Choate Rosemary Hall 333 Christian Street Wallingford, CT

Vol. CXIV · No. I Friday, September 25, 2020 thechoatenews.choate.edu “Jessica Jones Star” Aneesh Sheth Kicks Off Spectrum Speaker Series By Pranav Pendri ’22 Reporter

CHOATE CONFRONTS RACIAL INJUSTICE By Adrienne Chacón ’22 and Renee Jiang ’22 past several months, both students and faculty have responded in The School also acknowledged the need for action beyond con- Copy Editors a variety of ways. versation and refection. On June 4, Head of School Dr. Alex Curtis The School recognized that community members may need addi- announced the creation of the Choate Fund for Justice, a restrict- Last spring, after George Floyd was killed by police ofcers tional support and resources in the wake of these events. One of the ed fund supported by individual donations. At the time of the an- in Minneapolis, Breonna Taylor by ofcers in Louisville, Ky., and frst actions taken by the School was the reconstitution of the Current nouncement, the Choate Fund for Justice had been seeded by a per- Ahmaud Arbery by armed civilians in Georgia, protests in support Events Resource Group (CERG), which is dedicated to providing “re- sonal contribution from Dr. Curtis. Numerous members of the Board of Black lives and against systemic inequality and discrimination sources and support to the Choate community when events in our of Trustees have joined Dr. Curtis in donating to the fund. Donations erupted across the country. The Choate community was not im- local community, nation, and world prove challenging, divisive, or to the Choate Fund for Justice will go exclusively to nonprofts that mune to widespread feelings of hurt, anger, and frustration in re- especially complex,” wrote Dean of Students Mr. Mike Velez ’00 in support racial justice initiatives. sponse to these and other acts of race-based trauma, and over the an all-school email on June 1.

Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/ The Choate News Choate Hosts Day of Conversation and Reflection On Friday, June 5, Choate body sees eye to eye. “Let’s learn sues to really want to learn.” hosted a Day of Conversation and to respectfully disagree and re- The School stated that the Refection for students and facul- spectfully talk to each other,” Day of Conversation and Re- ty, which began with discussions said Dr. Myers, “so that we’re not fection was highly encouraged and flms based on the injustices saying microaggressions or crit- but not mandatory in order to long faced by Black Americans. icizing other people’s existence.” help Black community members Social Media Accounts The afternoon’s schedule fo- Thoughtful communication, she avoid the emotional toll such cused on discussion-based work- added, is necessary to make sure conversations may take on them. Highlight Pervasive Issues shops about topics such as social all students feel as though they “Black community members Spurred by the creation of moments on campus that did not media activism, the harm in “All belong on campus. may simply need to opt out for accounts such as @BlackatDeer- fall under the previous two ac- Lives Matter,” and art’s place in Despite the School’s inten- the important work of self-care feldOfcal, @BlackatAndover, counts’ categories. protest. In addition to these gen- tions to spread awareness and and forcing participation would and @BlackatExeter, on June Recurring themes on the @ eral workshops, there were afn- encourage discussion, some felt be yet another example of racism 22, Choate alumni created the @ LifeatChoate account in particu- ity spaces available for students that the Day of Conversation and that privileges white need over BlackatChoateOfcial account on lar are body image, eating disor- of color and Black students. Refection did not achieve its all others,” read an email Mr. Instagram. Since then, they have ders, mental health issues, sex- For Director of Equity and desired goal. Allyson Alavez ’22 Velez sent to the community on continuously published stories sub- ism, and sexual assault. Through Inclusion Dr. Rachel Myers, said, “I don’t think it was efec- June 4. mitted by current and former Black a direct message on Instagram, workshops like these are essen- tive at all because it wasn’t man- Choate students, faculty, and par- the administrators of @Lifeat- tial in helping students learn to datory. The people that chose to ents, detailing personal accounts of Choate, who asked to remain discuss sensitive, identity-based go were those that were already racism, discrimination, and other anonymous, stated, “We as an topics — even when not every- informed enough about the is- mistreatment at the School. account aren’t asking for specifc On August 11, @QueeratCho- changes or advocating for certain ate began publishing the experi- positions on issues. All we aim School Responds to ences of discrimination against to do is provide a platform for LGBTQIA+ students at Choate. people to speak about their ex- Social Media Accounts On the same day, @LifeatCho- periences and hopefully inspire In response to the testimonies countless stories in which stu- ate began detailing challenging others to take action.” shared on the @LifeatChoate and dents felt their trust was betrayed Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/ @QueeratChoate accounts, the by the administration. The Choate News School established a committee “Choate really needs to under- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion called Together at Choate. Created stand what is causing their stu- by Dr. Myers, Mr. Velez, and As- dents to be anonymous and trust Task Force Is Born sociate Head of School Ms. Kath- social media accounts more than Over the summer, the Diver- Force will encompass three main porting form that would be ac- leen Wallace, the group addressed the teachers or whatever ‘sup- sity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) phases. The frst phase aimed to cessible on the portal and a new the Choate community through port system’ they have,” read one Task Force was established to ad- gather feedback, sort data, and re- identity-based slur policy that an all-school email on September submission. “Please think about dress gaps and inequities within view pre-existing policies through would allow for the possibility 3. The email acknowledged the what tangible changes are needed existing systems at Choate and a Task Force feedback form, of probation, suspension, or dis- hurt endured by contributors to so that these teenagers can trust address the many concerns raised phone and Zoom calls, and email missal for students found using the accounts and pledged to work someone without worrying about by students. Spearheaded by Dr. correspondence with members of identity-based slurs. The iden- against problems that had been all the consequences.” Myers, the task force consists of the Choate community. tity-based slur policy has been detailed. Together at Choate called In the same post, other stu- 10 other faculty members: En- The second phase was focused included in the 2020–2021 Stu- on the accounts’ administrators or dents expressed their concern glish Department Head Ms. Ellen on developing and providing virtu- dent Handbook. any contributors to engage in open that the School was relying on Devine, Director of Athletics Mr. al workshops for the Choate com- The fnal phase will conclude dialogue with the School. students to do the work of the ad- Roney Eford, Spanish teacher munity. Between August 18–21, the next month, with a fnal assess- Many feel that the School’s ministration. Another submission Mr. Charlie Fuentes, Assistant Task Force held eight workshops: ment written by the DEI, analyz- response stands in contrast to read: “[The administrators of @ Director of Counseling Ms. Ray- three for current students; two for ing the workshops and presenting the purpose of the accounts, plat- LifeatChoate] shouldn’t be expect- netta Gibbs, Fourth-form Dean faculty, staf, spouses, or partners; a plan for implementation of their forms designed to allow students ed to give up anonymity to do the and Alumni Engagement Associ- and another three for alumni and proposed policies. to speak out under the security of administration’s job for them ... I ate Mr. Will Gilyard ’98, English parents. During the workshops, However, the process won't anonymity. @LifeatChoate pub- fnd it so performative.” teacher Dr. Edrik Lopez, Assistant members of the Task Force re- end there. “One big hurdle was lished a post that that allowed to To better analyze and tackle to the Director of the Paul Mellon viewed new policies and initiatives. that we had a small amount of react anonymously to the Togeth- these issues, the School has con- Arts Center Ms. Kelly Lorraine ’99, Workshop members went into time to get things done, and we er at Choate email. One issue high- vened faculty from the Wellness HPRSS teacher Ms. Cindy Okrah, breakout rooms to discuss each recognized we weren’t going to lighted in this post was the email’s team, Department of Equity and Mr. Velez, and science teacher Ms. policy’s merits and potential areas get everything done in the sum- lack of acknowledgement of the Inclusion, and Athletics Depart- Yuxin Xie. for improvement. mer,” said Ms. Gibbs. The DEI ment to address some of the prob- In an email sent to students on Some ideas discussed in the Task Force will continue operat- lems highlighted in the accounts. July 16, Dr. Curtis and Dr. Myers workshops included a bias re- ing throughout the year. The email expressed the ad- shared that the work of the Task ministration’s interest in col- laborating with students to address shortcomings and improve the Choate experience for everyone. Between the global pandemic and escalating racial tensions, this summer seemed a turning point for not only the School but the world at large. “Let’s strike while Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/ the iron is hot,” said Director of Equity and Inclusion Dr. The Choate News Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/ Myers. “Everyone’s paying attention now.” The Choate News

