The Voice of Black Womanhood Vol. XXIV, No. 4 Georgia-Spelman College February, 1981 Ben Hooks Speaks At Spelman NAACP President Benjamin Hooks citizenship,” said Hooks. warned students of dark days ahead “1 would wish and hope that all of you, during his recent visit to the Spelman he told the students, “would read and College campus. know your history in order to have an Speaking to a crowd of students in appreciation of where we are as a race.” Spelman’s Sisters Chapel, he stated that Hook attributed the problems of the “black peopel have not yet attained first black community to racism and predicted class citizenship” in spite of 200 years of that young blacks will have a more sweat, toil, and tears. difficult time in the 80’s than was ever Hooks, guest speaker of Spelman’s expected in the 70’s. Jan. 22 Centennial Vesper Service, stated “I’m worried about our young people,” that blacks constitute 10-11% of the he said. “It seems there’s no fire in our nation’s population but comprise less bellies, no commitment to the cause. than 2% of the country’s doctors, lawyers, Where is the fire? Where is the purpose?” and dentists and less than 1% of the he cried. country’s certified public accountants. “Today,” he continued, “organizations The black family income, he said, is such as the NAACP and SCLC are only 59% of the average white family literally starved to death, and I wonder income, and black unemployment now how many of you have shared some of stands at 18% compared to 7% of the your income?” general population. “Freedom,” he told the crowd, “is not “Blacks are still agitating, working, and feee. You may not get all you pay for, but trying to achieve the goal of first class you shall certainly pay for all you get.” Students Respond To Ebony Article

By Torri C. Brown about marriage?” There was a resounding Sr. Reporter “yes!” from the group. An article which appeared in the Some of the reactions from students on January 1981 issue of Ebony magazine the campuses of Spelman and Morehouse Photo by Whitney Young entitled, “Do Black Women Set Their regarding Mr. Benson’s article are as Standards For Marriage Too High?”, follows: COMING: written by Chris Benson, has recently — Melvin Jenkins, Morehouse senior FINANCIAL AID AWARENESS WEEK sparked an enormous amount of “I agree with the Ebony article. When I February 9-13,1981 discussion among Spelman and first transferred here, the women were not Morehouse students. friendly at all. I would say “hello” and All necessary material such as: The article initially focuses on the they would keep on walking like I never • application impressions of T.C., a bus company saida word. It got to the point where I just FAF supervisor, who stated that professional said to myself that I don’t need them, I’ll • Consumer Information, etc. Black women will not speak to him just go about my business. If a brother Will be available. because he wears a uniform while doesn’t have a car or looks like he has working. some money or anything going for Location: Upper Concourse in the Manley Center The article also focuses on questions himself, they won’t even bother with him. posed by Mr. Benson to a sociology class All 1 can say is to each her own, because I Time: don’t even deal with sisters that are 10-12 a.m. and 2-4 p.m. at Spelman College concerning marriage criteria set by Black college women. material minded. If she can’t deal with me Remember now is the time to apply. Benson asked, “Is a man’s status really for what I am, then she need not deal at Do not wait until the last minute. important to a Black woman thinking Continued on page 8 Page 2 - EDITORIALS Spelman Spotlights February 1981 The Presidential Election Reconsidered-Part Two of A Two Part Series: The Prospects for Black America By Dr. Manning Marable economic equality. Privately, their real faces in the Senate will emerge next year; Syndicated Columnist concern was that they would lose plush a reactionary movie actor without a shred At first glance, the electoral victory of a plums and federal grants from the of compassion for the interests of blacks, one-time movie actor and mediocre two- bureaucratic drough in Washington D.C. Hispanics and the working class will term governor, Ronald Reagan, once Reagan’s reactionaries took over. occupy a new stage in the Oval Office; but represents a major shift to the right in The winds of change that produced a nothing fundamentally has changed. American politics. Republican majority in the Senate have Black America is still oppressed, and The figures are impressive. Reagan also reaped a transformation of black our motto must still be resistance and self received 43.2 million votes, about 51 rhetoric. Black opportunists who jumped determination — by any means percent of the total popular vote. Carter aboard the Reagan bandwagon were the necessary. received 34.9 million votes, and was first to crow. “1 am most pleased and Dr. Manning Marable is a leader of the unable to defeat Reagan in the South and convinced that Reagan is. not a newly formed Black Political Party and a traditionally Democratic states in the warmonger,” clucked Ralph David Senior Research Associate of political industrial Northeast. The so-called Abernathy, “and, unlike Carter will do economy at the Africana Studies Center “Anderson factor” was not a factor in the everything possible to keep his promises of Cornell University. Presidential race. Although Anderson to the American people, particularly in received almost 5.6 million votes and so the area of putting Americans back to doing, qualified for federal matching work.” funds, his campaign only stole several Joseph E. Lowry, president of the states from Carter’s electoral total. Southern Christian Leadership However gloomy the immediate Conference, had endorsed Carter and prospects for a more progressive America warned constituents that a Reagan may seem, we must be careful not to Presidency would revive racism and bring overestimate the influence of this so- disaster. Now, Lowery states that, “we called New Right. Only 28 percent of the have offered cooperation and support”to eligible voters in this country endorsed Reagan, because he has given a token the simplistic, sophmoric solution of promise to protect the rights of poor Reagan. The overwhelmingly majority of people, ,, ... Republicans elected to the Senate won by extremely narrow