Spelman Spotlight

THE VOICE OF AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMANHOOD

Vol, XXXVI - NO. 11 APRIL 7, 1993 Professor Becomes Published Scholar

Gomez' Pragmatism Sure To Influence Many

times! You hear me?" Dr. Gomez have the manuscript completed within emphasized jokingly, but serious about the next year, but he realizes that other the magnitude and complexity of the dcmands-including his responsibilities revision process. "It was rough- as a professor at Spelman College-may Johnnetta [Cole] will tell you. I’d bring not allow for such a deadline. 'Hie it to her office and want to cry!" quality of the educational process at The press never actually Spelman remains a foremost priority to committed until the fourth revision, and him. He played an instrumental role, the entire process proved often to be for example, in the successful very disheartening for Dr. Gomez. He advocation of replacing the World described how at times he wanted to Civilization core requirement with the "forget the whole thing, thinking [the course The African Diaspora and the publishers] are racist," etc. Still he World, to begin next fall. "If you want endured, remembering the lesson learned the educational process [at Spelman] to about constructive criticism and be its best, you do what you have to recognizing the importance of being do," said Dr. Gomez. published by a reputable source. "The Dr. Gomez smiled warmly as academic journals are tough. [Landing he discussed how rewarding it was for a reputable publisher] says to them that him to have the opportunity as a this book has passed certain tests, and is professor to directly influence Dr. Michael Gomez valid," Dr. Gomez said. students’lives. His cheerful mood, He has already begun work on willingness to help others, genuine his next book, which will focus on the interest in the lives and progress of his social history of Africans and African students, and trademark "Hey friend, Americans in the colonial and shake my hand!" greeting-which, By Jamellah L. Braddock The entire process spanned antebellum South. His work will mark during the interview, were routinely Associate Editor approximately eight years. The history the very first examination of this topic extended to students and faculty After being exposed to and professor vividly recounted the struggle from the perspective of an African passing by in the cafeteria—have impressed by Northwestern University’s to find a worthy and reputable American scholar, and he seeks in the positively influenced many in the African holdings as a graduate student publisher, which he said "wasn’t easy." end to discover how African American Spelman College community. at the University of Chicago; after His first few attempts to land a desired culture was developed. Pragmatism in the Age of completing rigorous dissertation publisher were unsuccessful, but he Dr. Gomez said he hopes to Jihad will likely be the beginning of requirements in Senegal; after traveling used the rejection to his advantage. his influence on the world. again to West Africa-Mali, Gambia, "When you have a good idea and you Mauritania, and to Europe-France and get criticism, you have to become Great Britain, to access the archives for thick-skinned but incorporate it into African studies, Dr. Michael Gomez your work and learn from it," said Dr. has produced a work sure to rival the Gomez. most esteemed collection of in-depth After improving his studies on precolonial West Africa: manuscript, Dr. Gomez decided not to Pragmatism in the Age of Jihad. send it to the same publishers who had Pragmatism in the Age of previously turned him down. Proving Jihad: The Precolonial State ofBundu it to be a smart move, Cambridge began as a concept for Dr. Gomez University Press accepted his while still a graduate student at the manuscript. University of Chicago. After teaching Even after landing Cambridge, at Washington University for three the process for Dr. Gomez was far years, Dr. Gomez in 1987 returned to from complete. The Cambridge West Africa for one year as a publishers sent the manuscript to their renowned Fulbright Scholar, intending experts, who continued to recommend to turn his graduate work into a book. revisions. "I rewrote it about five

Dr. Gomez surrounded by (left to right) his mother, oldest daughter, wife, and younger daughter. Page 2 Spelman Spotlight, Atlanta, GA April 7, 1993 NATIONAI/INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Asians Return to Uganda After 20 Years Civil War Ends

By Malaika Kamunanwire Uganda is an East African nation market that the Asians had cornered. pleased most Ugandans who still in Mozambique harbored strong dislike for the Asians. trying to recover from years of British He believed that the Asians were The British removed Amin from colonialism and internal political strife. extracting Ugandan natural resources power and reinstituted Abote in a It is a country whose birth into and the seeds of the nation’s wealth and By Gay Ojugabana independence was shortlived because of taking money to British and Asian bloody civil war that resulted in several Mozambique’s civil war has finally European supported coup d’etats which banks. The British felt threatened by casualties. Abote came back out of come to a tentative halt. The country exile with British supporters because of left the country in financial ruins. The Abote, so they replaced him with the has been at war, continuously, since his promise to welcome the expelled deterioration of the Ugandan economy notorious Idi Amin Dada. 1964. Asians back to Uganda. In a formal is also a result of the Asian exodus in Amin was also angered by the Asian Beginning in 1964, Mozambican written agreement, Abote’s regime 1972. At this time, over 70,000 of the control and dominance of the Ugandan insurgents fought the ruling Portugese consented to return the exiled Asians to country’s Asians were expelled, only to economy for more than 50 years. colonists for 10 years, finally winning Uganda and restore their properties. A be asked to return over 20 years later. Unknown to his British supporters, he independence in 1975. In 1975, the few Asians began returning from 1981 The Asians who came to Uganda as agreed with Abote and instituted new Front for the Liberation of until 1985. Since it was a time of British indentured servants in the early economic measures asking for the Mozambique (Frelimo) came to rule. revolution, most Asians did not want to twentieth century, have had a long and departure of all Asians from Uganda. When Frelimo first came to power, it complex history with the Ugandan He verbally attacked the Asian return until peace was restored in the was entrenched in Communism, but it people. The Asians replaced the East community for not integrating with the suffering nation. later shifted to free market pragmatism When President Museveni came into Africans in the building of the Ugandan Ugandan community and assuming an in the late 1980s. power in 1986, as a matter of Railroad which stretched from air of superiority over the East Africans. The opposing party, Renamo, international law, he had to respect the Mombassa, Kenya, to the Mountains of More importantly, he accused the Asians originated from "a loose militia agreement made by his predecessor and the Moon in Uganda. of committing acts of economic recruited by Portuguese industrialists to the British government. In order for the Many Asians and Africans were sabotage such as currency racketeering, protect their interests during the war of country to receive aid from several eaten alive by Tsavo lions (national income tax evasion, smuggling, hording, independence," according to The New international organizations, Museveni park in Kenya) or subject to the cruel and trying to prevent Africans from York Times. Renamo was later used as agreed to ask the Asians to return and to whip of the colonialists. After the entering the market they had cornered. a ploy by the white-ruled Rhodesian aid in the rebuilding of the country railroad was completed, the Asians From 1962 until 1967, a small (now Zimbabwean) intelligence to destroyed by political instability and a were given second class British percentage of the Asian population in undermine the established Mozambican citizenship and exclusive control of the Uganda changed their citizenship from crumbling economy. government. Mozambique, at the time, President Museveni fears, along with entire East African commerce. This British to Ugandan. In 1971, Amin, provided a safe haven for Rhodesian the majority of Ugandans, that the marked the beginning of the Asians’ displeased with the low number of insurgents. Asians will return and attempt to resume long and tense relationship with Asians changing their citizenship, The war ravished the country, left economic policies as before. When Ugandans. requested all Asians to report to the hundreds of thousands dead, and many Museveni looks at neighboring Kenya The Asians, particularly Indians, census office for counting and to people sick with disease and whose economy is dominated by its adopted a very superior racial, cultural produce a national identity. At the same malnourished. Both sides committed Asian population, he is afraid of where and religious attitude toward the time, applications for citizenship to all atrocities, but Renamo appeared the return of the Asians may lead the Ugandans. They settled in cities and British Asians were cancelled. In especially brutal. While Frelimo Ugandan economy. However, towns and established trading centers, August of 1972, Amin launched a law soldiers took part in occasional looting rehabilitation of the country’s where the Ugandans consumed what expelling all Asian noncitizens within 90 sprees and terroristic acts, Renamo infrastructure will require the the Asians produced. Under British days. Five thousand of the 70,000 soldiers, on the norm, committed child­ investments of the Asian business law, Ugandans were denied any role in Asians in the country left within 48 napping (to expand its army), rape, people who fled the nation. He is also the export and import market that the hours, leaving behind property and forced labor, massacres and mutilations. faced with the problem of what to do to Asians dominated. During colonialism, businesses. Over the last two years of fighting, the the abandoned commerce buildings, tea Ugandans played no real role in their This sudden departure left the nation situation was made worse because of a and coffee plantations and residences country’s political and economic in economic chaos. Besides producing severe drought in southern Africa. which are worth over $1 billion. atmosphere; they were simply pawns in a bulk of the management of retail and Relief workers, most notably those Although this a very emotional and a race for colonial power and financial wholesale industries, Asians also filled from the Red Cross, are returning to controversial topic to Ugandans, profit. numerous positions in the Ugandan civil the regions of that country to assist Museveni is requesting the return of the After Uganda received independence service. These positions were taken Mozambicans with needed medical care exiled Asians. Hopefully, in the 21st from Britain on Oct. 9, 1962, Ugandan over by untrained Africans who had and food supplies. In the regions that century, we will see the beginning of and Asian resentments and animosities been completely isolated from the are easily accessible, many people Ugandans and the nation’s exiled Asians peaked and persisted. The country’s Ugandan economic sector until the returned to their villages after learning coming to terms with old resentments first president, Milton Abote, voiced departure of the Asians. Despite of the cease-fire. and working together to restore the the need for Africans to reclaim the disruption to the economy, the policy Mozambique is enjoying a relative engine of the Ugandan economy. peace for now. Officials are still unsure Sources include: Ugandan authors and scholars, the Atlanta Journal Constitution and Malaika's father Perezi Kamunanwire who is the Ugandan whether the cease-fire will last, but Ambassador to the United Nations and a professor of African Studies they say the situation looks promising.

