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VOLUME 142, NO. 13 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021 WWW.STUDLIFE.COM

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‘Our safety hangs in the balance’: Students SU and demand WU take action to prevent sexual violence Title Mine host town hall explaining WU’s Title IX guidance for student groups

TED MOSKAL SENIOR NEWS EDITOR

Student Union and Title Mine, a survivor-focused activist group on campus, held a town hall, Feb. 4, with Washington University admin- MORAD SULIMAN | STUDENT LIFE istrators to discuss new guidelines One of the posters placed around campus leading up to the “Wash. U. Has a Problem” event, demanding that the University take more action against campus sexual for student groups regarding Title violence. The protest, a part of a movement spanning college campuses nationwide, was brought to Wash. U. by organizers of the @metoo_washu Instagram account. IX issues in light of the Trump administration’s changes to federal ORLI SHEFFEY violence problem” and “Wash. U. of sexual violence and demanded McDermott, who is concentrat- policy. NEWS EDITOR has a rape problem.” Chalked mes- that the University abolish Greek ing in Violence and Trauma in Former U.S. Secretary of sages included phrases such as “I Life. According to Washington Communities at the Brown School Education Betsy DeVos issued new In a protest titled “Wash. U. believe you even if Title IX doesn’t” University’s 2019 AAU Campus of Social Work, attended the pro- federal Title IX guidelines over the Has a Problem,” which was orga- and quotes from Tarana Burke, the Climate Survey, 15.7% of sexual test and said that she wants the summer increasing protections for nized by the group in charge of the creator of the #MeToo movement. assaults involving physical force or University to implement policies those accused of sexual misconduct, Instagram account @metoo_washu, Online, the account @metoo_ incapacitation occured in fraternity that are trauma-informed and center prompting backlash and condem- students gathered in small groups washu encouraged students who houses. Additionally, an SU Senate on survivors. nation from a number of higher across campus to demand that were unable to participate in the survey from this summer found that “A lot of the past has been like education institutions and civil Washington University take action in-person event to protest virtually 65.13% of students favored the abo- ‘survivors meet with your abusers rights groups. These guidelines have to prevent sexual violence and sup- on Feb. 8 by changing their Zoom lition of Greek Life. or meet with people who have per- not yet been repealed by the Biden port survivors, Feb. 7. backgrounds and posting photos @metoo_washu demanded that petrated violence and like unity and administration, although he prom- The protest was part of a nation- on social media with the hashtag the University modify the Student hold hands and hug’ and that’s non- ised in November to do so. wide event on college campuses #WashUHasAProblem. Gender Equity Grievance Process sense,” McDermott said. Since the new regulations went around the world, which was “Although the survivors in our (SGEGP) to prohibit questions McDermott added that she wants into effect in August, adminis- planned by the University Survivors community have different visions regarding a survivor’s sexual history professors to be more lenient with trators have struggled to rewrite Movement, an international orga- for justice and accountability, we with the perpetrator and to shorten students actively experiencing Washington University’s policies nization with the goal of ending stand united in our refusal to accept the investigation timeline to 60 days. trauma, including allowing flexible in a way that provides the highest sexual violence at colleges and administrative failure regarding In addition, the account advocates attendance and deadlines. level of support possible to survivors universities. sexual violence prevention,” the for the establishment of a transfor- “There’s such a big push for while still following federal rules. In order to follow COVID-19 president of @metoo_washu wrote mative justice process, creation of academia and rigor and that’s not “I think we can all agree that the guidelines, organizers divided pro- in a statement to Student Life. mandatory prevention program- always trauma informed and that guidance doesn't feel good, and testers into small groups to chalk The president of @metoo_washu ming that addresses the intersection doesn’t always benefit anybody but doesn't feel like it serves students messages and post flyers across cited the 2019 AAU Campus of systems of oppression and sexual the University,” McDermott said. in the way that we wanted to,” campus and outside administrative Climate Survey, which found that violence, creation of affinity-based “I just would like people to be able Director of the Relationship and offices. 42.5% of female-identifying stu- survivor support groups at the to be here studying and educating Sexual Violence Prevention Center In addition to hanging flyers that dents experienced sexual violence Washington University Rape and safely and having their health and Kim Webb said. “But I also think listed demands for the University during their time at Washington Sexual Violence Prevention Center well-being prioritized more than sta- that we have to be really careful to and resources for survivors, protest- University. This is three points (RSVP) and expansion of mental tus and clout and grades and GPA follow the guidance so that we don't ers spread awareness about sexual higher than the national average. health services that include more and all those things that don’t really put students who are going through violence on campus with flyers that Leading up to the protest, @ counselors with marginalized matter at the end of the day.” a process in a worse place.” read “Wash. U. has a consent prob- metoo_washu posted about the role identities. lem,” “Wash. U. has a sexual of Greek Life in the perpetuation Graduate student Laura SEE PROTEST, PAGE 2 SEE TITLE IX, PAGE 3

Businesses on Delmar Loop adapt to changing pandemic landscape GRACE KENNARD Edwards mentioned spending a we sort of got back our community to constantly adapt to changing store, but academic departments NEWS EDITOR considerable sum of money to fund even though it was outside.” COVID-19 restrictions was the at the University have created a safety features at Blueberry Hill, Many small businesses like biggest challenge for her business lasting relationship. Subterranean Local businesses on the Delmar including raising booth divider Meshuggah were forced to pivot during the pandemic. Books has carried coursebooks Loop have faced a variety of heights and installing hand sani- their business models throughout “As soon as you figure out one for over fifteen years for classes unique challenges over the past tizer stations. Similarly, Mission the year. For Kaslow and her cafe, thing, things change and you have at the University, most of them year, from mandatory shutdowns Taco adapted the waiting area at the transition to online ordering to quickly come up with something in the English Department. The in March to a closure of indoor their Delmar location to allow was a major change. else and put new systems in place bookstore’s website even has a dining in St. Louis County in guests space to wait for their table “I, to be honest, never even and fine-tune those systems,” von dedicated section for coursebooks November. The spread of COVID- outside. answered my phone because the Plonski said. “So by this point at the University that is frequently 19 and frequently changing Jen Kaslow, owner of focus for the coffee shop is just everything is fine-tuned, but it updated. guidelines have contributed to the Meshuggah Cafe, noted that about the community,” Kaslow takes a while and we definitely “The professors and instruc- difficulties that small businesses University City allowed the cafe to said. “I don’t really want to have an have appreciated our custom- tors, the University, particularly have grappled with over the past extend the patio seating into park- online presence...but zero chance ers’ patience in working with the English Department has really year. ing spots to allow for more tables, we were going to survive under us as we work through constant also reached out and given us a lot Restaurants have faced some of which helped morale and business. that model, so we had to switch to adaptations.” of support over [this] semester,” the largest hurdles to safely reopen. “It was really sad at the begin- online ordering and figure out how Despite the challenges, both von Plonski said. “There are a lot Several Loop restaurant owners, ning because the whole reason for to navigate that.” Kaslow and von Plonski praised of University-specific orders that including Joe Edwards, owner of the coffee shop is to be a commu- Similar to Meshuggah, the regional support from the people placed with us, not just Peacock Loop Diner, Blueberry nity gathering place and so to not Subterranean Books was forced Washington University community individuals, but through the depart- Hill and Pin Up Bowl, had to phys- have that community was really sad to make some adjustments to its and local residents. Von Plonski ment, and that was really nice.” ically change how their spaces were for all of us,” she said. “But then business model. Owner Kelly described how University students operating. once [we transitioned to outdoors], von Plonski said that the need have contributed revenue to the SEE LOOP, PAGE 3