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Schools Adapt @ChangeatChoate Read it, then recycle it. Local public-school students Students engage with social me- discuss the learning curve for dia to share untold stories. Visuals by World Economic hybrid learning. Features • P7 Forum, The Wall Street Journal, The Butler Collegian, (203) 269-9507 Local News • P4 and Business of Fashion. WWW.COLONYDINER.COM Page 2 || The Choate News Friday, September 25, 2020

SCHOOL YEAR BEGINS VIRTUALLY FOR THE FIRST TIME

By Alexis Lien ’23 The spring term proved to be despite the lack of designated er. But, he said, “the School Staf Reporter a helpful pilot for virtual learn- ofce hours in the schedule. was especially determined to ing, and the community ofered Mr. Rogers said, “We knew make that possibility real.” With last spring’s virtual invaluable feedback to the team that that 10:30 in the morning Dorm life is yet another as- term essentially used as a trial tasked with organizing the new [ET] slot was what we afection- pect to the Choate experience that run for this year’s adaptations to schedule. The collaborative efort ately referred to as the ‘gold- continues to adapt to the virtu- the pandemic, the Choate com- was led by the Registrar’s Ofce, en band’ in the sense that just al environment. Upon boarding munity has developed numerous with the help of the Dean of Fac- about everybody in the world is students’ arrival to the dorms in ways for the school year to con- ulty’s Ofce, including Director of reasonably awake [at that time]. October, students will be quaran- tinue smoothly both online and, Curricular Initiatives Mr. Deron So we knew that that 10:30 slot tining in their dorms and taking eventually, in-person. Chang, Director of Studies Mr. was going to be especially im- classes virtually for the quarantine On September 15, the 131st Kevin Rogers, and Director of Fac- portant for the advisory, college period. Day students, on the oth- Convocation took the form of a ulty Development Mr. Tom White. counseling, and form meetings er hand, will be quarantining at pre-recorded video featuring a Hosting accessible synchro- that we wanted to incorporate.” home and will be assigned a family message from Head of School nous classes was a foremost pri- As for school meetings, Dean unit of four other day students. Dr. Alex Curtis and Student Body ority for the School. Ms. Cather- of Students Mr. Mike Velez ’00 Mr. Rogers, an adviser in President Ula Lucas ’21, as well ine Velez, the School’s registrar, worked with faculty to ensure Clinton Knight, said, “I’m hop- as videos of students sending said, “Having students in class students receive the necessary ing that the fun parts of living support and advice to their peers synchronously was our most im- announcements and messages and working in a dorm — the for the upcoming school year. portant goal. We wanted to be through form meetings and ad- casual conversations, the com- The many changes to this year able to be sensitive to students vising, leaving more time in the mon room pieces — I hope that include the transformation of the across time zones.” She said that schedule for academic blocks. even with the restrictions those daily academic schedule, which her ofce thought through a va- Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/The Choate News If an announcement needs to pieces. They may not look the now comprises nine academic riety of scenarios with the un- facilitate rotation in the academ- tional student, I appreciate the be delivered to the community same as they have in the past, blocks that meet three times a derstanding that “no one system ic blocks throughout the sched- administration’s eforts in trying as a whole, school meetings will but we don’t lose that.” week for an hour. The decision to was ever going to be perfect.” ule to make it as feasible as pos- to be more accommodating to dif- be pre-recorded and sent out as Most safety measures, in- shorten classes from 70 minutes The synchronous classes sible for students to participate ferent time zones. The schedule they were last spring. cluding the placement of hand to 60 minutes was made to ac- aim to provide new students at reasonable times. Regardless, has its pros and cons — now I no Although there is an after- sanitizer dispensers and dis- commodate more blocks. Classes with a means to acclimate to students still faced difculties longer have to stay up through the noon slot designated for athletics infectant sprays in classrooms are in session from 8 a.m. to 9:40 the classroom setting at Cho- with their schedule. “I think that night, but the amount of contin- and afternoon activities, adjust- and the switch from Harkness p.m. ET to allow students from ate and make connections with there were more students who uous sleep I get is limited by my ments were made to extracurric- tables to individual desks in the diferent parts of the world to join their teachers and peers. elected to be remote through the morning classes.” Austin Zhao ular activities to accommodate Humanities building, were ready classes synchronously. Mr. Rogers said, “One of the fall term,” Ms. Velez said. “I do ’23 said, “I don’t know how I feel students and facilitate the best for the return of students to cam- Over the summer, students things that we benefted from last think that there are some stu- about the break in between the learning experience. Some mu- pus in September. Nevertheless, were asked to express their pre- spring was the fact that we had dents who had originally elected day blocks and H block. It’s such a sic ensembles such as Symphony the delay of the on-campus start ferred time zone for classes to had two terms together in many to take six classes and that some weird, short but long gap. The big- Orchestra had their rehearsals to October aforded faculty and ease the burden of having class- of our classes. People were pretty of them have found that that gest problem for me might be the moved to take up an academic staf extra time to familiarize es at unfavorable times, which well enculturated into classes, or was too much being remote — in disorganization of extra help.” block in the schedule. themselves with the necessary posed a challenge in the spring at least into the Choate academic particular if their sixth class was Ofce hours and a School Mr. Rogers acknowledged safety measures to safeguard the term. The new schedule aims to environment. We knew that this outside of their time band.” Meeting block could not be in- that the School debated elim- wellbeing of the community. hold classes at relatively normal fall, that wouldn’t be the case.” Students had varying respons- cluded in the schedule this year. inating afternoon activities, waking hours for each student, In addition to synchronous es to the new schedule. Anika The hope is for faculty to still including athletics, musical re- Alexis Lien may be reached no matter where they are living. classes, another priority was to Midha ’22 said, “As an interna- fnd extra help time for students, hearsals, and the like, altogeth- at [email protected]

