New Abortion Laws: What’s Going On? by Tayari A. Jones

It is now 16 years Roe v. Wade, the Webster decision, the court cut back on a right know more about Non-white abortions are double historic decision which legalized a woman’s it had granted. them. If a state chooses the number of white abortions. right to have an abortion. This ruling was How this decision affects each individ­ to require that a based upon the right of privacy founded in the ual depends largely upon the state residence. woman seeking an co Constitution. This right of privacy protects Some proposed laws and their possible impli­ abortion give informed the woman from interference by the law if she cations. consent, she will be chooses to have an abortion during the early * Webster v. Reproductive Services - shown graphic pic­ portion of her pregnancy. However, the court (Fetal VialbilityTesting) If a fetus is viable, it tures of fetuses, decided that the state could regulate decisions is able to live outside of its mother’s body. A dramatizations of ac­ concerning the pregnancy, after the fetus had state may choose to require a doctor to per­ tual abortions and re­ developed enough to survive outside the form a viablity test before performing the quired to wait 24-72 woman’s body. abortion. If the fetus is found to be viable, the hours before having That was in 1973. In 1989, the U.S. Su­ doctor is prohibited from perfoming the abor­ the procedure. preme Court made a landmark decision which tion. The test for viablity increases the aver­ Pro-choicers ar­ drove a crack into the very foundation of Roe. age price of an abortion from $220 to $750 gue that the dramati­ On April 26, Missouri Attorney General Wil­ depending on the type of test. zations use fetuses, liam L. Webster went before the Supreme Pro-choice advocates argue that this is an older than 24 weeks. Court to argue the constitutionality of a cer­ anti-abortionist ploy to make abortions hard * Ohio v. Akron tain Missouri law. This law declares that to get. They say this because most doctors Center for Reproduc­ Under 20 20-24 25-29 30-34 35-39 40/older “human life begins at conception”, requires agree that a fetus is not viable before 24 tive Health - (Paren­ Source: The Alan Guttmacher Institute that fetuses over 20 weeks old be tested for weeks, and 99% of women have abortions tal Consent) A state “viability”, prohibits abortions in public fa­ before the 21 st week. Anti-abortionists argue may require minors to Abortion percentage by age. cilities; and bars public employees from “en­ that this law insures that viable babies are not have their parents’ con­ dards similiar to those mandated for operating couraging” a woman to have an abortion. aborted. sent before receiving an abortion. rooms in hospitals. Pro-choice advocates Even though the U.S. Supreme Court has * Webster Decision - (Tough Limits on Pro-choice advocates feel that this deci­ question this because abortions only require sion would force young women to turn to deemed this law to be constitutional, it has not Public Funding) With the Webster decision, local anesthetic and a small amount of equip­ overturned Roe. Instead, it has decided to states have the right to limit public funding for “back alley” methods of enduring a preg­ ment. Anti-abortionists say they are helping allow each state to make its own abortion abortions which will ultimately send women nancy rather than telling their parents. Anti­ women to protect themselves from unsafe and laws. who can afford it to private doctors. abortionists feel that this law would discour­ unsanitary health conditions. This decision has major implications. * Thornburgh v. American College of age those who are not absolutely sure about These are examples of the turmoil caused Legally, the court's decision simply upheld Obstetricians & Gynecologists - (Informed their abortion decision. when the Supreme Court cuts back on a right Missouri statutes and therefore, that state will Consent) Anti-abortionists support the theory * Turnock v. Ragsdale - If passed, it will it has granted. One cannot wonder what will follow the aforementioned rules. With the that fewer women will have abortions if they require private abortion clinics to meet stan­ be next. African-American Women to Suffer from New Laws hysterectomies and sterilizations without our women can afford to get Number of abortions permission. Many of us on low incomes have abortions...and so many of our kids already loss our right to decide whether or not end up having the baby so that they in our community to have an abortion. Our country has confused can keep the man.” its priorities and African-American women Since the 1986 Missouri law complicates issues. must speak out.” declares that “human life begins at The Webster decision has brought the is­ conception” many complicated cases by Jocelyn R. Coleman sue of viability into the forefront. The debate have been brought up. Some include concerns whether a fetus can live and survive a pending case concerning whether The abortion cases before the U.S. Su­ at 20 weeks. Even though medical and scien­ or not a fetus carried by a female preme Court now could bring about many re­ tific experts say that the earliest fetal survival inmate is wrongfully imprisoned and <15 strictive laws that would make legal abortions age is 24 weeks, the Court backed a 1986 Mis­ the case of a 20 year-old man claim­ almost unobtainable and very expensive. It is souri law that requires expensive viability ing that he was actually 21 at the predicted that African-American women testing on 20 week-old fetuses. As far as the time of his drunk driving arrest, since would be the hardest hit along with the poor, advanced technology needed to support fe­ life begins at conception." teenagers and otherwise disadvantaged. tuses under 24 weeks, Dr. K.N. Siva Subrama- ”This means that more and more Non-white women have more than twice nian, director of the division of neonatology black women are going to be impris­ the number of abortions attributed to white at Georgetown University Medical Center oned for what is legally defined as was quoted as saying that it “is not even in fetal abuse,” says Ross. “One women. African-American women have the Most of the women having abortions highest rate of pregnancy in the Western sight at this point.” woman’s doctor didn’t want her to are under 24. world and make up a disproportionate num­ The ultrasonography raises the price of fly while pregnant and he got a court Source; National Abortion Federation ber of the poor women in America. If Roe v. an abortion about $250. Amniocentesis, an­ order.” Ross says, that this law, “will Wade is curtailed, the only legal and govern­ other testing procedure, costs sbout $450 affect the women who can least afford expen­ Even with all of the issues specifically af­ ment-funded reproductive service left will be more. Since some doctors conclude that a sive lawyers. What if you fell down and had a fecting African-American women, our pres­ complete sterilization. These issues make the aminocentesis is useless until the 28th week, miscarriage...does that become accidental ence in the pro-choice movement is sparse. abortion debate more complicated for Afri­ the delay could triple the cost even before the homicide?” In a Boston Globe article, Wattleton of According to McCallum, the greatest can-American women. abortion is actually performed. said that noninvolvement is a “reflection of a On September 13, 1989, a coalition of The option of out-of-state abortions is danger in Georgia is parental consent. “It is an larger condition of minorities in this country African-American women spoke to congress also closed to many African-American and attempt to limit access to abortion to young in general. The people who get involved in women. There are some young women who about abortion and implemented a campaign poor women because of travel expenses and causes tend not to be the poor people. The cannot tell their parents. The Webster deci­ to inform others about their reproductive lost wages. Janet McCallum, director of Ad­ driving force of mass movements has always sion gave the states a lot more power. It is very rights. Supporters included: Jewell Jackson- ministration Services at the Feminist Women’s tended to be middle class." important right now to tell legislators that you McCabe, president of the National Coalition Health Center in Atlanta, says that “certainly In response to the low number of Afri­ of 100 Black Women; Mayor Carrie Saxon in Atlanta there are a lot of women of color are a pro-choice voter.” can-Americans in the forefront, Ross says Turnock and Ragsdale, a case to be heard Perry of Hartford, Connecticut; Faye Wattle- who use Grady Hospital. If Grady were not “we have not been full participants in the pro- by the Supreme Court, requires clinics to ton President of Planned Parenthood; former able to provide that service, there would be a choice movement and they are making the have the same standards as hospital operation Congresswoman Shirley Chisolm; and Pat lot of women trying unsafe methods. It would decisions for us. Their racism alienates Black rooms. If the court upholds this Illinois law, Tyson of the Religious Coalition for Abortion also limit access of doctors to low-income women. They often want us as tokens, but not the abortion clinics in the affected state will Rights. women by taking a training facility away in full leadership.” start to disappear if they don’t have the funds Byllye Avery, president of the National from Emory and Morehouse School of Medi­ Wattleton believes that African-Ameri­ to meet hospital regulations. The clinics that Black Women’s Health Project (NBWHP), cine that would delete people who can per­ cans should become more active and states do stay in business would probably raise the another supporter, stated that “historically, form abortions." that it will not happen until “Blacks are freed price of abortions. The clinics that charge the our bodies have been used as a battleground Loretta Ross, national program director to become more involved in these kinds of is­ least may be forced out of business. Since pri­ for the United States to fight its racist, sexist of the NBWHP, feels that statistics do not tell sues. The disparity that you see in people vate facilities are not readily available,the becoming activists is a creature of class and and classist war. ...As slaves we were forced the whole story. “I think that the teenage to breed for slave masters; in our more recent pregnancy rate between black women and teenagers and the poor would be affected the economics.” history, we’ve been subjected to unnecessary white women is the same. It’s just that white most. Spelman Spotlight Page'2 Underground Atlanta Alumnae Recognition: DR. BERNICE JOHNSON REAGON