CONTACT BY POST CONTACT BY EMAIL CONTACT BY PHONE ONE BROOKINGS DRIVE #1039 [email protected] NEWSROOM 314.935.5995 #320 DANFORTH UNIVERSITY CENTER [email protected] ADVERTISING 314.935.4240 ST. LOUIS, MO 63130-4899 [email protected] FAX 314.935.5938 2 STUDENT LIFE EM MCPHIE & TED MOSKAL | SENIOR NEWS EDITORS | [email protected] THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Dr. Shantay Bolton to join WU the as chief administrative officer FLIPSIDE TED MOSKAL THU 11 FRI 12 SAT 13 SUN 14 future leaders. She also Martin’s mantra that COLOR CLOUDY PARTLY CLOUDY PM SNOW SHOWERS CLOUDY SENIOR NEWS EDITOR 22/9 18/8 13/-5 9/-4 oversaw a major depart- Washington University is Dr. Shantay Bolton, mental merger, led Tulane’s “in St. Louis and for St. MON 15 TUES 16 WED 17 CLOUDY MOSTLY CLOUDY PARTLY CLOUDY Tulane University’s vice “return to work plan” for Louis.” 13/0 20/6 27/11 president and deputy COVID-19 and took on a “It is with great humil- chief operating officer, number of other responsi- ity and genuine enthusiasm EVENT CALENDAR will join the Washington bilities during her four years that I accept the vote of University community as at the University. confidence entrusted in me THURSDAY 11 executive vice chancellor Civic engagement has by Chancellor Martin and for administration and chief also been a major prior- the Wash. U. community administrative officer, Jul. 1. ity for Bolton, who serves to lead the administrative Explore Faculty Papers with the University Archivist Bolton will succeed on the New Orleans work- operations of such a glob- Virtual Event, 4:30 p.m. Henry S. Webber, who held force development board. ally prestigious institution,” Ever wonder what faculty do with their papers when they retire? Some come to the position since 2008, but As a faculty member of Bolton wrote in a statement. University Archives where they are cared for and made available to researchers. Join was named Washington the American Association “No matter what awaits us University Archivist Sonya Rooney to hear about different faculty material, how they University’s first executive of Blacks in Higher in the journey ahead, I am got to the Archives, and how they have been used. vice chancellor for civic Education’s (AABHE) beyond confident that we affairs and strategic plan- Leadership Mentoring can find success together, In Skandalaris Startup Webinar: Women in STEM ning in August. After this Institute, she has also St. Louis, For St. Louis!” Virtual Event, 2 p.m. announcement, a search helped Black profession- Bolton’s academic quali- In celebration of International Women and Girls in Science Day, we are hosting a committee composed of als develop the necessary fications include both a eight faculty members and skills to work in senior bachelor’s degree in psy- panel discussion with Skandalaris’ newest Expert on Call, Cheryl Watkins-Moore, administrators spent the fall management positions. As chology and a master’s Cristina de Guzman Strong, assistant professor of Medicine at Washington University identifying the top candi- a result of this work, the degree in counseling psy- and a former LEAP winner, and Margo Edwards, a WashU alum who currently serves dates to replace Webber. New Orleans newspaper chology from Alabama as the Director of the Applied Research Laboratory at the University of Hawaii at At Tulane, Bolton over- The Gambit named her one A&M University, as well Manoa. The panel will discuss what motivated them to pursue the study of science in saw business operations, of its “40 under 40 over- as a doctorate in organiza- medicine and applied research and will share how young women and girls can do the human resources, leader- achievers and do-gooders” tional psychology with a same! ship development, employee in 2019. concentration in industrial engagement and more. As According to Bolton, psychology from Walden the founder of Tulane’s her commitment to engag- University and an MBA FRIDAY 12 Leadership Institute, Bolton ing with the New Orleans from Florida International sought to diversify the community during her University. She is also a St. Picturing Lagos: Photography and African Visual Histories University’s management time at Tulane lines up Louis native and a graduate by nurturing and training with Chancellor Andrew of Vashon High School. Virtual Event, 12 p.m. The invention of the daguerreotype in 1839, ushered in a modern era of visual practice that marked a major turning point in African (and African Diaspora) visual history. This technological precursor to photography paved the way for the parallel advent of the camera and colonial rule on the continent, notably in the British economic and imperial center of West Africa: Lagos (Nigeria). Offering a brief overview of my manuscript, Picturing Lagos: Photography and Place in a West African City, 1861- 1950, this talk explores the important but understated role that photographs played in the development of key social institutions—the colonial government, the church and the press.

SATURDAY 13

Public Tour: ‘Art, Untitled’ Virtual Event, 11 a.m. Student educators design and lead virtual tours featuring several artworks in the Kem- per Art Museum collection, showing images of the artworks through screen sharing and answering participant questions. On February 13, Lingran Zhang (Arts & Sciences ‘21) explores the practice of titling artworks, considering how the “Untitled” label shapes viewer responses to a range of modern and contemporary artworks from the collection.

‘Monumental Anti-Racism’ Virtual Event, 11 a.m. A part of the MLA Lecture Series. “Unprecedented times” is a phrase of this moment, encompassing the pandemic, political division, the Black Lives Matter movement, and their reverberations. Research and art help to understand. Geoff Ward’s work on anti- racism links to the racial inequity spotlighted by the Black Lives Matter movement, as well as COVID-19’s disproportionate effect on people of color.

COURTESY OF THE SOURCE Dr. Shantay Bolton will begin as Washington University’s chief administrative officer July 1. MONDAY 15 Bolton currently serves as Tulane University’s vice president and deputy chief operating officer.