margins. Urban League President Vernon In state after state, Republican Jordan now is telling us that it’s too soon candidates were able to squeak into office to conclude that Reagan will ignore black upon the public mandate of conservatism concerns such as affirmative action and and political reaction. In Alabama, an expansion of public sector Republican Senator-elect Jeremiah employment opportunities. It is Denton won by only 51 percent; Barry “dangerous”, in Jordan’s view, to think Goldwater, Arizona, 50 percent; Paula that the Reagan administration will be Hawkins, Florida, 51 percent; Mack hostile to blacks. Jordan applauds Mattingly, Georgia, 50 percent; Steven Reagan’s idea of developing “free D. Symms, Idaho, 50 percent; Warren enterprise zones” in the ghettoes by Rudman, New Hampshire,52 percent; A1 granting huge tax write-offs to major D’Amato, New York,45 percent;John P. corporations for employing black urban East, North Carolina, 50 percent; Robert workers. Once Reagan was our bitter Packwood, Oregon 52 percent; Arien nemisis; now, as President, he Specter, Pennsylvania, 51 percent. understands the need for finding Incumbency has ceased largely to be a solutions to the pressing problems of the major factor in Senatorial and oppressed. Jordan embraces a “solution” Congressional elections. If these that in Southern Africa has led to the Republicans do not deliver on their development of Bantustans. promises to an impatient “Moral Years from today, volumes of critical Majority”, they would be vulnerable to studies will document the incredible lack AS SOBER AS A JUDGE progressive challenge six years hence. of political consistency, the bumbling What was most predictable, and judgement and shallow insights of our lamentable, about Reagan’s victory was current generation of black “leaders.” Let the response of the “Old Guard” black history pass this judgement: at a time Editor-in-Chief - Pamela D. Moore leadership. For months they exholed when neither Carter nor Reagan merited Associate Editor - Kiron K. Skinner black voters to turn out on election day to the support of the majority of black support Jimmy Carter. They declared people, our “official representatives” that Reagan administration would turn stumbled hastily over themselves to get back the clock to an age of Jim Crowand behind “the evils of two lessers.” New News Editor - Bridgett Davis Feature Editors - Lisha Brown z La Rhonda Morris To Those Who Constructed The Photography Editor - Whitney Young Art Editor - Mary Barkley Advertising Manager - Janice Tillerson Bridge Over Trouble Waters Asst. Advertising Manager - Elaine Terry Business Manager - Betty Jackson As the curtains close on the worst eight weeks in my life, the stage is set for a bright Circulation Manager - Lisa Vaughn new beginning. It’s because of you, that I can see over that rainbow. It’s because of you, Office Manager - Susan Hart that 1 can still stand tall, black, and proud. It’s because of you, that I can still feel love, Public Relations Manager - Sonja Washington compassion, and understanding. Yes, it’s because of you, that I am still Dara. The third day following my accident, I had received twenty-one cards, a Bible, candle, and The Spelman Spotlight is produced regularly by the Spotlight enough love to bring Iran and the United States in unison. Staff, composed of students from Spelman and Morehouse Dr. and Mrs. Stewart, AUC security, and hosts of faculty, friends, and fellow Colleges. Primary control, however, is vested in Spelman students — Thank you for helping me grow. Thank you for reopening my eyes to see students. All questions and concerns from the public concerning that God plays an important role in every earthly thing. May God’s peace and blessings this paper should be directed to the Editor-in-Chief, Spelman forever be upon you. Spotlight, Box 50, Spelman College, Atlanta, Georgia 30314. The Most Sincerely, Dara Perkins office phone number is 525-1743. February 1981 Spelman Spotlights Page 3 - EDITORIALS

Spelman Women Must Strive For The Best

I am writing in response to the article author to suggest that organizations such “Our View, We Must Examine Sex as the Angel Organization of Spelman Roles” that was published in the college and other orientated clubs are December issue of the Spelman facets of intellectual growth problems Spotlight. and limited career aspirations. These It is a saddening experience to read an organizations in conjunction with the article which addressed the Spelman many enriching fine arts, academic, civic, population concerning occupational and social groups have enabled Spelman apathy and educational stagnation. It women to realize their potential as strong seems ironic that a black womans minded leaders. institution, such as Spelman, whose The nebulous desire to excell, revealed design and original foundations were to us by Dr. Jacquelyn Fleming is indeed established to encourage excellence and an issue that we, as women of a Spelman ambition of black women, felt the sisterhood, will have to come to terms necessity to examine the sex roles of its with. own student body. A positive step will be one based on the •»V I wish to take this opportunity to recognition of the link between strong fVffW" express an opinion to the author of this academic determination so as to build article. It is my firm belief that the intelligence, and the participation in the continuing trumpet songs in the tune of extracurricular endeavors of ones’choice. “Strive to do Your Best, and Be The This step will assist in implementing the Best”, should never be deafened for it is experience, knowledge and wisdomofthe this very song that is an inspiration to individual. many Spelman students. Having accomplished this goal, It is of equal importance, however, to Spelman women will have experienced a encourage extra-curricular activities that pride and awareness of self that will never will help enhance the individuals to leave us susceptible to settling for “second become both civic minded and socially best” in our predominately male oriented aware. society. It is a gross misunderstanding of the Diane Ford, junior