1979, Shirley Childress Johnson has provided sign language interpretation for the quintet. Armed with only their powerful vocals. Sweet Honey in the Rock wrap their voices around some moving rhythms, pound out the beat on rhythmic sticks and African shakeres (beaded hollow gourds), and deliver the word on apartheid, racism, the danger of nuclear annhihilation, the plight of undocumented workers and refugees, and economic oppres­ Bernice Johnson Reagon sion. They reach into their souls and belt out by Shennette Garrett a heritage of African funeral chants, classic Baptist hymns, spirituals. West African mu­ sic, blues, and reggae. I’m a stranger, a stranger here Reagon conceived the group in Wash­ I'm a stranger everywhere Photo: Kelly Wilson ington. D.C. in 1973 through her involvement Lord, I would go home in vocal workshops with the Washington D.C. by Delitha L. Morrow But I'm a stranger there Black Repetory Theater Company. She re­ "Stranger Blues" Sweet Honey in the Rock Unless you've been living under a rock, politicians addressing the massive lunchtime ceived her Ph.D. from Howard University in Given the phenomenal international suc­ you have undoubtedly heard, read about, or crowd. 1975 and is presently a curator at the Museum cess of Sweet Honey in the Rock, it's a won­ even visited Atlanta’s newest tourist attrac­ Mayor Young’s speech was almost over­ of American History at the Smithsonian Insti­ der that so few young African-Americans tion, Underground Atlanta. shadowed by hecklers who alleged that the at­ tute. have heard of the group. The a capella quin­ The seven-year, $ 142-million-dollar proj­ tention surrounding construction of Under­ She was recently awarded a MacArthur tet, decked in colorful, traditional African ect represents the success of affirmative ac­ ground was another way of ignoring the Fellowship in the amount of $275.000 for her garb, is the brainchild of Spelman alumna Dr, tion at a time when it seems most threatened. homeless in efforts to attract money-spending efforts in preserving African-American folk Bernice Johnson Reagon, C’70. Of the 97 retail shops, restaurants, and suburbanites back to downtown Atlanta • music. Well the wicked carried us away to captivity night clubs and the 31 street vendors. 36 are The concept of Underground is not new With six albums to date and concert tours They required of us a song Black-owned. In addition, the major devel­ to the city. Nightclubs were first opened in that have carried her and the group as far away How can we sing our holy song oper, The Rouse Company, formed a joint the same area in 1969 and thrived in the as Ecuador. Germany, Japan, England. Kenya, In a strange land? venture with two Black-owned businesses, 1970’s. Crime eventually decreased the and Russia; and as close as Mexico, Carnegie "Waters of Babylon" H.J. Russell and Company and Kinley Enter­ number of visitors, causing the facility to Hall, and countless cities across the United Sweet Honey in the Rock gets its name prises. to handle construction and manage­ close in 1982. States, she says she has felt a lot of strength in from an old spiritual which described "land so ment. Underground Atlanta is back. With a raising consciousness through the power and rich and fertile that honey poured from the Fireworks, band salutes, and speeches variety of entertainment, eateries, and spe­ message of her music. "There’s a taste that I stones.” Five women make up the group: marked the June 15th opening of the facility cialty shops. Underground is sure to offer got from singing what I felt. 1 got the taste of Evelyn Harris, Ysaye M. Barnwell, Aisha with Mayor AndrewYoung and other local something for everyone. fighting oppression; at the same time it was Kahlil, Nitanju Bolade. and Reagon: since like 1 was affirming myself.”

For your information Sister to Sister Best way to get there: Take MARTA. From the West End station, take the northbound train to the Five Points station. Exit on Peachtree Street and cross the street to the Peachtree Fountains Plaza entrance. If you drive, Underground is located at Peachtree and Alabama Streets. Parking is across the street. Hours: Retail stores are open from 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. weekdays and Saturdays, noon-6 p.m. Sundays. Some restaurants, night clubs, and bars are open as late as 4 a.m. You must be 21 to enter after 10:00 p.m.. Havoc in Virginia Beach by Tavari A. Jones

On Friday, September 1, approximately and act surprise when they retaliate... I felt like 100,000 students from historically Black I was spending the weekend in Beruit.” colleges and universities took the annual trip Nicole Venable, c'91. stood on Atlantic Photo: Jocelyn R. Coleman to Virginia Beach, Virginia for the Greekfest. Ave. known as "the strip," and within an hour Faith (center) takes time to catch up with her supporting friends Kimara Mason (left) and Rhonda Little did anyone know that this weekend of saw "at least 15 tickets given for jaywalking, Smith (right) fun in the sun would turn into a catastrophe. using profanity in public, and playing loud Between Friday and Sunday evenings, 160 music.” by Faith Cargile people were arrested and 395 people were Many people contend that the police were Since entering Spelman in 1986 I have mirrored by the fact that I weighed 220 pounds given citations by the Virginia Beach Police over zealous because the students were Black. undergone massive changes as a Black and had a long hair weave. Don't get me Department. Disturbances began around 2:00 The NAACP is investigating complaints that Woman. As a 19 year old freshman, my prob­ wrong - I’m not inferring that all women who a.m. on Saturday and spanned 30 blocks. many innocent bystanders were injured. Linda lems ranged from doubting my own intellec­ are overweight and have hair weaves lack One-hundred stores were looted. Students in Byrd-Harden, Executive Director of the Vir­ tual abilities to forming standards for personal self-esteem, but in my case it was definitely town for the Greekfest and local people were ginia State NAACP, says “to some degree, values, and last, but definitely not least, defin­ true. I wasn’t doing that well in school and I involved. the confrontation was racially motivated. ing my role as a Black woman in a racist and don’t even want to comment on my personal "I felt like I'd spent the However, we are still investigating and will sexist society. Some of these problems re­ life. Fortunately, through starting the difficult not be able to respond conclusively until the sulted in a lack of self-esteem which was process of self-realization, I began to under- weekend in Beruit." investigation is over." Continued on page 4 Were the police unnecessarily rough Byrd-Harden also asserts that much of when dispersing the crowds of Black college the blame for the weekend’s disturbance falls students? Virginia Beach’s Mayor, Meyera upon the press. She says, “the press painted a ADOPT-A-GRANDPARENT PROGRAM E. Obender, says no. Spelman students who picture of as being hostile to Blacks. They visited Virginia Beach that weekend say yes. also exaggerated the problems of last year's by Farai Ashton Melanie Babb, c’90, says she witnessed Greekfest. The newspapers set the format for gram is geared towards building a relation­ the police using unnecessary force. “A bunch violence. This is only one example of a trend This semester, through the Office of Commu­ ship between the elderly around Atlanta and of college students were dancing in the of the press inciting racial confrontation..." nity Service (OCS), Spelman students will the students of Spelman." She went on to street...No one was rowdy. About 100 State She also advises young people to learn form have the opportunity to volunteer their serv­ explain that “ the Spelman students will be Troopers and the National Guard came march­ this experience, saying students should be ices and participate in the Adopt-a-Grand- fostering the growth of a Granddaughter/ ing down the street. They ordered everyone to painfully aware that racism is alive and well parent program. Grandparent relationship through events such leave...Then they started chasing people and in this country. The Adopt-a-Grandparent program involves as: on site health screening and other planned swinging their clubs." Babb blames the law She suggests that in the future, students elderly persons living in retirement homes social events.” enforcement agents for the incident. "The should prepare themselves for such incidents who have no immediate family in the area. Students who are interested in participating in trouble did not start until they arrived.” by "learning about and practicing civil dis­ According to Kimberly Woods, a junior and the Adopt-a-Grandparent program can con­ Nicole Childs, c’90, agrees. “The police obedience." co-ordinator,“the C.A.R.E. (Concerned Af­ tact either Kimberly Woods or Mrs. Tamara