Book Talk with Jessica Johnson Virtual Event, 4 p.m. from page 1 Join Washington University Alumna, Jessica Johnson, as she talks about her new PROTEST Junior James Cevasco, the United Kingdom, most of the people run- book, Wicked Flesh. Johnson draws on archival documents scattered in institutions who also attended the pro- Scotland and Ireland. ning these accounts are across three continents, written in multiple languages and largely from the perspective test, emphasized that he Verbrugge said that as survivors themselves.” of colonial officials and slave-owning men, to recreate black women’s experiences from thinks sexual violence has an international coalition, Acknowledging this, coastal Senegal to French Saint-Domingue to Spanish Cuba to the swampy outposts of become too normalized at USM serves as a collec- Verbrugge added that she the Gulf Coast. Washington Unviersity. tive community to connect is inspired by survivors “We all see the statistics organizations with each who are unable to speak and the graphics and stuff other and create organized out about the sexual vio- TUESDAY 16 like that and we just kind events, such as protests, lence they have faced. of all act like that’s just vicarious trauma trainings “What inspires us is the Chancellor Martin’s First Annual State of the University part of college,” Cevasco and social media outreach people who want to be Virtual Event, 2 p.m. said. “But the fact that trainings. fighting this fight and can’t every single individual “We need to make because they’re in a posi- Join Chancellor Andrew D. Martin as he delivers his first annual State of the Univer- person can be affected by sure that we’re not only tion where they are too sity address. The virtual event will be recorded for those who are unable to attend. Im- this hugely is not some- providing survivors on vulnerable and fear retali- mediately following the address, students, faculty and staff are invited to join univer- thing that people should our campuses with the ation,” Vebrugge said. sity leaders for breakout Q&A sessions via Zoom. just push aside.” resources they need to heal “We provide them with a Although @metoo_ and feel safe, but we’re voice.” Combination Microfinance and HIV Prevention Interventions for Women Engaged washu began as an also providing organizers Both Verbrugge and the in Sex Work account run by one per- with methods for advocat- president of @metoo_ Virtual Event, 12:30 p.m. son in June, it now has ing for those survivors and washu said that they hope Join ICHAD for the next Speakers Series with Susan Witte, professor of Social Work, more than 3,000 followers advocating for educational to spread awareness about Columbia School of Social Work, who will speak on “Combination Microfinance and and a team of members change,” Verbrugge said. the administrative failures HIV Prevention Interventions for Women Engaged in Sex Work: What Do We Know who have anonymously Verbrugge spoke to the to provide adequate sexual Works? Where Do We Go from Here?” Witte’s presentation will review the state of shared the stories of 117 mental health impact of violence prevention and Washington University running these Instagram support for survivors on the literature, including ICHAD’s current study on combination interventions for survivors. accounts, explaining that college campuses. women engaged in sex work, reflect on unanswered questions and consider some of Similar Instagram many organizers experi- “By doing this, we hope the theoretical and methodological challenges that may inform future studies. accounts have been cre- enced burnout by the end that we will not only get ated at many universities of September. attention on the issue, but across the world, and the “I think one thing that that students will be made WEDNESDAY 17 @metoo_washu protest students don’t really aware of administrative was coordinated with a understand is that it’s negligence because a lot A Killing Cure: Education, Segregation and the Meaning of Health When Black broader, international more than just collect- of them often don’t real- Communities Disappear coalition: the University ing and sharing stories,” ize how administrations Virtual Event, 7 p.m. Survivors Movement Verbrugge said. “It’s about continue to fail survivors,” As part of the Ilene Katz Lowenthal and Edward Lowenthal Symposium Series, the (USM). According to looking at the trends Verbrugge said. “A lot of Department of Education welcomes featured speaker Noliwe Rooks, who is the W.E.B Grace Verbrugge, a junior and the stories and say- schools are actively gut- at Gettysburg College and ing what this is telling ting resources, they are Du Bois Professor at Cornell University. After her presentation, Rooks will be joined Public Relations Co-Chair, us about how our school shaming survivors into by Amber Jones (Harris-Stowe State University), Jerome Morris (the E. Desmond Lee USM now includes 50-60 operates and what we are silence or they’re further Endowed Professor of Urban Education at the University of Missouri - St. Louis), and Instagram accounts going to do about it. It can re-traumatizing them Michelle Purdy (Washington University in St. Louis) for a conversation that connects across the United States be very emotionally drain- until they give up on the the themes from her work to the local context in the St. Louis region. and in countries such as ing, especially because process.” THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021 EM MCPHIE & TED MOSKAL | SENIOR NEWS EDITORS | [email protected] STUDENT LIFE 3

TITLE IX from page 1 The University’s guide- “We suggest some word- lines encourage student ing that can be placed in groups to develop clear a constitution or a bylaw expectations for behav- [that] would be an expec- ior of members as well as tation requiring student direct steps for account- members to acknowledge or ability in the case that these report if they…have been expectations are not met. reported to have performed However, these guidelines anything against [the] Code limit the actual actions that of Conduct,” Heusted said. student groups are permit- “If a member decides that ted to take against members they want to be a member accused of any type of sex- of your group, and they ual misconduct. agree to that as an expecta- “In accordance with tion and then they choose federal Title IX regula- not to share that informa- tions, if the allegations tion, that could be subject against a member involve to some consequences that interpersonal violence, are spelled out in your sexual harassment, sexual constitution.” assault or other sexual mis- Title IX Director Jessica conduct, student groups Kennedy also added that may not impose sanctions in certain cases where or take any action with the immediate health and respect to the membership safety of a student was status (e.g., suspension, determined to be at risk, the removal, etc.) of the mem- University could step in to ber without the member use “emergency removal” CURRAN NEENAN | STUDENT LIFE being found responsible for the accused individual. Student Union and Title Mine hosted a town hall to clarify how the new Title IX regulations—put into effect over the summer of 2020— after a University inves- “That's an area where we will impact groups on campus. “I think we can all agree that the guidance doesn’t feel good, and doesn’t feel like it serves students in the way that we wanted to,” Director of the Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Center Kim Webb said. “But I also think that tigation through the would not necessarily have we have to be really careful to follow the guidance so that we don’t put students who are going through a process in a worse place.” applicable University to wait for the completion office,” the guidelines read. of the grievance process,” Student Union President sure that there are suffi- situation. especially Title Mine and While a University Kennedy said. “But we and town hall host junior cient protections in place to “I don't know that the the University Survivors investigation is being con- would have to be able to Ranen Miao expressed protect protect and defend University will make any Movement, would not stop ducted, student groups make that very specific concern over treatment students on our campus,” significant changes with- advocating for stronger will have no avenue to take finding, where it's no lon- of survivors under these Miao said. out those regulations being guidelines. any action against an indi- ger just enough to be about guidelines, although he Even if President Biden changed,” Kennedy said. “Our top priority would vidual accused of sexual psychological harm. It acknowledged that they decides to repeal the Trump “And it might be something be restoring all the previous misconduct. Additionally, [using emergency removal] were the best that adminis- administration’s guidelines, where we'd have to read [Obama era] protections,” if a survivor chooses not to requires this threat to trators could offer without Kennedy estimated that it between the lines. And we Miao said. “But we would open an investigation, the physical health and safety, violating federal policy, could take up to two years would do that on a case-by- still want to lobby the same restrictions will apply. arising from the allegations “I think that [the to fully repeal them and case basis and try to make a federal government to However, according to of sexual harassment.” guidelines] really are not put new ones in place. If decision about what we saw enhance these protections, Director of Campus Life Kennedy also mentioned trauma-informed and they the guidelines are not fully as harm that we thought because on campuses Leslie Heusted, student that student group lead- really increase the diffi- repealed, Kennedy said that could be easily eliminated across America, there are groups can address these ers can “request” that a culty for survivors to come one likely scenario would versus the things that we students who are still not restrictions by includ- member accused of sexual forward and report their be that the Department of think we should leave in being heard. And there ing sections in their misconduct leave their cases, both in terms of the Education might indicate place…So it's something aren't strict enough incen- constitutions that mandate group, but added that reforms to the Title IX its intention not to enforce that we would evaluate if tives for universities to fully punishments for those who attempts to “pressure” that reporting process and in certain harmful parts of the and when that time comes.” conform to those guide- fail to disclose that they member to leave would terms of what universities current guidelines, which Regardless of what path lines. We want to make sure have been accused of sex- violate the University’s can do to hold perpetrators would put Washington the University takes, Miao that we're able to…push for ual misconduct. guidelines. accountable and making University in a precarious said that student activists, much stronger regulations.”