© JR The Eighties BLACK. RESOURCES IMC. Psychology Club Series Issues In Black Education Our View By Kamau Dawud Shabaka information is one thing, the synthesis Morehouse Psychology Club and application of knowledge in reality is A New Era Is Here another. The assumption with regard to The Mental Development Committee schooling is that information learned is of the Morehouse Psychology Club is information used. However, too many ludicrousness. American party politics is Reagan is here. Inauguration has come dedicating itself to the task of examples within our individual lives show and gone. We are now faced with a not designed to meet the needs of our understanding the problems and that the realistic process is the reverse. Republican Presidency. race, or any third world group, for that solutions of our existence as Afrikan Therefore, the hands-on experience of But what exactly does a Reagan, matter. Therefore, it is our job to make descendants in America. The our numbers who work and utilize their Republican presidency mean? As black our more than rightful place in the complexities we are faced with in life, knowledge and perceptions daily, American political arena recognized. students, and as a race it means more than work to divide our numbers, our energies develop tools much too valuable for us to It is truly a shame that in 1981, the we may know, or even wish to know. and our thoughts to where our essence deny by thinking that we as students are Spotlight has to write to its readers on the However, the significance of this “New and output become feeble expressions special. We may be privileged to survive importance of staying aware, of being Era” must be discussed. useless against the enormous task before without regularly punching a time-clock First, the new administration has ready because a new era has come. It is us. As a people we should remember the (though a good number ofus must do just already sent out signals that the interests truly a shame that in 1981, a Republican strength we are part of. that), but we still need to understand the of the poor, the black, and the oppressed, president comes along who really does Thirty million people make a pressing responsibility we have to align are not nigh on the list of priorities. What not know that racial problems and formidable force. We as students are part ourselves with our brothers and sisters in this in essence means is that we still have assumed racial superiority are what this of such a force. There are those who say congealing our power. our historical task of demanding a spot country was founded on, and what the that we as Morehouse students represent It is to this end that the members of the on the national agenda. Americas was exploited by. It is truly a the “creme de la creme” of our people. committee have encouraged one another Our place on the national agenda can shame that the Spotlight has to tell its That because of the opportunity afforded to present open letters to the community only be recognized through our actions. readers that once again a new era has us to attend this institution, we have the we are all a part of. The articles that We not only have to work as a group, arisen, and that we must be ready. It enviable position of acquiring the rare follow this one will be the personal views mobilizing our thoughts, and if need be, seems to the editors of this publication tools necessary to improve the lot of our of the committee members. As you read, our bodies, but we have to stay on the that previous editors have said the same people, over thirty million strong. I keep in mind our collective view is for very conscience of white America. We thing. disagree. I disagree with the notion that communication first. Once we can must make it known that we will settle for And what is so perplexing to us, is that we are the icing on the cake. We do not understand the positions we each have, nothing less than full equality. every generation, actually every half represent some special breed within a then we can begin a concensus, a united In this time of national and generation, is giving the same message. Is breed, but rather, we are all of a special front. international uncertainty, we can not anyone listening? This time we’d better breed, a gifted Black breed. You find us On behalf of the committee, I wish to afford to be remiss in our social and listen. Tims is running short. Reagan does gracing not only the halls of Gloster and encourage feedback and comments either political awareness. Individually and not mean to play. And if we do not act Dean Sage, but also Coca Cola, Georgia in written form or by verbal exchange. collectively we must analyze the decisions now, it may very well be too late. Regional, the Pentagon and Attica. Each The Mental Development Committee and the decision-makers of our land, and To the ladies of Spelman, to the representative institution containing currently meets every Wednesday be sure that we are included in this students of the Atlanta University Center, specific (specified) proportions of afternoon at 4:00 p.m. in the lounge of process. to the black race of America, the Afrikan-Americans whose minds are Dansby Hall, Morehouse College. The The time is not here, it never has been, Spotlight would like to say, “be ready.” potential fields of knowledge and power, Morehouse Psychology Club meets where we can sit back, satiated with the To President Ronald Reagan, we wish to of benefit to us as a people. We do not weekly on Tuesdays at 4:00 p.m. in the notion that our interests and concerns say, “Good luck, because if you intend to hold a monopoly on knowledge. same location. will be taken care of by a particular party. exclude or ignore the oppressed peoples Moreover, we do not hold a monopoly We are making a beginning in a very, Our race is the guardian of our race; to of this nation, and the third world peoples on wisdom. I disagree that we have rare very long process. It is time for all of us to expect any mare, or Jess is. profound. of this globe., you will need it.”...... tools. The acquisition and retention ee the need and join. Page 4 - NEWS iïligi: February 1981 Analysis Why Black Women are “Marketable”