Readers United Holds Virtual STUDENT ACTIVITIES Classes for Students in Japan TO CONTINUE VIRTUALLY By Sabrina Wang ’23 versation that they experienced Reporter at the in-person fair. “I feel like the dynamic has In early August, two weeks changed,” said Sophia Dubbelde before students were set to return ’23. “During in-person Club Fair, to campus, the School announced everyone’s behind their table, that their return to in-person yelling at kids who are walking classes would be pushed back by them to come check out their until the frst week of October. club. But for this Club Fair, it’s Suddenly, many extracurricular about everyone who reads the de- activities that students had hoped scription of your club and thinks to experience in person, such as it’s interesting.” clubs and events hosted by the However, she also expressed Student Activities Center (SAC), that there were benefts to having turned to virtual platforms. a virtual Club Fair. “It is nice to Last Sunday, September 20, engage with people one-on-one the SAC hosted the School’s frst in a much calmer setting. Some- Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/The Choate News virtual Club Fair, an event usually times you have a conversation Committee on Student Activities is a real thing. It’s hard to plan held at the beginning of the school with them and can check on what (COSA). “Their reasoning for not events on Fridays and Saturdays year for both new and returning they’re doing. When you’re at accepting club proposals was more when students are tired of be- Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/The Choate News students to sign up for clubs they Club Fair, people are always run- led by the SAC, as we identifed ing on Zoom. Now they have the By Joy Bang ’22 Both the students in Japan are interested in. However, in- ning,” said Dubbelde. there were a lot of clubs struggling opportunity to be with family Staf Reporter and the tutors from Readers Unit- stead of packing themselves into To keep this sense of intima- last spring term.” said Ms. Colleen and possibly friends, so it’s a lot ed have enjoyed their discussions. booths on the Hill House quad, cy, many clubs have been trying Kazar, Assistant Director of Stu- diferent in attendance because On May 10, Readers Unit- According to Hayakawa, the Jap- the representatives of each club to strategically adapt to the on- dent Activities. “Our goal in the fall there are more options for them ed began hosting weekly online anese students commented that found themselves sitting behind line platform. For Quiz Bowl, is to get all the clubs that currently outside of school and outside of conversation classes with middle they enjoy learning about life in screens in individual Zoom meet- this meant creating a Discord exist back on track and then be able Zoom,” said Ms. Alex Long, Di- school students in Japan in re- the U.S. They also believe that ings. After being sent a lengthy server to continue fostering a to open for more clubs hopefully in rector of Student Activities. sponse to school closures caused discussing societal issues pro- directory of Choate’s clubs and sense of community amongst the winter, although the timeline is Though student activities by Covid-19. The club, founded vides more perspective on how organizations along with their its members. Each club had a to be determined.” may have experienced some un- in 2016, was originally created they can be solved. Similarly, the mission statements and Zoom different approach, but they all Many students are reluctant expected changes over the past to explore reading with young- tutors of Readers United provid- link, interested students were made sure to establish a con- to participate in online clubs, month, the SAC is still trying its er students in Wallingford, but ed positive feedback, especially in asked to join clubs’ virtual meet- nection with their members. tired from long days Zoom class- best to create ways for the Choate as the pandemic continues to regards to how tackling relevant ing rooms. The transition to virtual activ- es or simply busy with activities community to enjoy each other’s negatively impact educational issues with students from another For returning students at- ities has also caused many other at home. Though there are still company and have fun virtually. opportunities globally, Readers country allowed them to recog- tending Club Fair, it was harder changes surrounding student activ- weekend activities available, the United took the initiative to