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Similarly, Kaslow at pick up orders. A recent meant to show her and talk about it all the time,” lovely, so patient, so under- out and even picking up Meshuggah expressed promotion of a buy one the staff’s appreciation for Kaslow said. “The group standing and really loyal, gift cards to use at a later her gratitude to the loyal get one free breakfast bagel their support. of customers, the Wash. and it’s been an amazing date.” University students who during the first week of “The Wash. U. students U. students, that we’ve had experience…You really A report conducted dine outside the café or classes for students was have been amazing and we through this has been so have no idea the impact on by Yelp found that over the business it has. It really 160,000 small businesses gives another employee a had closed between April job.” and Sept. of 2020, 60% of Besides dining in at a which permanently closed restaurant or cafe, several their doors. Von Plonski Loop business owners also and Edwards both empha- noted the importance of sized how supporting local following virus precau- businesses can help vitalize tions. Edwards mentioned one’s community. that local residents, “We fully recognize that University students there are lots of options and faculty have been out there and appreciate respectful of COVID-19 when people do choose to guidelines thus far, while shop with us,” Von Plonski Mission Taco co-owner said. “Whether it’s online, Adam Tilford encouraged over the phone, in person, the whole community to however they want to do it follow safety guidelines because that money truly and added that supporting does go back into the St. businesses from a distance Louis community…not to is also an option. mention, it literally puts “The biggest thing that food on our table.” the St. Louis community “I think supporting the can do is to wear masks, independent businesses social distance and slow that thrive in the Loop the spread of the virus,” under normal conditions, Tilford said in a statement anyway, is really impor- to Student Life. “Try din- tant,” Edwards said. “The ing during off-peak hours more they can enjoy buy- when dining rooms are at ing right in person and not their lowest capacity. If online, that’ll support all CURRAN NEENAN | STUDENT LIFE you don’t feel comfortable these businesses and the Subterranean Books, located in the Delmar Loop. In partnership with the University, the bookstore has carried required dining in, we also appre- street will thrive and be readings for several Wash. U. classes for over fifteen years, receiving significant support from the English department. ciate support for carry vibrant.”

VOLUME 142, NO. 13 Emma Baker Kya Vaughn Curran Neenan Sabrina Spence Adrienne Levin Coleman Copyright © 2020 Washington Editor-in-Chief Senior Forum Editor Senior Photo Editor Social Media Director General Manager University Student Media, [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Inc. (WUSMI). Student Life Nathan Springman is a financially and editorially Matthew Friedman Dorian DeBose JJ Coley Webmaster Tammy Dunsford independent, student-run Associate Editor Josh Shapiro Isabella Neubauer Advertising Sales Supervisor newspaper serving the Senior Sports Editors Copy Chiefs Jamila Dawkins [email protected] Washington University Jayla Butler [email protected] [email protected] Forum Editor community. Our newspaper is Kya Vaughn a publication of WUSMI and Managing Editors Isabella Neubauer Vivienne Chang Christine Watridge does not necessarily represent Sabrina Spence Kathleen White Jaime Lee the views of the Washington Em McPhie Senior Cadenza Editors Engagement Directors Spencer Linenberg University administration. Ted Moskal [email protected] Kamala Madireddi Senior News Editors HN Hoffmann Clara Richards [email protected] Mia Goldberg Jaden Satenstein Designers Design Chief Christine Watridge Benjamin Simon [email protected] Multimedia Editors Senior Scene Editor [email protected] 4 STUDENT LIFE BENJAMIN SIMON | SENIOR SCENE EDITOR | [email protected] THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021 SCENE He studied at WU. Seventeen years later, he’s on ‘The Amazing Race’

SAMRA HASEEB video again the next season,” that proved particularly inte- aired and they watched as STAFF WRITER continued Lee, “and got gral. “It’s just more as long as a family, Lee and Nguyen’s rejected again. It wasn’t until you get involved in as many daughters were so excited People find adventure in a like our fourth or fifth try that different experiences as pos- to see how their parents did. variety of spaces. Many travel we finally got called back.” sible, that should set you up “And as soon as soon as an internationally, some run in The persistence proved well for the race,” said Lee. episode would end, they were races, but a select few travel to be worthwhile though, But even if you tried to like, ‘Oh my gosh, I can’t wait around the world in a global- because Lee and Nguyen check every box beforehand, for another week!’” shared scale race––“The Amazing went on to finish second place “The Amazing Race” would Lee. Race.” in the race, just short of win- still surprise you. Every day “The Amazing Race” may Washington University ners Will Jardell and James brought new cities and new have forced Lee and Nguyen alumnus Chee Lee (’04) Wallington. ventures, his favorite being to maintain prolonged competed on the most recent Finishing in second place Kazakhstan and India. His secrecy, but it also left the season of “The Amazing requires incredible dedica- favorite challenge of the couple with enriched perspec- COURTESY OF CBS Race,” the reality television tion and teamwork. But competition, however, took tives on life. WU alum Chee Lee and his wife Hung Nguyen participate in the series where teams of two unlike a typical race, one place cooking in Brazil, “With my wife, she has a 11th and final leg of the ‘Amazing Race’ at the Superdome in race around the world solving cannot exactly train for “The when the teams took a boat much greater appreciation for New Orleans. They finished second in the 32nd season of the TV show, which aired throughout the fall and winter of 2020. clues and completing crazy Amazing Race.” Every aspect to a “completely off-the- things like humanity and the challenges of any form, from of life is tested in a totally grid indigenous tribe” and kindness of people,” Lee said. understanding that, hey, we’re themselves, I really do think it watermelon launching to unanticipated way, so there attempted to replicate a local “No matter what country going to be competing against showcases what true human- mountain climbing. Over the was no distinct thing that Lee dish. This challenge was quite you’re in, or what language each other when it’s go-time,” ity is all about.” course of four weeks––travel- and Nguyen did to prepare. a culture shock for Lee. “I you speak, at the end of the remarked Lee. “But once the So if and when the ing by foot, plane, hot air Lee elaborated, “You just didn’t even realize that these day, people just want to live leg is over, once the race is opportunity arises, Lee balloon and more––competi- try to expose yourself to as tribes still exist in the world,” their best life and want to try over, there’s no reason why provided some advice for tors strive to avoid elimination many different things as pos- he admitted. to find happiness for them- we can’t be friends.” anyone looking to enter “The and win the grand prize of sible to at least get yourself After exploring places like selves and their families, right? And unlike other seasons, Amazing Race.” “When one million dollars. being comfortable with being Kazakhstan and India and We’re really not that differ- Lee and Nguyen’s season you’re making your audition Lee was introduced to uncomfortable.” completing challenges of no ent in the grand scheme of of competitors have stayed video, be truthful. Don’t make “The Amazing Race” by his Four years of college invites limitation, it is interesting things.” close even after the show–– up anything about yourself or race partner and wife Hung a fair share of life exposure to recognize that Lee and For Lee, there occurred whether it be through physical what you’ve done,” he said. Nguyen, who has been a long- and uncomfortability, so Nguyen returned back home a shift in how he prioritized reunions, virtual Among Us Lee recommended preserv- time fan of the show. Once naturally the question arose to routine life––and could his time. “I care more about games, or even just messages ing authenticity while still they started watching together over whether attending Wash. not say anything about the spending time with my family in the groupchat. “We’re a emphasizing the “quirks of around 2011, Lee got hooked. U. gave Lee any extra edge in show. “We signed like stacks than I did before,” he said. really tight cast, which I’m your personality.” “Ever since then it was just the race. His answer was not of paperwork, just promis- “Before I was maybe more told is unusual,” said Lee. The Amazing Race appointment viewing for us quite a ‘yes,’ but not com- ing that we won’t tell,” Lee focused on work and things Lee and Nguyen’s cast embarks competitors on a every single week whenever it pletely a ‘no’ either. Lee was explained. Lee and Nguyen’s like that. But now like, you might also be the last one for whirlwind journey nothing was on,” said Lee. on Wash. U.’s tennis team as season of “The Amazing know, I just realized life is a while, as the season after short of surreal, yet at the end What drove the couple to well as a member of Raas, Race” filmed over the span short. And on my deathbed, theirs had to stop filming of the day these are still every- actually audition, though, one of the Indian competitive of four weeks in November I’d rather have memories of halfway through because of day people. In future seasons was the realization that there dance teams. He also double of 2018, but episodes did family than those of being at a COVID-19. This, in con- it could be the kid in your psy- would never be a “right time” majored in Computer Science not air on CBS until late computer.” junction with recent years chology class breakout room, to pursue this dream. After and Finance. Lee shared that 2020. The couple had to The significance of memo- of declining viewership, is the girl behind you in line for putting together the script and his extracurricular involve- keep their performance a ries with loved ones was concerning avid supporters food or it could even be you! filming their audition video, ments probably assisted secret from everyone for two evident amidst the race too, of “The Amazing Race” like If Chee Lee is any indication, the first submission came him during more physically years, including their own as competitors grew closer to Lee. He explained, “I think in “The Amazing Race” and back with a rejection. “And oriented challenges, but there daughters. their partners but also to rival addition to being an incred- Wash. U. alumni have got a so we applied with the same was no specific class he took When the season finally pairs. “There’s this mutual ible adventure for the racers solid track record going.

