Virginia, receiving improved the Rams’ record to 6-2. ted only 35.

Sneed and junior opposite hit- 25-17 and only committing three efficient contributions across the The match was predicated on ter Julia Adler contributed on de- errors. The Cavaliers battled back board. Sophomore opposite hitter runs and answers from both teams.

OHIO fense as well -- Sneed registered six in sets 2 and 3, leaving VCU with Gina Tuzzolo and Giommarini tal- High Point edged the Rams in the blocks and Adler contribute five of small margins for error, but the lied seven kills each for VCU, while first set, 25-21. However, the Rams VCU rolled against Ohio Uni- her own. Ohio hit a critically low Rams escaped the final two sets junior middle blocker Tori Baldwin bounced back in the second set, versity in their first game on Satur- -.019, as they were unable to gain with identical 25-21 scorelines. had four kills and hit .571 from winning 25-15. day, winning the match in straight a rhythm offensively. VCU outUVA built a 15-10 lead in the the middle of the court. Sneed anHigh Point answered with a sets. blocked the Bison 15-3. third set, but VCU sophomore chored the Rams defensively once third set victory, extending their The Rams continued their hot The win against Ohio marked outside hitter Vicky Giommarini again by adding five blocks on the lead to 2-1. With their backs against streak against Ohio, as they got off the Rams’ fifth win in a row which sparked a 5-0 run for the Rams by day. the wall, the Black and Gold never to another quick start. The Black is their best stretch dating back to registering two kills. The Black and After the win on Friday, VCU blinked as they went on to win the and Gold dominated the first set, last season.

Gold would end the third set on a has now won three of the last four final two sets 25-21 and 15-10. hitting .500 while allowing only 11 6-0 run after trailing 19-16. matches against UVA. Tuzzolo led the way for the Rams UVA points.

Errors and hitting percentage offensively Tuesday. The Newport The Black and Gold did not look The Black and Gold opened had a noticeable impact throughout News native had a match-high 22.5 HIGH POINT back after the dominant first set. the weekend with a victory over the match. UVA tallied 27 errors points with 8 blocks and 3 aces in a The Rams were led defensively by in-state rival and tournament host compared to VCU’s 11. In part due Volleyball prevailed in the fi- great all-around performance. another outstanding performance the University of Virginia Friday in to the errors, the Rams outhit Vir- nal set on Tuesday, Sept. 5 against Baldwin continued her great play from junior middle blocker Tori straight sets. ginia by a staggering .264 to .088.

High Point University in High defensively as she registered a seaBaldwin as she recorded 15 blocks VCU got off to a quick start VCU had great balance on of- Point, N.C. The five-set nail bitter son-high 11 blocks in the matchup

PHOTOS BY ERIN EDGERTON

HOWARD

while also adding seven kills.

Strange anchored the Rams on the back row defensively, as she tallied a career-high 30 digs.

The win marked the third straight victory for the Rams as they looked to carry momentum with them to Charlottesville and the Jefferson Cup. Volleyball’s perfect week extended their winning streak to six games, their best stretch of play since the 2014 season. The Rams look to keep the streak alive in their next matchup on the road against Liberty University on Tuesday, Sept. 12.

PRESS BOX

Come together: Sports as one of society’s great healers Keep swinging, Houston. Just like we did 16 years ago, we’ll get through this together.

IILLUSTRATION BY KIMPETERS

Nick Versaw Staff Writer

continued from page 1 Except for the president – who seems poised, takes a few paces, turns to the crowd and waves, instilling ease into the environment.

He steps up to the mound, doesn’t hesitate and hurls a belter across the plate – right down the middle.

Throughout the stadium, 55,820 Democrats and Republicans, Diamondbacks and Yankees fans, erupt. “U-S-A! U-S-A!” the crowd chants for what feels like an eternity.

That night, we were all on the same side. As Americans. As one.

Baseball made that happen. Sports made that happen.

It wasn’t “just a game,” it was so much more.

Today – 16 years later – we’re witnessing that power once again.

Following the destruction of Hurricane Harvey, a big chunk of Texas’ Gulf Coast lays in ruin.

Houston is underwater. At least 70 people are dead. Thousands more are without homes, struggling to make due and keep their family safe.

Sports are seemingly the last thing on people’s minds.

But that doesn’t stop the magic of sports from bringing people together once again.

In the less-than-two weeks since Harvey walloped Eastern Texas, Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt has used his status and influence as a star athlete to raise nearly $30 million for hurricane victims. Nine NFL owners have committed millions of their own fortunes towards rebuilding efforts.

But it doesn’t stop at the NFL. In the NBA, soon-to-be-former Houston Rockets owner Leslie

Alexander has donated $10 million. Superstar players like Chris Paul, James Harden, Stephen Curry and John Wall have donated hundreds of thousands.

From football to basketball, baseball to hockey, golf to auto racing – donations are being raked in by the millions.

Last weekend, as college football kicked off their season, dozens of teams wore stickers on their helmets to show solidarity with those suffering in Texas.

No matter where you look, the sporting community as a whole

has helped bring people together to fight through one of the most devastating storms in modern history.

So, don’t tell me “it’s just a game.”

To those left homeless across the Gulf, is Watt “just an athlete?”