threw smoke bombs into crowds of people rican Americans Reaching the Elderly) pro- Nash Ammons at the Office of Community Service (OCS) or call 681-3643 ext. 544. Page 3' October/November 1989 Prerogative Take Action by Jocelyn R. Coleman denied because of poverty, absence of a spouse Regardless of how you feel about the class structure or a brutal rape. abortion issue, you need to take action. Most Knowledge is power; and the more we of the women in America having abortions know about how the Supreme Court is man­ are the same ages as Spelman women. Afri­ dating our choices the more ammunition we can-American women are having twice as have to fight with. many abortions as whites. The irony of this entire debate is that the As young African-American women, we women in the forefront are not directly af­ represent the exact majority of the women fected like we are. Most of the leaders are not who are directly affected by the issues sur­ those getting pregnant at the highest rate or rounding reproductive rights. Our opinions having the most abortions. Most of the lead­ must be heard. The best thing to do is to ers are white middle to upper class and appear become both informed and involved. It is also to be at middle to upper age. important to vote for candidates that agree Apathy is not tolorable at this point. We with you on the abortion issue. It is not fair for need to take action. We need to start speaking HAfcpirìó» a woman’s reproductive freedom to be totally for ourselves. Beverly’s Boots And the Winner Is... by Pearl Cleage

Reprinted with permission from author, say, was on the way, and I was more than by Tayari Jones sure of one thing: what she looks like. A Pearl Cleage C'72, lecturer of English at ready for it. defender of pageants may argue that the swim­ Spelman, artistic director of Club Zebra, editor What I wasn’t ready for was my reaction Why is it that women represent More­ suit competition has been abolished. So what? of Catalyst Magazine and freelance to that concentrated dose of sisterhood. I didn ’ t house in their homecoming activities? Women The concept is the same. The only difference writer. “Beverly" is our own Dr. Beverly Guy- know how hungry I was for a dose of black do not attend Morehouse; so how could they is that the audience cannot make as thorough Sheftall, Director of the Spelman College female reality. Within a space of four days, I possibly be qualified representatives of that an assessment of the contestant’s body as they Women’s Center and recent recipient of the listened to Mary Helen Washington talk about college? yell obscenities. Coalition of 100 Black Women Candace the triumphant struggles of black foremoth­ If, however, a woman must be chosen to No, let’s be fair. Her talent is evaluated. Award. ers, and I was inspired by her scholarship and represent a men’s college, why must the com­ Her performing talent that is.If a contestant’s Sisterhood is a funny thing. It’s easy to energy. I heard Susan Taylor make all the petition be in the form of a pageant? (In the area of aptitude is not singing, dancing or recognize, but it’s hard to define. It’s an right connections between our lack of group interest of fairness. I must note that Spelman drama, she’s just out of luck. When is her embracing circle and a 100-yard dash. It’s as identity and our group’s current problems, also indulges in this lunacy.) A woman who, intellect measured? During the question and familiar as a favorite pair of sneakers and as and I was energized by her commitment. I felt for some reason I can’t fathom, decides to answer session, of course. (“If you could be mysterious as a cat’s eye stone. It is a lifeline Nikki Giovanni’s wildly individual spirit on participate in a pageant should be prepared to any animal, what would you be?”) to the future and a tangible link to the past. It’s the campus, and I laughed at her continuing spend countless hours of her study time and My friend, Askhari, has a brilliant idea. easier to say what it feels like than to say what outspoken specificity. I stood in a circle of hundreds of her dollars. If she loses, her Why not choose the representative through an it is. It’s also safer to be as specific as possible. black women in Spelman President Johnetta money and time are spent in vain. If she wins, essay contest? This way the voting body Can Last month is as good a place to start as any. Cole’s campus living room listening to writer her money and time are still wasted. After all, be sure that the representative it chooses is lit­ Now I know March was supposed to Sonia Sanchez invoke the blessings of what­ there is no prize for the lucky winner. No erate, logical, focused and socially conscious. come in like a lion and go out like a lamb, but ever gods may be for our private and cllective scholarship is offered. She receives a dozen There's only one catch. The voters will not nothing prepared me for what happened in journeys, and 1 felt comforted and loved and roses; but roses die. know what she looks like or even her name between the two. It started off like any other challenged and strong. And I stood in a Even graver than the financial disadvan­ until after the selection process. Do you think month. Bills to pay. Groceries to buy. Mid­ crowded room and cheered the triumphant tages are the social implications of pageants. the men of Morehouse will abandon pag­ terms to monitor. But somewhere near the end genius of sisterwriter Toni Cade Bambara, Pageants focus on the superficial. After a eants, the most overt example of sexism in our of the second week, I got a notice telling me and I wept and laughed and wondered if I was woman has paraded on a stage for an hour community, in favor of this new idea? that Spelman College was hosting a speaker’s finally losing my mind for real. Presidential and- a- half, the cat-calling audience is made Me either. series featuring Essence Editor Susan Taylor, politics aside, I cautioned myself, you're out writer and scholar Mary Helen Washington of control, a dangerous stage for a Black and poet Nikki Giovanni. Around the same woman in America. Was I crazy, I wondered, Racism in the Media time, Sister Sue Ross, Atlanta documentary to be feeling this free? Was I forgetting who photographer extraordinaraire, invited me to was really in charge? All of a sudden, I felt my “To be prepared is to be informed” a 50th birthday party for writer Toni Cade blues coming back strong, and that’s when I Bambara at the Hammonds House, the vi­ saw Beverly's boots. brant West End cultural center that had just Right there in the middle of the party, in By Delitha L. Morrow celebrated its own first birthday. the midst of the sisters serving fried potatoes I was delighted and I tacked the invita­ and caviar and the brothers trying to navigate With all the attention and media cover­ people and raping women. Trump’s state­ tions to my bulletin board, savoring the sight the intricacies of being outnumbered 25 to 1 in age surrounding the Virginia Beach incident, ments about race illustrate the kind of igno­ of them as if they were Sunday School sweets. a room full of strong black women, Beverly can any of us honestly say we know what rance many whites have about racism. Un­ I was ready to be immersed in sisterhood; was wearing a pair of wildly fringed cowboy really happened? What we can say is that the fortunately, these same whites control what surrounded by sisterhood; consumed by sis­ boots. They were silver and black or silver and events in Virginia Beach, Bensonhurst, How­ we see, hear and read in the media. terhood! It had, after all, been a long, hard white—I don’t remember. What I do remem­ ard Beach, etc. have a whole new topic of con­ This is why we don’t know what hap­ winter. The election of George Bush and Dan ber is that they were funny and outrageous and versation amongst ourselves. pened in Virginia Beach. The media doesn’t Quayle, after a seemingly endless campaign, silly and stylish and absolutely free. Those The media has said it’s O.K. for us to talk want to tell us that the National Guard and the had filled D.C. with the same crowd of evilly boots didn’t give a damn about George Bush. about race issues now. Hence, everybody is policemen standing in full riot gear through­ posturing white men who had been in charge They were too busy studying. They refused to talking about it. out the beach area overreacted. for the last eight years. The election had de­ even acknowledge Dan Quayle. They were If you’re not reading about them, watch­ Instead, theypoint out incidents of vio­ pressed me more than I had expected it to. I too busy planning. And they didn’t even know ing debates about them, or talking about them, lence from previous years to explain this felt adrift, frightened, marooned in a country the meaning of the word cynical. They were you should be. Pay close attention not only to year’s crackdown - violence we heard little or that was making it clear with depressing regu­ too busy dancing. what’s being said, but also to who’s saying it. nothing about when it happened. larity that it had little interest in, or time for, And suddenly, I stopped worrying. About In “The R.A.C.E.”on NBC, the televi­ Like it or not, racism will continue to be me and mine. the Big Boys in D.C. About the home boys in sion documentary mediated by Bryant Gum- discussed in the media because it’s “the thing I saw the same confused look in the eyes Atlanta. About insanity and politics and things bel, Donald Trump the symbol of corporate to do.” We, as Black college students (re­ of many of my sisters, and I became aware of that go bump in the night. I looked at Bev­ America) white, male middle-aged, success­ ferred to as the “elite” by the media), can and our unspoken but undeniable movement erly’s boots, and I understood that nothing ful, and wealthyjsaid he wished he could must be aware