White Supremacist Killer Receives 10 Years Probation

By Kelli Moore be sent to prison for life, but the division of the Justice Department. "A jury may not recommend About 400 people protested March verdict resulted in a mere sentence of Brosky’s partners were sentenced probation if it is also recommending a 23 outside the Tarrant County Justice five years followed by 10 years of with a slightly heavier hand. One prison sentence of less than 10 years," Center near Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. probation. pleaded guilty in juvenile court and said the bailiff in a New York Times There was a lot of disagreement Several organizations are seeking to was sentenced to 15 years with the article. "And if the jury should make surrounding the sentencing of further investigate this trial. The juvenile authorities. The second, who such an errant recommendation, the Christopher William Brosky, an National Association for the fired the gun, agreed to a 40-year term judge must then impose probation." admitted white supremacist "skinhead." Advancement of Colored People and and to testify against Brosky. "We just felt like this might be a Two years ago, Brosky (then 15- the Anti-Defamation League have said Many wondered why Brosky man who might be able to turn his life years-old) and two of his friends were that they would formally request a received such a light sentence. It may around," said juror Richard Higgs. arrested for the drive-by shooting of federal civil rights trial regarding the have been the all-white jury. A bailiff If Brosky had been sent to the state Donald Thomas, a 32-year-old black verdict of Brosky’s trial. Even the said that the problem may have been prison at Huntsville for many years, Mr. man, in a suburb of Dallas. Federal Bureau of Investigation is confusion surrounding "dual Higgs said, " he might have come back Prosecutors had asked that Brosky sending papers to the civil rights recommendation." in worse shape." Page 3 Spelman Spotlight, Atlanta, GA April 7, 1993

Founder of Black , Shabazz Preparatory School Resigns

Speaks at CAU By Maleka Ingram Fred Hampton, founder of Atlanta’s first preparatory school for Blacks, By Riche Daniel recently resigned from his position. Sister to Sister Editor Hampton opened the school in 1991 "This is a celebration time, young people how to resist in East Point, Georgia, with the goal of this is a time to shout, this is destruction." "providing Black children with a first- Resistance begins with rate and affordable private education." a time to be enthusiastic,’’ said Three hundred students are enrolled in Dr. Betty Shabazz in her education, she said. Education the school, which teaches preschool opening statements March 25 is imperative because the through the tenth grade. The monthly at Clark Atlanta University’s theory of equality has not yet tuition is $315. Consolidation Convocation. become a reality. Financial and personal problems led to Hampton’s resignation. The school Clark Atlanta University Destruction is all over the filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Photo by Brigette Lumpkins celebrated the consolidation of world, not just in America. protection from creditors in December. Clark College and Atlanta When Dr. Shabazz said Hampton reportedly "fires anyone who University and the widow of "we know that young people irritates him, is too strict a Dr. Shabazz called upon disciplinarian, and undermines teaching slain black leader Malcolm X will destroy themselves don’t faculty members to rededicate methods he doesn’t like," according to stressed the importance of this we?" she received an array of themselves to the classroom an article in The Atlanta Constitution. change and the importance of statements and gestures in and doing what needs to be Although Hampton will no longer a continued emphasis on agreement. be the director, the school will continue done. to exist under the control of teachers education. Family is not necessarily a Dr. Shabazz was awarded and parents. ’’Change is necessary and blood line and it is imperative an honorary doctoral degree change is needed," said Dr. that family and teachers during the consolidation week Shabazz. "We must teach our educate and save our youth. ceremonies. Emory and Spelman Collaborate

Clark Atlanta University in Operation HYPE 1993 Spring Arts Festival By LaNae Dora Local News Editor one male and one female spirit leader. Students at Emory University hosted committee, there was little response, April 1-30 The groups then competed in a senes this year’s Operation HYPE (Help according to the 1993 Committee of educational bowls. Young People Excel) program March President Lee Johnson. Following the contests, the students April 1 26 and 27. "I think it didn’t work this year were invited to watch a performance by African Street Festival Operation HYPE was founded by because we didn’t go through the the AHANA (African, Hispanic. Asian, James P. Brawley Drive Georgia Tech student Monika Davis. It SGAs," said Johnson. Native-American) dance troop. was designed as a collaboration Over 70 students from The next days’ activities began at 9 April 2 between Georgia Tech, Emory predominantly black middle and a.m. with an African American History Ben Carson, author of Gifted Hands University, Georgia State University, elementary schools took part in the Viginia Lacy Exhibition Hall quiz-off. Students then participated in a Spelman College, and Morehouse two-day event, whose purpose was to series of athletic competitions, Robert W. Woodruff Library College to "promote the networking of build self-esteem and an awareness of including basketball, volleyball, relay 2 p.m. local college students with African academic excellence, teach positive races and tug-of-war. Winners of American Children." Each year, a competition skills, and expose April 14 participants to positive role models. events were given medals and ribbons different college serves as host. at an awards ceremony which took place WCLK Day During the first day, the children In this, the program’s second year, at 4:30 p.m, after which the event came were transported to Emory at 3 p.m. students from Emory and Spelman to a close until next year. April 15 where they were divided into four were the only college participants. Uniforms, food, transportation and Public Relations Day teams (the red, the gold, the black and /Although liaisons from each school awards are acquired through donations Mass Communications Department the green). Each team was assigned were contacted by Emory’s Operation and fundraisers for the not-for-profit Robert W. Woodruff Library 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. program.

Open Mike Poetry Reading Trevor Arnett Hall 7 - 9 p.m. SPELMAN SPOTLIGHT

April 16 STAFF Fashion Show Vivian Wilson Henderson Center 8 p.m. Editor-in-Chief Elisa Smith Associate Editor lamellati Braddock April 30 Staff Advisor Leisha Stewart Closing Reception Catherine Hughes Waddell Hall The Spelman Spotlight welcomes letters to the editor, artwork and submissions to Expressions. Editorial opinions expressed on these Trevor Arnett Hall pages do not necessarily represent the editorial position of the Spotlight. All submissions will be conridered for publication as space permits. 3-5 p.m. Submissions should be sent through Campus Mail via P.O, Box 1234 Page 4 Spelman Spotlight, Atlanta, GA April 7, 1993 CAMPUS NEWS

