THE INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF TUFTS UNIVERSITY EST. 1980 THE TUFTS DAILY VOLUME LXXX, ISSUE 50

MEDFORD/SOMERVILLE, MASS. Wednesday, December 2, 2020 tuftsdaily.com Half of undergraduate student body completes Marriage Pact, almost 3,000 receive matches by Flora Meng Contributing Writer

Tufts students participating in the school-wide Marriage Pact were notified via email on Nov. 23 of their most optimal “match” on campus. A “marriage pact” is considered to be an agreement between two people in which they decide to marry each other, if they do not marry within a certain period of time. A document reviewed by the Daily provides details about the Marriage Pact. “Based on your values, the Marriage Pact algorithmically ‘interviews’ all other partici- pants at Tufts on your behalf to find the best person with whom you could make a marriage pact,” the document reads. Anne Lau, a senior work- ing on the initiative at Tufts,

EMMA BOERSMA / THE TUFTS DAILY see MARRIAGE, page 2 Students are pictured together on the Tisch Library roof on Oct. 18. Green Line Extention project to move FEATURES forward amid MBTA proposed budget Police reform: How is it cuts, service changes for 2021 achieved? by Chris Duncan and Abby Stern cation, jobs and mental health Staff Writer and Contributing Writer services for members of margin- alized communities. Calls for police reform have Others advocate to partially erupted across the country in the defund the police. Many support wake of the murders of George taking money police use to buy Floyd and Breonna Taylor among weapons and investing it in social many others. Americans are and mental health services. demanding systemic change in David Art, professor who the policing system, and protests teaches the course Political for police reform have become Perspectives on Race, Policing, national news. How exactly is and the Demonstrations in the police reform achieved? Here are U.S., prefers the latter definition. four approaches. “Policing serves a very import- Defund the police ant function, and I can’t imag- At almost every rally across ine a society without something the nation following the murders that resembles policing, partic- of unarmed African Americans ularly in this country while we at the hands of officers, a cry are awash with guns,” Art said. to “defund the police” can be “Major reforms need to happen, heard. However, people often many of which will involve a shift mean different things when they of resources … The answer will say “defund the police.” be putting resources in different Some urge to abolish the directions.” EVAN SLACK / THE TUFTS DAILY ARCHIVES police completely, advocating Instead, Art proposes real- A sign promoting the MBTA Green Line Extension project is pictured on April 17, 2018. that to create a new model of location of training resources by Chloe Courtney Bohl Orange Lines and many bus The proposed service changes community-led public safety is and increasing funds for men- Contributing Writer routes will operate at reduced would be phased in beginning to start the system from scratch. tal health resources. Being a frequency, while the Green Line spring 2021. Many supporters of defunding police officer is a middle class The Massachusetts Bay Extension (GLX) project and The MBTA is holding a series believe divesting from police can job that does not require a col- Transportation Authority other already-underway capital of virtual public meetings to help end cruelty within the crim- lege degree. Police officers in (MBTA) is proposing bud- projects will continue as planned. gauge support and collect feed- inal justice system. Starting a America only train for about get cuts and service changes Bus routes deemed “non-es- back from its host communities new system where first respond- four months, while European in response to unprecedent- sential” will operate at reduced in the greater Boston area on ers include mental health profes- officers train for at least a year edly low ridership during the frequency, be consolidated or the subject of the upcoming ser- sionals, social workers or com- and attend university. To gener- COVID-19 pandemic. be eliminated. All changes are vice changes. On Nov. 17, the munity members could help end ate better police officers, Art says According to the MBTA web- meant to be temporary, and fares violence and hostility across the site, the Red, Blue, Green and will not be raised. see PROJECT, page 2 nation and lead to more edu- see REFORM, page 3

NEWS 1 ARTS / page 5 SPORTS / page 9 FEATURES 3 ’ newest proves MLS prepares for ARTS & POP CULTURE 5 her art has no boundaries COVID-19 finals FUN & GAMES 7 OPINION 8 SPORTS 9 2 THE TUFTS DAILY | News | Wednesday, December 2, 2020 tuftsdaily.com THE TUFTS DAILY Marriage Pact team addresses data, privacy concerns Alex Viveros Editor in Chief MARRIAGE Given strict guidelines for She also emphasized the privacy policy at the bottom of its EDITORIAL continued from page 1 social gatherings during the team’s efforts to promote safe website to ease such concerns. Rebecca Barker described her role as a school pandemic, Lai said that the ways to socialize during the Ashley Jones, a first-year, Hannah Harris ambassador for the event. Marriage Pact could serve as a pandemic. spoke about her own experience Managing Editors “The Marriage Pact team unique social opportunity for “We came up with six date filling out the questionnaire Jake Freudberg Associate Editors wanted to launch at Tufts and students. ideas for meeting your match and privacy concerns with the Jilly Rolnick so they reached out and tried “I think the Marriage Pact for the first time in a COVID-safe Marriage Pact. Alejandra Carrillo Executive News Editor Maddie Aitken Deputy News Editor to find people to serve as seeds came to Tufts at a very import- way. Some of them were play “At first, I was [concerned Jessica Blough News Editors Tom Guan to spread the word about the ant and useful time because Among Us with your roommates about privacy] because you Liza Harris [Pact]. So my housemates and with the new COVID rules com- and their matches, or show your obviously are divulging very pri- Alex Janoff Matt McGovern I are like the seeds for it,” Lau ing out … everyone’s being iso- match around your hometown vate information about yourself Sara Renkert Sarah Sandlow said. “We put the posters up, we lated in their dorms or some, on Google Maps,” Lai said. and your preferences, but then Anton Shenk created the Instagram and talk- even in quarantine,” she said. Because students must com- I was reaffirmed by a friend who Carolina Espinal Assistant News Editors Sam Klugherz ed to our friends about it.” “Everyone’s just been feeling a plete a questionnaire to indi- was active on the project that Alexander Thompson Alicia Zou By the end of the week, after little lonely to some extent and cate their values and prefer- … even the people who were