of racial issues. inward. Looking out was a little too danger­ They do means we can’t go out and celebrate somehow be reincarnated as a young Black We should not allow ourselves to be de­ ous right now, and it was getting harder and our existence and confirm our struggles and educated male. “They have the best opportu­ luded by the nurturing Black colleges that harder to feel like anything we did made any evaluate our progress and believe in our future nities for success now,’’ he reasoned. foster our sense of self-knowlege but shield difference. I felt like we should all start wear­ and laugh together at our continuing survival In a similiar documentary, “ Growing Up us from reality. We must all someday leave ing whatever camouflage we could find and and wear our cowboy boots whenever we Black in White America”, a Black corporate the cocoon to enter the mainstream, and we bunker down to wait out the storm. please. executive explained how it feels to walk down must be prepared. To be prepared is to be But in the Spelman invitation to a week So thanks. Beverly and Toni and Mary the street and see a white woman clutch her informed. rich in sisterspeak, and in the joyful celebra­ Helen and Sonia and Johnetta and Susan and purse closer to her body because she spotted Thirty years ago, we couldn’t go to Lake tion that I had no doubt would greet Toni’s WildNikki. I needed that. I thinkl’ve gotatrip a Black male. The media’s Black male who is Lanier. Next year, we can expect to be ex­ birthday, I saw an antidote, however tempo­ to the shoe store coming. always using and dealing drugs, robbing cluded from Virginia Beach. rary, to the Bush-Quayle blues. Help, as they Spelman Spotlight Page 4

War of Independance against the Portuguese. The African tradition that stands out the most in Chinosole’s mind is the elaborate and Chinosole Lives deliberate way that Africans have of show­ by Jocelyn R. Coleman ing repsect for human beings. “You take a long time to greet someone and you greet The visiting professor living and learn­ them respectfully. The Black power hand­ ing among us has had three to four obituaries shake is really done in many parts of Africa. It and five memorial services. Detained as a is a carry-over of these systems of respect.” prisoner in the Angolan civil war in 1975, Dr. Chinosole also appreciated the solidarity Chinosole was presumed dead with one obitu­ among women. They bathe together and play ary appearing in 77ti' New York Times. She is together and were “less competitive than convinced that some people still do not know women can sometimes be in the United States.” that she survived. During the 1950s and 1960s, Chinosole Nevertheless, Chinosole is living vivdly feels that African-Americans, “spent a lot of among us this year as a woman who brings to energy locked in a reflexive pattern with white Spelman not only her expertise in the teach­ people. In Africa I got a sense of being African ing process and themes of the Black autobiog­ as central. They [Africans] are less worried raphy but a life that captivates and exempli­ ('hinosole explains the dynamics of the autobiography Photo: Jocelyn R. Coleman about Europeans. They are not so important to fies how the “I” also stands for the “we" in the bruises. Africans. They are not as obsessed with Black Black experience. When Chinosole was close to death she year, she says,“there is a posssible long-term vs. White as we have to be as a means of had to “reassess herself not only politically relationship.” survival.” Prisoner of War but in terms of the most personal and subjec­ Spelman is “one of the most fertile insti­ Chinosole says she finds Afrocentric There were two comtemporary wars tive” parts of herself. “In the 1960s, we tutions for Black people in the country in thinking as a “freedom that I got in Africa and fought in Angola between 1958-1989. The |women] did a lot of sidestepping of our­ terms of it’s possibilities for research, teach­ brought back to the United States.” War of Independance against the Portuguese selves on a subjective level...in order to sacri­ ing, community work and networking through­ The fight for independance in Africa lasted the first 14 years. More Angolans died fice for the larger cause. Ignoring our per­ out the country. The spirit of the campus directly parallels to the fight for human dig­ in the Civil War than the War of Indepen­ sonal selves has cost us. Taking time to ana­ seems to be an effort to create a sense of com­ nity in the United States. dance. The Civil War occured between three lyze yourself personally makes you better munity and sisterhood.” “The conditions we experienced of en­ groups who wanted to rule the country. able to take political risks. slavement, then segregation and now continu­ Chinosole’s husband, Samuel Chitunda, After being cleared of all MPLA charges The Early Years ing discrimination are an outgrowth of the ex­ was commander of the armed forces in one of Chinosole was released from prison and sent Born in Harlem as Patricia Thornton, pansion of European power - the take over of these movements - The National Union for to Portugal to contact the American Embassy. Chinosole grew up in South Bronx. She was Africa and the dislodgement of our the Total Independance of Angola., (UNITA), Before she boarded the plane Chinosole real­ one of the first Blacks to integrate Edgewood people.’’Chinosole has written two critical (Chinosole cut her political ties to UNITA in ized that she was not ready to go back to the College in Madison, Wisconsin and the only essays on autobiographical writing that ap­ 1976.) She remained in Lusa, Angola after United States after talking to American offi­ one to return the next year. After spending her peared in scholarly anthologies entitled - “The her husband’s death in 1974 teaching in cials. She asked to be sent back to Africa be­ sophomore year as the only Black in the Art of Slave Narrative” and “Wild Women in UNITA schools. She was captured by the cause she had no assets in America. After school, her junior year, another young Black a Whirlwind." Popular Movement for the Liberation of refusing her request one official said: "Oh woman arrived and they helped each other The Angolan war story appeared in The Angola (MPLA) during the summer of 1975. don't worry about that; you can join the wel­ with their studies and remain best friends to Washington Post in 1976. Chinosole still has Chinosole spent her first two nights in fare rolls like the rest of your people.” When this day. “That experience, being in an iso­ family ties in Angola. captivity with about 25 other female UNITA the plane landed in Lisbon Chinosole did not lated environment made us bond even more prisoners. Before Chinosole arrived each contact the embassy and returned to Africa. closely.” woman had been raped individually at gun­ At the age of seven, Chinosole had de­ Back to Africa With point by 5-6 MPLA soldiers at one time. After The Road to Spelman cided that she wanted to go to Africa, at first, Chinosole protested she says the “rampant Back in the United States and on leave as a missionary. It was not until she was 19 OCA rape subsided. A few conscientious officers from San Francisco State where she is Chair that this dream became a reality as a member Operation Crossroads Africa, (OCA), warned the soldiers against it. But the two of Women Studies and a tenured professor, of Operation Crossroads. Through Operation is a non-profit cultural exchange organi­ men guarding us (from the other soldiers) in Chinosole teaches “The Centrality of Afri­ Crossraods, she had “that kinetic experience zation that enables young Americans to the tiny room...were bent on getting their due. can-American Autobiography". The small of living in the majority” and saw “the nature live and work in an African country for I was kicked first and I mumbled in Portu­ load allows Chinosole to complete a manu­ of racism as an international phenomenon. guese that I had VD. Every other woman ap­ script that intricately analyzes and compares That summer in Zimbabwe, Chinosole built eight weeks in the summer.Founded in proached gave the same reply. The guards works from Angola, Barbados, England, South a school and had her first sit-in demonstration. 1957, by the late Dr. James M. Robinson, grew angry and began kicking more vio­ Africa and the Unites States. I guess I never really felt at home in the OCA strives to increase international co­ lently. Finally the last woman got up from the Cinosole finds that “the quest for identity United States. operation and understanding. floor and went outside with them. Remem­ is something that we pursue fully. Who we are I feel that I have a right to it as a home...the bering her resigned but insolent exit still fills is always under fire by white racism. It is U.S. is a place where you wage battles and The participants, usually students, serve me with guilt.” always under attack by history itself, because Africa is a place where I lived my life.” as volunteers in a work project. The cho­ The fact that Chinosole was a writer with we have not been able to choose where we, as In 1970, Chinosole returned to Africa as sen projects, address the need of the local a U.S. passport saved her from further mis­ a group, would live.” the chair of the English Department at Nkru- community and vary from tutoring, to treatment. After being released into the cus­ Chinosole says she has always wanted to mah Teacher’s College and trained Zambians tody of the Minister of State for Labor, she teach in a Black institution and contacted to control the teaching of English in the sec­ building bricks, to aiding in medical became close to the entire family. A whit Spelman five years ago to no avail. When Dr. ondary schools. Her African name was given services. woman who was thewife of an MPLA com­ Johnetta B. Cole was in San Francisco for the to her by her husband whom she met two days Spelman students have been active in mander, who was British accused Chinosole Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Annual Con­ after arrival. The name Chinosole means “that OCA programs since the early 1960’s. of being a racist, a Black Panther and a CIA vention, Chinosole called her at the hotel and thing which we aspire towards that is very agent. Taking her word for it, the minister expressed her interest of teaching at Spelman. difficult to achieve.” Williette Robertson, a 1988 participant tried to beat a confession out of her and sent Even though Chinosole’s duties at San Fran­ It is the Angolans’ way of indirectly went to Sierra Leone says, “ Crossroads her back to prison with a bloated face and cisco State limit her stay at Spelman to one naming their children “freedom” during the made me aware of who I am, it made me appreciate what I have, and gave me a