Reflections On Freshwomen Week 1993

By Felice Winston Campus News Editor "Sojourns in Sisterhood: Revisioning "I enjoyed the activities, especially the the Past, Envisioning the Future" was Newly Roomy and Dating Game. I the theme of Freshwoman Week 1993. believe that (those) were good ways to The week, celebrated March 22-27, was enhance dorm unity. Most of us were full of activities including the "Soul to inspired to work together to make our Soul" fashion show, "Renaissance of dorm win. The chants were unique and Freshwomen" talent show, and the funny and the step show was hyped. favorite step show where the women in Although the prices collectively were each dorm stepped to the delight of pretty high, we got over it and managed their sisters. to enjoy ourselves. I would like to Packard Hall (Phi Alpha Chi) won extend a shout out to the majority of the first place for their participation in the Freshman Council for all their hard week. Second place went to LLC-I (Di work and dedication." - Teknaya Watson Lambda Chi), and Abby Hall (Abby The women of LLC I take time to strike a pose Psi Phi) won third place. Abby Hall "It came off well despite the lack of was awarded as the winner of dorm communication between the council and decorations. students. Had the communication been All of us remember our there it would have been better." - Ina Freshwoman Week as something Daniels special and something that will always linger in our minds - the week Spelman was taken over by first-year students. "I really enjoyed it and had a good time. With this in mind, I decided to let the It was a chance for everyone to show first-year Class of 1996 write this dorm unity without getting out of hand. article. Here, they share their (Freshwoman week) is a good thing if experiences, describing what it’s healthy, but it does cause "At first I didn’t think it was going to Freshwomen Week 1993 meant to separation." - Dana Banks be everything people hyped it up to be, hope next year it is more organized. I them. photos by Pamela Jones but it was. And it brought Packard and want it to happen for the freshmen next Abby closer. It was worth losing a week year, I learned a lot." of studying." - Chaundra Carroll - Gen&i McKnight

"Freshmen week was very fun, there "Previous to Freshmen week everyone was a lot of sisterhood within the dorms was doing (her) own thing but when the and sister dorms. I had a good time week came we were forced to come overall despite the problems." together because we knew that in order - Gia Allen to be successful it meant a collective effort. We came off strong because of "Freshmen week was fun but a lot of that." - Tara Centeio people took it too serious and out of context. It was supposed to be a week "The Freshman Council didn’t give us of healthy competition and sisterly, not all we bargained for. They told us to hatred and separation." - Teri Mitchell pay our dues and when the week came we were still paying money. We were "I liked how everybody got together to supposed to get a discount and help out. I met a lot of people. Instead entertainment but we didn’t get it. As Packard’s step team awaits their turn to step of (being) for sisterhood it was political. far as us not attending events, maybe if There already were certain dorms set to they had taken a poll to see what we win. Nothing was concrete even though liked maybe there would have been it was written out. I really like it but I more attendance." - Jylon Jones "I really enjoyed it because it brought our dorm together and we had a lot of "Exciting! I really enjoyed it. It’s fun together. I’m really glad we won." going to last in my mind forever. 1 - Caroline Black don’t think there was too much tension between the dorms, specifically Abby "Some people thought the chant about and HH, but there should have been IIH was disrespectful. It was all less tension. The step show was the harmless competition; people shouldn’t event... I1H tore it up! The week was take it so seriously - that way their fun but it should not have been that feelings won’t get hurt. Last night expensive." - Afua Abdullah’ (March 27) Packard and Abby held hands and sang songs to each other and everybody sang to their sisters." - Hope Rias "I had a lot of fun. People talk about the animosity but that’s a part of the "It was fun, I got to meet a lot of my fun because you know it will end in a sisters from Packard. I didn’t like the week." - Dalila Brown-Geiger rift (Freshwoman Week) causes between friends that live in other dorms. It’s expensive but I didn’t mind." - Kristina Brown

"It was fun but too competitive and it "I’m tired and I’m glad it’s over. It’s divided the freshmen for week. A lot of been a rough week." - Kori Smith competitions were not designed fairly." - Anita Hooks Page 5 Spelman Spotlight, Atlanta, GA April 7, 1993 CAMPUS NEWS Grading System Change to Affect Seven Compete for Class of ’97 Miss Maroon and

the curriculum and academic policies of By Elisa Smith the College. They present their White 1993-94 Spelman faculty members have proposals to the faculty for approval. approved a change in the grading Dissatisfied with the current 3.0 system and have raised the grade point grade point average requirement for average requirements for Latin Honors. Latin Honors, the faculty charged the The new grading system, which will Curriculum Committee with the include pluses (+) and minuses (-), had responsibility of proposing a change. some sophomores and juniors worried In order to designate distinction that they would be disadvantaged among recipients of Latin Honors at having started under the current system. graduation, the faculty approved an But, according to Academic Dean increase in the GPA requirements, said Dr. Freddye Hill, the changes will Dean Hill. affect only students who enter the The grade point average for Latin College after August 1993. Honors designation has been changed Under the new system, an "A" to: Cum Laude, 3.4 cumulative GPA; grade will equal four quality points; an Magna Cum Laude, 3.6 cumulative "A-", 3.7 points; a "B+", 3.3 points; a GPA; and Summa Cum Laude, 3.8 "B", 3.0 points; a "B-", 2.7; a "C+" 2.3; Photo taken by Doug Elliard cumulative GPA. a "C", 2.0; a "C-", 1.7; a "D+", 1.3; a Under the current grading system, Director Dexter-Leon Taylor promises that this year’s "D", 1.0; and an "F", zero points. an "A" grade equals four points; a "B", Maroon and White pageant will be like none other seen There is no "A+" or "D-". three points; a "C", two points; a "D", The faculty approved the change at Morehouse College. There are seven contestants for one point; and an "F", zero points. last year and asked the Curriculum Miss Maroon and White 1993-94. Pictured above, the Current students must have a Committee to develop categories cumulative grade point average of 3.0 contestants are (from left to right): Melvina Chase, defining student performance, said to graduate Cum Laude, 3.5 to graduate Malika Dowdell, Cherise Bellnavis, Anika Clement, Najoh Dean Hill, the committee’s chairperson. The Curriculum Committee is Magna Cum Laude, and 3.8 to graduate Clement, Neolle LeVeaux and Nikki Martin. responsible for reviewing and revising Summa Cum Laude. The pageant, "Rejuvenation," will begin at 8:00 p.m. on April 14 in the Martin Luther King International Chapel. Prior to the pageant, the contestants will join Miss Maroon and White 1992-93 and her attendants in a precessional from Kilgore Student Center. » 9. »»»»•»•••«•«•» rrn "•"* The beneficiary of this year’s Miss Maroon and White Pageant is AIDS Educational Services for Minorities. BROAD

Club Sponsors Economic Week

By Maleka Ingram By Felice Winston APPLICATIONS ARE STILL BEING The myth that unions are for low- Campus News Editor ACCEPTED FOR... income, blue-collar, white men was The Economics Club sponsored several proven incorrect by Janet Griffin activities March 22-26 to celebrate Graves, who revisited her alma mater Economics Week. One such activity AFRICA • AUSTRALIA • CZECH REPUBLIC • was a forum on Career Planning held ENGLAND • FRANCE • GERMANY • HUNGARY • to celebrate Economics Week. Graves, March 23 in the gathering room in ISRAEL • ITALY • POLAND • SPAIN an assistant professor of economics at Howard University, spoke about LLC-II. • Courses Taught in English and Host Country "Women, Work, and Unions." In a very informal session Barbara Language Graves lectured on women in the Brown, of Spelman’s Career Placement • SU Credit work force and gave reasons why Office, gave general information about • Field Trips/Traveling Seminars women should join unions. According the placement office, which is located • Internships to Graves, women are not as equal as in upper Manley Student Center room 201. • Study For A Semester, A Year, Or A Summer we believe when it comes to salary and Brown emphasized that the office • Home Or Apartment Placements occupations. "Women, in general, are crowded was not just for graduating seniors FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE into low paying, traditional looking for jobs. The office works with occupations," said Graves. first and second-year students on Syracuse University Women who join Unions earn 30 resumes and career opportunities in Division of International Programs Abroad percent more money than those who do every major offered at Spelman. The 119 Euclid Avenue not, said Graves. Unions need women juniors build on their previous year’s Syracuse, NY 13244-4170 because they have suffered membership experience and placement in 1-800-235-3472 losses. Unions also address issues internships. facing women. Women need unions so Brown encourages all students to their voices can be heard collectively, come visit the placement office and addressing major issues. utilize their many resources. Page 6 Spelman Spotlight, Atlanta, GA April 7, 1993 CAMPUS NEWS