con- nize their shared humanity. to get the same sense of com- ities. Notably, new club proposals level of attendance has dramat- Sabrina Wang may be reached nect with and mentor students In particular, the participants munity and spontaneous con- are no longer being accepted by the ically decreased. “Zoom fatigue at [email protected] at Katoh Gakuen Gyoshu Junior have felt that the open discussion High School and Gunma Koku- sessions have provided insight into sai Academy in Japan. Refecting diferent cultures, lifestyles, and on the club’s outreach, Readers backgrounds. Hayakawa recalled, INTERNATIONAL STUDENT SOCIETY DISCUSSES United President Sakura Ha- “Before such interactions, students yakawa ’21 said, “As Covid-19 from the two countries found it dif- RACISM AND MICROAGRESSIONS ceased the fow of people, we felt fcult to imagine each other’s lives, By Annika Lee ’23 reach out and spread these discus- In the meeting for new Korean land International Student Society the need to bridge nationality for but these weekly meetings allowed Reporter sions.” As this was their frst time students led by Hong, students dis- meeting helped me understand cross-cultural communication.” us to transcend borders to deepen holding these discussions for new cussed their previous exposure to what a microaggression is — how In each weekly session, mutual understanding.” She add- On Sunday, September 6, and international students, Hong and racism and how Asian Americans does it look like and sound like.” Choate tutors and their tutees ed, “The discussion of culture al- Monday, September 14, Claire Visuthikosol started with a maxi- can contribute towards promoting Although this is a new project from Japan discussed cultural, lowed us to acknowledge how we Hong ’22 and Nick Visuthikosol mum of 12 students per meeting. inclusivity at Choate. “A common for ISS, Hong and Visuthikosol are social, and political topics in come from the intersection of cul- ’22, co-presidents of the Interna- Hong and Visuthikosol found theme in our call was community looking to expand these meetings breakout rooms for 40 minutes tures and how it enriches our lives.” tional Student Society (ISS), held that new students initially strug- and how in such a diverse commu- to students from China, Japan, before reconvening as a large With the positive feedback virtual meetings for new Korean gled to discuss sensitive topics. nity like Choate, it is certainly easy Canada, Mexico, and countries in group for ten minutes. The dis- and high interest from students and Thai students, respectively, Nevertheless, more people spoke to feel lost or alone,” Hong said. Europe. They hope these meetings cussions surrounded current and tutors alike, Readers Unit- allowing open discussion of racism up when they became more fa- In the meeting for new Thai will not only allow internation- events and topics suggested by ed is planning on maintain- and microaggressions in boarding miliar with one another. “At students led by Visuthiokosol, stu- al students to become more ac- the Japanese students, includ- ing the connection via weekly school environments. frst, it was quite awkward, and dents also discussed their past ex- quainted with one another but also ing the differences and sim- meetings throughout the school “In light of all the social justice no one really talked because we periences with racism and ways to give them the chance to dissect ilarities in the Japanese and year. “We will continue as long action that has been going on over barely knew each other. So, we prevent or deal with difcult situ- more complex issues surrounding American culture, Japan’s high as there is interest and need for the summer, I was thinking of ways started having conversations ations. Prim Tangkaravakoon ’24, the international student experi- levels of mask use reflected by us to do it,” Hayakawa said. I could contribute to the move- about school and life in general,” who attended the meeting, said, ence at boarding schools. its collectivist society, and the ment,” said Hong. “Holding certain Visuthikosol said. “After that, it “At my old school, there wasn’t any significance of the Black Lives Joy Bang may be reached leadership positions, I realized I was a lot easier to dive into the discussion or acknowledgment of Annika Lee may be reached Matter protests. at [email protected] have the ability and platform to more sensitive topics.” microaggressions at all. The Thai- at [email protected] Friday, September 25, 2020 Page 3 || The Choate News