By Emmett Carson Finally, white men are also hired over TABLE ONE Contributing Writer black men because labor market 1960 1977 There has been a great deal of discrimination still exists to the detriment Employment Black White Black White speculation as to why black employment of all minorities. As one can easily discern Employment Population Ratio 55.2 54.0 51.1 57.9 rates have been decreasing relative to from this analysis, black men are the least Unemployment Rate 10.2 4.9 13.1 6.2 whites, while simultaneously black employable of all mentioned above. unemployment rates have been increasing TABLE TWO relative to whites. This is an interesting The job opportunities available to Labor Force Participation Rates situation because in this period of black and white males and females is declining affirmative action many borne out by their respective “labor force collegiate blacks have been duped into 1960 1970 1977 participation” rates. Labor force Black Males believing that labor market participation refers to the number of discrimination is an illusion of the past 18 yrs. — 19 yrs. 71.2 61.8 57.8 persons in a particular group who are in 25 yrs. — 34 yrs. 96.2 93.7 90.4 and not the reality of the present. It is also the labor Force divided by the total interesting because black women must Black Females number of persons in that category. As 18 yrs. — 19 yrs. 44.3 44.7 44.8 realize the precarious state of black one can note from table two, black male economic progress and that their actions 25 yrs. — 34 yrs. 49.7 57.6 66.5 labor Force participation rates have White Males will have a very profound effect on it. undergone a sharp decline, while black 18 yrs. — 19 yrs. 69.0 67.4 74.9 Many black women truly believe that female labor Force participation rates are 25 yrs. — 34 yrs. 97.7 96.7 96.0 the remarkable employment increasing tremendously. opportunities now before them are a White Females result of their own merits. While that This article does not advocate that 18 yrs. — 19 yrs. 51.9 55.0 63.8 might be the exception in some isolated black women reject the opportunities 25 yrs. — 34 yrs. 34.1 43.2 58.3 cases, the truth of the matter is that they now before them. To the contrary, this are classified as a double minority — i.e., article encourages black women to take *These statistics were obtained from Julianne Malveaux’s article, “Shifts in black and female. Employers, who must advantage of every opportunity to move the Employment and Occupational Status of Black Americans in a Period meet federal hiring regulations, gain ahead, but to realize the circumstances of of Affirmative Action.” It can be found in the Rockefeller Foundation government service contracts by hiring their advancement. If black women view Working Papers Bakke, Weber and Affirmative Action, December 1979. black women over black men. White their progress as being separate from the women who are also classified as progress of blacks as a whole they will be minorities are also hired over black men creating an unbreechable gap. A gap not between black male and female Morehouse College, is now pursuing a because they are more readily only between the socio-economic status relationships. doctoral degree in economics at incorporated into the corporate world. of blacks relative to whites, but also Emmet Carson, a former student of Princeton University.

The Phil Donohue Show was recently taped in Atlanta to inform America about the tragedy of the missing and murdered children. Police Commissioner Lee Brown; Mrs. Camille Bell, mother of the late Usef Bell; Ms. Jean Blake, WAGA reporter, and a mother of one of the missing children were guests on the show.

Photo by Phyllis Jones Fourteen Professional Black Women Honored By The Collections Of Life And Heritage ATLANTA, Ga. — Fourteen black honored, all black women were honored chairperson. Dr. Anna Harvin Grant, presenting Mrs. Lowery with the award. women of Atlanta, Georgia who are symbolically, “Collections” Vice professor of sociology and department He is an honorary board member of the regarded as “tops” in their respective President Isabel Gates Webster head at Morehouse College, delivered the Collections of Life and Heritage. professional fields were honored by the explained, because it is through the keynote address. Additionally, honored in community Collections of Life and Heritage, Inc. last contributions of all that the foundation is service was Ms. Margaret “Ma” Green, December in “A Tribute to Black laid for greater achievement, stability and Among those honored was Mrs. president of the Southern Hearts and Women.” survival among all black people. Evelyn G. Lowery, national convener of Hands Foundation for the Handicapped; The tribute was the corporation’s first. The non-profit corporation preserves the Southern Christian Leadership in business, Ms. Rosita Holsey, president Although only Atlanta women were “in a permanent multimedia display of Conference’s SLC/ WOMEN. She was of Atlanta Management Analysts sights and sounds the historical and cited for her committed work in civil Systems; in education, Mrs. Verna AIRLINE JOBS cultural heritage of black Americans,” rights. Although the organization is only Henderson; in fine arts, Ms. Kathleen and serves as an educational / approaching its second birthday, Mrs. Peters, assistant professor of art at For Information — Write informational center and teaching Lowery is no neophyte in civil rights Atlanta Junior College; in government, AIRLINE PUBLISHING CO. museum of the African-American work. She grew up in an environment of Ms. Geraldine Thompson, a government 1516 E. TROPICANA 7A-110 experience. civil rights leadership because of her administrator; in law, Atty. Savannah The awards program was hosted by father’s involvement in the NAACP,and Potter, an assistant district attorney; in LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 89109 state Sen. Julian Bond and television she is married to a veteran of the civil literature, Ms. Alice Lovelace, a writer, Include a seif-addressed anchorwoman Roz Abrams. Mrs. Jean rights movement, SCLC President Dr. poet and actress;in media, Mrs. Hattie K. Young served as honorary chairperson Joseph E. Lowery. Jackson, a local television community stamped envelope. and Mrs. Juliet Blackburn-Beamon as Dr. Lowery had the honor of Continued on page 8 February 1981 Spelman Spotlights Page 5 - NEWS • AUC And IlBfiglBisgfcfj Community Help Keep Jan.lH5 MLK Dream IS>81 Alive fanto/cfff âac/âf CÂartye & Photos by Whitney Young and Denise Reynolds k Center for Social Change, inc, Caretta Sco# King. Pneskfenf

The Rev. Kenneth Flowers, sophomore at Morehouse College and coordinator of MLK week activities in the Atlanta University Center, addresses crowd at Grady High School before the march begins.