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Students grapple with their decision to receive the vaccine RYAN RICKS out at 103 degrees, the highest chance to get the vaccine, the it worse than me,” said first- days during the third week clinic in St. Louis. “My job STAFF WRITER she’s ever had. But the side shot is growing increasingly year student Sylvia Duarte, of classes, since she has to go doesn’t justify me getting it,” effects haven’t stopped the coveted by the day. This has who got her vaccination back to Houston to get the Boyd said, “but I don’t neces- Quick, easy, painless. That students who’ve gotten the led to delays in vaccinating in Houston, Texas. Duarte second dose of the vaccine. sarily think it’s unfair because is how freshman Hailey vaccine from feeling good the people who really need explained that she felt guilty “I wish it could be a secret,” I feel like at this point, it’s Weiss described her experi- about it. it as private sign-ups for about being able to get a Dunbar said. going to be a little random ence getting the first dose of “Now that I’m vacci- vaccinations have, at least in vaccine while her mother’s For some, the best way of going forward.” the COVID-19 vaccine. The nated,” explained freshman Weiss’ case, been repeatedly clinic, which serves mostly coping with the guilt has sim- Ultimately, the only shot was so painless that at Julia Strauss, who recently shared to the public, forcing minority and low-income ply been acknowledging that method to assuage the guilt first, she wasn’t even sure got her second dose of the them to be remade over and patients, hasn’t received any they got their vaccine fairly that seems to stick is knowing that she got it, the only thing vaccine in Michigan due to over again. As communicated vaccines. “A lot of people that under their state or county’s that getting the vaccine was a assuring her being the sight working at a COVID testing in a university-wide email on should get it aren’t getting it,” rollout plans, and didn’t cheat reasonable decision. Getting of blood under her bandage. site, “I definitely feel a lot Wednesday, these kinds of Durante said. the system. “I have to remind the vaccine is a choice that As an Emergency Medical safer being around other incidents have affected the Duarte isn’t alone in having myself,” Dunbar said, “it’s makes them and everyone Technician (EMT) in her people, going about my daily University too. According to their vaccination weigh on not like I paid money to get around them safer, so why home state of Maryland, life and everything.” the email, people have been their conscience. Freshman the vaccine, I was in phase 2.” wouldn’t they have taken it? Weiss was able to get the vac- In some students’ experi- walking into vaccine clinics Duryn Dunbar, another However, even with this “I realized that anyone cine in accordance with her ence, however, this newfound meant only for first respond- Houston native, has also acknowledgment it can still be in my position, if they were county’s rollout plan. security feeds into feelings of ers and individuals with found that feelings of guilt difficult for students who’ve able to get the vaccine, would The second dose is differ- guilt about getting the vaccine high-risk. have been undermining her been vaccinated to feel good get the vaccine,” Duarte ent, often coming with a host in the first place. Being college “I do know that the only happiness at getting the vac- in doing so. This is the case explained, “I think that of side effects that the first students, they never expected reason I was able to get it cine. She especially feels this for freshman Jessica Boyd, should be the case for any- one lacked. For Weiss, this that they would get the was because of my parents’ way, she explained, when she who received her vaccine one—if they have the chance meant 40 hours of headaches, vaccine so early. And while positions as physicians. I has to tell her friends why she through her online volunteer- to get the vaccine, they should chills, and a fever that topped they’ve already had their think that other people have won’t be on campus for a few ing position at a medical definitely take it.”

Love in a pandemic: Datamatch creates match-making survey for third year

REILLY BRADY and specific to Wash. U. year,” Dizon said. of being matched together. matches: freshman and $150 to cover printing STAFF WRITER Participants will receive their Since then, Datamatch This opens up a range of new Datamatcher Orli costs, that has not deterred matches on Valentines Day, has expanded: Now an possibilities, as participants Hellerstein suggested “cold Datamatch from pursuing While the pandemic has allowing them to exchange official club, its 21 current can set themselves up with a walks” to Forest Park; Dizon future goals. They recently brought unexpected changes social media usernames or members are responsible for crush or even create drama recommended that students created a petition calling for to life at Washington communicate on the website designing flyers, maintaining by setting up a friend with a “get creative” through increased funding that would University, students can find through the chat feature. the website, creating ques- known enemy. virtual dates such as cooking go towards a Datamatch comfort in knowing that Senior Michael Dizon, tions, publicizing the survey The Datamatch team has the same meal and dining prom next year. If the peti- one tradition remains intact: current president of and planning events. been able to flourish despite together through Zoom. tion receives at least 1,027 Datamatch, the relatively Datamatch at Wash. U., is This is Dizon’s last semes- the limitations of the pan- This year’s survey may signatures by Feb. 24, the new yet highly popular responsible for bringing the ter working on Datamatch. demic, but some elements of just be getting started, but motion will be included on matchmaking survey, will be survey to Wash. U. Three As the founder, Dizon the Datamatch experience the Datamatch team is the Student Union’s spring making its annual appear- years ago, Dizon reached has been able to watch have been altered due to vir- already preparing for next 2021 ballot, opening up the ance at Wash. U. for the out to Harvard University, Datamatch grow over the tual settings. While a typical year. As the upcoming possibility for even more third year in a row. the creator of the Datamatch years. semester would feature the president, junior Gabriella Datamatch traditions on Datamatch is a program program. Alongside a friend, “Starting this silly dating Datamatch Cafe, an event Cooperman has many aspi- campus. that “matches” participants Dizon created flyers, wrote service and [having] it blos- in which matches can meet rations for the club, such as with around five to 10 fel- questions and released the som into this huge campus in person and bond over receiving more funding from READ MORE AT low students. The matches, survey to Wash. U. under- event, it’s something I really food and hot chocolate, the Student Union in order to STUDLIFE.COM which are guaranteed to be graduates. To his surprise, never would have expected,” event will not be occurring potentially host more events. mutual, are determined by the survey was extremely Dizon said. this year due restrictions on According to Cooperman, the answers each participant successful in just its first year. New features this year aim in-person events. last year’s Datamatch survey gives in the initial survey. “I actually only thought to enhance the Datamatch However, Datamatchers engaged more than 50 per- This survey, which opens that a couple hundred experience. One major are currently planning cent of the school. at 12:01 a.m. on Feb. 7 students would do it, but addition is the “Crush virtual events, such as an “I like to brag that we and closes at 12:01 a.m. on the enrollment just shot up Roulette,” a feature that escape room. Datamatch have more engagement than Feb. 14, Valentine's Day, the second it launched, and allows participants to submit members also provided [Student Union] elections,” involves a variety of ques- we ended up having maybe one pair of names that will some suggestions for Cooperman said. tions that are often comedic 3,300 students do it that first have an increased likelihood COVID-safe ways to meet Despite only receiving