No. To many, he’s a helping hand. A saving grace. A hero.

Sports teach us to push through the adversity – to come together as one and achieve the goals you set out to meet.

Legendary baseball player Hank Aaron once spoke about the power of perseverance. He was re-

ferring to baseball, but I think it’s safe to say it works for life, too.

“My motto was always to keep swinging,” he said. “Whether I was in a slump or feeling badly or having trouble off the field, the only thing to do was keep swinging.”

Keep swinging, Houston. Just like we did 16 years ago, we’ll get through this together.

6

sports

The Commonwealth Times

Race weekend at Richmond International Raceway was a climactic affair from start to finish, featuring regular-season champions, rogue ambulances, a crucial final cycle of pit stops and a legend’s final Cup race at the track.

A rising star emerged as the winner in a wild final two laps and the playoff field was set right here in Richmond for the ten-race playoff schedule. Kyle Larson won the race, Martin Truex Jr. became the regular season champion, and 16 drivers will now vie for a championship over the next 10 races. This is Richmond’s last year as the cutoff race prior to the opening Chase event at Chicagoland Speedway, as the date was moved inside of the playoffs for next season.

Friday proved to be one of the busiest days at any track during the season, as qualifying, practices, the Virginia529 College Savings 250 all took place over the course of around 12 hours.

Monster Energy Cup Series regulars Brad Keselowski and Kyle Busch battled most of the night over the top spot, with Keselowski’s #22 Fitzgerald Glider Kits Ford Mustang proving to outlast Kyle Busch’s #18 NOS Energy Drink Toyota Camry on the long green-flag runs.

Keselowski emerged as the winner of the race, but his victory was another footnote in the lengthy complaint log of the Cup drivers’ allowances. Despite changes from NASCAR, fans continue to take issue with the fact that Cup drivers are allowed to compete in the lower series.

Adverse to some fans’ opinions, certain full-time wheelmen in the Xfinity and Truck series defend the Cup drivers’ participation, stressing that racing against upper-level athletes aids their careers, and that competing against the best helps them become better drivers.

NASCAR has taken steps to

tion, and had caused a chain-reaction incident among the cars pitting. Kenseth, in the playoffs on points, and Bowyer, in a must-win situation, both had damage to the fronts of their cars.

Bowyer had significant damage that all but ended his contention for the playoffs, while Kenseth’s night was over after his radiator was terminally damaged.

Later in the race, with less than five laps remaining, a caution was thrown for the #15 Premium Motorsports Chevrolet of Derrike Cope, who had made contact with the wall. This set up NASCAR overtime, which arranges a restart with two laps to go. If the leader reaches the start/finish line for the final lap, then the next flag, whether a caution for a crash or the checkered flag for the finish, will end the race.

Larson ran away for the win, emerging with the victory as Denny Hamlin accidentally made contact with the rear bumper of Truex, sending the #78 into the Turn 1 wall. After the conclusion of the event, Truex, while officially being crowned the regular season champion, was clearly perturbed at This year marks the final time RIR will determine the chase field — the “Race to Make the Chase” was moved to Indianapolis. NASCAR’s choice to throw a caution at that time. Not only did it cost him the win, but he ended the to unapproved modifications, the as the final race before the playoffs, night with a wrecked racecar and remedy this issue, limiting drivers hopes to win a title. “(Bonus points) allow us to make #22 team’s win was encumbered several incidents took place over disappointment heading into next to a certain number of races per season based on their Cup Series it through multiple rounds and get -- Logano could not use the win to the course of the night that were week’s race. to Homestead,” Sadler said. “It also secure a spot in the playoff field. cause for discontent. experience.

Many fans objected when NASElliott Sadler -- an Empo- allows us to go to Chicagoland, be Logano, rookie drivers Erik The most prevalent storyline CAR made some major changes to ria, Virginia native -- clinched aggressive, take some chances, and Jones and Daniel Suárez, as well that caused a firestorm of discus- its schedule to go into effect next the regular-season championship use it as a preseason game, to use as veterans Clint Bowyer and sion among fans and journalists year. The sanctioning body moved with a fifth-place effort, having the NFL analogy, to kind of warm Dale Earnhardt Jr., were all in alike took place on lap 257.

Richmond from its role as the cutbeen one of the strongest teams us up for Kentucky.” must-win situations going into After Austin Dillon and Danica off race to make the playoffs to all season.

Sadler and his older brother Richmond, however, none of the Patrick made contact in Turn 2, the second race of the Chase, InSadler attended James Madison Hermie have both raced in NAS- five drivers made it into the play- sending Patrick’s #10 car spinning, dianapolis to Richmond’s previous University on a basketball scholar- CAR’s top divisions for many years, offs, as Kyle Larson emerged the the field prepared to come to pit fall spot, and Chicagoland to the ship, but injured his knee prior to and Hermie Sadler has been a part winner of the race. road for a normal pit stop cycle. All middle of the summer. the season’s opener. Focusing on of numerous broadcast teams for Earnhardt -- who has an- of a sudden, Matt Kenseth, then in Many fans in attendance stated racing, he has now made over 800 many races. nounced his emminent retirement the top five, pitted, and his crew that they felt Indianapolis would starts combined in NASCAR’s top Saturday night’s Monster En- -- seemed especially positive dur- was seen opening the hood of the not prove to be a worthwhile cutoff three divisions, finding much of his ergy Cup Series race, the Federated ing his interview, finishing 13 and car and wheeling it behind the wall. race -- Richmond Raceway’s last success in the Xfinity Series.