Greetings, New Faculty!

Dr. Colin Mort Ms. Amanda Gilbride Dr. Rachel Myers

After ten years at St. “On Zoom, anytime I can get Though she has yet to meet Joining the campus as Cho- ate — of students’ negative or George’s School in Newport, the entire class smiling, I feel most of the Choate commu- ate’s new Director of Equity & painful experiences. Rhode Island, new English like I've done something very nity in person, Ms. Amanda Inclusion, Dr. Rachel Myers Dr. Myers joins Choate teacher Dr. Colin Mort was significant, just because of the Gilbride, a new member of the expressed that this year’s na- from The Hotchkiss School in drawn to Choate by the “open- technological intermediate in- Language Department, has tional protests over police bru- Lakeville, Conn., where she ness and diversity” of the com- termediary,” he said. seen that Choate students are tality and systemic inequality was the school’s Director of munity. Teaching Introduc- In addition to teaching En- “engaged and eager to learn.” has left no doubt that now is Diversity and Inclusion and a tion to Literature, The Art of glish, Dr. Mort will be advising She said, “There is a com- the time to act and push for teacher in the English depart- the Essay, and Introduction to in Mead and coaching Boys’ and munity among the students social justice, including on the ment. She currently resides on Creative Writing this term, he Girls’ Squash. He lives on campus and also a level of respect Choate campus. campus in McBee House with appreciates how easily he can with his wife and three children. among each other.” Though the challenges her partner and son. converse with students whose Ms. Gildbride’s goal for her ahead are complex, Dr. Myers diverse passions reach beyond — Kate Bailey ’22 Chinese 300 class is to get her believes that the solution lies — Kate Bailey ’22 the English Department. students reading signs and in- in upholding the School’s val- In the classroom, Dr. Mort fographics and listening to the ues of compassion, integrity, looks forward to sharing dif- news in Chinese. and respect — even when no- ferent cultures with his stu- To contend with students’ body is watching. dents through literature. “It’s lack of textbooks, Ms. Gilbride Photo courtesy of the Choate Directory “If you really want to be fun when someone’s reading has relied on teaching current guistics and Chinese from In- here, and you really feel like about a place or a time they events for her classes. One of diana University, where, as this is your place, live out the knew nothing about,” he said. her teaching methods is pro- part of the Chinese Flagship mission and values,” she said. Dr. Mort also hopes to help viding Chinese “in context,” program, she spent a year “It’s that simple.” each of his students devel- which has taken the form of abroad in China. Dr. Myers wants every stu- op their own perspective and encouraging students to dis- She also has a master’s dent to be comfortable “com- voice. Though this goal was cuss their passions in Chinese. degree in teaching Chinese as ing as their full selves,” no complicated by the transition Before arriving at Choate, a foreign language from the matter how they identify. to online classes, Dr. Mort re- Ms. Gilbride was a Teaching Middlebury Institute. She will It was heartbreaking for mains optimistic. The highlight Assistant at Middlebury Insti- coach field hockey and advise her to read the stories — she of his first few weeks were mo- tute of International Studies in Nichols House. reads everything posted on ments when he was able to con- in Monterey, Calif. She earned student-run social media ac- nect with everyone in a class. her bachelor’s degree in Lin- — Pranav Pendri ’22 counts such as @BlackatCho- Photo courtesy of the Choate Directory Photo courtesy of the Choate Directory