An Exchange of Sisterhood

By Kanika Williams Arts & Entertainment Editor

interesting, she realized how much she Sharon enjoys meeting people and Ruth Ellis took things for granted in the U.S like sharing and exchanging information Lancaster University Diedre Stephens fast food restaurants, clothes dryers, about the English culture and lifestyle. England Senior talking on the phone for long periods of Through further dialogue and interaction Pychology Major English Major time, and having access to the music she with Americans, particularly African An opportunity to study at an all wanted to hear. "I got used to it because Americans, she hopes that she will stop After sitting through several "Going women’s college in the U.S. while I had to," Angela said. people from approaching her with the Abroad/Exchange" interest meetings, learning more about both Americans and Angela found the classes challenging statement, "Oh, I didn’t know there Diedre decided that she was going to African Americans really appealed to at first because it took some time to were Blacks in England?!?" spend her junior year at Lancaster Ruth Ellis. After talking to April Savoy adjust to the fact that everything was in Sharon wants to make students University in England. England gave last year, a senior at Spelman College Spanish: books, films, directions, aware that although Blacks in England her the perfect opportunity to "round who spent her junior year at Lancaster professors’lectures etc. may look like African Americans that out her education" and pursue her University, she was further convinced Understanding Spanish as a language does not mean they have suffered and interests in Victorian and Romantic that Spelman was the place for her. was never a problem for Angela; it was endured to the same degree or shared Literature. "This has definitely been the best just the different accents that made it the same experiences. She traveled through the Beaver learning experience of my life," said difficult. She said, "I had to get myself College Program because it was the Ruth. in this psychological mind set but once Sharon has found that many most economically feasible for her. "It Ruth grew up in a very sheltered I did I found myself even dreaming in cost me less to go to Lancaster have cast judgment on her because her environment so going abroad has Spanish." University than to go to Spelman."she opinions on issues do not necessarily opened her eyes to may new and When asked about racism in Spain said. agree with those of her classmates. different experiences in the vast world she responded," the situation was very Although Lancaster University is an "People tend to judge what you said around her. complex in Spain. Spaniards had a international campus, Diedre said, by their own experiences...they just look "I didn’t know anything about problem with North Africans because "there were not many Black Britons at skin color and assume that I’ve African Americans before I came to the Spaniards felt the North Africans there". undergone the same experiences as Spelman," she said. were taking jobs away from them. "I Racism was not blatant on the them," she said. She found that she was very naive would get weird looks and stares from campus but Diedre said it was evident The fact that some Spelmanites can and lacked an abundance of knowledge people because they thought I was by the stares that many students were be so closed minded disturbs Sharon. about people of color in general and North African." not accustomed to seeing people of "The students here need to be aware that the issues that concern them. Since Angela also addressed the rising color, particularly African Americans. Spelman is not always going to be she’s been at Spelman, she has been epidemic of Neo-Nazi groups in Lancaster University made Diedre here... there’s a bigger world outside made more aware of cultures and races Europe, including Spain. She said "it feel more independent both those gates," she said. The students here that differ from her own. was quite popular for Neo -nazi groups academically and socially. After staying need to start thinking globally and Spelman differs from Lancaster in to hold protests and rallies in the with a family for a week, she resided realistically." several ways, according to Ruth. She streets." on campus in a dormitory. She shared Although Sharon is enjoying her time said the people tend to be a lot Angela was able to keep in touch a kitchen and lounge with other here at Spelman, Sharon admits that friendlier, outgoing and louder than the with other Spelmanites in Europe. students in her wing. Diedre was Spelman is definitely not for everyone at students at her school. Ruth pointed out They met and traveled to France, responsible for cooking all her daily her school. To those who are interested that this can have its advantages and its Portugal, Italy and Switzerland. meals. in attending Spelman, she advises that disadvantages. Angela strongly encourages students Lancaster University also, in they be open minded and objective. continued on page 7 Diedre’s opinion, provides "more to study abroad. freedom in the education system," She "I learned something new everyday. was given a syllabus in the beginning Everyday I had to adapt and change to my surroundings," she said. "Studying of the year and was able to do the work abroad is an invaluable experience. ? WALTER KAITZ at her own pace. She did not have to You’ll never know unless you take the deal with nagging teachers or the hassle of taking weekly exams. She said, "I opportunity, so take the chance." FOUNDATION was treated more like an adult." CABLE'S RESOURCE FOR DIVERSITY® During Diedre’s month long spring Sharon Barbour Attention Graduates with work experience! break, she along with five other WKF is actively recruiting successful ethnic minority professionals for Spelmanites traveled to Amsterdam, Lancaster University management opportunities in the cable television industry. Italy, Greece and Spain. England Diedre advises that, "Americans have Sociology Major WALTER KAITZ FOUNDATION CABLE to start thinking globally and see how Sharon decided to study abroad MANAGEMENT PROGRAM vast the world is...if travelling abroad is because she wanted to "visit another Following an assessment process carefully designed to identify new economically feasible, you should take talent for the cable industry, selected candidates are hired for available country and study in a totally different the advantage of the experience." positions which utilize their professional skills and experience. environment." England does not have colleges or PLACEMENT OPPORTUNITIES (SAMPLING) Angela Young universities that cater specifically to •General Managers •Management Trainees Junior people of color, therefore Spelman seemed like it would provide a unique •Financial Analysis •Marketing Directors •Affiliate Salespersons •Account Executives Pychology Major and different experience for her. Angela Young, since elementary Sharon especially enjoys the TO APPLY: Send a cover school, always had a love for Hispanic positive environment here at Spelman. ELIGIBILITY letter and current rdsumd with culture and language. She had traveled "I feel as though everyone is really REQUIREMENTS salary history to: throughout Europe before but never achieving and working together to • Ethnic Minority (as defined by the Walter Kaltz Foundation really got the chance to absorb her 660 • 13th Street, Suite 200 excel in both academic studies, and FCC) Oakland, CA 94612 experience. The study abroad program, their extracurricular activities." she • Bachelor's Degree (510) 451-9000 FAX (510) 451-3315 offered by Syracuse University, enabled said. • Two (2) years managerial or There are no applicant fees. Angela to return and study in Spain. Sharon is especially impressed with professional work experience • Willingness to relocate nationwide In Spain she lived with a Spanish the number of community service family which consisted of a mother, two programs and the level of participation brothers and a sister. Although she because the programs are not offered at admits that the environment was Lancaster University. Page 7 Spelman Spotlight, Atlanta, GA April 7, 1993 CAMPUS NEWS