Ryan Shaffer Executive Features Editor the Pact was released, up to 50% missing social interaction and ences, some users have raised pairing up partners didn’t have Sid Anand Features Editors Amelia Becker of the undergraduate student human connection, whether questions regarding data use. In the opportunity to look at your Jillian Collins body participated and over 2,950 that’s in person or digitally.” response to these concerns, Lai details, so that was reassuring,” Claire Fraise Evelyn McClure individuals received matches, To promote it, Lai explained said that the Marriage Pact team Jones said. Kayla Butera Assistant Features Editor according to Lau. that the team began numer- does not have access to individ- Lai expressed excitement at Megan Szostak Executive Arts Editor Devina Bhalla Arts Editors Emai Lai, a senior who col- ous advertising initiatives both uals’ data. the Marriage Pact’s ability to Ryan Eggers laborated with Lau in bringing online and across campus. “I, nor even our launch Pact connect students with others on Steph Hoechst Tuna Margalit the Pact to Tufts, explained that “In addition to meeting with team, can go in and see the campus. Chris Panella Yas Salon the initiative originated from the official Marriage Pact peo- actual data or answers. I can’t “It was really cool that we Elizabeth Sander Colette Smith Stanford University as a proj- ple at Stanford, we’ve done a see who got matched with who, were able to provide some sort Rebecca Tang ect for a marketing design class lot of calling up our friends, I can’t see anyone’s individual of connection and excitement Geoff Tobia Drew Weisberg Assistant Arts Editor three years ago. texting any club group chats responses. [The Marriage Pact] to people on campus, espe-

Liz Shelbred Executive Opinion Editor “They’ve continued doing that we’re a part of,” Lai said. makes a clear point in their pri- cially freshmen and sopho- Priya Padhye Senior Editorialists Paloma Delgado it at Stanford every year since, “We have pushed out platforms vacy policy that they’ll never sell mores who, like a lot of them Amulya Mutnuri and they’ve started branch- on Instagram and created a the data or use our information have expressed, haven’t been Mike Wilkinson Caroline Wolinsky ing out to other schools like Facebook event … and printed against us,” she said. able to make friends because Abhilasha Bhasin Editorialists Eliza Dickson UVA, Columbia, Yale and out dozens of posters and put She noted that the Marriage they aren’t really leaving their Sara Kessel Northwestern,” she said. them up around campus.” Pact team specifically included a dorms,” she said. Milli Lu Emily Nadler Grace Prendergast Faye Thijssen Sam Wilner Julia Baroni Editorial Cartoonists Community members concerned over proposed MBTA changes Carys Kong Annabel Nied Valeria Velasquez PROJECT Once the changes are phased in, Mayor Ruthanne Fuller of “The construction of GLX Juju Zweifach continued from page 1 many of these routes will operate the City of Newton described remains on schedule at this Sruthi Kocherlakota Executive Sports Editor Tim Chiang Sports Editors MBTA held a public meeting at lower frequencies, varying by how cuts to MBTA service will time,” Battiston wrote in an Matt Goguen Jeremy Goldstein for members of the Brookline, route and by time of day, accord- hinder post-pandemic eco- email to the Daily. Aiden Herrod Cambridge, Newton, Somerville ing to the MBTA’s website. nomic recovery. The GLX is currently on track Pranav Jain Ananda Kao and Watertown communities. Paget-Seekins also explained “Without frequent public to be completed in December Delaney Tantillo Arpan Barua Assistant Sports Editors After a brief presentation explain- that the MBTA is planning to stop transit, reviving our economy 2021, according to the MBTA Jacob Dreyer Henry Gorelik ing the specifics of the proposed ferry service beginning March will be even more difficult, and website. When finished, it will Ethan Ling changes, attendees were encour- 2021, given that the ferry’s rider- doing it equitably will be near extend the Green Line north- Arnav Sacheti Alex Sharp aged to offer their input. ship has decreased substantially impossible,” Fuller said. ward from its current endpoint at Eric Spencer In the meeting, MBTA during the pandemic. Fuller’s concern over the ser- Lechmere up to College Avenue Austin Clementi Executive Investigative Editor Assistant General Manager for During the meeting, both vice cuts was echoed by State in Medford, near Tufts’ Medford/ Arlo Moore-Bloom Executive Audio Editor Policy Laurel Paget-Seekins said Paget-Seekins and Monica Rep. Tommy Vitolo, who rep- Somerville campus. Anne Marie Burke Executive Photo Editors Nicole Garay that the proposed service chang- Tibbits-Nutt, vice chair of the resents Brookline. Tufts Director of Government Aidan Chang Staff Photographers Patrick Milewski es were designed with the goal MBTA’s Fiscal and Management “No matter how hard the and Community Relations Menqi Irina Wang of maintaining service to “tran- Control Board, expressed MBTA works to minimize the Rocco DiRico expressed excite- Austen Money Executive Video Editor sit-critical” riders, seniors and awareness of the strain the harm — and I believe that the T ment at the GLX project’s mov- riders with disabilities. service changes may place on really is seeking to do just that — ing forward. PRODUCTION “We created a framework MBTA users. the harm will be real and consid- “We were delighted to see that Kevin Zhang Production Director for thinking about two differ- “We are not raising fares. I erable,” Vitolo said. this important project is mov-