Marvin Arrington,president of the Atlanta City Council, is Free at last, Free at last, Thank God Almighty, I’m another one among many of the prominent persons who free at last. participated in the pre-march rally.

“Daddy” King, Coretta Scott King, and Andy Young lead march on February 15.

AUC students and members of community join hands in march to the burial place of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The march was symbolic of the black community’s desire for a national holiday Members of the King Family pay tribute to the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at his gravesite. This ceremony marked the in honor of the slain rights leader. end of the birthday march. Page 6 - FEATURES Spelman Spotlights February 1981 Chocolate Kisses In Wax-Record Reviews By Dianne “Digi” Givens Jr. Reporter Among the many new albums that have recently been released are “Faces,” by Earth Wind & Fire, and “Hotter Than July,” by . Both are masterpieces in their own right. “Faces” is a two album set consisting of fifteen songs, all of which exemplify the incredible quality of Earth Wind & Fire. The first song that was released from the album, “,” is an upbeat, danceable song that is also subtly informative. Listen to the words and you’ll see what I mean. The current single from the album entitled “You,” is a mellow love song that everyone can enjoy. Other favorite sons from the album include “Sparkle,” “You Went Away,” “Sailaway,” and “Take it to the Sky.” The entire album is exceptional, which is no great surprise since most of us have already witnessed the brilliance of Earth, Wind & Fire. Stevie’s album, “Hotter Than July,” is an attempt, in his words, to introduce people to all kinds of music. The album contains ten songs varying from the funky sounds of “Master Blaster” to the soft, soothing sound of “Lately.” His latest doubt, a musical genius and his songs are summer. I knew then that it, too, would since both Peabo and Roberta are famous release from the album is entitled “Happy always well accented by the public. In his be classified as a masterpiece. It was for being professional balladeers, you can Birthday” and is one of the ways in which twenty year musical career, he has been recently released and what I had initially imagine the exceptionality of these songs. Stevie Wonder is trying to help make known as an artist, a writer,a producers perceived was found to be true. It is a two The other songs on the album are live January 15th, Martin Luther King’s businessman, a father and humanitarian, album set with sixteen songs. Each artist versions of recent and favorite songs from birthday, a national holiday. This song is but above all, a “Legend.” sings five songs alone and then six are previous albums. If you missed the representative of his convictions. Other A few months ago a friend of mine done together. There are two completely concert tour this past summer, be sure to favorite songs from this album include informed me that Peabo Bryson and new songs on the album entitled “Make pick up the album. It’s definitely “Live “All I Do,” “Cash In Your Face,” and Roberta Flack were recording a live the World Stand Still” and “More Than And More.” “Rocket Love.” Stevie Wonder is, no album from their concert tour this past Everything.” Both are love songs and Ann Dennard: A Spelman Woman

By Sincerae B. Smith influenced her to further her talent. Her cannot sing the popular music which is versatility.” Jr. Reporter person in charge was William G. heard on the radio.” In a world filled with so much peer Late in the evening, lounging after Densmore, Director of the Northside Ms. Dennard is also a member of pressure and identical interests, Ms. another busy day at Spelman, Ann School of the Arts, Atlanta. Spelman’s glee club. Her favorite singers Dennard admits, “At times I am hesitant Dennard lay with covers pulled up to her “Mr. Densmore is my mentor, personify her intense interest in fine to express my interest, because people in neck. However tired she might have been, confidant, and respected friend.” music. my age group are not really into classical there was not a sign of fatigue that would “My favorites are Jene' Brown, music. But it is what I do best.” have indicated that she was too tired to Leontyne Price, Esther Scatterfield, and “It would not demean me if people did talk about her talent. Nina Simone.” not like my type of singing. People tend to Indeed, Ms. Dennard, a freshman here Cosmopolitan is the word for Ms. respect you when they acknowledge that at Spelman and a native Atlantan is the Dennard’s experience in singing. you are really interested in your work, owner of a gifted voice, and she has “At my high school there was a tour that you are dedicated, and that you have several performances to her credit, show. Out of a group of one hundred devoted time and effort to your training.” including a solo performance at thirty people, twenty-four were selected. It is a known fact that Spelman is an Friendship Baptist Church during the Included along with the twenty-four was excellent launching pad for those traditional freshman worship service. a sixteen piece stagehand, and a seven involved in the arts. Ms. Dennard is a member of a new member technical crew. I was a member “Spelman has an excellent music breed of talented young virtuosas whose of the twenty-four. We toured within the faculty. Spelman also possesses many talent is not a false figurehead, but an New York and Boston public school students who are dedicated to the arts. It’s insignia of true expertise. systems. We also traveled in Belgium and like any school. You get out of it, what For someone who only became Hong Kong with the Friendship Force.” you put into it.” interested in the art of song at the age of With so much disco, funk, and pop Strangely