Sisterhood Spelmanite Bothered continued from page 6

"I can meet hundreds of people the material in the textbook. At everyday and that’s a nice feeling but Haveford, the professors depend on By Election Process the relationship between me and these outside sources in addition to the direct information in the textbook, to teach people rarely develops any further," she grade point average. To become a member By Elyce Strong said. "At Lancaster, the people are not students. As much as 1 love it and will miss it, of a sorority, you must have a 3.0. Many as friendly at first but when they warm From the few months that Laura has of the people in sororities happen to be been here, she can honestly say that there are a lot of things about Spelman that up to you, they become like family." really bother me. I hate the way elections involved in other things as well. All that though it’s definitely been a different means is that they are well-rounded. Ruth also commented on the are run every year. differences between the educational experience, she’s enjoying herself. She It is interesting that Mrs. Prince said that Hopefully, being a member of a sorority is only one part of a person, as is being a systems. In England, the Education has taken part in several extracurricular she does not want anyone in a sorority on member of the SSGA, the English Club, the Authorities pay for the students’ activities including "MARTIN",the the Elections Committee. Basically, she is dramatic production, and Habitat for saying that people in sororities cannot be Tennessee Club, Mortar Board, or whatever. education or the students get grants, Anyone who tries to make a sorority her Humanity. objective. Keeping sorority members off whereas here the students are sole being quickly will be disappointed. dependent on their parents or work to the Elections Committee seems very much like discrimination. On the other hand, she The sororities on Spelman’s campus do pay for schooling. Michelle Johnson a lot of good, and I wish they would stop made those rules, and I guess we have to getting treated like stepchildren. There are The only aspect of Spelman that Sophomore follow them. Then, why is the head of the less than 150 people in sororities out of Ruth dislikes is the system of teaching. New York State University Elections Committee in a sorority? I know 1,700 students. That is not many. At Lancaster, professors try to it is the job of the SSGA parliamentarian to Elementary Education Finally, I am very bothered by the way encourage critical thinking skills as Michelle always wanted to attend a head the committee, but Mrs. Prince our voice as students is silenced. It seems opposed to learning straight out of the predominantly black college but at the specifically said that no people in sororities that many of our professors preach the book and the book only. Spelman, to time she was applying, none offered should be on this committee. Why, then, importance of being politically aware, yet Ruth, seems to focus more on the her scholarships. When she saw an since Mrs. Prince is making the rules, did when we try to behave as such, we are told direct facts from the textbooks. Ruth she not appoint another chairperson? advertisement in the NYU newspaper that we are being disrespectful. I definitely wishes that there was more emphasis offering opportunities for students to go Something else that really bothered me was that the president of the SSGA asked a get the impression that Spelman wants us to on freedom of individual thoughts. on exchange to Spelman, she jumped at question in the debate to one of the two keep that image of a "lady" instead of that of Ruth is well aware that she is a the chance. presidential candidates. That definitely a "woman." minority on this campus but she said Michelle did not have a hard time shows that she was backing the other I was very surprised that the SSGA she feels very comfortable here. Even adjusting to the new environment. She candidate. I know she is a Spelman debates allowed open microphones. The though she has been welcomed and said the people were friendly and nice. student, as we all are, and she has a right to students should have the right to ask the embraced by several Spelmanites, she "I love the feeling of being on an ask a question if she wants to, but it was candidates any questions they want if it is realizes that there are some who are not all women’s campus because it makes inappropriate for her to ask the question pertinent to the office. And it should not be up to Mrs. Prince or the Elections so happy about her presence here. She me feel really close to my sisters," she because she presently holds the position of Committee to decide whether the candidate said. president of the SSGA. She easily could has learned to expect and respect their will answer the question. It should be the feelings but she also wishes that in The classes at Spelman are harder, have given the question to someone else to ask, perhaps a committee member. candidate’s choice. return they would go beyond the color in Michelle’s opinion, than at NYU. Additionally, I am "sick and tired" of I really hope I did not offend anyone barrier and look at her as just a person. She enjoys her classes though and likes the accusations or suggestions that people with this letter. That is not my intent at all. On the whole, Ruth is having a great the fact that the professors try to know in sororities only want to run for offices to These are just some things that are going on, time at Spelman and agrees with Sharon the students. make their sorority look good. To run for have been for a long time, and need to be in saying those that do choose to come "They try to keep you on your an office, you must have at least a 2.8 said. here from her school definitely have to toes...I feel like they really care about have an open mind. me," she said. "The feeling of being on an all Laura Shipley womens’predominantly black campus is Junior so different from anything I have ever Spelman Students Receive Haveford University experienced before..I really love it here," Michelle said. Sociology Major Sara Lee Frontrunner Award Laura realized that there is so much Katerana Suranska to do and learn in the world so why not explore the different possibilities. She Palask University Czechoslovakia knew she wanted (1) a challenge (2) to By Riché Daniel get away from people like her (3) to Sociology Major Sister to Sister Editor Vanessa McCray was awarded study at a predominantly black college. Nine students were recently awarded Katerana wanted to study at $1000 for her program "A New Light." So which school met all of this criteria? funds for ongoing community service Spelman because she knew that it was Pamela Davis was awarded $500 for - Spelman College. projects and projects they are planning predominantly black and that it was all the junior class Smart Arts Project that "A culture shock was inevitable but to get instituted thanks to Dr. Cole. female. In Czechoslovakia, there are no is held at Capitol View Elementary adjusting was a lot easier than Each volunteer was required to single-sexed schools so she thought it School. expected," Laura said. submit an essay of 250 words to would be very interesting to study in a Malika Asha Sanders, of the In general, most people are reaching Tamara Nash Ammons, Assistant Dean new environment. In addition, her Students for African American out and welcoming Laura but she has and Director of Spelman’s Community university does not offer many courses Empowerment, was awarded $750 for experienced, although not overt, some Service Program. in her major so Spelman seemed like a the newly organized Children’s subtle animosity. The purpose of the essay was to good opportunity to take advantage of Breakfast Table. It’s evident that some students do not describe the community service the variety of sociology courses. Keria Blue was awarded $750 for like the fact that white students attend activity, tell how the financial Katerana is studying at Spelman for the Children of Incarcerated Parents predominantly black schools. assistance would make a difference, a year. She always wanted to explore program. "People have the right to believe and describe the student’s involvement other countries and is really excited to Sheri Dennis was awarded $500 to what they want. I’m willing to hear and and experiences as a volunteer with the be here. help fund the AIDS Hotline for learn about different opinions," she said. project and how volunteer work has "It’s important to go outside of your Women. "I learn to accept them and not impose enhanced life at Spelman. own culture," she said. "Once you do Kelli Moore was awarded $500 to myself on anyone else’s experience". Alzetta Bozeman, was awarded that you realize so many different types help fund Habitat for Humanity and the $1000 for the Clara M. Pitts In comparing Spelman to Haveford of people, lifestyles." Women Helping Women Coalition. Elementary School Saturday Tutorial academically, Laura said that, "the work Katerana had to make several load at Spelman is a little less than at Program. Because Dr. Cole was the recipient adjustments when she arrived here. She of a 1992 Sara Lee Frontrunner Award, Haveford but the students here are had to overcome the language barrier by Celeste Walley and Riché Daniel expected to complete it all. Haveford were awarded $500 for H.Y.P.E. she had the privilege of choosing a mastering English; she had to get used woman’s organization to receive a gift gives us so much work that the students to living on a campus because Palask (Helping Young People Excel), program that will provide mentors for of $25,000 in her name. are not expected to complete it all." University does not have dormitories; high school sophomores and expose Spelman’s Community Service In addition she commented on the last and she had to get used to visitation them to academics and cultural events. program was her choice. fact that Spelman rarely deviates from hours. Page 8 Spelman Spotlight, Atlanta, GA April 7, 1993 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT THE CRYING GAME A Crying Shame By Stephen Goosby When viewing a movie that receives over his head. Comments about his attractive young Black woman, in a bar. over Fergus, the movie had lost every several Academy Award nominations race are made by his captors. Despite Dil immediately throws herself all over bit of my interest. I became eager for its including Best Picture, Best Actor the soldier’s terrible situation, he is Fergus. From the bar scene we are end. (Stephen Rae), Best Director (Neil presented with a great white hope. The subjected to yet another distasteful Needless to say The Crying Game is Jordan), and Best Supporting Actor hero of the movie is Fergus, a member scene. Dil performs oral sex on Fergus a poor excuse for a movie. Although it (Jaye Davidson), one usually expects to of the terrorist group who treats Jodi on their first night together. seems as if it attempted to address the be entertained. While The Crying (the soldier) kindly. After the audience I couldn’t help but feel pain as I issue of homosexual acceptance, it is Game failed to entertain me, it did is subjected to a corny "courtship" witnessed this negative portrayal of a unfortunate that Black characters are succeed in thoroughly disgusting me. I between Fergus and his prisoner, Black woman. Her immediate lust for made a fool of in the process. This sat in an empty Atlanta movie theater another disturbing scene is presented. this White stranger and her oral sex movie contains many images that say a and was offended for nearly two hours. In a scene that could have easily performance almost made me nauseous. lot about Caucasian views of the Black During the first 45 minutes of The been omitted, we watch as Fergus At this point I was ready to leave the race. All of the Black characters in the Crying Game, the audience was led to escorts Jodi to the woods to urinate. theater. I couldn’t take much more. movie were gay. The black male believe that the movie would be based Fergus must hold Jodi’s male genitalia Then it happened. The most offensive character, in the movie, symbolized on the misfortune of a Black British because Jodi’s hands are tied. Once scene of the movie struck a knockout weakness, while the White male soldier, who had been taken hostage by again, a racist implication is apparent. blow to my head. character is strong and heroic. Black an Irish terrorist group. The soldier, We watch as a smaller White man is Just as Dil and Fergus are about to men are once again displayed as jokes played by Forrest Whittaker, presented obviously intimidated by a larger Black make love, we discover that Dil is for the world to laugh at. me with my first disappointment. man’s genitalia. Although he is held actually a man. This fact isn’t implied, The Crying Game, with all of its The first scene illustrates the captive, the Black man is still we are actually allowed to see Dil’s Academy Award nominations, will method in which the soldier is intimidating to Fergus because of the male genitalia. Once again, the Black probably take home more awards than captured. Using the white female as myth about the Black man’s genitalia. male genitals are a theme as if the any other movie. It will definitely do bait, the terrorist group easily captures The terrorists decide that Jodi must director has some sort of fascination better than Malcolm X which is the soldier. This introduction blatantly die and that Fergus must be the one to with it. unfortunate. Malcolm X happens to be projects an image of a large yet weak shoot him. Before his death, Jodi makes The bomb had been dropped. The one of the best movies this year. It’s a Black man pursuing the sexual "taboo" Fergus promise that he will find his only Black male character in the movie, little peculiar that Malcolm X is only - the White woman. The White woman girlfriend Dil, in London. Once Fergus the soldier Jodi, had been in love with a nominated for Best Actor (Denzel is the weakness of the Black man. meets Dil, my bad day at the movies transvestite all of this time. Washington), but The Crying Game may Once captured, the soldier is tied becomes a nightmare. After about 40 minutes of car chases, win Best Picture. I guess exploitation like a large animal and a hood is put Fergus meets Dil, a seemingly shoot-outs, and scenes of Dil crying works which is a slap in the face after 400 years of this garbage. It’s really a • - ■ Deserves crying shame. We’vefound the hottestpktces- the Fame at the lowest prices