Rachel Hsin Executive Layout Editors ent axes. One was transit-criti- recognize the financial burden Destina Agar, a community ing forward. The Green Line Yanqing Huang cal population. So where are the these changes would create for member whose bus route home Extension and the Medford/Tufts Laura Mogannam Campbell Devlin Layout Editor riders who are most dependent families, and I do not take that from her hospital job would be station in particular will be an on public transit, which includes lightly,” Tibbits-Nutt said. eliminated under the MBTA’s incredible asset for our students, Tys Sweeney Executive Graphics Editor Sam Farbman Graphic Designers low-income populations, com- Paget-Seekins also stressed proposed service changes, said faculty, staff, and neighbors,” Freya Gupta Helen He munities of color and zero to that the proposed cuts to ser- the service cuts will have a dis- DiRico wrote in an email to the Kristina Marchand low vehicle households. And [the vice are a “last resort” that the proportionate impact on certain Daily. “The new station will con- Calisa Sana Ethan Schreiber MBTA did] an additional screen MBTA is undertaking only after communities. nect our Medford/Somerville Ethan Steinberg Executive Copy Editors for seniors and people with dis- it attempted to reduce inter- “It’s going to hit people that campus to our Boston campuses, Colton Wolk Brendan Hartnett Deputy Copy Editors abilities,” Paget-Seekins said. nal costs and reallocate capital are low income, and it’s going increase access to public trans- Julian Perry Routes that serve these pop- funds to alleviate the strain on to hit communities of color and portation, and serve as a new Mariel Priven Kate Seklir ulations and have retained its budget. black and brown people, and it’s gateway to Tufts University.” Abigail Zielinski Mykhaylo Chumak Copy Editors a high proportion of pre-pan- Local government representa- just going to make things worse The MBTA will continue con- Justin Yu Aedan Brown Assistant Copy Editors demic ridership will be largely tives and community members for these people,” Agar said. ducting public meetings through Elizabeth Kenneally preserved. These routes include who attended the public meet- The MBTA Deputy Press Dec. 2, and the Fiscal and Makenna Law the Red, Blue, Green and Orange ing were critical of the proposed Secretary Lisa Battiston con- Management Control Board will Michelle Li Executive Social Media Editors Tiffany Namkoong Lines, many bus routes and the changes and expressed concern firmed that this includes the GLX vote on the proposed changes Fairmount commuter rail line. during their testimonials. project. on Dec. 7. BUSINESS Robert Kaplan Business Director

Devina Bhalla Account Managers Coley Goren Sharan Bhansali Business Managers Norice Lu Evelyn McClure Patrick Milewski Luke Allocco Outreach Coordinators Sam Russo