Rev. Aaron Rathbun Dr. Jesse Gleason Before coming to Choate, very excited to be involved in Spanish teacher Dr. Jesse After years spent in Chile, Rev. Aaron Rathbun attend- the E-Sports and gaming clubs Gleason is no stranger to Choate, she has lived by the phrase ed Yale Univeresity, taught at on campus as well. having taught at Choate Summer “Todo con calma,” which Sacred Heart University, and Rev. Rathbun notes the Programs. Alongside her husband, roughly translates to “all was a pastor at Christ Presby- role of spirituality in our who also teaches Spanish, she is calm.” Reminding her to do ev- terian Church in New Haven. lives. As students begin to ex- excited to be back with the Cho- erything with ease and to take At Sacred Heart, he taught plore deeper questions in high ate community, which she feels is time for herself, the phrase is “The Catholic Intellectual Tra- school, he suggests asking, “welcoming, inclusive and flled very comforting to her, espe- dition,” combining the works “How can [spiritual life] be a with people who are goal driven cially now. of intellectuals throughout tool in my toolbox for having and all have a set of values.” Dr. Gleason, who lives on history with the gospel. these conversations?” In addition to teaching at campus, is also a yoga teach- At Choate, Rev. Rathbun Rev. Rathbun is looking Choate, Dr. Gleason is an Assis- er and can be found on walks will serve as both the Leader of forward to moving to the Cho- tant Professor of World Language and playing with her kids. She Spiritual Life and the instruc- ate campus with his spouse and Education and Coordinator of the is looking forward to meeting tor of several courses such as four children. World Language Teacher Certif- her students in person. World Religions and Philos- cation Program at Southern Con- ophy. As an avid gamer, he is — Michael Korvyakov ’23 necticut State University. — Tobi Oyinloye ’22 Photo courtesy of the Choate Directory Photo courtesy of the Choate Directory

Ms. Brianne Ellis Mr. Gene Wie Mr. Patrick Durbin This year the Admission Of- With more than 17 years of Mr. Wie noted that “these are Mr. Patrick Durbin, Choate’s fce is welcoming a new Associate teaching experience, Mr. Gene very big shoes to fill.” Still, he new Chief Financial Ofcer (CFO), Director of Admissions who will Wie is Choate’s new Instru- is full of passion and thrilled to has been overseeing budgets, f- have a focus on multicultural re- mental Ensembles Director. have joined Choate. He is try- nancial transactions, the facilities cruitment: Ms. Brianne Ellis. Before coming to Choate, Mr. ing to find creative ways for his ofce, community safety, and risk Through part of her work Wie was a vocal instructor at students to play together when management for the School since with admissions, Ms. Ellis orga- the University of South Flori- they cannot physically gather he took over the position from Mr. nizes meetings with prospective da and the University of Tam- to practice. One of his current Rick Saltz on July 1. and current Choate families liv- pa. He was also a professional initiatives has been a system Though he often doesn’t inter- ing in her jurisdiction of Ohio, singer and voice coach. of virtual sight reading. Before act with Choate students during Florida, Washington, D.C., Acknowledging the long class, Mr. Wie posts the sheet his job’s day-to-day schedule, Mr. Maryland, Puerto Rico, Africa, tenure and influence of Mr. music to the ensemble’s Can- Durbin looks forward to working and the Caribbean. In Africa, she Phil Ventre, Choate’s former vas page. During each rehears- with students in other ways; he works with the Gakio-Walton director of the Symphony Or- al, he plays the piece’s orches- is a dorm adviser in Atwater and Scholar Program to encourage chestra and Jazz Ensemble, tral backing track over Zoom would like to help advise a club more African students to apply while students play along on as well. Mr. Durbin played volley- to Choate. She describes her role their instruments with their ball in college and expressed that in admissions as “looking for Photo courtesy of the Choate Directory microphones muted. he could see himself coaching in Photo courtesy of the Choate Directory and actively recruiting diverse William Smith Colleges. She feels Mr. Wie expressed that he the near future. “I want to be a ties and Community Safety. The students to come to Choate.” She that, at Choate, she will interact loves the boarding-school en- resource to students as I’m a re- renovation of Hill House and oth- is also working on a fy-in pro- more directly with students. “I vironment. Already feeling at source to faculty,” said Mr. Durbin. er future construction projects, gram to help students from un- live on campus, I get to advise in home within the Choate com- Before Choate, Mr. Durbin for example, have all fallen under derprivileged backgrounds and Library, and be the adviser for a munity, he is striving to form was the CFO of Georgetown Uni- his supervision at Choate. will serve as an adviser to the club on campus,” she said. strong bonds with his students versity’s College of Arts and Sci- Mr. Durbin lives with his fami- Mixed Heritage Association. Ms. Ellis said that, since the despite the virtual nature of ences in Washington, D.C. Prior ly in the 1956 House, and his ofce In addition to studying in beginning of her time at Cho- learning so far. to that, he was the Assistant Vice is in Ruutz-Rees with the rest of the South Africa, Honduras, Israel, ate, everyone has been gracious Outside of the classroom, President for Student Afairs and fnancial ofce. He has four chil- and Argentina, Ms. Ellis received in offering themselves as re- Mr. Wie loves to bike, which he Senior Director of Finance and dren, whom he loves to go on bike her B.A. from Williams Smith sources to her for adjusting to is very excited to get back to. Mr. Administration at Georgetown. rides with. Mr. Durbin received College, and her M.S.Ed from a virtual setting. She currently Wie now lives on campus with Mr. Durbin said that “the scope of both his B.S. in Human Science the University of Miami. She was lives in Faculty Circle. his partner and two children. the role here, at Choate, is broad- and his M.B.A. from Georgetown. previously an Associate Direc- er,” and he more actively works tor of Admissions at Hobart and — Pranav Pendri ’22 — Tobi Oyinloye ’22 with departments such as Facili- — Pranav Pendri ’22 Photo courtesy of the Choate Directory