By Ardythe Williams If you have not seen the movie The matter what your conscious tells you is Crying Game and you plan to see it, right. For others, like Fergus, life is do not read this article. I could about making sacrifices for others with possibly be spoiling the biggest secret the knowledge that what you are doing in movie history for you. The Crying is right in your heart. Game, directed by Neil Jordan and For months, my friends begged and nominated for best picture this year, pleaded for me to see this movie even takes place in the United Kingdom. though they would not tell me what it The movie begins when a black was about. Normally, I do not go to British soldier named Jody (Forest movies that I know nothing about. Whitaker) is abducted and held hostage What college student has money to by the Irish Republican Army. During waste? But there was something about his time in captivity, Jody is befriended the reaction on people’s faces when by one of his captors, Fergus (Stephen they wouldn’t tell me what the film Rea). Knowing his death is prominent, was about that made me want to see it Jody asks Fergus to grant him a dying even more. wish. He asks Fergus to go to London I am happy to say this movie was to visit his lover named Dil (Jaye not a disappointment. It was Davidson). Jody is killed, and, in an beautifully written with a plot that effort to leave the IRA, Fergus moves continues to unfold up until the very to London. While there, he finds end. The dramatic ironies of this Jody’s lover, Dil. The two meet and movie will leave you talking to your eventually fall in love. One night they friends about it for weeks to come. The begin to make love and (here comes music is a collection of British techno Let’s Go: • Europe • Italy • Britain & Ireland • France the secret) to Fergus’ surprise, Dil is a and a ballad song by Boy George (how • Germany, Austria & Switzerland • Greece & Turkey man! appropriate). • Israel & Egypt • Spain & Portugal • London • Paris • Rome While many would lead you to • Mexico • U.S.A. • New York City • Washington, D.C. For those of us who are open-minded • Pacific Northwest, Western Canada & Alaska believe the life of a transvestite is the enough to get past Dil’s sexual • California & Hawaii point of this movie, it is not. The preference and lifestyle, The Crying Crying Game is about what is in a Let’s Go, Inc. Game is a must see. This film is not a A SUBSIDIARY OF HARVARD StUOENT AGENCIES, INC. person’s nature. For some, life is about brilliant portrayal of human nature as we St. Martin’s Press doing things only for yourself no know it. Page 9 Spelman Spotlight, Atlanta, GA April 7, 1993 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Who’s The Man? Heavy D With New Album Blue Funk

By Kanika Williams Arts & Entertainment Editor "Blue Funk," Heavy D’s latest disappointing to hear a producer of In the song "A New Day," Heavy D and Mr. Funky from the Lords of the album is by far his most impressive Pete Rock’s caliber use the same discusses the unfortunate fate of his Underground. Mr. Funky and especially release. This album showcases his samples already popularized by other brother who was shot while drug Busta Rhymes exhibit explosive lyrical lyrical talent as well as his musical rap songs. dealing. The beat never overshadows performances and style which excite the diversity. For those of you who were In "Love Sexy", Pete Rock uses Ed Heavy’s voice so that he may use the listener. The upbeat sample and quick highly disappointed with Heavy D’s O.G. & Da Bulldogs’ beat from their tragic story of his brother’s life as a drumbeat add to the hyper aura that last album, "Peaceful Journey" for its hit single "I Got To Have It." Although lesson to those who may be following engulfs the song. "A Bunch ’A Niggers" mainstream appeal, his new album "Love Sexy" sounds okay, it is the same bad path. Sometimes it takes is a great collaborative effort. "Blue Funk" seems to put him back on blatantly unoriginal and Ed O.G. songs like these to really open one’s In between several of the songs track. deserves more credit for the use of his eyes to reality. Heavy D is being interviewed by his Heavy D attempts to please the hard sample. One expects new and creative Although Heavy D was raised in Mt. girlfriend, Dream Hampton, an editor core rap audience with singles like tracks from Pete Rock but in the case Vernon, New York, he was born in for The Source Magazine. I le discusses "Who’s the Man," "Talk Is Cheap," of these two songs, he just does not Jamaica. Heavy D gets back in touch his childhood, life in the "ghetto," the "Who’s in the House," "Yes, Yes Yall" deliver. with his roots and shows his rap "groupie" issue, the importance of a and especially "Here Comes the "Truthful" and "A New Day" audience his reggae/dance hall skills strong relationship between the Black Heavster" produced by D.J. Premiere of convey deep, insightful messages to the with the song "GIRL." This song is a man and the Black woman, but most Gang Starr. All of these singles have listeners. "Truthful," the first track on refreshing break from the strictly hard importantly, he addresses the reason intense lyrics coupled with hard hitting the album, discusses the difficulty core, or freestyle, rap that proceeds it. "Peaceful Journey" differed from his beats. Heavy D brags about his rapping entertainers face when attempting to Heavy D demonstrates that he can be a first two albums and why he was skills and threatens anyone to challenge engage in meaningful relationships. He very versatile entertainer by dissatisfied with the final outcome. him. tells of how he devoted all his time and experimenting with different styles of We see it happen so often to several The overweight lover theme, which energy toward making his relationship music. He easily makes the transition rap artists; they have several back-to- was so popular on Heavy’s debut with a girlfriend work, but she did not from rap to reggae. back hits, then all of a sudden they album, "Livin Large," is present on two return his love. Instead she used him "A Bunch ’A Niggers," the last song make an album that just doesn’t produce tracks on "Blue Funk": "Love Sexy" for who he was to get what she wanted. on the album, is packed with a lot of the same quality of music. This and "Silky." These two songs happen The chorus of the song further punch. It is a question-and-answer free­ happened with L.L Cool J, Big Daddy to be the worst songs on the album. He emphasizes the meaning of the song by style session by numerous artists. Jlie Kane, Doug E. Fresh - to name a few. constantly harps on how "smooth" he is saying "but you told me you’d be most notable artists on this track are: Unfortunately, Heavy D fell prey to this with the ladies and how they all just truthful." Apparently life as a rapper is Guru from Gang Starr, Busta Rhymes syndrome as well but he is definitely can’t get enough of him. It is also not all fun and games. from The Leaders of the New School trying to make amends with his new album "Blue Funk". Spehnan’s Definitely Cool Like Dat Choreographer’s Concert”