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tuftsdaily Please recycle this tuftsdaily newspaper! Features 3 tuftsdaily.com Wednesday, December 2, 2020 Public opinion shows support for police demilitarization in Medford, Somerville REFORM One way this level of trust continued from page 1 between community and police there should be a longer training can be achieved is through the period for police officers. This implementation of citizen review would provide resources to allow boards. Schaffner’s research has more social welfare programs found that residents of Medford and more in-depth deescalation and Somerville widely support training. the implementation of these “Part of the reason we see all boards made up of average mem- these things in this country has bers of the community. to do with our genuine under- “This board would review funding of a lot of social ser- police actions, review discretions vices, police being one of them,” by the police, and could even Art said. be involved in hiring and firing To make sure that police forc- decisions,” Schaffner said. es become more diverse in terms According to Art, community of gender, sexuality and race, Art policing can only become main- says defunding the police should stream once other problems mean taking money away from within the policing system are weapons and militarization and already remedied. Funds have reallocating it toward systemic to be reallocated, police have social change. to undergo racial bias training, In Art’s class, guest lectur- and trust has to be developed ers come to speak to students between police officers and their about their perspectives on communities before a system police reform. Political science like this can be implemented. professor Brian Schaffner, who Art recommends taking con- is currently researching the crete steps like ending no-knock COURTESY WIKIMEDIA COMMONS The Massachusetts State House is pictured. public opinion of Medford and raids and reforming use of force Somerville residents regarding policies before expecting a sys- Police forces’ underlying per- ingly simple measure to alleviate “There was this sense of policing, visited Art’s class to dis- tem of community policing right ceptions of themselves, as Art racial bias in policing. Such an urgency that was tied to the cuss his findings. from the start. notes, are a factor that should not approach has garnered wide- protests and looked like it was “Even in very liberal com- “I tend to see it as an outcome go ignored. spread support from mayors all going to propel this bill forward,” munities like Somerville and rather than a model or para- “People who point to mili- over the country and even for- Horowitz said. “But, obviously, Medford, a pretty large majori- digm,” Art said. “It points to trust, tarization say it’s not only the mer President Barack Obama. some of the energy around that ty of residents are not support- and that’s really what is lacking.” technology, it’s also the culture,” Training, supporters say, will has faded, and that has given ive of defunding the police,” Until that trust is established, Art said. “It’s the sense of per- help make police officers aware time for groups that oppose this Schaffner said. a system of community polic- forming a warrior duty.” of their own implicit bias and bill to better organize, so I think Schaffner found that residents ing is unlikely to be fully imple- Evan Horowitz, director of the better able to check themselves that will complicate efforts to of Medford and Somerville pre- mented. Center for State Policy Analysis in the line of duty. push this over the finish line.” fer the idea of reallocating funds Police force disarmament (CSPA) at the Jonathan M. Tisch Art says, however, that police However, the bill likely rather than defunding police When the people of Ferguson, College of Civic Life, echoed this departments have been doing remains a high priority for law- completely. Mo., took to the streets in sentiment. these trainings for years. makers on Beacon Hill, and hope “From a public opinion per- 2014 to protest the killing of “It’s tied into a notion of how “A lot of police departments in remains that it will come out of spective, people are more likely Michael Brown, they were met police departments see them- the wake of Ferguson did that on conference committee before the to support defunding the police with a police force in riot gear selves, as embattled, and poten- their own … they brought in and current legislative session ends. if you tell them that it’s going and troops from the Missouri tially needing this equipment to had members of the community At the federal level, efforts at to go to something they like,” National Guard that looked as fend off the most heinous crimi- talk about the history of racial police reform have stalled time Schaffner said. if they were going to war. Such nals and crimes,” he said. injustice and systematic racism,” and time again. Democrats have This can include improving striking responses to protests The CSPA released a report in he noted. “You can find examples put forth a number of small bills mental health services, paying have not stopped since then and July on the two bills passed in the of a lot of police departments on the matter, none of which social workers and bettering have become more pronounced Massachusetts House and Senate that did that on their own, almost have shown any signs of mov- social welfare programs. this year since protests erupt- and key differences between as a matter of course.” ing or really present any chance Community policing and ed in the wake of the killings them. Horowitz explained the But since Ferguson, police vio- of being passed into law. Senate civilian review boards of George Floyd and Breonna bills’ different approaches to lence has not stopped, and some Republicans, however, posited Another way many Americans Taylor. Police forces from Boston purchases of military equipment research suggests that training to their own bill, which failed to think of police reform is through to Los Angeles have had long his- by local police. reduce police bias does not have pass the Senate back in June and community policing. Community tories of militarization, believing “One of the bills, I believe it significant effects. effectively killed any discussion policing is the idea that offi- that such force may be necessary is the Senate bill, limits the pur- One thing that may help of the issue since then. In the cers should interact more with to confront mass mobilizations chase of [military equipment], or improve racial bias training, meantime, the House passed the community members through that could turn violent. Art traces would require greater authoriza- according to Horowitz, is collect- George Floyd Justice in Policing developing relationships, solving the roots of police militarization tion to allow local police depart- ing more information on what Act of 2020 in June, but the bill problems with the community to the birth of SWAT teams. ments to purchase military grade training works and what doesn’t. has not yet come up for a vote in and creating partnerships with “Many of these [police] equipment,” Horowitz said. “The “There is lots of training for the Senate. local businesses and community departments began to acquire house bill, as I recall, is silent on police officers, and some of it For now, action can only members. This way, community more of this technology and at the issue.” is dedicated to reducing com- be realistically expected at the members will have more of a say the same time were incentivised The one consolidated bill has plaints and improving perfor- state level, which means many in how they are policed and will to use it really with … in the guise made it out of its committee and mance, but there has not been a states will inevitably do little or be familiar with police officers. of SWAT teams,” he said. is ready for review by the House systemic effort to connect what nothing. In this system, police can act pro- Over time, Art said, SWAT and Senate. we know about who is doing However, Art said the most actively by getting community teams began to respond less Demilitarization of police is the training with what we know important development this year members mental health services frequently to the situations they one area of reform that, in theory, about who is getting complaints has been the increased scrutiny or social welfare programs rather were intended for, namely hos- can expect bipartisan support on or having interactions,” Horowitz that the public has given police than fighting crime in the com- tage and shooter situations, Capitol Hill. U.S. Senators from said. “We could do that with the forces around the country. munity reactively. while beginning to serve drug Rand Paul to Ed Markey support right data.” “It’s been interesting … and Art said community policing warrants more often. similar measures to disarm police On the horizon quite satisfying to see that ref- is difficult to understand because Public opinion in the Medford of military-grade equipment, The CSPA’s report was erendums in various states have there is no clear definition of how and Somerville areas mainly and legislation has been intro- released in July, much closer to picked up and have changed this would work. supports the demilitarization of duced to ban the use of weapons the killings of Ahmaud Arbery, outcomes in [policing] policy,” “There’s a lot of talk about police, according to Schaffner. like tear gas and rubber bullets George Floyd and Breonna he said. “Because for 30 or 40 it, but it’s not very specific,” Art “There’s also a lot of support by federal law enforcement and Taylor that permeated the pop- years, police had kind of not said. “Ideally, what I think com- for de-weaponizing the police,” incentivize state and local police ular consciousness this year. been under a major lens what- munity policing almost means Schaffner said. “A lot of residents forces to do the same. Some of this fervor has since soever and had been running is an outcome. It’s a situation in think police officers should only Racial bias training subsided, especially among law- things as … institutions tend to which there is a high level of trust have limited weaponry, including Providing officers with racial makers, giving an advantage to do in ways that suit them and between society and police.” maybe not having hand guns.” bias training would be a seem- those opposed to reform. their interests.” 4 THE TUFTS DAILY | Features | Wednesday, December 2, 2020 tuftsdaily.com