Sister To Sister continued from page 2------better understanding of my heritage.” Sonja Gerald, a 1989 participant to stand what I wanted and deserved for myself. female. After that, losing weight was easy. I who approached me about helping them lose Namibia, finds it a “life-changing experi­ The next step was change. lost 60-65 pounds in nine months; and finally weight. After thinking about it, I realized that We have all heard the phrase— “there’s having the nerve to do my own thing, I had my being overweight, like being an alcoholic is ence, that taught me to expect and prepare nothing to it, but to do it”; this became my hair cut into a natural style. Believe me, all of not the problem,, but a symptom of greater for the unexpected.” motto during my sophomore year. A blessing my problems have not been solved, but you problems. I have addressed these problems by The program fee is $3250.00, and in­ in disguise came when I was forced off cam­ have to start somewhere. starting a support group on Spelman’s cam­ cludes transportation to and from New pus. Due to the fact I didn’t have a car, once I I told my story to say this sisters: we need pus. We also address our triumphs. One sis­ got home I had to stay there. This isolation each other. The process of self-realization is ter’s success story might be able to help an­ York City, to the host country in Africa , forced me to face my problems head on. To very difficult, and we all need support. I never other sister. I thought an appropriate name food and living accomadations, and travel tell the truth, because I was so insecure, I would have been able to lose weight without would be “Sisters to Sisters”. I will start expenses. Spelman offers assistance to its didn’t want to spend anytime by myself. I my friends support. They listened to me when another group next semester. Come and and participants. For more college informa­ didn’t like me. I started a process of self-love I called to talk about all the food I was missing give us your stories, your questions, insecuri­ which encompassed taking time to do things out on. They helped me make it through the ties and strengths. Please give us yourself. tion, contact Rev. Norman Rates at 681- I enjoy like reading books that helped me rough times. This should be a celebration. 3643 ext. 626, or write: understand more about me and my history to Whether your problem is alcohol, drugs, Operation Crossroads Africa. Inc. taking time to do things for others like volun­ personal problems, or health concerns, we all 150 5th Avenue teering. As a result, I began to appreciate my need someone to lean on sometimes. I initially Interested readers can reach Faith Cargile uniqueness and take pride in being a Black had the idea to start a support group for sisters through The Spotlight at 525-1743. New York. NY 10011 (212) 242-8550 October/November 1989 BREAKIN’ IT DOWN “The Illusion of Inclusion:”

A Response to the aimed at keeping oppressed groups locked out and powerless in American society.” Miss America Naming an African-American woman Miss Pageant 1989 America, according to Nicola-McLaughlin, was supposesd to renew our faith in the by Gloria Wade-Gayles American Dream and (‘lest the natives be­ come restless) take our attention away from a This article was written at the request of resurgence of racism. It gave African-Ameri­ the editorial staff of The Spelman Spotlight. cans “the illusion of inclusion” in the main­ stream. 1 must confess that I did not watch the If you watched the network documenta­ Miss America Pageant this year. 1 simply ries on race in white America and listened didn’t have time to sit through the long parade closely to the brilliance of our Sister Presi­ of bodies wearing swimsuits and high-heels (I dent, you know that too many of us are ex­ have never understood the combination!); cluded from, not included in, the picture of and, later, white gowns and pearls, symboliz­ health in America. We do not enjoy full em­ ing innocence and sweetness (I have never ployment, adequate health care, decent hous­ understood the contrast!). I couldn’t wait until ing and other “inalienable rights” in this de­ midnight for the final vote, the crowning, the mocracy. Seeing an African-American woman expected tears, the rehearsed walk, and the walking queenly to the singing of “There she simple song always sung by a man who can’t is. Miss America" gives us the illusion that we sing. I was busy grading papers, preparing are progressing rather than regressing, sur­ discussions for the exciting classes I teach at viving rather than dying. Of course we are Spelman and trying to find a few minutes for going to dance in the dorms because Debbye my own writing. Turner is Miss America 1989, but we shouldn’t I remember hearing above the sound of dance too long. That would be too easy, too clicking computer keys a message of screams much like what we are supposed to do. on my answering machine. The voices were What I am suggesting is that we must women’s voices, but I could not make out the match the excitement we feel when a few of us message. I returned to my work. The next excel in a given arena with concern for the morning (or later that same morning), I put the many of us who never have an opportunity to news about the new Miss America and the demonstrate that they can excel. I am suggest­ screams on my answering machine together. ing that we remember in our moments of cele­ Spelman women were excited that one of us bration, those who are hungry, unemployed, was Miss America 1989. According to several homeless, illiterate—oppressed in various reports, women were literally crying and lit­ ways. These are the people the Community erally dancing in the dorms. Service Program at Spelman College asks Of course! We are always proud when Miss America 1990, Debbye Turner of Missouri gives a thumbs up. you to remember and to serve. African- one of our own wins a coveted prize—be­ American women are disproportionately rep­ comes a first or a second or even a third in a skinned girls in this country. ‘You're beauti­ beauty, a narrow definition of beauty, woman’s resented among them. So are African-Ameri­ national competition. It is that way, and un­ ful, too’.” (The too bothered me.) major asset, the number one requirement for can men. derstandably so, with being on the outside I'm not sure Debbye Turner was thinking her success. Those contestants who don’t I have been uncomfortable writing this trying to get inside where the programming about little dark-skinned girls when she took have it can get it surgically. What are women article. Believe me. I have been. You see, says we should want to be. All across the her walk. “Being Black,” she said in an inter­ contestants saying to little girls, regardless of when we tell the truth as we see it (or as it country, my people are claiming a victory be­ view following the crowning, “is the least of race, when they make themselves over to look forces itself upon us), we run the risk of at­ cause Debbye Turner, an African-American who I am [italics mine].” There are acceptable like the woman in a picture of the ideal woman tacking our own, or seeming to attack our woman, has been crowned Miss America. ways, I suppose, of saying that you don’t want (physically, that is) somebody drew a long, own. I do not want to attack Debbye Turner. I knew students would want to discuss to be a token. Who does? Using least is not long time ago? Silicon breasts often harden She's only a face and a name in a billion- the new queen; I knew I would have to ask one of them. Debbye Turner would not say and have to be replaced. Liposuction can dollar industry she has not yet entered, even about the victory they were celebrating. What being female is the least of who she is. Cer­ cause infection and has caused at least eleven with her crown and American beauty roses.She is the nature of the victory and what what tainly not. That would be absurd for someone deaths (Goodman, The Atlanta Constitution). is not the problem. She is an ambitious, bright effect, if any, will it have on the lives of who now symbolizes the ideal beautiful New noses, capped teeth, rounded cheek and probably personable young woman who women in general and African-American woman in America. So, too, is it absurd for her bones, straightened backs—all of the “essen­ knows how to use the system to “milk” it for women in particular in this country. That’s an to say that being Black is the least of who she tials” of physical beauty—cost a great deal of her own goals. I think she read Ellison’s unfair question, but in an academic commu­ is, for we live in a society that excludes people money and pain. That women endure all of Invisible Man and she intends to “play the nity where learning is about asking questions from the inner circles of power on the basis of this for one night of glitter which amasses game and raise the ante." That’s smart, and I and