enough Ms. Dennard does fifteen, Ms. Dennard’s singing is music being played these days, it is a not crave international fame. exceptional. constant threat that the music which Ms. “1 don’t necessarily want international As she confessed, it was someone else Dennard sings might be overlooked. attention. It would be nice though. I just who became conscious of her singing Photo by Whitney Young However, she does not feel threatened. want to be the best for me. I want to build potential. “I am a devoted patron of classical up my strengths and conquer my “I had no idea there was any real Ms. Dennard considers her singing to music. Although I do respect and admire weaknesses." . potential in my singing ability. I surprised be an avocation and a serious aspect of contemporary artists. I am not envious of As in any talent, practice must be myself!” her life. As she says, “My major is not them. I believe that everyone should have involved. ,, H „ She also has the advantage of coming music, but law. My minor is music. I will his own personal preference. So no, I “For the past two years (not including from a musical background. definitely make my decision between the don’t really feel that my music is this year) I’ve studied on a schedule of two “There has always been a certain two in my junior year.” overlooked.” hours out of every five days a week. And I amount of musical appreciation in my With such an operatic voice it would be In observing her room, it is obvious also have private voice lessons on family. Most members of my family have nearly a crime not to sing opera. that Ms. Dennard’s personality is Saturday mornings.” taken piano lessons, while others took However, Ms. Dennard has not reflected in her room’s furnishings. Miss Dennard also has a good attitude ballet. My family is also very jazz overlooked her talent. She does sing “I like art deco. I have always had my about herself as a singer. oriented.” opera. room decorated in this manner. My “I’ve have been modest about my Like any artist, Ms. Dennard had a “I also like jazz. That’s about it. I know room’s decoration’s express my own talent. I am^esp^ci^lly; njpd^st when I prime -source of motivation which what my voice is capable of doing. I unique blerid’ oF personality, and my Continued on page 8 February 1981 Spelman Spotlights Page 7 — FEATURES Former Spelmanites : They’re making it! A Tribute to the Past: Annie Alexander

By Allison Willis in the Model School (circa. 1881) Back Contributing Writer then they taught mostly the Bible and Annie Alexander is a small, quiet, howto take care of your family,”she says. white haired lady, who uses a lot of imagery in her speech. Much has been When asked about Spelman of today, written about her lately due to the fact Mrs. Alexander replied, “Spelman is like a new country today, but the girls are just that she celebrated her 104th birthday last year and because she is the oldest throwing it away.” Indeed Spelman is Spelman Alumna. She recently was the quite different from the days of Annie guest of PM Magazine, a local program Alexander, Giles Hall was still under on WAG A, during which she reflected on construction. The Bible was mostly her days at Spelman. taught and considered a vital part of their Amazingly for her years she remembers education. And no one thought of much about her days at Spelman and becoming doctors, lawyers, engineers. enjoys recreating the image of Spelman’s Then, the emphasis was on becoming beginning. “It was like a bright morning nurses and good homemakers. star what those women from the north Mrs. Alexander is still agile and adept had done,” reflects Mrs. Alexander. for her years, she still takes walks almost Those women were Mrs. Giles and Mrs. eight blocks away from the home her Packard. husband built for her years ago. She “My grandmother (Carrie Carter) was attributes her agileness and longevity to among the first eleven students to enroll the Lord and just plain living right. Poetry Comer

Annie Alexander Photo by Jo Moore Stewart Evening in Bohemia A toast to the celebrated author. Gents all lift glasses of champagne, A Promise of Greater Things To Come To the woman in white and pearls. Violins play some lover’s serenade. The gents all gaze at her, Esther Rolle’s Success With one eybrow arched. The ladies all gaze at their gents. By Allison Willis “The Summer of My German Soldier,” They whisper in jealous envy. Contributing Writer Ms. Rolle feels that in order to She shall surely take our men. Esther Rolle, star of the “Sty of the successfully portray a role “one must Blind Pig” as well as the star of the CBS bring a depth of personal experiences to Her husband is handsome, series “” and former those of the character.” By all respects. Spelmanite, has merged a successful When asked about the role of blacks on Wealth, intelligence is his. career on TV and on the stage with her He is the patron of her desires. superb performances. She repays him with her devotion. Ms. Rolle admits she cares deeply My husband and children come first. about her career, and has consistently A young artist and his friends watch. insisted on playing believable characters She is Venus of Milo! in meaningful ways. I shall paint her on canvas, Speaking at the Spelman Fine Arts And dream of her in silk. Bldg, earlier this school year in an His friend speaks in all earnest. informal setting with faculty and One day I shall have her. . students, Ms. Rolle discussed various Sincirae B. Smith aspects of her life in the theater. She was a BEAUTY regular in two other series (Maude, ) before her starring role in Beauty is more than external features of a “Good Times” evolved. Born in human being, Pompano Beach, Florida, Ms. Rolle was the ninth of eighteen children and her first Beauty is the inward emotions of a person, vocational choice