Owen Bonk Since You Last Saw Me On time traveling and uncertainty

henever I return to my par- ents’ house, it’s like travel- ing back in time. My child- hood room, filled with per- Wsonal artifacts I can’t bring myself to throw away, seems to shrink every time I enter it. The whole setting doesn’t seem quite right. This new life I’ve been living on my own feels incongru- ous with everything here, and reincor- porating myself into the comings and goings of life at home feels like new skin being grafted onto an old frame. Maybe that’s a slightly overdramatic comparison. This is only my second year coming home for Thanksgiving break, after spending the second half of last semester at home. I’ve spent far more time here than the average col- lege-going student in a non-pandemic year. It’s something that tops off my already-towering list of worries about the future: Is this allowing me the space to say goodbye? My current relationship with my childhood home is not the one I envisioned having in college. For much of my high school career, the college process loomed insistently, ominously over my head. I was afraid of it for a number of reasons, the most prominent of which was my lack of knowledge. I knew that I was good at school, and that if I applied myself, I could accomplish things outside of it, but being intelligent and knowing what you want are two entirely different things. And I had no idea what I want- ed. So I did what was required, and not a lot more. In an extremely unsurprising man- ner, future uncertainty draws you toward the things that are already cer- tain, familiar. The house had that effect on me. I knew that no matter what stressors school brought, whatever cri- ses I was having, stepping over its threshold could give me some sem- blance of respite. I could make myself a cup of tea and watch a vacuous Netflix show, forming and fortifying a tempo- rary barricade against tough questions. In hindsight, I can see that my juve- nile self-protective procrastination made me miss a lot. I didn’t find my school’s forensic speech and debate team, one of the only extracurriculars I actually enjoyed, until my senior year. I chose my first early decision appli- cation poorly, just to have something pinned down. I didn’t pursue inde- pendent writing, one of the activities I’m now most passionate about, in any meaningful way. That’s what feels uncomfortable about my return: alter- nating feelings of pity and frustration toward my past self. I don’t wish to return to that per- sistent hesitancy. I’d like to think of my current self as much more certain and driven, not someone who merely punches the clock. And yet, uncertain- ties still loom: a pandemic, an unde- cided major, the unplanned expanse of next summer. Sometimes I find myself feeling just as unsure as this past ver- sion of myself. Nonetheless, tempting as it may be, I’m resolved not to shrink back into my shell. If I can’t resolve uncertainty, I’ll find ways to live with and interrogate it. I owe it to myself.

Owen Bonk is a sophomore who has not yet declared a major. Owen can be reached at [email protected]. ARTS & POP CULTURE 5 tuftsdaily.com Wednesday, December 2, 2020 Miley Cyrus reborn as rock diva in ‘’ by Christopher Panella Hearts,” Cyrus finds herself in Arts Editor that sweet spot. She’s embraced a sort of glam-rock, ‘80s pop sound “I’m the type to drive a pick- — with a raspy voice and mullet up through your mansion / I’m to match. It’s a vibe that feels completely naked but I’m makin’ nicely related to the resurgence it fashion,” Cyrus declaims on of ’80s music we’ve heard in 2020. “WTF Do I Know,” the 2000s That nostalgia reaches a alternative rock-sounding open- height on the album’s lead single er of “Plastic Hearts” (2020). It’s “,” a swirling state- an interesting moment for listen- ment of sexuality and indepen- ers. On the first of 15 tracks, Cyrus dence. Catchy and vibrant, the immediately defines herself, par- chorus’ lyrics “I was born to run, I ticularly after her divorce from don’t belong to anyone” feel akin longtime lover Liam Hemsworth. to a sort of rebirth or recognition. With the remainder of the Cyrus accepts who she is — a free song exploring her life in the rider in the night, doing as she wake of newfound indepen- pleases — in a way that is much dence, “WTF Do I Know” sets the less abrasive than anything on stage for Cyrus’ seventh studio “” (2013) and much album to explore who she’s been more authentic than anything on and who she is. But that’s fairly “” (2017). difficult for an artist who’s always And that’s not necessarily a changing, especially sonically; it controversial opinion; like the makes “Plastic Hearts” a state- rest of us, as Cyrus gets older, ment of self-reflection. her messaging becomes clearer. For audiences who grew up She was 21 when she released watching “” “Bangerz” and had much to (2006–11), Cyrus’ career feels like prove to the general public out- whiplash. She’s been a Disney side Disney Channel. Now 28, Channel icon, an actress, a short- Cyrus can release “Plastic Hearts” haired wrecking ball rider and a with little to prove. mellow Malibu minimalist. She’s The album’s lyrics center embraced pop, country, hip-hop, around relationships and break- psychedelic rock and electronic ups. But the focus isn’t how noth- pop. Heck, there’s even been a ing breaks like the heart — Cyrus COURTESY WIKIMEDIA COMMONS collaboration. already made that song with The cover of Miley Cyrus’ album “Plastic Hearts” (2020) is pictured. It has earned her praise and in 2018. Rather, it scorn — her Video Music Awards is about how Cyrus defines her- up, sneak out and do bad things. Cyrus. And we might joke that orful, glittery, loud, vibrant and twerking with Robin Thicke and self in these situations. “Angels Don’t think twice. the “Hannah Montana” star risqué. But whereas “Bangerz” widely criticized 2017 com- Like You” follows the singer Nighttime fun is a constant on has always existed between the was a calculated public image ments on hip-hop are burned separating herself from a lover, “Plastic Hearts.” The aforemen- realms of two identities. But it’s reset, “Plastic Hearts” doesn’t into our memories. Controversy, making it clear that the two are tioned “Midnight Sky” comes more fruitful to acknowledge the seem interested in what the it seems, is part and parcel of completely different. She blames directly after “Night Crawling acceptance of duality on “Plastic public thinks. It’s comfortable growing up under the spotlight. herself: “I brought you down to (feat. ),” the album’s big- Hearts.” Rather than keeping her with itself. Cyrus seems happi- But throughout it all, Cyrus has your knees / ‘Cause they say that gest ‘80s pop bop. It has a synth gallivanting and pleasure to her- er, too. The performances are reinvented herself: nNew looks, misery loves company / It’s not chorus perfect for dancing in self, Cyrus airs out her mistakes stronger, her voice is perfect- fun hairstyles and bright colors your fault I ruin everything / And nightclubs. Along with “Prisoner and grievances. She is proud of ly low and raspy and her looks fill her music videos and perfor- it’s not your fault I can’t be what (feat. ),” the album feels herself, no matter what others are ripped right from the world’s mances. She has tried to fit into you need.” like it’s ready for dancing, driving think (see “Golden G String,” a most famous rock bands. every box possible, exploring It’s a recurring discussion. through the city and getting up to song with the important lyrics, This makes “Plastic Hearts” her artistry. On “Never Be Me,” Cyrus claims no good. Add on extra tracks like “There are layers to this body / feel like it’s bookending two While it feels acceptable to she’ll never be stable or faithful “Edge of Midnight (Midnight Sky Primal sex and primal shame / chapters in Cyrus’ career. And call Cyrus a chameleon — like to her lovers. That’s connected to Remix) (feat. )” and They told me I should cover it / let’s hope that the glam-rock Stevie Nicks did — or an artist “Bad Karma (feat. )”: the Cyrus’ live cover of “Zombie” and So I went the other way”). persona stays. It fits Cyrus more who can simply do everything, album’s sexy duet with thumping you’ve got a party. All of this is especially ful- than any of her previous eras we want more. There must be a bass and enticing “uh, uh” repe- We could speculate what filling, given her newfound and allows her to be the larger- sound, genre or role that feels tition. Its message is about living all this nighttime freedom and glam-rock persona. It is similar than-life diva she was always comfortable for her. On “Plastic a double life: When the moon’s these double lives means for to what we’ve seen before: col- meant to become.