searching for answers, I was obligated to race. millions for the profit-makers sends the wrong guess I’m pleased that she understands that a ask it. I would do so at the risk of being asked, Only robots have no race and no gender. message to women, to little girls and to men. game is being played. My problem is that I in return, a number of questions which would For the time being I wish our own Debbye Self-esteem, one of the keys to a little Afri­ have a fear of games. not be questions really, but interpretations, Turner had dome some homework on race can-American girl’s success in this world of Having gone through the sixties expect­ judgements, of my politics. Among them and gender before she was interviewed. I wish madness, was not hidden in the roses Debbye ing more than we gained and seeing the ground would be the following: “Did you burn your she had talked to Vanessa Williams! Remem­ Turner carried on her walk. slip away from us in the eighties, I just want bra during the 197G’s?” I knew that if I were to ber our first African-American Miss Amer­ Women parading their bodies (Please more. Now! Perhaps unfairly, my greed and disrobe and show my Maidenform—even the ica? Like Debbye Turner (and the ice-skating don’t tell me about answers in the interview my impatience are standing in the way of the cup size—some of my sisters would take a Debbie who should have won the gold medal), which demonstrate their intelligence!) before pride I should feel and wilting the roses I quantum leap from the question, “Why is it a Vanessa Williams identified with a raceless the nation reminds me of auction blocks. Our should send to my sister Debbye. victory?” to “You’re envious of beautiful America and learned the hard way that it does people were forced to bare their bodies— I wish Debbye Turner, Miss America women” or “ You’re a radical, bra-burning not exist. Now she says with pride, “My people teeth and genitals—before bidders who had 1989, had been inspired by the courage of the feminist.” I am neither. stood by me?” power and were adding to their profits. Women gold medalists who surprised the nation and I decided to ask the question and accept I guess I am asking too much of Debbye do a similar thing by choice, with music, the world by raising black-gloved fists when the consequences because between my stu­ Turner. I know I am because in the process of under lights, for a title which gives them the national anthem was played. If the cam­ dents and me there has to be unconditional becoming winners, we are often programmed neither power nor profit. I know the analogy eras did not show their racial identity, the men honesty. I expect honesty from them on ex­ to disconnnect from “losers,” the masses of is a harsh one, but sometimes only when we made certain that the fists would. They made ams and papers; they have a right to expect our people. Indeed, doing so might well be an take an idea to the ridiculous extreme are we a political statement, and I danced. honesty from me in our intellectual dialogues. implicit prerequisite for winning. able to bring it back to the logical center. Women, even those in beauty pageants, If fear of labels prevents me from being hon­ And so, she won, but did women win? (After that analogy, I will have to show you a can make political statements. It’s not too late est about my politics, then my students can Did African-Americans win? If so, what? A hundred worn bras, none of them padded.) for a statement from Debbye Turner. As my argue that fear of failure prevents them from paradox of an answer: We won lost ground. Without taking anything away from mother used to say, “Only a very short road being honest on exams. The foundation of our Since the Women’s Movement of the seven­ Debbye Turner, I must confess that I am a bit has no curves;” and she would add, “Just keep relationship, which is one of respect for each ties, women and sensitive men in partnership concerned about the timing of her selection as on living.” The road from the beginning of other’s integrity, has to be honesty—even have struggled against sexism in all arenas, Miss America. I believe those in power know Debbye’s reign to the end is hardly a short risky honesty. So, I decided, adjusting my bra even the glittering ones. The Miss America the power of timing. Andree Nicola-McLaugh- one.There will be many interviews, many ap­ on the expressway, to ask the question, “What Pageant, which Ellen Goodman describes as lin, in “White Power, Black Despair: Vanessa pearances, and many opportunities for her to is the nature of the victory?” “hype and hair spray” The Atlanta Williams in Babylon, which Dr. Phillips shared say something to all of us about the plight of I received predictable answers: “She’s Constitution, September 19) does not help that with me and uses in one of her classes” ( The our people and the plight of women in this one of us.””I mean, she’s not light-skinned” struggle. Black Scholar, March-April 1985), writes that country. What I have learned from the study (as if we are not the most beautiful of rain­ Not because it celebrates the beauty of Vanessa’s title occurred at a time when “new of our history suggests that she will. bows)." Just think what this says to little dark- women, mind you, but because it makes conservatism [was] embracing the nation I think she will. Spelman Spotlight Page 6 Q&A Student Response - What do you think of Aunt Aunt Jemima receives makeover Jemima’s makeover? by Kimara Mason Sayyida Martin - Freshman, Baltimore, Md. If you make a trip to the cereal aisle “She doesn’t look like a housewife anymore. in your local supermarket, you will notice that 1 think it is very derrogative. I think it imposes Aunt Jemima has undergone a major change a lot of stereotypes.” of appearance. Her friendly smile is still intact but her bandana is gone allowing her hair to fall into a graceful style. Her image is more professional and sophisticated. How did this Kawanza Clay - Sophomore, Houston, Tex: change come about? “We felt that it was time "I think it is a more postive image of Black for a new look; we wanted to modernize it,” women. Blacks are always portrayed with the according to Laura Johnson, coordinator of scarf on the head cooking and cleaning. I can’t Corporate Communications for Quaker Oats. say that it reflects an overall change but it “We received outside service.The reflects new thinking." packaging department came up with various drawings and there was an independent company that did a research test. From a media standpoint, most of the responses (in regards to her new look) have been positive and matter-of-fact. Her current look has not Kimberly Felder - Junior. Queens, N.Y.: affected sales," “She still looks the same but now they are she adds. trying to say Black women are trying to act Aunt Jemima: Before and after makeover like white women with the perm. I don't like it. It still has the same purpose of steroetyping all Black women of cooking and taking care of white families and their children."

Expressions

NOT ANYMORE SUDDENLY This was yours Suddenly my life begun, But now it's gone I am christened with confusion. You had problems My dreams seem to be illusions of my n Holding on. Suddenly Suddenly I am a child This was yours Fearful and tearful to what The World h And as I write I ask myself. What is The World? Images of you Whose is it? I decide it's mine. Flash burning bright. I must control it before it controls me. Suddenly This was yours Suddenly I am a teen But that's no more. Asking, Why is the World? I wish I knew 1 decide it's for me to own. The thoughts you stored. The World will condone my rebellions: It will be my heart of stone. This was yours Suddenly You understand. Suddenly I am grown. Now someone else How is The World? Holds my hand. The World is reserving time Photo: Karen Neely While my chimes of time are racing and Kimara Mason I am angrily pacing my life away. THE PROCESS OF A FRIENDSHIP The World is the same for only one day Restrain me from my ill-bred ways; Today. Guide me through my faults - Suddenly my life has ended or AUDACITY Support me when I’ve given up - Have I just pretended? Audacity By aiding with your thoughts - What is it Surround me with your fondness - Kimani Norrington About my presence Yet give me room to breathe! That unnerves you? Stand by me when I need you - I stride these streets If not just simply leave - Like a proud Black Woman should. Have heart in all desires - THE HUMAN MANIFESTO I keep my eyes looking straight ahead that with you I've ever shared - I am As one would while walking on the path of Don't smother me with comfort - A paradox righteousness Yet let me know you care. Materialism is the negative side And men leer and call me out of my name. Be patient when my heart has failed Of human Nature. I hold myself in too high a regard From me do not demand - But to acknowledge their disrespect. Supply me with the trust I need. I desire. I dare to dream Take time to hold my hand. Serenity nurtures the soul. To aspire to something more Deny me of no secrets. Nevertheless Does that anger you? That you think I should know. 1 anger. I smile at a world Treat me as you’d treat yourself - Love is the zenith That conspires to destroy me then watch our friendship grow! Of human emotion But I hear you berate me under your breath... Still Are you not Kalia Spears I hate. Black like me? I expect Are we not all victims of the same evils? The highest standards Why don’t you give me praise Of morality from mankind... Instead of hatred? I Is it my audacity Can't To be Comply or your lack of courage To do so ■I 'aria M Chcrr', Carla M. Cherry heh: nar\ i 9S9 Pàge 7 October/Novómbet-1989 Jomandi Launches “Fraternity” in Upcoming Season Around Town by Raye John Belcher by Joy McDowell