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2019 6 STUDENT LIFE DORIAN DEBOSE & JOSH SHAPIRO | SENIOR SPORTS EDITORS | [email protected] THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021 SPORTS

BY DORIAN DEBOSE ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR Going the distance with junior runner Jacob Ridderhoff

Junior Jacob Ridderhoff season ended last year, did in those months. In May, general, I think I had kind stuff sometimes it's a good is a mid-distance runner you keep training through June and July, the focus of expected the season to SL: Were either of your motivation to see that like on the track team. He hails the spring? kind of shifted towards be canceled. And obvi- siblings also home during "Oh, well they've done from the suburbs of Chicago cross country. And I felt a ously [I was] witnessing the pandemic? college athletics and they and studies mechanical Jacob Ridderhoff: Yeah, lot more motivated and I other universities in D3 can handle the workload engineering. Ridderhoffs [head coach Jeff] Stiles had a lot tougher training cancel their seasons and JR: No, they actually both so I don't really have an have been a presence in sent stuff out for us to do to do because I was hop- my high school friends live in St. Louis, they excuse to back off a bit," the athletic department for during March and April ing that we would have a who run in college having graduated from Wash. U. but it wasn't as much of an nearly a decade: Jacob's when we would have been season for cross country in their seasons canceled, so a few years before I did. influence on me because sisters Rebecca and Jessica having a track season. It the fall, and [that] ended I was thinking that prob- So they live in this area they weren't really around. were members of the track was harder for me to get up getting canceled, but ably was going to happen and they work, so they and field and soccer teams, a lot of stuff done with- I didn't know that yet so for us, too. So when it end up just staying in their SL: Were y'all competitive respectively. Jacob himself out seeing a purpose, so I was still working pretty did happen, it wasn't a place. growing up? is a formidable competitor: to speak. There [were] hard. huge letdown because you a three-time All-American no competitions or any- know, it obviously wasn't a SL: Gotcha. I asked READ MORE AT who runs on both the track thing coming up. He sent SL: After the cross country shocker. But it just kind of because I know that they STUDLIFE.COM and cross country teams. training out and I did it season was canceled, did put things in perspective were also Wash. U. ath- This week, Student Life to the best of my abil- you still have that purpose that it was out of my con- letes. I was wondering if talked to Jack about how ity. Sometimes [it was] a in training? How did that trol. I just kind of stuck to they'd been motivators for he approached the 2020- little more lenient, just affect you? what I knew, which was you during COVID. 2021 season, growing up because he was realiz- just doing training that with athletic siblings and ing that emotionally and JR: After coming back to the coaches would send JR: Yeah, when we've his hopes for upcoming mentally, some people just school and seeing a lot out and I mean just doing been home together some- seasons. kind of needed a break, of the rules of the school it to the best that I could times, like over Christmas, especially when COVID had made for us and other because that's all I really or when it has overlapped Student Life: After the was a lot more restrictive athletes and students in could control. with their schedules and

The Super Bowl taught me a lesson that had nothing to do with football

GRADY NANCE medium heat buffalo wings against the NFL’s bright- though, a crack begins to reprieve is the return of the battered, about my order and blue cheese should be. STAFF WRITER est young star in Patrick form. screens, from which I can to no avail. My friends wait Mahomes is every football watch Brady’s Bucs execute at home, but their empty I had even thought I pull fan’s dream. Unless you’re a flawless drive ending in stomachs cannot compare ahead. Three hours before, 6:05 p.m. — Arrival: 6:35 p.m. — Return to I signed onto the Buffalo into the parking lot and a Patriots fan, in which Brick and Mortar: half an a second touchdown to to my utterly defeated soul. Wild Wings website in an- stop my car in a 15-minute case you probably feel an hour and no call. TikTok Rob Gronkowski. Even as What should’ve been an ticipation of an influx for spot—my first mistaken uncomfortable mix of nau- and illegal Reddit streams an Eagles fan, I’ve always timeless evening of food the big game. I placed my assumption of the evening. sea, nostalgia and extreme of the game occupy my admired Gronk. He has and football vanished in order—ready at 6:10 p.m., The brittle winter wind envy. ‘Even if I don’t make next 30 minutes before uncanny on-field aware- the smoke of wings not it told me. That already hounds me as I hustle from it back until the second craving overcomes reason. ness and steamrolls through mine. Standing among the being 40 minutes into the my car to the refuge of the quarter, I’ll have watched My stomach leads me back defenses like no other tight similarly damned patrons, most anticipated night of building, where I find no most of the first here,’ I to the scene, a wounded sol- end in history, but his per- I resign myself to writ- the sports year, I had hoped fewer than a dozen hungry think. After a few minutes, dier listening to phantom sonality makes me feel like ing this as a testimony of to barrel down I-64, adopt patrons like me waiting for the attendant, disheveled pains, hoping for some- he still believes in Santa. my trials. If I ever leave a brisk walk into the res- their orders. I don’t panic: and anxious, emerges from thing that isn’t there. To no And much like the readi- this wretched establish- taurant, pick up my order and be back faster than a This has happened before, the back to inform us that surprise, my order—under ness of my order, Brady ment, with or without these juiced-up Tyreek Hill chas- and I almost always am they are behind, and that the pseudonym Steamboat continues to defy time; he’s ephemeral morsels of poul- ing down the rogue ostrich out within a few minutes. we should return to our cars Billy—is nowhere near as sharp as ever. try and sauce, I hope my that stole his chain. Alas, More consolation comes in order to follow COVID completion. I choose to plight serves as a warning: like the fickle football gods in the excess of TVs lining guidelines—they will call huddle myself among my 7:25 p.m. — Reality Sets order ahead or face the con- that pluck the heartstrings the walls, where I can keep us when our food is ready. kind: the frustrated Chiefs In: It’s been over an hour, sequences. Better yet, make of poor football fans, espe- up with the game. I don’t I hate to abandon the gor- fans, the DoorDash driv- and the wings I’ve salivated your own food and stay cially those of Eagles fans have a dog in the fight, but geous displays, but I trust ers, the families, eyes fixed over seem about as tangible home. The Halftime Show like myself, life is cruel and watching Brady, the undis- that my faith in the estab- on the kitchen door with as the holding calls against just ended, and at this rate, cold, and the only thing I puted GOAT (as much as lishment will not be marred an uncanny mixture of the Chiefs. I’ve spoken to I hope to be back home by feel right now is the hollow it pains me to say), go up on this special night. Inside, ire and anguish. My only the new attendant, equally Week 1 in September. pit in my stomach where drink. dine. play. WEEKLY BAR, RESTAURANT AND FUN GUIDE

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For more details check out our Brand Guidelines. FACEBOOK.COM/STUDLIFE @STUDENTLIFENEWSPAPER @STUDLIFE STUDLIFE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021 KYA VAUGHN | SENIOR FORUM EDITOR | [email protected] STUDENT LIFE 7 FORUM STAFF EDITORIAL The Devos Title IX guidelines need to go