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DumpsterMag_7x4_875.indd 1 5/6/11 10:43 AM 6 THE TUFTS DAILY | Arts & Pop Culture | Wednesday, December 2, 2020 tuftsdaily.com

Julian Levy Keep the Cameras Rolling ‘Jaws’ screenwriter Carl Gottlieb participates in fin-tastic FMS discussion The Oscar race

elcome to possibly the strangest year ever for the obligatory “Oscar race.” Now I know what you’re thinking: WHow can there be the Academy Awards if there are no movies to give awards to? And that’s a fair question, because if you were to have the Oscars today, it would be a pretty underwhelming year indeed. But by virtue of a growing number of streaming services, you can watch much of 2020’s prestige cinema from the com- fort of your own home. Here are a few you can expect to see released over the next few weeks. “The Trial of the Chicago 7” is one of the only contenders that has been released at this point. While it’s well-writ- ten, well-acted and a fun watch all around, it’s not the kind of the movie that will leave you stunned on your way out of the theater (metaphorically of course). It’s a pretty run-of-the-mill courtroom drama that’s elevated by its quality. It’s worth a watch, but in my opinion not “Oscar gold.” And then there’s basically everything else. These films are currently somewhat unknown because of their lack of wide releases, but they have been receiving acclaim from critics who have had the chance to view them. “Nomadland” is the favorite of many for this year’s Best Picture category. Directed by Chloé Zhao, who is also at the helm of one of the next entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, “The COURTESY CARL GOTTLIEB Eternals” (2021), the film follows a Carl Gottlieb is pictured in 2009. woman traversing America in the after- math of the 2008 recession. With Frances by Drew Weisberg he “was getting well known for being creation of great films and detrimental McDormand in the starring role, it’s sure Assistant Arts Editor able to fly in and fix a script.” Despite if poorly executed. to offer a tour de force performance. The his successful work as a “script fixer,” “The auteur theory — a term in film film, however, stands alone among many “When good actors start reading though, Gottlieb notes the film as a theory wherein the director’s vision of the other potential nominees as it is your words, you go, ‘Holy s—, listen,’” point of regret. “I got to read the source stands above all others — [is] not good still only intended as a theatrical release, Carl Gottlieb, the screenwriting veteran material,” Gottlieb said, “[I said,] ‘why for movies, and it gave directors a for the time being at least. behind the world-shifting blockbust- didn’t you give me this to adapt? I would swelled head for a generation,” Gottlieb “Mank”, which will be premiering er “Jaws” (1975), said in a Q&A ses- have loved to have worked on this.’” said before quickly pivoting to the irony in Netflix in early December, checks a sion on Nov. 19. The discussion, which Gottlieb’s most famous work (and of this in the current cinematic day. “If lot of boxes when it comes to a best was organized by the Film and Media another adaptation) is, of course, the you think about superhero movies, and picture win. It features an Academy Studies program and hosted by Jennifer “Jaws” franchise, of which Gottlieb has tentpole movies and all that, can you favorite, Gary Oldman, in the role of Burton, was as frank, humorous and been a torchbearer. name the directors of the Marvel films? an obscure but notable historical fig- intriguing as the aforementioned quote, “After the success of Jaws, it became Like, who cares?” ure. He stars as screenwriter Herman while also serving as a poignant reflec- obvious [there] was going to be a If nothing else, it’s fascinating to Mankiewicz, the man responsible for tion on a storied journey beginning sequel,” Gottlieb said, but ultimately hear that one of the men responsible for writing film-school-favorite Citizen Kane in the “golden age” of Hollywood and noted that the increasingly franchised the modern blockbuster is nevertheless — it’s a movie about movies! Plus, the extending into the modern day. nature of studio filmmaking might be disappointed with its current trajectory. choice to style the audio and visuals after Gottlieb’s career began as an impro- detrimental in the long term. “Things crash and burn and explode,” period-appropriate equipment is just the visational comedic performer, to “It’s kind of the death of the inde- he continued. “The nuances of charac- kind of nostalgia that the Academy loves. which he accredits many of the skills pendent screenplay,” Gottlieb said. ter and the development and relation- What has become one of the most he’s utilized throughout his career. “I “Unless you’re James Cameron … Every ships, they’re not important and the anticipated movies of the year is “Ma am better equipped than most writers other movie is a remake, a sequel, a directors don’t care.” Rainey’s Black Bottom”. A new movie star- to judge how effective my dialogue is prequel, or a reboot, or a comic strip The final segment of this extended ring Viola Davis is enough to get peo- gonna be in another actor’s mouth,” … Sometimes it’s just utilitarian and, thought seemed to summarize, for bet- ple excited, but it is the performance of Gottlieb said. you know, your job is to service the ter or worse, the mix of joy and sorrow Chadwick Boseman that is getting partic- He also noted that the training made project, not your idea of what the film over Gottlieb’s decades-long career in ular attention. Boseman tragically passed him a much more adaptable screenwrit- should be.” the business that he still watches over away earlier this year after a hard-fought er, as he remembers a period working This spirit of collaboration was vital, today: “It’s an evolving business; it’s battle with colon cancer. This is the last on the film “Doctor Detroit” (1983) that in Gottlieb’s assessment, to the ongoing always changing.” movie that he ever filmed, with many reviewers noting that he is a highlight of the film. An Oscar win for Boseman would be a perfect way to reward an acclaimed career taking on some of the biggest roles in Hollywood. This will be released on Netflix even sooner, currently set for Dec. 18. So, if you’ve been missing those classic Oscar movies, don’t despair. We’re about to get a bunch of them really soon, albeit not in the manner that would be expect- ed. Who’s ready for some virtual Oscar parties?