was to be a journalist. “I was very shy,” she recalls, “and Beauty is enjoying your life the way you writing was a way for me to express want to, myself in a form that was comfortable.” Ms. Rolle attended Spelman College Beauty is sharing your happiness with others before deciding that “the arena of both friends and foe, experience was the best teacher I could ever have.” So she moved to New York TV, Ms. Rolle responded by saying that it Beauty is caring for those that you hurt and City, enrolled in creative writing classes is “up to us to make our presence known,” those that hurt you, where she was encouraged to act as well as she added, “You’ll never be as good as write. you can be as long as you wait for Beauty is reaching goals that you inspire to While appearing on Broadway, Ms. someone to do something for you.” reach and not to let anyone or anything Rolle was invited to join the cast of “Good Times,” she explained, “was the stand in your way, “Maude” as the Findlay’s housekeeper, most realistic portrayal of a black family Florida, and from there the rest is history. that we’ve had on TV and for that reason, Beauty is YOU a beauty that I shared and I am Starring in two television movies, “I it was an important show.” proud that I was given the chance. Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” and Continued on Page 8 Live, A Morehouse Man Page 8 — NEWS Çndmnn Snntlioht« Toxic Shock Syndrome By Carla Johnson 43 of 44 appropriately cultured T.S.S. support the conclusion that there is a Jr. Reporter having T.S.S. includes a careful vaginal patients. All isolates of S.aureus from significant association between tampons examination with removal of any Toxic Shock Syndrome is a very rare T.S.S. patients that have been examined and T.S.S. cases, all have occurred in retained tampons, inclusion of cervical disease that affects women of in CDC laboratories havebeen penicillin women using tampons. The study shown and vaginal cultures for S.aureus among menstruating age. How many women resistant. S.aureus has not been recovered above demonstrates that the brand of other cultures performed, and aggressive that actually get T.S.S. cannot be from unused tampons, including those tampon a woman uses is likely to affect fluid replacement. CDC recommends determined. It was estimated that T.S.S. from tampon boxes used by T.S.S. her risk of developing T.S.S. Consumer affects 3 in 100,000 women; however, patients. Approximately 95% of all use of Rely tampons has increased as the since there is incomplete reporting of reported cases of T.S.S. in women have apparent incidence of T.S.S. has cases, this rate was based on severe cases occurred during a menstrual period. A increased. Table * meeting a strict case definition that significant association between tampon Whatever roles S.aureus and tampons requires evidence of hypotension (low use, particularly continuous use during play in the development of T.S.S., certain Results blood pressure) and involvement of three the menstrual period, and the preventive measures can be identified. or more organ systems. development of T.S.S. was found. CDC 1. Women can almost entirely Cases Controls T.S.S. is a severe illness characterized designed a case-control study that eliminate their risk of T.S.S. by not using Tampon Brand (N=42) (N=114) by a sudden onset of high fever with focused on tampon brands. They used tampons. Rely 71% 26% vomiting, diarrhea, and myalgia, T.S.S. patients who had onset of illness in 2. Women who choose to use tampons Platex 19% 25% followed by development of hypotension July or August, 1980. These women were can reduce their risk by using them Tampax 5% 25% and in severe cases, shock. An questioned about tampon, napkin, or intermittently during each menstrual Kotex 2% 12% erythematous, “sunburn-like” rash is minipad use, brand of tampon used, and period (not using them all day and all OB present during the acute phase of the pattern of use for the menstrual cycle in night throughout the period). 2% 11% illness; about 10 days after onset, there is which they became ill. Fifty of fifty cases 3. If you choose to use tampons and a desquamation (peeling) of the skin, used tampons during the menstrual high fever and vomiting or diarrhea that women who have had an episode of particularly of the palms and soles. period associated with their illness. develop during your menstrual period, T.S.S. not use tampons at least until The cause of Toxic Shock Syndrome is Women who only used one brand of discontinue tampon use and consult a S.aureus has been eradicated from the unknown: however the bacteria tampon were analyzed to determine how physician immediately. vagina. Due to the high association Straphlococcus aureus and tampons are many of them had T.S.S. The results are 4. If you are a student in the A.U. between Rely tampons and T.S.S. Rely associated with T.S.S. In a recent study listed in the table at the end of this Center, contact the Family Planning tampons have been taken off the market. done by the Centers for Disease Control article. Clinic on Spelman College campus. Invest in the future, take care of yourself S.aureus was isolated from the vaginas of The results of this and previous studies Management of women suspected of now. Students Respond To Ebony Article Continued from page 1 mine: psychology. I personally want demand. With that in mind, we as Black and lawyers have such bigegoes that you all.” someone who is equal or above.” women sometimes have to project an air can’t get to them anyway. They think all —Rhoda Littles, Spelman senior — Tracy Waller, Spelman senior of over confidence in order to just these girls are after them, their egoes are “After readint the article, my first “I feel that the article was somewhat compete.” constantly growing, and they think they reaction