By Chanda L. Bailey began with the depiction of a romantic ‘Superb’ is the word to best By Sabrina Hawkins female-male encounter, evolving with Arts & Entertainment Editor as "Cool Like Dat," who needs to buy describe the Spelman College Dance the other dancers into an almost "I’m cool like dat... cool like dat...." the album? Department’s presentation, "The ceremonial dance. It was also well- Everybody is singing it. Your 16-year- I have been to many concerts in my Choreographer’s Concert," held March received by the audience. old little sister, your mom, I even heard day and this one definitely ranks near 19-20 in the Baldwin Burroughs One of the most exciting dances, "If a bus driver singing those popular three the top of my long list. If I had known Theater. the Shoe Fits," was performed by The words. Digable Planets’ first single the concert would be that good, I The show opened to a full house Children’s Dance Theater and the "Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat)" hit would have definitely shelled out 20 or with its first dance, "lire Mist Leaves Extensions Dance Company. It the air waves and has been heard 30 bucks for a ticket. No Scars," choreographed by the Dance featured several scenes, including a part constantly ever since. I was expecting Doodle, Butterfly, Department’s Interim Chairperson in which the girls tap-danced while When I first heard the concert was and Ladybug to come out on stage with Kenneth Green. Featuring seven bouncing basketballs. The young girls coming to the Masquerade night club, only microphones, not an actual live dancers in earthtone and sea blue also performed a simulation of I was not dying to go. I did not have horn section, a bassist and a drummer. costumes designed by Annette Lewis, Broadway’s "A Chorus Line." 'I'he the album and I felt kind of stupid not There are not too many groups, the dance emulated the mystical colorful costumes symbolized the knowing any of the songs and not especially rap or dance music, who can movements of mist. The dance was energy and youth of the dancers. being a true fan of their music. But deliver a live performance that lives up truly "...the balance and imbalance of Strobe lights and canes used to tap out the $10.50 ticket price, coupled with to the music. Digable Planets’ nature and those natural entities that rhythm made the presentation enjoyable performances by rap groups Roots and performance and music were so compete with and complement one to watch. Groove Garden quickly changed my fulfilling that you did not need to another," as described on the program. The grand finale of the concert, mind. The members of Roots attend memorize the whole album in order to The second dance, "Sheer Essence," entitled "No Grief," was also Morehouse College, and Groove have a good time. Not one note was was a nice break from the traditional choreographed by Kenneth Green and Garden is a great new female rap missed or messed up. They were so dance routines, featuring three students featured uptempo hip-hop music by group. cool and laid back as they performed in pastel- colored baby doll dresses and Collage. The dancers were very For $10.50 I did not expect too songs such as "Escapism," "Nickel ballet shoes. The dancers performed to energetic and enthusiastic in their much. I had heard positive reviews Bags," and "Swoon Units." a jazzy Dinah Washington tune, and colorful vests and stylish hats. The about Digable Planets’ music before, The day after the show I ran out and proved to be quite entertaining as danced zealously and completed the but I did not have the time nor the cash bought the album for myself and it does indicated by the audience’s applause. dance to a standing ovation by the to buy the tape entitled "Reachin’ (A live up to the live performance. If they "Tobi Roppo," the National audience. New Refutation Of Time And Space)." ever come to your local town, do not Choreographic Search Selection of Congratulations to all members of Besides, if the other songs on the pass them by. For $10.50, it is 1986, was an interesting, energetic the Dance Theater on a job well done! album are played on the radio as much impossible to have a better time. piece performed by eight students. It Page 10 Spelman Spotlight, Atlanta, GA April 7, 1993

Spelmanites Are High Minded

By Biché Daniel Sister to Sister Editor However, things are often not what they I’ve always wondered how women can Maybe! We have to learn to be a support group seem. for each other. let themselves be abused by men, physically These same young women who are Many of us have iousy feelings about as well as mentally. being abused by their boyfriends, fathers, 1 believe the hardest compliment to get ourselves. I’ve seen women take the abuse and I’ve uncles, brothers, and friends, are the same is the one from a black sister to a black We go out into the world with feelings sister. often told my friends I would never take women who are the most head -, strong of low self - worth that have a iot to do the abuse. women and the most outgoing women, at I often notice that black women would with our childhood. I am a Strong Black Woman!!! this institution. rather talk about a sister on the one day she Whether we were abused as children or isn’t looking as nice as usual than However, when I saw a young woman it does not seem as if lack of self - from Spelman College get physically hit not, whether the abuse was physical or compliment her on the days she is. esteem could be the culprit because these mental, whether we feel a void that was last week I realized that could have been We are here at the black mecca of women do not isolate themselves from the never filled all of us have insecurities. me and the only difference there may have world; they are the most beautiful young sisterhood. More than enough time has More often than not these insecurities are gone by for us to grow to love each other been between me and that Spelmanite is the women and they have more than enough more prevalent in the sisters who appear reaction to the abuse. friends. as sisters. It is time we acted upon those most confident. bonds we profess to believe in.

1993 ELECTION RESULTS

Impressions of Cuba SSGA OFFICERS From A Sista7 Who Was There President Tuere Bowles Vice President Stacey Abrams Recording Secretary Kanika Raney Corresponding Secretary Binta Vann By Zairt A. Muse Treasurer Nikki Martin When the tourist bus pulled to a stop in front of Hotel Habana Libre, I Parliamentarian India Calhoun craned my neck out of the window to get a better look at my surroundings. Co-Advisory Chairs Pamela Davis A warmth filled my chest as I tried to take in the rush of images that passed Eumeko Fuller before me. Co-Social Chairs Alia Jones Cars bustling, buses rumbling, bicycles whizzing by in a blur. But most of Kanya Wright all the people who made up a fluid continuum from creams to chocolate browns, Co-Publicity Chairs Meera Bowman but mostly browns. Michelle Ilugghis A smile lit my face as I saw the many different shades and textures of a Spotlight Editor Riché Daniel people who had clearly descended from the richness of the Continent, brought Spotlight Associate Editor Maleka Ingram to the Americas like so many of us, suffocating in ships and stripped from Media Specialist Darla Miles home, brought to lands unknown to meet the imposition of a new culture. Ms. Spelman Marla Frederick For here I was looking at dark brown women with braids and gorgeous First Attendant Kai Martin brothers with locks. I was truly overwhelmed to see all these beautiful brown Second Attendant Tawnya Plummer skinned people who could be my cousins, sisters, brothers, amigos; and I Third Attendant Lisa Farmer immediately wanted to blend, to be indistinguishable, to be an extension of Student Trustee Celeste Watkins them. And later as I walked the busy streets, I realized I was. I was in a community of my own. As I moved among and between the SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS people, I too was Cuban. I was part of a culture unified by a common history and past, a culture President Angela Young infused and saturated with African rhythms. Where children of all shades in a Vice President Najoh Tita school I visited sway their hips in unison to the thud thud of percussion inspired Co-Publicity Chairs Wendy Feldman by ancient drums. Dawn Gray Where a Cuban woman with milk colored skin points to the blue tributaries SSGA Representative Jonae Atkinson in her arms and claims that African blood flows freely through her veins; and Judiciary Representative Leah Brownlee where a fifth grader in a country school informs me that he is learning of the horrors of slavery. Thus walking the streets of Havana was therapeutic and healing for me as JUNIOR CLASS OFFICERS a black woman coming from a fragmented and tattered society where "american" is a term many of us don’t claim, where each culture is separate and President Sharon Miller distinct, each of us an island. In Cuba I felt like I belonged to a global Vice President Nataki Osborne community of black folk, anonymous and comfortable. Recording Secretary Janet Scott I felt at home. Corresponding Secretary Adrienna Boynton One of the things that most impressed me about Cuban society was its Treasurer Milandria King smallness, its simplicity, and its sense of community. Parliamentarian Twinkle Morgan Walking through residential areas, I saw children running and playing in the Co-Social Chairs Stephanie Turnage narrow streets and women passing by in shorts right in front of the eyes of men, Robin Jones yet with no lewd stares to trace their bodies as they retreated into the distance. SSGA Representatives Robyn Best I passed down streets with worn balconies on either side, clothes and people Lisa Ricks draped from their iron rails. Judiciary Representative Shona Davidson I walked up worn staircases with history seeping from the textured walls into quaint and modest apartment homes with refrigerators and TVs, as well as the SOPHOMORE CLASS OFFICERS altars, beads, and soperas of Santerria (an Afro-Cuban religion that is a syncretism of Roman Catholic and Yoruba elements), the old and the new President Andrea Lewis juxtaposed without tension. Vice President Dana Banks And I remember knowing I could live among these streets, in the quaintness Treasurer Heidi Sanders of this life. Parliamentarian Keshia Trotman Buying my bread in the small stores, cloth shopping bag in hand. Publicity Chair Sherri Proctor Waiting for the gua gua (bus) at the covered bus stops, and walking past the SSGA Representatives Hope Rias many parks and ceiba trees... Johnita Walker Mizelle Judiciary Representative Christa! Jackson continued next issue Page 11 Spelman Spotlight, Atlanta, GA April 7, 1993 EXPRESSIONS