Julian Levy is a first-year who has not yet declared a major. Julian can be reached at NICOLE GARAY / THE TUFTS DAILY [email protected]. Carl Gottlieb discusses his career in an event organized by the Tufts Film and Media Studies program on Nov. 19. tuftsdaily.com Wednesday, December 2, 2020 | FUN & GAMES | THE TUFTS DAILY 7 LATE NIGHT AT THE DAILY F&G Alex: “Calories are a hoax” FUN & GAMES

SUDOKU DATING ADVICE FROM AN ENGLISH MAJOR

Difficulty Level:3 projects for due for 1 class across 5 days. By Matthew Hixson

SEARCHING FOR HEADLINES... Tuesday’s Solutions

CROSSWORD 8 Opinion Wednesday, December 2, 2020 tuftsdaily.com

Caroline DePalma Philosophy in Focus Tell my dog I miss her

t has been an exhausting week. It is stressful enough to be a student near- ing final exams; it is a whole other ordeal to try to be focused on any- Ithing while COVID-19 cases increase and new restrictions are put in place. Friedrich Hayek wrote in “The Road to Serfdom” (1944) that “We are ready to accept almost any explanation of the pres- ent crisis of our civilization except one: that the present state of the world may be the result of genuine error on our own part.” Perhaps he’s right. Perhaps everything we did to try to make being on campus safe for everyone simply wasn’t enough, or we just didn’t prepare well enough. There is no doubt that the intentions of the administration and the student body were in the right place, and that every- thing the students and faculty did to make being here as safe as possible prevented the situation from getting much worse, much sooner. Nevertheless, we are now faced with increasingly difficult circumstances. While the choice between staying on campus through the end of the semester and fin- ishing the semester at home was a more difficult one than I had anticipated, I am here for the long haul. So despite the unconventional holiday I had last week, I still have tried to think about what I’m thankful for — the things that make me want to stay here for as long as I can. For the classes I am still attending in person, I am reminded of what would have been lost if we could only see each other as tiny boxes on a screen. Every time I pass a new friend on the stairs, I think about the connections I might have missed if we had only known each other through Instagram. But something about eating every meal in plastic containers makes me miss a home-cooked dinner. Sitting six feet apart in every class makes me look forward to a hug from my parents and my best friends when I get home, and it has been far too long since the last time I pet my dog. In spite of that, I am still excited to be here and making the most of it in any way I can. Hayek’s words are a sobering reminder that sometimes the search for something great leads us somewhere we didn’t expect. A year ago, I had no idea that the search for the best academic experi- ence possible would come at the expense of so much. I still have no idea now what that search will look like next month, never mind next year. But Hayek also wrote that the only thing to do when a good plan goes awry is to try again. So tell my dog that I miss her, and take a moment to think about the things you’re thankful for that could have made the decision difficult (or effortless, as the case may be) to stay on campus, and let’s try again.

Caroline DePalma is a first-year who has not yet declared a major. Caroline can be reached at [email protected]

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Jenny Lu approaches conference finals In the Paint What the NBA can learn from the NFL season