was that men possibly have the unjust. It depicted Black women at don’t need you anyway. So why even same criterias concerning what they are — Sherry Blackshear, Spelman junior Spelman as wanting something unusual. bother to try to find one? looking for in their wives. Because of the “I feel that some people do set The article makes generalizations about Men can be just as finicky as we are. In situation of the economy, and the standards for marriage, and that has to do Black women as if we make no exceptions today’s society, the man is more generation we are in, a two income family with their households (upbringing). All to the rule, “that her man has to have concerned with quantity rather than is common and becoming a necessity. mothers want their daughters to marry professional stature, high income, college quality, and they are not ready to settle When couples match themselves caliber doctors and lawyers, but I feel that if the degrees, and good looks.” This is not true down. They’re out looking for the wise, they will cut down on the stress in relationship is true and if the woman is and 1 don’t understand how the author baddest girl they can find and they want the relationship, and they will have more interested and really trying to get to know could suggest such I feel that most one that their friends will admire. Around in common. I do not think there’s the other person for what he is, then she women basically want someone who has here, if you’re not light skinned with long anything wrong with chosing someone wouldn’t have to worry about what kind something to offer, be it success, love, hair and wear bad clothes you can forget selectively, but keep in mind the of job he has. money security or whatever, and not it 1 But that goes both ways, because there importance of getting married to an someone who has nothing to offer. This is There are a lot of girls who do set are some good looking girls that you can’t individual for what they can offer not unique to our generation.” standards and who do come to Spelman get to, either. They should remember that mentally, not always only financially.” — Mechelle V. Smith, to get married, and then again — some of God gave it to them and he can take it — Andre M. Carter, Morehouse Spelman junior the people who are going to be doctors away.” freshman “I don’t feel as though we-set our “I was kind of shocked. I didn’t know standards too high. First of all we have to Ann Dennard Story be intimidated. I am in a stage of learning that Black women were hung up on the question what “too high” means. I feel as Continued from page 6 myself. I would not have the audacity to status of a man rather than the man though any woman who has taken the realize I haven’t done well. But when I criticize someone, when I am just as himself, maybe that’s just typical of a f'Tjj tCOf-' time, and who has the discipline to attend have worked hard, I have confidence. I equally vulnerable to criticism.” Spelman woman —she’s more concerned a four year school, should and has the was taught to only perform in places that With such a bright outlook and a with status.” right to want a man whbi haiLds much show you off at your best.” positive philosophy, Ms. Dennard should — Tamela Townsend, Spelman education. I, however, do not think that “I would hope that regardless if my have a wonderful future in whatever she sophomore we (the Black women of Spelman singing is not their kind of music and they seeks to endeavor. “The article was very interesting and College) discriminate. happen to be there, that people will at “A good voice will make a good voice, true in many cases. Most women today The mentality of most successful Black least be polite, courteous, and respectful.” but the great artist needs talent, skill, a are into their careers and want someone men is definately contrary to the Ms. Dennard has not been a braggart fine mind, and a big soul.” who they can relate with. Many of the mentality of Black men with less about her talent. Nor has she searched for “A criticism is like a flame, what it licks blue collar workers are unable to education because they (the college a way to intimidate mediocre singers. it destroys. It rarely brightens.” communicate on an academic level as educated ones) feel that they have so “I don’t see any reason why they should Ingredients of great logic. someone who is in a specialized field as much to offer and that they are in great Professional Black Women if - Continued from page 4 ?>• President Dap Moore commented that Esther Rolle----- affairs director; in medicine, Dr. Juel P. blacks have the responsibility to pass on Borders; in the performing arts, Ms. to posterity a comprehensive record of Continued from Page 7 to insult us.” Joyce F. Johnson, professor of music at the trials and triumphs of black When asked about the future of black Ms. Rolle is superb because she has an Spelman College, in politics, Mrs. Americans. women in the theater Ms. Rolle replied, abundance of emotion that allows her to Henrietta Canty, a former state Atlanta was selected as the “Be ever critical of yourself, dishonesty to share with others and still have some for representative; in religion, Rev. Barbara headquarters of the corporation “because self is our major downfall.” She stressed herself. She is a positive image for King Blake of the Hillside Chapel and of its esteemed black colleges, successful that the black woman has got to be everyone because she believes that “pride Truth Center and in artistic innovation, black businesses, famous black churches, selective about the things she does, in oneself is the key to success,” a message Ms. Debra Benton. and its vanguard accorfipfehments in “because if we don’t we are halping people we can all benefit from. Collections of Life and Heritage producing black leaders.”