Auto Parts 400, took place over the running inside the top-10 most of One of NASCAR’s ambulances appearance as the “Race to Make Sadler said the championship course of three hours. Joey Logano the night. had stopped too close to the en- the Chase” was bittersweet for was gratifying for his team and his entered the race with a win in the As seems to be the norm for trance of pit road, failing to heed most involved. career, and heavily emphasized his spring race at Richmond, but, due Richmond because of its position NASCAR Race Control’s direc-

Women’s soccer splits a pair in Tarheel state

Ram In Action: Jamie Cherwek

fielder Alyssa Tallent recorded her first goal of the season.

The Spartans failed to stop the Rams again in the 25th minute Women’s soccer (4-2-0) trav- when a shot from the 18-yard box eled to Charlotte, N.C. on Friday by redshirt-sophomore Amanda and Greensboro, N.C. on Sunday Tredway made its way into the for a pair of non-conference road back of the net. matchups. The Black and Gold VCU dominated UNC prevailed against the University Greensboro with seven shots on of North Carolina at Greensboro goal compared to their zero. The by a final of 2-0 after falling to Spartans were not able to get off the University of North Carolina a single shot all day, while VCU at Charlotte 3-2. fired a staggering 20.

Greensboro struggled to keep UNC GREENSBORO up with the Rams, putting in 10 players off the bench. The 2-0 loss With the thought of a two dropped the Spartans to 2-5-1 on game losing streak in the back of the year. their minds, the Rams headed a few hours south to Greensboro on UNC CHARLOTTE Sunday with a sense of desperation in tow.

Coming off the first lost of the The Spartans of UNC Greens- season at Clemson University, the boro headed into the match Rams headed to Charlotte to play against VCU with a 2-4-1 record the 49ers of UNC Charlotte. after falling to a regular on VCU’s Junior forward Julia Suarez schedule, Longwood University. got the game going with the first The Rams did not take long to goal on either end in the 28th get going and scored in the sev- minute, stealing the ball away enth minute -- sophomore mid- from a defender and punching it

KEYRIS MANZANARES Contributing Writer

DANIEL PURYEAR Contributing Writer

Jamie Cherwek — better known by her Instagram handle @Jamiereneefit — has over 11,400 followers and is part of the growing number of personal trainers building a fitness lifestyle account on social media.

Fitness lifestyle accounts help college students find access to free fitness videos and lifestyle information that could have been difficult to obtain before.

The CT sat down with Cherwek to talk about transitioning from a 3-sport varsity athlete in high school to a personal trainer in college.

What was your inspiration for starting your Instagram account?

I was inspired by others doing the same thing. Everyone relates to people differently and I thought that people could relate to me.

It’s been pretty well received.

It’s helped me facilitate many connections that I probably wouldn’t have made if I had not made more of a point to express to others what I was now doing on Instagram.

What would you say to a college student looking to change their health habits and get out to the gym?

VCU has its first home game since August on Sept. 14 against the 5-2 Longwood University Lancers. The Rams will have a tough game with the Lancer’s, who boast big wins against Virginia Military Institute and Howard University as well as a two-overtime-stunner victory against Marshall University.

COURTESY OF JAMIE CHERWECK

What’s been the reception from your friends or peers who didn’t know that fitness is big part of your life?

in from the 15-yard line. Suarez also had the second most shots on goal with two, following behind redshirt-sophomore defender Tori Browne who put three attempts on target.

Browne came in clutch in the 85th minute with a shot from the left side, tying it at 2-2.

Browne gave the Rams hope for overtime. However, the 49ers did not give Browne a chance to celebrate her first goal and got another shot only a minute later, giving them the lead at 3-2.

The Rams had time for one more shot on goal by Browne, but could not convert.

PHOTOS BY ERIN EDGERTON

ADAM CHEEK Contributing Writer

PHOTO BY ADAM DUBRUELER

Richmond race brings community together

VCU senior Jamie Cherwek began her lifestyle fitness Instagram account in November 2016 and already has a large social media presence.

Are there any tips you have for getting the most of your workout?

Mindset.

Is there anything in particular you do to see more results?

I would say the number one thing It all goes back to mindset, a quote I always tell myself is — to forming a new habit is consis“How bad do you really want it?” tency and finding something that you love. If you love it, you are What would you say to people going to stick to it. who regulate what they eat, which can often become unWhat does your routine consist healthy? of?

Having a healthy relationship is Mostly lifting, minimal cardio. I important. Health goes beyond came from a background of just physical appearance, it goes with doing cardio and with having what you do, what you say, what knee surgery, I’ve had to find you think. You need to find what something that works for me.

works for you and find a balance.

How has been the transition from being a 3-sport varsity athlete to being in college and having to find you own way around health and fitness?