ith previously injured play- ers like Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant coming back, rookies from the draft look- Wing to find their feet, free agent signings hoping to break through and ongoing trades changing the league, there’s a lot to look forward to in the NBA. Last season, the NBA went on an over four- month hiatus starting in mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There were many concerns over how the sea- son would continue, but the league eventually settled on creating a bubble in Orlando, Fla. Twenty-two teams were invited onto the Disney campus to carry out the rest of their season, and 16 teams entered the playoffs. Although there were a few instances of misconduct (*cough cough* Danuel House), most players and coaches adhered strictly to the COVID-19 guide- lines within the bubble, which paid off as there were zero cases of infec- tion on campus. Athletes across the campus behaved professionally; they RYAN KNAPP / WIKIMEDIA COMMONS were always photographed with masks Sporting KC and the New England Revolution are pictured during a game in 2011. on when not playing and coaches and reporters frequently urged others to by Michael Wallace-Bruce finals match. Orlando dominated the and link-up passes paid dividends as do the same. Much like how the NBA Contributing Writer possession side of the game; they had they scored an exquisite goal in the addressed the Black Lives Matter move- about 61% of the ball throughout the 82nd minute. The game looked to be ment, the league was a leader in how The Major League Soccer (MLS) 90 minutes while New England had over until Ricardo Pepi scored from a to conduct sports during COVID-19. playoffs began on Nov. 21. The first 39% of the ball. Nevertheless, New ball ricocheting from the post in the All fans were virtual, with the likes of game of the playoffs featured Orlando England capitalized on their opportu- injury time. former President Barack Obama and Lil City SC and New York City FC (NYCFC). nities and scored an awarded penalty The game ended with a penalty score Wayne lining the walls of the gym. Orlando took the lead in the fifth min- in the 17th minute. Striker Gustavo Bou of 8–7 favoring Dallas. With another season coming up, ute with Nani’s penalty kick, but central also calmly finished a chance in the Minnesota United FC defeated the same concerns for COVID-19 have defender Maxime Chanot headered in a 25th minute to put New England up the 3–0. Though the not gone away, although it’s hard to goal to level the game for NYCFC during by two goals. Orlando responded with score line hints at a different narra- tell from the NFL season that’s going the eighth minute. In the 87th minute a goal in the 33rd minute and contin- tive, Colorado played well and forced on right now. Back in March, the NFL of the game, Ruan received a red card ued to look threatening when moving six crucial saves from Minnesota’s announced that they would hold a full for a hostile challenge on an NYCFC forward. However, their attacking mid- goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair. However, season without being in a bubble set- player. The rest of the game went back fielder, Mauricio Pereyra, received a red Minnesota slotted their open chances ting like the NBA or NHL. There is and forth with both teams taking many card in the 60th minute. The challenge to win the game. some kind of testing program for the shots on the goal. Nonetheless, the was costly as New England utilized In the ultimate game of the first players and staff, but with traveling and match finished 1–1 after 90 minutes. the advantage to score their third and round of the Western Conference play- the admittance of fans, the season was During the penalty shootouts, Pedro game-sealing goal. offs, Seattle Sounders FC defeated doomed from the start. Although the Gallese, the goalkeeper for Orlando, Sporting KC played the San Jose Los Angeles FC (LAFC) 3–1. Seattle stadiums will hold a reduced capacity received a controversial red card for Earthquakes to commence the play- scored the first goal in the 18th min- of fans, the number for any game is still encroaching on his line during a pen- offs within the Western Conference. The ute. Following a skillful dribble, LAFC’s in the thousands. alty kick. In spite of that, Orlando won game finished 3–3 during normal play- talisman Carlos Vela earned a pen- As of Week 12 in the NFL, there has the penalty shootout 6–5 to move on to ing time. In the penalty shootout, the alty in the 21st minute. However, he been a significant spike in COVID-19 the next round. Sporting KC goalkeeper had three spec- shot straight into the keeper’s hand cases and teams like the Denver Broncos Within the Eastern Conference, the tacular saves to propel his team into and the first half ended 1–0. During and Baltimore Ravens are without key New England Revolution defeated the the conference semifinals. The penalty the second half, Seattle dominated the players. The NBA is going to have a 2–0 in a stunning shootout, in all, finished 3–0 in favor of game; they hit the post three times and similar plan come December, but what win. Favorites to win the playoffs, Sporting KC. looked threatening with their attacks. they really should do is learn from the Philadelphia had the best record within Portland Timbers and FC Dallas’ Consequently, the Sounders scored mistakes of the current NFL season. It’s the Eastern and Western Conferences. game also ended in a penalty shootout. in the 66th minute. Although LAFC unacceptable for the NBA to hold play- They finished the year with 14 wins, five As the winner of the MLS is Back scored in the 77th minute to make it offs and finals in a bubble back in July draws and four losses. The team also Tournament, Portland finished third in 2–1, the Sounders scored to seal the but have any other plan for the 2020–21 had the best goal differences within the Western Conference and scored 46 game in the 80th minute. season, a season that will start amid the both conferences. goals within the season. Meanwhile, The conference finals are fixed. holidays when the pandemic is worse New England, on the other hand, FC Dallas finished sixth in the Western The New England Revolution will than ever before. Players will likely not played against the Montreal Impact to Conference. play against the Columbus Crew in want to transition back into bubble life gain entry into the playoffs and are the The match between the two teams the Western Conference finals sched- as it means sacrificing time away from eighth seed in the playoffs. Although was exciting and eventful especially uled for Dec. 6. Columbus appears as their families, making another NBA bub- seasonal team statistics illustrated their during the penalty shootout. The teams the favorite, but New England, based ble far out of reach (although ideal). unlikeliness to win, New England won shared a close amount of possession; on their recent displays, can upset Nonetheless, it’s not too late to make the game due to a persistent attacking Portland, however, had more shots on the Columbus team. In the Eastern changes to the season that will protect effort in the first half. Philadelphia, on goal. Dallas scored the first goal of the Conference, the Seattle Sounders players and fans alike by having empty the other hand, simply lacked attacking game in the 32nd minute, but it was defeated FC Dallas by a score of 1–0 yes- stadiums and less traveling. creativity to trouble the New England overturned as offside after video assis- terday for an Eastern Conference finals keeper. tant refereeing counselled the referee. spot. Meanwhile, Sporting Kansas will Jenny Lu is a first-year who has not yet Following their win, New England The first half ended 0–0. Though the play Minnesota United FC on Dec. 3 for declared a major. Jenny can be reached at beat Orlando 3–1 in a conference semi- game was open, Portland’s attacking a Western Conference finals spot. [email protected]