This article contains mentions on campus to campaign for with federal guidelines. groups have to act. and we are disheartened to @metoo_washu who consis- of sexual assault and interper- change. Consequently, the responsi- Furthermore, as Student see such a tremendous rever- tently fight and advocate for sonal violence. These regulations were put bility largely falls on student Life reported earlier this sal of some of the progress survivors. in place in order to “ensure groups and individuals, week, it is possible that even that has been made to protect To the University, we ask ast summer, fairness and due process for although they too are limited if President Biden repeals survivors. However, we rec- that you do what you can Education Secretary those accused of sexual vio- in what they are allowed these regulations, between ognize that this issue extends when you can. We urge that LBetsy Devos issued lence.” However, a majority to do; student groups are repealing the current regula- beyond the University, and you remember your com- new Title IX regulations of sexual assaults are never prohibited from taking action tions and writing the new that it affects students and mitment to the Wash. U. that greatly altered the way reported, and a minority of against individuals who have ones, it could take up to two survivors across the nation. community to address and students and administrators sexual assault reports are been accused of sexual mis- years before this process This is not the fight of the prevent sexual assault on nationwide interact with false, between 2% and 10%. conduct while a University would be complete. That individual, or the fight of campus. Continue to speak situations regarding sexual This would mean that any- investigation is underway. is two years that student Wash. U. alone. This is an up against these wrongs, misconduct and interpersonal where between 90% and 98% Knowing this, University groups, the University and issue that affects all of us— and continue to show us that violence. of sexual assault reports are administrators suggested that survivors are limited in their all students, all faculty and you’re committed to prevent- As Student Life reported legitimate claims of survivors. student groups take it upon ability to find justice. Two staff—all across the nation. ing sexual misconduct at our this week, these changes are Since the data strongly sup- themselves to introduce con- years that perpetrators will The fight is ongoing, institution. already having an extensive ports the claims of survivors, stitutional rules against sexual be granted more freedom. and we must continue to Interpersonal violence is impact on campus. They we ask: why are further misconduct and dishonesty That is two years too many stand with and advocate real, and it affects us all. Too have limited students’ and regulations being issued to regarding Title IX investiga- for so many to endure. While for ourselves and our peers. many of our peers have had University administrators’ support perpetrators? Under tions in order to allow student these regulations remain, we Particularly in light of this to share their stories, and we ability to take action when the regulations put in place, groups some form of control need to match our fight to week’s University Survivors thank them for doing so. As necessary and added hurdles the University is additionally over cases of sexual miscon- repeal the guidelines with an Movement protest on we said in November, our for survivors seeking justice, limited in its ability to assist duct that may occur within effort to support those in our campus, as students, we must work isn’t over. We must making an already deeply survivors, thus granting perpe- their organization. This lives who have experienced continue to make it known acknowledge the problems flawed Title IX process trators more leniency. effectively puts the onus on sexual assault or interpersonal that we do not find these poli- that persist at our institution, even more challenging. The Regarding its ability to student groups and survivors violence. cies reflective of the efforts and we need to continue to Student Life Editorial Board assist survivors, the University to try and navigate an already The Student Life Editorial of many to protect survivors. make it clear that we do not finds the policy changes rep- is limited as it must follow difficult process, and it limits Board is appalled by the We must continue to support stand for them. We must fight rehensible and urges everyone regulations in accordance the power that these student DeVos Title IX regulations, groups like Title Mine and together, for each other.

You, too, may be a tool of imperialism JAMILA DAWKINS deportation prompted a dual a tourism-dependent city— that they use for tourism, about the Wash. U. commu- looking ahead to the end of FORUM EDITOR outrage online from both but in reality, LGBTQIA* they rerouted the conversa- nity. The frame of mind that this pandemic. I know I’m Indonesians and Americans. Indonesians are still fighting tion to themselves, in spite of led Kristen Gray to exploit already making plans about n mid-January, Kristen Indonesians were angered to be free from discrimination, the history America has of Bali is not dissimilar from the things I’d like to do and Gray, a queer Black by Gray’s invitation to derision and persecution. She imperialization in Indonesia. the mindset of American places I’d like to see once Iwoman and a self- gentrify and imperialize Bali used the small experiences she To be clear, I am not sug- tourists in countries that I no longer have to worry proclaimed “digital nomad,” by taking advantage of the had in a tourist spot to sum- gesting that anti-Blackness seem “exotic,” exciting, and about contracting or spread- was deported back to the exaggerated worth of USD marize the whole of a vibrant doesn’t exist in Indonesia, non-permanent after the vaca- ing COVID-19. But as we United States after spending in Indonesia. Gray advertised and varied city, and then or removing it totally as a tion weekend is over. Many look ahead towards resuming a year living in Bali. Gray her stay in Bali as a “luxury invited other Americans to motivator of the response students here would admit our various global travels, gained international atten- lifestyle” and bragged about similarly gentrify those same towards Kristen Gray. But it’s to or even vehemently agree it’s important to remain tion after posting a Twitter the treehouse that she had areas that had welcomed her. worth acknowledging that with the privilege they experi- critical about it. A resort is not thread encouraging fellow been living in (only $400, a Indonesians were right to be many Americans—includ- ence in St. Louis, in Missouri representative of a country; Americans to move to Bali, steal compared to her $1,300 mad. ing some Black and queer and in the US as a whole. a weekend in a city is not describing perks like cheap apartment in Los Angeles), The other source of Americans—were unable to But I don’t know how many comparable to a lifetime con- housing, low cost of living leaving out the poverty that outrage, however, was less engage properly with a discus- have thought closely about tending with the long-term and LGBTQIA* friendli- many Balinese experience justified. Many Americans sion on American privilege, the effect their tourism dollars virtues and vices of a nation. ness as reasons to make the there, as well as the fact that rose in defense of Gray, imperialism and the power have on the countries they Countries—especially those move. Then she linked her rich foreigners and expatriates citing racism and homopho- dynamic between westerners have visited for Spring Break. known for and dependent on e-book—titled “Our Bali Life continue to push out natives bia as the root of the anger and natives in countries like I don’t know how many can tourism—are not playgrounds is Yours”—which described by raising housing prices. She that had risen over Gray’s Indonesia. relate the privilege they have for rich foreigners, nor should how to follow in her footsteps, labeled Indonesia as queer- Twitter thread. Faced with Witnessing this back at home to the privilege they they have to cater to you. We including tips on how to enter friendly—which it very well an honest conversation and forth on the nature of have when they go abroad. cannot afford to ignore the Indonesia during a pandemic. may be for her, as a foreigner about the privilege that privilege and who can wield Now that vaccines are impact we have on the places Her thread and eventual with economic leverage in Americans have in countries it, I couldn’t help but think emerging, many of us are we visit.