I stopped all sports when I came to college. I played club field hockey but with my knee it was very difficult to do the cutting. Initially, it was like a roller coaster — very hard to find a balance because I would hit the gym really hard but be discouraged when I didn’t see results. So it took a lot of time for me to learn to be consistent and don’t burn it all out at once but to pace myself.

Women’s soccer will begin conference play on Thursday, Sept. 21 when they host Dayton University.

spectrum

www.commonwealthtimes.org

VCU Southern Film Festival inspires discussion of American justice

Monday, September 11, 2017

7

On this day

The attack on Sept. 11, 2001 was the largest terror attack on American soil, killing 2,996.

Gavin Grimm visits VCU for movie screening EMMA SUE SIMS Contributing Writer Gavin Grimm was among the students and faculty who viewed VCU’s screening of “Gender Revolution” on Wednesday, Sept. 6 at Cabell Libary. Grimm is known for his efforts fighting for transgender people to gain right to use the restroom of the sex they identify as rather than the sex that is written on their birth certificate.

Grimm grew up in Gloucester County, Virginia, a little more than an hour away from Richmond.

There, he came forward about his gender identity in high school.

For a while he used the bathroom in the nurse’s office, but when he started using the men’s restroom in hope of sharing equal liberties with his peers, the school board told him it was not allowed.

Grimm’s case made it to court, and while it was on track to make it to the Supreme Court, Grimm graduated high school and now his case sits in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit while the court decides whether it is still relevant.

Despite the slowdown of Grimm’s case, the transgender community is not staying quiet.

“Gender Revolution: A Journey with Katie Couric” takes viewers across the country and around the globe on a journey documenting gender identity. Grimm is one of the individuals interviewed in the documentary talking about his experience. Journalist Katie Couric asks questions many people are nervous to ask or do not know how to ask.

Couric spoke to students about pronouns and preteens what it will mean for them when their bodies begin to fight their hearts and minds. She spoke to parents of intersex children and to elderly transgender women who waited most of their lives to transition.

The film explores the difference between sex and gender. It reiterates that sex is the physical genitalia a person is born with while gender is what a person thinks and feels they are. Gender and sexuality are not intertwined.

As Sam Killerman -- an author, comedian and social justice advo-

cate -- says in the film “gender is director of public policy and comwho you go to bed as. Sexual ori- munications for the ACLU, held a entation is who you go to bed with.” panel discussion open for questions.

Many people thanked Grimm for being the public figure who sparked conversation in their homes and changed the mindset of many families. Some asked how they could help. One person asked Farrar how to approach attorneys about the subject.

“I would say that I think this was a great event to start an ongoing conversation about LGBTQ issues that will happen all semester long,” Coston said. “There are actually three additional speakers planned throughout the semester. One is Dean Spade who I’m very, very excited about.”

Coston hopes people “show up and come out and engage in dailogue about LGBTQ rights.”

“VCU is really the first place I’ve Gender Revolution had to be queer and be trans and it Attendee be okay,” One attendee said. “It has just been really, really affirming of After the film Grimm, Bee identity and life and the future of Coston, an assistant professor of justice that we’re creating.” gender, sexuality and women’s studies at VCU and Bill Farrar, the

It has just been really, really affirming of identity and life and the future of justice that we’re creating.

ILLUSTRATION BY IAIN DUFFUS

SIONA PETEROUS Spectrum Editor

SAMUEL GOODRICH Staff Writer Recent events in Charlottesville made the VCU Southern Film Festival’s theme all the more pertinent.

The festival’s theme was “Screening Southern Justice,” showcasing courtroom dramas like “My Cousin Vinny” and “Loving,” along with the unflinching documentaries “Do Not Resist” and “An Outrage.”

“One of our goals every year is to have post-film discussions that are meaningful,” said Emilie Raymond, director of the Southern Film Festival.

As a history professor at VCU, Raymond hopes to encourage all types of conversations related to film, like the filmmaking process or analytical discussions.

“Sometimes we’ll focus more on the filmmaking or behind the scenes,” Raymond said. “Other times the emphasis will be on the issues the film raises, or sometimes it’s a mix of both.”

The festival began last Thursday with a showing of “Do Not Resist,” an honest look at the militarization of police in the United States.

Set against the shootings of Mike Brown, the documentary made many people in the audience gasp and express feelings of disbelief.

A discussion with local activist Osita Iroegbu and Richmond Deputy Police Chief Steve Drew followed the screening. Both were asked their opinions on the film.

“I felt my spirit being moved to do something,” Iroegbu said “And I hope you all felt that as well.”

Drew was quick to assure the audience that RPD focuses on de-escalation tactics rather than violent actions.

“The best processes we’ve had are sitting in rooms and having conversations,” Drew said. “Once we

explain it, people may not always agree, but at least they have an understanding of why we do what we do. I think that’s why it’s so important to have conversations.”

Drew tried to dispel any negative feelings about the police the movie may have given people by expressing how the issues discussed are not representative of all police departments.

“My Cousin Vinny” was screened the next night. The film is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. The film is quite different from the other’s selected, taking a comedic look at southern and New York stereotypes in the courtroom.

The feeling in the room was much lighter than the previous night, with most in attendance laughing and having a good time.

Another point of levity was that one of the actors in the movie, Raynor Scheine, who played the character of Ernie Crane was in attendance.