FOCUS 1993 Reparations One day my mother, my queen I will lay at your feet Twice the spoils you have bom for me Reaped for me time and time again Poetry Contest Often stripping your fruitful branches bare To cover my barren being

One day my queen I will wash your weathered feet Winners With immense gourds of gratitude And puffs of powdered affection Softly massaging your soles Things are tough all over With the essential oils of rest and peace Duly yours since yesterday, today

One day my queen I will exorcise your soul shadows of the past follow me And give you the thirsted solace although I travel That your fearful watch over me much too far and fast Is no longer needed for my soul to catch my body. I have succeeded children of the dark I have fulfilled flow in the wind Greater than you ever dreamed for me whispering sweet reminders Yet only because you always gave for me of innoncence in all its splendor- Due to the ever presence and God laughs Of your faith as we repeat our mothers’sins Love and wander like the lost spirits Hope we have become -walking through the As the one day sun threads of midnight Slowly retires in the distant horizon which haunt our I write this contract with myself own existence. In sweat and blood This debt will be repaid -Erinn R. Gordon First place winner of the "Spotlight on Focus" poetry contest -Sabrina "Shange" McDaniel Second place winner of the "Spotlight on Focus" poetry contest

Third World USA

• • • • • ••••••• Mental Starvation 20th Century slavery— ETHNIC GOLD Hair Care Products its prey prisoners of Third World USA Welcome to the ETHNIC GOLD HAIR CARE PRODUCTS FAMILY. We take pride In our development of pure and natural hair care products that contain no animal proteins or placenta. No "Life" Why not use animal proteins? If you think back, there have been numerous television broadcasts showing No "Pursuit of Happiness" diseased animals awaiting slaughter. There is no way to be sure of the animals state of health at the time of a closed door death. More importantly, why kill the little animals for their oil anyway? holding them back Many hair and skin care companies use placenta (placenta is the fetal membrane expelled from the uterus after childbirth) in their products. Even though the placenta is tested (since it is human tissue and shutting them out suspected of carrying the AIDS virus and other diseases) it takes up to seven years forsome viruses to show from the world up. Why take the risk! unwanted people ETHNIC GOLD HAIR CARE PRODUCTS contain natural oil from other sources. Our lanolin is derived from this nation’s could-be sheared sheep wool and the oil from olive trees. would-be leaders if only they had a chance, If You Want Short Hair Do For A Limited Time!! women, men and children Not Use This Product! 4. ce. jar priced @ ST 95 - Sale Price S5.00 dying in the streets 8 az. ¡ar priced @ S12.95 - Sale Price $9.50 because they fight for After changing to ETHNIC GOLD SUPER GRO, what they deserve customers have been pleased about how fast their and take what they are denied hair grew. So, we do ask our customers to please follow directions on the jar. Massage ETHNIC malnourished babies GOLD SUPER GRO into the scalp only 2-3 times crying from yesterday’s per week or you will experience faster than normal milk shortage hair growth! mothers feeding their families Also Available on hope and empty promises Pure Castile Soap with Olive Oil for dry and when the money from their sensitive skin-5 oz. bar minimum/sub-standard job Carbolic Germicidal Soap (helps heal rashes) runs out, Ethnic Gold Super Gro Big! 5.75 oz. bar - both priced @ $3.00 ea. -Sale Price $2.00 outsiders bringing in disease and drugs to annihilate We Bring Our Store To Your Door!! the masses SUBTOTAL first class citizens PRODUCT DESCRIPTION QTY SIZE PRICE

struggling in an environment ADDRESS: where home is a dirty street poverty is life crime is survival Sales Tax and prosperity— Shipping & Handling Send money order or cashier check • a forgotton dream. only (please allow up to 3 weeks GRAND TOTAL for delivery) Mail To: DK Associates, Ethnic Gold Super Gro, P.0. Box 1322, Manassas, VA 22110 -Na’tald Osborne • • • Third place winner of the "Spotlight on Focus" poetry contest Page 12 Spelman Spotlight, Atlanta, GA April 7, 1993 ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS

Environmental Racism Strikes Native American Community

By Gay Ojugbana true to this mandate, while requiring The most recent method of Native Americans to obey federal oppression that has been environmental laws. disproportionately affecting "minority" The only federal money Native communities is "environmental racism." Americans are eligible for is under the This type of racism does not subject Clean Water Act. However, out of a anyone to verbal insults and abuses, but $50 million endowment given to the it does say a great deal. It unspokenly Clean Water Act fund, only one-third expresses the sentiment that "minority" of 1 percent of that money is given to health is not important. This message is Native Americans. Native Americans conveyed with the knowledge that then have to distribute that minute without good health, a good life is amount among 500 tribes. nearly impossible. The All Indian Pueblo Council, a Environmental racism has reached centuries-old coalition of Pueblo the Native American community. leaders, formed a Pueblo Office of Native Americans are faced with the Environmental Protection because of difficulty of enacting environmental their community’s pressing need to laws and programs in their address environmental issues. This communities without the help of office deals with such things as governmental monetary assistance. insecticide run-off in a river, run-off Hie United States government does from a storm in an urban area, or trash- not consider the "tribes" of Native strewn streams. It also deals with waste Americans to be states, therefore, these that is transported to Native American AN INTERNSHIP WITH THE CIA. "tribes" are not able to receive most soil by states who use the land as SOUNDS LIKE THE PLOT FOR A GOOD MOVIE. federal or state funds. The U.S. holds dumpsites.

Collecting information on trends and Environmental Jobs current events abroad isn’t just a job for a secret agent. Booming During If you’re planning to attend college, or are presently a full-time or graduate student, you could be eligible for a CIA Hard Times internship and tuition assistance. You don’t have to be an aspiring missile

By Vanessa Raye warhead specialist or Kremlinologist. We Environmental jobs in the United the nation’s largest commercial need knowledgeable, dedicated men and States are steadily replacing large scale hazardous waste sites are located in women from a variety of backgrounds African American or Latino industry jobs hurt by the recession, and fields. according to the March issue of communities, according to an April 2, Alternative. 1982, issue of U.S. News and World Leading engineers, computer "The American steel industry is Report. These three sites account for specialists, economists, foreign area being replaced by jobs dealing with 51,010 acre-feet of the disposal pollution that was left behind...and capacity of 40 percent of the nation’s experts and intelligence analysts are just engineering firms that years ago helped total hazardous waste disposal capacity a few of the professionals you’ll get build factories are diversifying into in 1987. hands-on experience working with...and "We really need to get involved environmental work," Alternative a head start on your career stated. because the people who are making The environmental industry grew by decisions about our Join one of the country’s largest 4.1 percent in Pennsylvania, during neighborhoods...don’t always have our information networks—because an 1992, compared to a national rate of 2 interests in mind," said Townsend percent, says the Environmental Smith, co-founder of EnviroNet. "We experience like this doesn’t only happen Business Journal. need to be represented. We need more in the movies. "It’s one of the major growth technical people to oversee these industries in the country and especially projects." in California," said EnviroNet co­ The headquarters for the black founder Angela Blanchett in the Oct. Environmental Consortium, which 26, 1992 issue of Sacramento Bee. includes North Carolina A&T, Florida "With stringent regulations imposed International, Shaw, Winston Salem here, it has created a multibillion-dollar State, Savannah State, and Florida industry in need of accountants, A&M, is located at Clark Atlanta For information about student programs and career opportunities, write to: CIA Employment Center, PO. Box 1255, Dept.UMC, Pittsburgh, PA 15230. All applicants must be U.S. citizens and successfully complete a medical and security background investigation, including a polygraph engineers, and writers." University. The Consortium has a interview. An Equal Opportunity Employer. ©1993 Central Intelligence Agency EnviroNet is a consulting firm $500,000 and provides scholarships for which provides environmental graduate and undergraduate students assistance to minority communities. pursuing work in the environmental There is a market for minorities in fields. For more information call Kenja the environmental industry. Three of McCray at 523-8281.