When it comes to COVID-19, our actions matter

REILLY BRADY the country, regardless of how strict policy differences, why interactions outside of that community. my flight to an earlier time STAFF WRITER strict or loose their COVID-19 are these gatherings still so-called bubble. Even if you On an optimistic note, because I learned through a policies are. Johns Hopkins happening? are living with others, if you COVID-19 cases in the U.S. group chat that testing closed ust a few days ago, on University recently reported a While policy does play know that you acted care- have been declining as more at 4 p.m. Had the University Feb. 5, I received an cluster of almost 60 COVID- a role in how COVID-19 lessly with people outside of people across the country are communicated times and Jemail from the Office of 19 cases resulting from an is handled at college cam- those you live with, it is your getting vaccinated. COVID- procedures more effectively, the Vice Chancellor inform- off-campus party. Prior to puses––and I have had my responsibility to communicate 19 cases in St. Louis are also this problem likely could have ing me that a 15-person, this event, Johns Hopkins fair share of frustration with those you are living with steadily declining. Every day, been avoided. These inconsis- off-campus party had resulted required students to get tested with Wash. U.’s COVID-19 to ensure that others will not we get closer and closer to the tencies are aggravating, and in 10 positive COVID-19 twice a week, and they are policies and lack of commu- be negatively affected by your home stretch; the end is in Wash. U. needs to improve cases. Aside from my frustra- now increasing that to three nication––it ultimately comes actions. sight. However, that does not its system of communication tion that Wash. U. students times a week, a much more down to individual responsi- The entirety of the on- mean we can be irresponsible. with the student body to be continue to be irresponsible, I frequent testing policy than bility. No matter the policies, campus population is also And when the time comes, more clear about testing and also reflected on what might Wash. U.’s system of testing if students cannot take it upon not a safe “bubble.” Students get the vaccine––another COVID-19 rules. However, if be leading to these gather- once every two weeks. Johns themselves to be responsible, go off campus, opening up important act of individual students don’t make an effort ings in the first place. Is this a Hopkins University also put COVID-19 will continue to the possibility of catching responsibility. to be individually responsible, problem with how Wash. U. restrictions on all gatherings, spread. the virus and bringing it While individual respon- various policies––clearly is handling COVID-19, or is both indoors and outdoors, And no, maintaining a back to the school. Going sibility is key to remaining stated or not––have no effect. something else potentially at while Wash. U. has allowed “bubble” with your friends off campus isn’t necessarily safe during COVID-19, I Students, let’s do better. For fault? students to gather in small does not necessarily count the problem––it’s the level of acknowledge that some of us to be able to keep COVID- If this is an issue with numbers as long as masks and as being responsible. Besides responsibility that students Wash. U.’s policies have been 19 cases low, every single Wash. U. policy, other schools distancing are maintained. the possible exception of exhibit at those off-campus inconsistent and often confus- one of us has to be putting with better policies would Despite these differences those living together, creating locations that matters. Going ing. Miscommunications effort into wearing masks, probably not be having in policy, both schools have a “bubble” does not guar- to a maskless bar or a mask- surrounding getting tested and limiting gatherings and being problems with COVID-19 experienced various clusters antee COVID-19 safety, as less gathering at an apartment quarantine procedures are constantly aware of how our spreading at maskless gather- of COVID-19 cases due to confusion over how a “pod” are actions that could possibly frustrating. Upon returning to actions could affect ourselves, ings, right? However, this is an maskless gatherings. So, or “bubble” is defined can impact the rest of the school campus this semester, I had other students and the St. issue at many colleges across if it’s not directly linked to potentially lead to unsafe or even the wider St. Louis to spend over $100 to change Louis region as a whole.

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LYDIA MCKELVIE the space after a year-long major freshman year. only freshman, so I was all? I saw you had a few so that really influenced STAFF WRITER hiatus. Student Life talked But I just loved painting glad I took it. quarantine-themed pieces! my art. to Webster about her influ- too much, so I went with Junior Kaylyn Webster, ences, her print business studio art. SL: What would you say KW: Yeah, 2020 in SL: Tell me about this who hails from Memphis, and how events of the are your biggest artistic general has been a lot, group exhibition you’re TN, is a Studio Art major last year have affected her SL: What do you like influences? with quarantine and with going to be a part of. concentrating in painting work. about oil paint as a the Black Lives Matter and minoring in African medium? KW: Other artists would movement happening, or READ MORE AT American Studies. Her Student Life: What made be Kehinde Wiley, ramping back up, with the STUDLIFE.COM paintings, which depict you decide to be an artist? KW: I love the quality of Harmonia Rosales and muder of George Floyd, African-American sub- it. I am able to capture Kevin “WAK” Williams. of course. That impacted, jects using symbolism Kaylyn Webster: Ever realism that I wasn’t able But I think what’s going I think, everyone. So that, and motifs drawn from since I was young, I tried to before. It’s just smooth on in our social and plus the stress of being art history, are featured a lot of things in the visual like butter. [She laughs]. I political landscape really home and trying to stay in the exhibition “dis/ and performing arts. I love oil. I actually learned inspires what I do. healthy, trying to stay alive contented realities” at used to dance, I used to to use it freshman year and survive the pandemic, Urevbu Contemporary in play violin and I did art. in a class with [Associate SL: Has what’s been and social justice issues, downtown Memphis, the I was also a ComDes Professor of Art] Jamie going on in the last year police brutality, things like first physical exhibition in [Communication Design] Adams where I was the influenced your work at that, it was a tough year, ’ first brings empathy at a time of trouble

GRACIE HIME Sunbeams.” There are two have preferred it being one of this argument that I’d seen different brilliances. Although focuses on that feeling of see- STAFF WRITER specific lines that encapsulate the last songs. taken place between a couple her album is very cohesive, ing a friend in pain. Line one the essence of the album in The front of the album on Oxford Street,” and she she uses a diverse range of starts with “I’d lick the grief The smooth and musi- her introduction–“Stretched definitely packs a punch. It became inspired. She asked, musical techniques that tune right off your lips,” and con- cal poetry of Arlo Parks’ out open to beauty however brings a lot of energy, so I “What caused it? Did the into different musical genres tinues “It’s so cruel what your “Collapsed in Sunbeams” brief or violent” and “Making suppose it makes the ending relationship end? Why was and eras. From the groovy mind can do for no reason.” brings listeners an uplifting peace with our own distor- intentionally conclusive. The their relationship exploding and almost jazzy “Just Go” She sees the pain and wishes yet existential perspective tions.” These truly reflect the best song is “Caroline,” as the out?” The song “For Violet” to the strings in “Black Dog,” to help, but as a spectator can into the younger generation’s authentic beauty that Parks’ outstanding chorus harmony is another example of her Parks stays consistent in her only do so much. This feeling life. Through her unique album brings. showcases Parks’ vocal talent. reflecting on observations. cool softness. It never seems of sympathy and innocent expression of melancholy, she One cool aspect of the This is true for nearly all of Through storytelling, she cap- straining, and I think that was love carries throughout the captures the feeling that many album is that there are the tracks, but “Caroline” tures emotions that strangers exactly her point. album. people in Gen Z experience: a instrumental low-fi songs at especially accentuates Parks’ might be feeling and makes Parks talks about very “Collapsed in Sunbeams” response to criticism in an ele- the end, which are perfect for storytelling. them universal. personal and sympathetic is a tranquil and pure interpre- gant and tasteful yet pointed studying. The flow from song In an interview in Genius, Parks’ album gets a lot of topics throughout the album. tation of modern alternative, way. The alternative indie/ to song is natural, yet each Parks explained that her its inspiration from classic Probably the most sensitive R&B and pop. Parks’ unique neo-soul genre fits Parks’ track still holds its own. I can music writing began by rock and indie/alternative art- track, “Black Dog” touches sound is good for the soul, voice perfectly. Throughout confidently listen to the album telling stories about people ists including Sufjan Stevens, on her experience with and the lyrics speak to the her album, she takes moments all the way through without she doesn’t know. She would the Beatles, and depression. Not only does she realities of life, especially for to talk instead of sing, any skips, though I feel like observe random people in Unknown Mortal Orchestra. talk about her experience of it those close to her age. Parks’ reinforcing the poetic aspect “For Violet” hits a little bit of the world around her and This combination of artists is affecting someone she loves, album was phenomenal and of her work. She first speaks a lull. It prepares listeners for a try to understand what they seen throughout the album, but also how hard it is to be provided the support and so vulnerably in the album’s somber ending, but for me, it were experiencing. She told and her influences can be the supporter. She knows it understanding that many of titular track, “Collapsed in isn’t in an ideal place. I would Genius that she “recalled picked out and attributed to is hard, and “Black Dog” us need right now.