Raymond mentioned it’s inclusion was not only due to its classic status, but also how tonally different it is.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea to have a bunch of films that are the same in tone,” Raymond said.

“We try to offer a variety of films and moods to try and appeal to all different types of audiences.”

What was similar among the screenings was the diversity of the audience. There were people of all ages and backgrounds, which to unique questions and ideas being discussed at each panel.

The goal of the Southern Film Festival, according to Raymond, is to bring people from all walks life to strengthen the conversations.

“A lot of films have stereotypes,” Raymond said. “We make sure that when we introduce the film or discuss the plot, we address these issues and are able to talk about them openly.

Richmond-native Arnold Brown* settled in Washington D.C. in 1989 due to what he described as a “consequence of jobs and familial obligations.”

“When I was a teenager in (Jackson) Ward we would sit around a stoop at a neighbor’s house and listen to the newest records,” Brown said. “It was like a party every weekend.”

People from an older generation were raised to value vinyl (LP’s) not only as platform for creating and listening to music, but as a means to facilitate bonds with the community in good times and bad.

For them, Brown said, vinyl is a necessary component of experiencing the power of music.

In modern times, records may not be as popular as they were during Brown’s childhood in Jackson Ward, but it’s hard to deny the resurgence of classic LP’s in Richmond. Record stores can be found around the city from the The Fan to Downtown to Carytown.

The resurgence of vinyl isn’t a Richmond phenomenon alone— it’s a national one. If statistics are anything to go by, it’s a phenomenon that isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

You have something tangible versus something that’s in the air ... It’s a more active or involved experience.

Jay Leavitt Deep Droove Records founder The first commercial CD was created in Hanover, Germany on Aug. 17, 1982, sparking a decline in the use and sale of vinyl records.

Since 1991, Nielsen SoundScan has tracked audio sales in a highly anticipated annual report that analyzes global music sale trends.

From 1991 to 2009, there was a relatively consistent pattern: an increase in the purchase of digital downloads, a steady but stable decrease in the sale of CD’s and a complete drop in the sale of the age-old vinyl record.

Fast forward to 2016 and the Nielsen report found that what had, at one point, seemed like a

random vinyl resurgence fueled by nostalgia is now a legitimate and viable market. LP sales in the United States steadily increased over the sales of CDs. Deloitte found that, by end of 2016, record sales increased by 53 percent from 2015 and sales nearly reached the $1 billion benchmark —a record high that hasn’t been seen since 1981. 2016 was also the first year that spending on vinyl outstripped digital downloads.

While streaming remains the largest means by which to listen to music, the fact that vinyl sales are resurging is as impressive as it surprising.

In many ways, Richmond’s plethora of successful record stores, such as Plan 9 Records, Steady Sounds and Vinyl Conflict fits into the narrative of the River City being a beacon for the “hipster millennial,” but it also harkens to a more historical narrative of the city.

To a Richmond that was once the “Harlem of the South,” and the center of the Civil Rights movement.

A city where Black and southern culture, and the music which was the product of those cultures, had an overwhelming influence on folk, jazz and later, hip-hop.

Not everyone was surprised by this renewed interest, however.

Jay Leavitt, owner and founder of Deep Groove Records in Richmond, said he noticed vinyl was becoming a potential market years before the trend reflected in sales while he worked as general manager, Plan 9 Records.

“It was probably 12 years ago I said something is going on about records, regulars who bought CDs were suddenly buying vinyls,” Leavitt said. “That was part of the reason why I opened the store eight and half years ago -- because I could see that it could be a viable business just selling records.”

Leavitt’s interactions with his customers and more than 20 years of experience in the industry has led him to think customers enjoy vinyl because of their tangibility.

“People who stick with records and listen to records and probably will always buy records as long as they are around really love music,” Leavitt said. “You have something tangible versus something that it’s in the air. You have the records, you hold it, you read the liner notes, you look at the beautiful artwork.

It’s a more active or involved experience. You have to put the needle in the groove. You have to decide if you want to listen to the side again, do you wanna flip it, do I wanna flip it or do I wanna quit listening.”

Like most businesses, the industry is not without its challenges.

“On any given month we’re general 60 to 65 percent new record to 40 to 45 percent used records,” Leavitt said. “It’s all dependent on if you got good used records and that’s the toughest part of the

ILLUSTRATION BY YEWEI WANG

Richmond and the vinyl resurgence

business because you got not control. You’re at mercy of what people bring in.”

Leavitt is sure CD’s will never make a resurgence similar to vinyl, and he is just as sure that vinyl will hold a place of importance in Richmond and beyond. A hundred miles away, back in D.C., Brown mulls over the question and answers without doubt that the appeal of vinyl is that it brings people home.

“I may live in D.C. now but when I think of those vinyls and how important they were to my life, I’m not sure that anything can quite replace that feeling,” Brown said. “I feel like I’m always part of Richmond.” *Last name was changed at request of individual.

spectrum

The Commonwealth Times

The power of representation

S

VCU Alumna crowned Miss Native American

T ION

BY

IAI

ND

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IL L U S T R A

KEYRIS MANZANARES Staff Writer

“It” (2017) captures indescribable terror SAMUEL GOODRICH Staff Writer Few pop culture horror icons connect millennials like Stephen King’s “It.” In fact, I’ve yet to meet anyone between the ages of 18 and 25 who hasn’t either seen the miniseries adaptation of King’s novel, or hasn’t seen an image of the story’s monster, Pennywise the clown. An entire generation is united in their knowledge and fear of this cultclassic creature.