Now that you have Productions. author and co-star of “Sisters” says she October is associated with witches, pump­ seen ''Sisters,” spon­ The play revolves around an established hopes that the Black theatre goers “enjoy kins, ghosts and ghouls. In Atlanta, how­ sored by the SSGA in politician’s disappointment when his young themselves while learing about things rele­ ever, it’s a little different, with games, plays September, you gotta protege considers running against him after vant to them, their history , their past and and famous names in the city. see the brothers in concluding that the elder has lost touch with things as they are happening now." October “Fraternity,” a new the Black community. Jomandi, the largest Black professional 16 Jomandi production at Jones admits that that the play poses theater in the Southeast, has taken its true the Academy Theater several questions including: "Can you strive unique interpretations of the human experi­ Howard-Harreld hosts Reading for Results October 20 - Novem­ for power without losing your integrity?” and ence to 35 states, including New York and from 6 to 7. ber 5. “Fraternity ” will “When I get into the ‘real world,’ am I going California, 75 cities, and 4 countries. Westin Peachtree Plaza hosts the October- Thomas W. Jones 11. kick off Jomandi's to be part of the problem or part of the solu­ Recognized locally and nationally co-artistic director of 1989-90 season en­ tion?" Jomandi reaches an average of 20,000 fest which comes to a close on the 28th. Jomandi Productions people per year in Atlanta. It has received titled “New Voices.” ’’Jomandi,” an amalgamation of the names 17 ’’Fraternity,” a political drama, written of four members of Jones’ family, means numerous community service and arts by Jeff Stetson is set in an elite social club in “people gathered together in celebration.” awards. According to Jones, Jomandi Pro­ Keeping the dream alive, the King Center an urban southern metropolis Seven men, all Because of its familiar roots, the company ductions Inc., chartered in October 1978, begins its King Week Kick-off. The Fox friends, who convene in this place to make de­ considers themselves, and their audiences, an has two objectives - to entertain and to Theatre exposes The Phantom of the Opera cisions on important a nid powerful issues that extended family gathered to celebrate the provoke thought. affect the world. human experience. Jomandi has employed Now is the time to celebrate your race. for the prices of $24-$29. The phantom ’’Decision-making does not happen in the many students from the AUC including sev­ Experience the celebration with “Frater­ haunts the opera until the 27th. office. It happens in these elite social clubs. eral students from Spelman alumni like An­ nity.” Student discount night is every This is where major politicians decide the fate drea Frye, who co-starred as Cassie in “Sis­ Wednesday for $6.00. For ticket, parking 18 of the country,” says Dr. Thomas W. Jones, ters.” and other information call 892-0880. For music of a different tune, the Hawks co-founder and co-aristic director of Jomandi Marsha Jackson, Co-artistic director, play the Utah Jazz at the Omni at 7:30. The “Shakin” at the Horizon fee is a mere $18. 20 their way home from their jobs. Miss Corine the many “gifts” her Big Mamas gave her. From the basketball game to the political There was Big Mama (Georgia Allen), the had a swallow of snuff in the cheek and oldest and wisest of the group; Aunt Mae needed to disccard it. Having left her cup game, Jomandi Productions presents the (Kathy Hawkins) a flashy, street-wise liquor elsewhere, she was forced to spit it out of the play entitledFratemities. Ticket prices range store proprietor and Big Mama’s sister; Miss window. As a long, white car, with its White Corine (Mary Holloway) a docile beautician, passengers, passed the bus, the ill-fated snuff from $7.50 to $18. Luckily for starving owner of Miss Corine’s "Curl Up and Dye”, hit the White woman in the car in the face. The students, a $2 discount is offered for stu­ with fingers “that could braid the wind”; Miss bus was soon stopped by a police officer and LaMama, a woman with flamboyant style the passengers ordered off. After none of the dents. Fraternities makes its last step on who married an African at age 17 (only to women would reveal the guilty party, each of soon divorce him after “wife number two the women was spit on in the face and given a November 4th. came around”) who wears exotic African garb; ticket. Without the use of and props or actors 23 Miss Mary, a believer in voodoo who “sees for the other roles, the "Big Mamas" were the signs”; Miss Rosa, the eccentric owner of most convincing as they portrayed the humili­ Note taking skills are offered in Howard- the town funeral home; and Miss Tom, a ation and embarrassment of Black women Harreld from 6 to 7. homosexual. being victimized by the Jim Crow south. In The action is centered around Daughter’s the cozy,-intimate theatre, the audience was 26-27 ’’Shakin the Mess Outta Misery” returned trip to the river, a coming of age ceremony that unable to ignore the passion in the eyes of The D.C. Metro Club bus to the Howard- to the Horizon Theatre, September 15. The a girl must go through "when her blood comes”. these actresses. play written by Columbus, Georgia’s Shay With a smooth and believable performance. The play contains ghostly appearances Morehouse Homecoming game leaves the Daughter transposes from the woman to the and an initiation into womanhood. LaMama Youngblood, is a semi-autobiographical piece AUC parking lot at 5:00 p.m. both days and that depicts a young Black girl of the early child as she and the characters create scenes sums up the meaning of motherhood when she sixties being raised by seven different women. from their past. tells Daughter, "Always remember, any returns Sunday, The cost is $70. For more Youngblood’s (and the character called The play flows smoothly from scene to woman can have a baby, but it takes a real information call 659-1407 or 523-0676. Daughter’s) birth mother died when she was scene and the small stage becomes a bus, a woman to be a Mama.” two, and in a series of vignettes, a story funeral home, and even a fishing dock, all Shay Youngblood, a 1970 graduate of 28 unfolds about the wisdom, character and without requiring a big mental stretch from Clark College, has a real hit on her hands. Due Appropriately, October saves the best for common sense these multi-dimensional the audience. The lighting was especially to receive a major production at Capitol Rep­ women impart upon the young innocent, effective, as it moved subtlely about the stage. ertory Theatre in Albany, New York, this Oc­ last. Our own President Johnetta Cole is a Daughter. In one of the more riveting vignettes, Big tober, "Shakin The Mess Outta Misery " is an The play opens as Daughter, now 22 and Mama recounts an episode when Miss Corine ’ s honest, sentimental, and funny portrait of seven recipient of an award at the Third Annual a mother herself, stands in the old house snuff habit was the cause for some terrible Southern, Black women who live and love Essence Award at the Civic Center. where she was raised and remembers some of results. The women had loaded Bus No. 99 on with passion and zest. Film Review “A Dry White Season” By Tracey Lewis Few directors are daring or talented years ago. Donald Sutherland assumes his charac­ enough to create a forceful and discordant “A Dry White Season” is the account of ter’s cloak with an intense yet subdued anger. film that represents a mutifaceted issue. Fewer two families, black and white, and how the in­ He affects the speech of an Afrikkaner with still are afforded the opportunity to make that sidious system of apartheid slowly shreds the great precision, never lapsing for a moment. step, and those that do are usually white males. very fabric of their being. The destruction of We see the growth of this “blind” man to one But there is always that person who has bucked the Ngubene family begins when Gordon and who eventually sees too much, and actually all the odds and created their own cinematic his young son Jonathan die while in police cares about what happens to this white man, vision. Euzhan Palcy, the award winning di­ custody during the Soweto uprising in 1976. which I did not think I’d do. rector of “Sugar Cane Alley", is that maver­ For the accepting and blind du Toit family, the Zakes Mokae, South Africa’s most fa­ ick, as this is her second film. The film, due to dirty truth is left at their front door when Ben mous actor now exiled in the U.S., makes a be released October 22, is based on the novel du Toit investigates the mysterious death of strong appearance as Stanley the cab driver. by an Afrikkaner Andre Brink. “A Dry White his gardener and eventually the death of We never know Stanley’s last name or even if Season” details how an Afrikkaner’s life is humanity in his beloved country. he’ll make it to the end of the movie, but it’s not important. Stanley is the conscience of the changed when he finally is forced, through the Palcy does not subvert the story of the Euzhan Palcy Director on the set of MGM’s film, the omniscient presence of right in a death of two blacks, to notice the atrocities of Ngubenes for the white du Toit’s, although “Dry White Season.” Photo: David James apartheid. more screen time is devoted to them. At a completely wrong world. Mokae's character In the film, Palcy shifted the focus from sneak preview in New York on August 18th, tionally acclaimed casts to grace the screen in brings all of the desparate sides of the South being entirely on the white man, Ben du Toit Ms. Palcy stressed that it is the ignorance and ages, which includes Marlon Brando, Donald African puzzle together for an exploding (Donald Sutherland), to the black characters. racism of whites that maintain the status quo Sutherland, Zakes Mokae and Susan Saran­ conclusion. In the October issue of Essence magazine, to which the du Toit’s belong. Henceforth, the don. Marlon Brando makes his first appear­ I left the showing of this film in complete Palcy told how she managed to even get the focus of her film. The black characters are not ance in almost 10 years as the jaded civil shock and awe, because I had never seen story to the screen. “I wanted to make a black the flat, helpless and hopeless people of “Cry rights lawyer, Ian McKenzie, tries to con­ anything like it. It is a masterpiece with no story about South Africa. Unfortunately, no Freedom” or “Mississippi Burning”. Emily vince Ben du Toit that there are no rights left discernable flaws, and it would be a crime for producer in the States would put one penny Ngubene (Thoko Ntshinga) does not sit idly to fight for, especially for blacks. Brando’s any person who considers themselves “down into a black story. I still wanted to talk about by while her family is tom from her. but Palcy courtroom scene is one of the most scathing for the cause” to miss it. It is so rare that a apartheid, so I had to find a way to circumvent conveys the complete sense of anguish and and riveting ever filmed. Palcy’s camera lin­ talented black filmmaker comes along to cre­ the problem.” Palcy deftly managed to avoid powerlessness that Emily feels in her inability gers on the rotund Brando, who surprises the ate such a moving piece, let alone a black the pitfalls that felled the disappointing Rich­ to prevent it. courtroom with his verbal agility and acerbic woman. I can't wait until her next film graces ard Attenborough film “Cry Freedom” two The movie had one of the most intema- wit. the screen. Spelman Spotlight Page 8 Sports Spelman Gets Sporty by Angela Frye Will varsity sports alter the image of the week, and engage in more dual competitions. Spelmanite, or even the college itself? If Walton describes the team’s mood as “really anything, these images should be “enhanced enthused about the season.” and present the Black woman as being suc­ The volleyball team, coached by Mrs. cessful and having class,” says Kathleen Sue Feldkamp has also set high expectations. Richey-Walton, coach of the basketball and Last year, the team ended the season with a 9- track and field teams. In response to growing 13 record. The most important goal for the interest for varsity sports, Spelman’s athletic team, which includes beating Olgethorpe, is department now offers basketball, volleyball, to have a good home tournament. Coach tennis, and track and field. Feldkamp is in favor of a home tournament This year’s basketball squad looks very for historically Black colleges. She says they promising. Last year, the team competed would like to capture the Phoenix Cup Tour­ within the AUC, and also with Agnes Scott, ney. “I would also like for all the students to but there was not much organization. Coach come out and see the games. We would really Richey-Walton is very optimistic about her appreciate the support,” says Coach Feldkamp. plans for the year. Turn-out for the team is New uniforms have been purchased for expected to be high. The team will begin its the basketball and track and field teams, and ten game season on November 15. the gymnasium floor has been revamped. Photo: Kelly Wilson Last year’s team only participated in 2 Despite the increase of interest for var­ Volleyball team practices for new season competitive meets. Coach Richey-Walton sity sports, no mascot has been identified by expects a good year from the team, with seven the athletic department. What would best rep­ Focus on fitness returning members, and many more who have resent Spelman? Send your suggestions to the by Aretha Hankinson expressed an interest in trying out. She says Spotlight. Have you eaten one too many rolls in equipment. New this year, the lab also is the team plans to train two to three times a Alma’s? Do the people at Taco Bell have your equipped with a video recorder so students burrito waiting when you make your “run for can use their workout tapes in the gym. An the border?” Are you looking for a way to get “Afrobics” class is offered in Read Hall on rid of nervous energy between parties? If you Tuesdays and Thursadays at 7:00 pm. answered yes to any of these questions, maybe Last year it was so popular that the aver­ you should explore some of the fitness op­ age class had 90 students. This mix of aero­ tions on campus. They’re sure to provide you bics and African dance will work every muscle with a means for exercise and enjoyment. you’ve got — plus some you forgot you had! Read Hall offers many ways for Spel- If you are the kind of person that likes to move manites to stay in shape. Besides P.E. classes, around, Afrobics may be the option for you. such as swimming and gymnastics, the gym Not everyone can get to Read Hall twice a is open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thurs­ week for a structured program. If your sched­ day evenings from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. During ule is full, but you feel that you need some these hours students can play basketball, type of physical program, create your own. volleyball and badminton on the main gym Skip the peach cobbler at dinner, climb the floor or take a relaxing swim in the pool. stairs in Giles instead of the elevator, take a The fitness lab is also open during these study break by walking around the oval. hours and provides adequate facilities for Make the commitment to fitness and it will Spelmanites who are seriously interested in definitely pay off. working out. The lab has stretching room, sta­ tionary bikes, and trained assistants to help you with muscle development on the training 1989-90 Basketball Schedule 1989 Volleyball Schedule DATE OPPONENT TIME October 17 Morris Brown College Away 7 Nov. 15 Atlanta Foxes TBA The Essence Awards Home Nov. 29 Georgia College 7:30 20 Paine College Away 7 & 8 By Doreen M. Smith Home Dec. 2 Kenesaw College 7:30 20 Ft. Valley State College The Third Annual Essence Awards will be held at the Atlanta Civic Center on October 28th Home Dec. 5 Morris Brown College 7:30 24 Oglethorpe Away 7 & 8 at 8:00. This will culminate a week of events beginning on the 22nd. One of the honorees is our Home Dec. 9 Tuskeege University — own, Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole for her contributions in education. Others to be honored include Away Jan. 16 Taladega College 7:30 24 Covenant Suffragan Bishop Barbara Harris, Religion; Suzanne de Passe, Business; Florence Griffith Home Jan. 22 Georgia College 7:30 27 & 28 Phoenix Cup Tournament at Oglethorpe Joyner, Sports; Byllye Y. Avery, Health Science and Technology; Dr. Selma Burke, Arts and Away Jan. 27 Atlanta Christian 7:30 Literature; Bonnie Lee St. John, Courageous Spirit. Many activities are planned throughout the Coach: Sue Feldkamp week with entertainment including Stephanie Mills, Najee, and The Winans. The ceremony Away Feb. 3 Morris Brown College 6:00 Student Assistant: Stacey Walker will be hosted by Debbie Allen and Marvin Winan. Be sure not to miss out. Tickets range from Away Feb. 10 Atlanta Christia 7:30 $20 to $150 and can be purchased at all SEATS locations. SSGA Activities Spelman Spotlight Staff by Doreen M. Smith Ever wonder what.your student fees are used for? Throughout the semester, the Spelman Student Government Association (SSGA) plans several activities for your enjoyment. SSGA representatives say they would like students to show more interest in these events. Kimberly Editor-in-Chief Jocelyn R. Coleman Geddings, a junior economics major, says, “The activities over the past years have been good. Associate Editor Tayari A. Jones It’s more of a lack of enthusiasm on the student’s part. I think more students need to support Photo Editor Kelly Wilson the sponsored activities.” The SSGA hopes that freshmen will possess the enthusiam to help Advertising Director Jeanna Baily rejuvenate the missing Spelman Spirit. “The class of 1993 is very unique and active,” says Faculty Advisor TaRessa Stone Adrienne Lance, SSGA Vice-President. “They are able to have a positive influence on Spelman Experience.” Staff Writers As Spelman begins a new year, the SSGA looks forward to a semester of enjoyable activities. “We are excited about the upcoming year and hope that all students become involved,” says Farai Ashton Shonda Jones Kandance Weems, SSGA President. “With many activities behind us, the coming events Raye John Belcher Tracey Lewis promise something for everyone.” Monica L. Briggs Kimara Mason The following is a tentative schedule for this semester: Faith Cargile Joy McDowell October Carla M. Cherry Nikki Mitchell 1-7 UNITY WEEK, in conjunction with other AUC schools:3 Black Male/Female Relationships Workshop: Lauren Council Delitha L. Morrow Giles Old Library, 7-8:30 PM. Leader; Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu. 4 Movie: “Ethnic Notions”, Lower Concourse Manley-TV Room, 7PM. Crystal L. Drake Karen Neely 5 AUC Forum: “Setting New Standards”, Exibition Hall- Woodruff Library, 7:00 PM. Angela Frye Nelda Scott 6 AUC Reggae Concert: Bands include Drop Plus, Raga Muffin, Ascending Sounds plus vendors from the Shenette Garrett Doreen Smith Atlanta Area. Patio and lower Manley ,11-7:30 PM. Sonja Gerald Jean Smith 8-14 ENDING DISCRIMINATION, POVERTY AND INJUSTICE WEEK 10 Sisters Speak: “Human Rights - the Female Experience, Giles Old Library. 6 PM. Panel includes: Jane Smith of Kimberly Gist Kalia Spears INROADS-Atlanta; Jackie Payne; Managing Attorney with the Legal Aid Society; and Bensonetta T. Layne, Aretha Hankinson Sonya R. Summerour Employment Discrimination Attorney. Andrea L. Ivory Donna Terry 11 National South Africa Protest Day 12 Movie- “We Shall Overcome”, Lower ConcourseManley-TV Room, 7 PM. 18 Movie: “The White Girl” by Tony Brown Productions, King Chapel, 7 PM.