In regards to both quality and scares, however, the 1990 miniseries just doesn’t hold up to the terrifying nature of the book. That is what makes the newly released adaptation of King’s novel so exciting. Now that the filmmakers have a larger budget and presumably a desire to get the story right, there’s a chance the movie will not only be better made, but also more terrifying.

Taking place in small town Derry, Maine, “It” (2017) focuses on a group of kids, known as the “Loser’s club,” who are being terrorized by Pennywise, a killer clown with unknown powers. As other children go missing in the town and the adults become more useless, the kids decide to take it upon themselves to defeat this evil.

First, we have to talk about Pennywise and how accurately he’s portrayed in this film. The idea of

a killer clown with supernatural powers is a goofy idea on its own, but the filmmaking and performance from Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise, works together to create a character who is truly horrifying.

He’s an unsettling force whose attempts to hide his true nature only make him more creepy. His failure to keep his composure only makes the scenes where he unhinges in grotesque and horrifying ways all the more effective. The film does a fantastic job of capturing his indescribable terror, making sure the bizarre and distressing imagery will stick with you.

There are also comedic moments which actually heighten the film’s horror. The goofy imagery gives you a false sense of security, which only makes you more tense, therefore making the payoff even more suspenseful and scarier.

Director Andy Muschietti is not only concerned with good scares, but also with making an engaging coming-of-age story. The film runs more than two hours, taking its time to develop the characters and their relationships.

The child actors do a great job at playing against dark subject matters and imagery, making their situations believable. Characters like Bill, whose little brother is killed

by Pennywise, and Beverly, whose home situation is upsetting, to say the least, make for sympathetic heroes thanks to their performances.

Minor characters are portrayed brilliantly, even if they have little development beyond some basic problems at home. Yet, these kids’ situations never come off as tired or uninteresting, as the film is able to portray these plotlines in intelligent and effective ways.

This is a breath of fresh air when compared to the horror flicks recently released. Since the audience is invested into the wellbeing of the children, it makes the film not only more effective in creating suspense and terror, but encourages an emotional response to the characters.

That’s what is so interesting about this film -- it’s not focused too heavily on cheap jump scares and plot devices. Instead it sets out to be a fantastic movie with engaging characters with believable interactions. Therefore,the normally overused and played out jumpscares lead to memorable moments of terror which feel earned and impactful.

“It” works not just because it has a scary monster, but because it’s a film that can be enjoyed even if the monster doesn’t scare you. It’s a well made, with a strong cast and well thought out horror film that could have been easily geared off to be too goofy or too dramatic. It is clear that the filmmakers knew what they wanted and were able to achieve a great balance of story and scares.

VCU alumna, Autumn Rose Miskweminanocsqua Williams was elected Miss Native American USA 2017, winning over six competitors for the title at the pageant in August. The 24-yearold was raised in and resides at the Shinnecock Indian Reservation in Long Island, New York.

Williams, who graduated from VCU with a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications in May 2016, said holding the title allows her to represent her tribe and her culture, often a stereotyped character minority in the eyes of Americans.

Competing in Miss Native American is not like competing in a traditional beauty pageant like the well-known Miss USA. Instead, the pageant is oriented toward measuring the connection a contestant has with her culture and community tested through an interview, talent exhibition, a two-minute speech about a specific platform they intend to act on as well as the common practice of an evening gown portion which is judged based on poise and confidence.

Williams’ platform is spreading the message of empowering indigenous women throughout Indian Country by focusing on their connection to the larger society and the ability to encourage one another.

“There is no set look on how a Native Americans should look,” Williams said. “However, media portrays Native Americans often in past tense, the images in films, shows, or newspapers are often showing Native Americans in traditional tribal wear, and almost never in contemporary clothing.”

Williams wants to change the common misconception of Native Americans by bringing awareness and empowering native beauty, which she said is often overlooked in the media.

“There’s a reason that Native

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PHOTO COURTESY OF WILLIAMS

FU

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Autumn Rose Miskweminanocsqua Williams wants to use her position to effect change among indigenous women.

Americans have a very romanticized look in the media,” said Williams. “The media wants you to think that we are not here anymore.”

If Native Americans don’t look like the stereotypical image of a people in tribal wear then it is easier to believe and say they don’t exist, Williams said.

The lack of a modern representation of a Native American in the media is one that has the power to translate into a tribe.

“The history of America is the fact that it’s colonized,” Williams said. “And there is a history between Native Americans who were forced into civilizations, so in 2017 when you talk about indigenous people and the standards of beauty they are standards put on us.”

Williams said traditionally she can’t say what these standards are, because she feels beautiful, but in regards to anyone in her tribe or another tribe and what they consider as beautiful does not have to do with the fact that they are

Native American but instead what American society says is beautiful.

With her new title and platform Williams said she wants to show non-indigenous people that Native Americans are complex and that they are not what you see on TV. Williams said Native American culture pageants are viewed as a way to empower indigenous beauty and culture by presenting it on a national scale. Winning the pageant allows Williams to travel to different tribes and take part in Pow Wows in order to facilitate conversation about what is happening in the various tribes and on various reservations throughout the country.

It’s clear that for Williams beauty pageants are as much about encouraging self-love and cultural pride as it is about encouraging understanding between Native Americans and non-Native Americans, as well as the various Native American tribes.

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opinions

Monday, September 11, 2017

Quote of the week: “Ironically, many of Jesus’ main talking points — loving your neighbor, healing the sick and feeding the poor — completely contrast with the priorities of today’s conservatives.” — Rachel Terrell

Celebreties have a heightened role during a crisis KATIE BASHISTA Opinions Editor

ILLUSTRATION BY JOSE DAVILA

Much of American culture is immersed in every move celebrities make, with fans jumping on any opportunity to to prove their idol is more than just a figure on TV, in a magazine or on an album. During times of crisis in the U.S. or around the world, many of us look to Hollywood’s elite and ask “what are you going to do about this?”

Since celebrities have unique platforms that reach millions of people, they are expected by many to take action in the form of donations, protests or by speaking up. While a number of celebrities do take on that opportunity, those that don’t are often criticized by the public.

Celebrities aren’t tied to any contract that says they have to be social activists. If they choose not to get “political” that’s a personal choice, however, if someone doesn’t take advantage of their prominence in society to help make social change, that’s simply selfish.

Political pressure is vital to making social change and it starts with a group of people who have a common goal and sometimes that group needs people of importance to bring their cause to the surface.

When former San Francisco 49ers backup quarterback Colin Kaepernick first began kneeling during the National Anthem last year, the people who criticized him said he was disrespecting the troops and the country itself. In reality, it was a display to show his solidarity with people of color and their current civil rights struggle. He took advantage of his platform every time he refused to stand to show his

Politics, pastors & natural disasters

to social media shortly after the post was made to show Lakewood and its surrounding parking lots and buildings indisputably dry.

After days of backlash, Osteen eventually made his church available to victims of Hurricane Harvey on Aug. 29. Although Donald Iloff Jr., spokesperson for Lakewood Church and Osteen’s brother-inlaw, claimed in an interview with CNN the online criticism didn’t influence the church’s decision to open its doors, many find it suspicious Osteen seemingly had no prior plans of offering the church.

In the same interview, Iloff said the building was prone to flooding and referenced Hurricane Alison’s damage to the structure in 2001, insinuating that the church’s original choice to remain closed was based on the chance of flooding and not actual flooding, as Lakewood’s official statement previously implied.

The entire way the situation was handled is upsetting yet largely unsurprising as today’s Christians tend to uphold the values of conservatives higher than they do the values of Christ. Maintaining a public image and consequently making a profit are deemed more important than the selfless philanthropy Je-

support for one of the biggest social movements in the U.S. today.

Actor Mark Ruffalo has been applauded for his readiness to take on social activism and recently marched from Charlottesville to D.C. as part of the March to Confront White Supremacy — he is one of the few.

Rihanna quietly takes part in social activism by donating money and creating foundations that unfortunately do not get as much publicity as her albums, public appearances and outfits receive. She created the Clara Lionel Foundation in 2012 which funds efforts to promote education and health globally. The Barbados Micro Grant Program provides funds to sustain the area’s education system while the Clara Lionel Foundation Global Scholarship Program directly helps students from Brazil, Barbados, Haiti, Cuba, Grenada, Guyana and Jamaica receive an education in the U.S. The Clara Braithwaite Center for Oncology and Nuclear Medicine established in Barbados to provide the people of Barbados with cancer screenings and treatment. The foundation believes that by giving people access to a proper education and healthcare, they will be able to be active members in society.

It isn’t important how a celebrity takes part in social activism and exercises their platform — what is important is that they do take action. Not taking any stance during a time of political and social unrest says a lot about a person, including their morals and priorities.

It’s also ironic that some members of the general public are so quick to criticize a celebrity’s stance, or lack thereof, without putting the

same pressure on the President of the United States or the government. President Trump donated $1 million to Hurricane Harvey relief which, while it’s better than nothing, is pocket money to a man whose net worth is $3.5 billion.

When it comes to addressing the current social movements regarding race relations and policecivilian relations, President Trump tends to present a false equivalency narrative. In response to the white nationalist rally in Charlottesville last month, he said there were good people on both sides.

He has said he doesn’t believe in climate change and therefore hasn’t taken political action to make environmental change. Instead, President Trump signed the order at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) undoing a key part of the Obama administration’s efforts to tackle global warming. The order reverses the Clean Power Plan, which had required states to regulate power plants, but had been on hold while being challenged in court.

He degraded the LGBTQ community when he banned transgender military recruits. He degraded immigrants when he placed a travel ban in March that places limits on travel to the U.S. from certain countries and by all refugees who do not possess either a visa or valid travel documents.

So why do we turn on our TVs and expect a celebrity to have made some great stride in bringing social justice or helping victims of a natural disaster? The energy spent criticizing celebrities needs to be channeled to criticizing the government and putting pressure on our lawmakers.

sus prioritized. Unfortunately, the greedy and politics-oriented mentality that Pastor Osteen embodies is evident in many other evangelical Christian figures.

One of the most pertinent examples is Jerry Falwell Jr., president of Liberty University and son of the infamous Jerry Falwell Sr., whose public and passionate endorsement of then-candidate Donald Trump caused dissonance within the Christian community and among Liberty’s students.

Dozens of the university’s alumni are frustrated with Falwell’s support of Trump’s arrogance and bigotry that they said they would return their diplomas as a sign of condemnations. Falwell, whose Twitter header shows him smiling next to Trump while the two display a “thumbs up” gesture, said this action would be futile, and that former students are simply “grandstanding to gain five minutes of fame.”

What Falwell doesn’t understand is that an individual who has dedicated several years and thousands of dollars toward receiving a diploma does not simply decide to return it on a whim. An action that was intended to prove just how seriously Falwell’s acclamation of

Trump should be taken has had the opposite effect on someone who genuinely believes that Jesus would be a diehard Republican.

Ironically, many of Jesus’ talking points — loving your neighbor, healing the sick and feeding the poor — completely contrast with the priorities of today’s conservatives. In the case of Osteen, this pro-capitalist and anti-altruist worldview has trickled into his sermons, contributing to a way of thinking known as “prosperity theology.” His teachings emphasize the personal gain and financial success that God supposedly promises to those who give to the church, particularly through tithing.

In a video posted on Lakewood’s website last week, Associate Pastor Lisa Osteen offered thoughts and prayers to those which the hurricane left financially destitute – many seated in the audience – while Lakewood’s ushers simultaneously pass around collection plates.

According to the late Jerry Falwell Sr., “if it’s Christian, it ought to be better.” Perhaps Osteen and Falwell feel that their financial abundance has allowed them to live up to this mantra. But Lakewood’s closed doors and overflowing offering plates were of no help to the initial victims of Hurricane Harvey who were forced to find refuge in other churches, cathedrals and mosques.

SHAUN JACKSON Staff Columnist

ILLUSTRATION BY IAIN DUFFUS

ILLUSTRATION BY RYAN RICH

An ode to self-care

RACHEL TERRELL Contributing Writer As Hurricane Harvey hurdled through Houston on the evening of Aug. 25, thousands of the city’s residents were forced to evacuate their homes. With store inventories depleted and panicked traffic clogging major highways, many had no choice but to relocate to local shelters designated by the American Red Cross or to one of the several businesses open to those seeking safety.

Amid the chaos stands Lakewood Church, which boasts a reported capacity of 16,800 and garners an average of 52,000 attendees each week. The megachurch is pastored by evangelical Christian Joel Osteen, whose name became a Twitter trend last week after one user claimed she was blocked by Osteen for questioning his failure to open the church’s doors to victims of the hurricane. Many users participating in the trend rebuked Osteen for contributing to a pattern of inhumaneness and greed that permeates modern Christianity.

A post from Lakewood Church’s official Facebook page the day before had claimed the building was “inaccessible due to severe flooding” and provided a list of alternative shelters where refugees could seek sanctuary. A number of locals uploaded photographs and videos

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I’m not a very sociable guy, but I want to get out there and meet some new people and possibly find someone. What are the best ways to take that initial step out of my comfort zone?

I believe the first step is establishing a base where you feel safe and secure and exploring from there. Maybe go out with that friend who is always inviting you out if you feel up to it. Interact with people who share the same hobbies and interests with you and people don’t bite that often, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there if yourself able to both mentally and physically.

what that person has going on in their life. It’s not always the best idea though, I’ve seen too many young people not know what they are getting into and a handful of older people who were just taking advantage of youth.

Do you think it’s better to get married when you’re young or better to wait a while? I noticed a lot of people I knew from high I say being honest is always more school are getting married. important, especially if you conIs being honest more important than not wanting to hurt someone’s feelings?

What is your opinion on age when it comes to potential partners? I’m 18 and I’ve recently been getting to know someone who is around 23 years old.

When I think about it, it bothers me a little, but I’d like to think age is just a number.

I don’t know how much I can actually speak to this because I’m not married nor have I ever met anyone who has ever given me the thought, but I’m a big advocate of waiting either way. I log into Facebook and see my friends are getting engaged or expecting children or both, and I constantly wonder if I too am supposed to be somewhere similar but then I realize there’s so much growth I have to do financially, mentally, and emotionally before I can give myself to someone like that, and I think that’s where people our age who are doing these things get stuck. Don’t buy into this idea that you’re supposed to be somewhere in your life if you’re not ready. Just keep doing you.

I’m in the same boat as you where I would like to think that age is just a number, and it is, but by that same measure that number can be indicative of so much and

If you’d like to ask a question you can do so anonymously at lasciviouswitch.tumblr.com/ask or directly at jacksonsk@commonwealthtimes.com Anonymity will be preserved.

sider the person in question to be close to you in any way. Obviously reserve your honesty if you know being forthright is going to cause more problems than solutions then by all means, curb your honesty, but the old saying is pretty spot-on: “The truth will set you free.” What they don’t tell you is that the truth will probably piss you off first, but it’ll set you free.

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