Ms. Le'ah Griggs Mr. Will Gilyard Ms. Le’ah Griggs is a new also be teaching private piano Think you’ve had a busy start him a great ft for his ancillary teacher in the Language De- lessons remotely. to the school year? Try being a role in the alumni ofce, where partment. She is remotely When asked what brought new form dean. Mr. Will Gilyard he is currently planning, an in- teaching Spanish 250 and her to Choate, she said, “It ’98, who also serves as an Alum- credible reunion experience 401 at Choate, while she also seems like a very nice environ- ni Engagement Associate, has while considering the added teaches at the East Cooper ment — both the students and had individual meetings with challenge of doing it all virtually. Montessori School in Charles- faculty. I love how diverse and more than 110 of his new fourth Mr. Gilyard returns to Cho- ton, S.C., where she currently global the School is and how form deanees. Though it might ate after ten years of working resides. In the classroom, she dedicated the faculty and staff sound overwhelming, for Mr. Gi- at Kingswood Oxford School goes by the names “Professora are to making sure that people lyard, getting to know each of his — a day school in West Hart- Le’ah” or “Senorita Le’ah.” feel welcome and included.” students has been “awesome.” ford, Conn. — as the Dean of Outside of the classroom, Students, she said, “have been Although Mr. Gilyard is still Students and a form dean. He Ms. Griggs is an avid musi- great, and they’re super mti- getting to know current stu- lives in Berry House with his cian, playing the piano, uku- vated to learn.” dents, the School itself is a fa- wife and two sons. lele, and clarinet, in addition miliar place: he is a Choate grad- to singing. At Choate, she will — Michael Korvyakov ’23 uate. It’s something that makes — Kate Bailey ’22 Photo courtesy of Le'ah Griggs Photo courtesy of the Choate Directory The Choate News || Page 4 Friday, September 25, 2020

WALLINGFORD SCHOOLS ADOPT Local Citizens Protest for HYBRID LEARNING PLAN Civil Rights in “Rally Against Hate”

By Jessica Wu ’22 ism in the medical system and ceration and the defunding of Copy Editor really understanding that the the postal system, remove citi- medical system is part of a zens’ voices from the democratic On Saturday, August 15, larger system of racism in this process, Dr. Colhoun posited in more than 100 people gathered country,” said Dr. Colhoun. her speech. Her speech was met outside the Wallingford Town “Black women who are col- by applause from the audience, Hall for the Rally Against Hate lege graduates are more likely to many of whom approached her — an event aimed to promote die from preventable childbirth afterward and thanked her. peace in communities by uniting complications than white women At one point during the ral- against systemic racism. who have not completed eighth ly, several supporters of Presi- Motivated by the recent po- grade education. The reason that dent Donald Trump P’00 jeered lice killings of George Floyd is important is, for a long time, at the protesters from across and other Black men and wom- people have explained away dif- Main Street. One man repeatedly en and the Black Lives Matter ferences in maternal outcomes shouted, “White lives matter.” movement, members of the with poverty and lack of educa- Still, Dr. Colhoun felt that Wallingford community holding tion,” said Dr. Colhoun. the rally had a welcoming, homemade signs convened in She began her speech wear- close-knit atmosphere and was solidarity against violence and ing her white coat, only to re- an overall empowering experi- discrimination toward margin- veal a Black Lives Matter shirt ence. “Black people and people alized groups. underneath. “As a physician, I of color did not create the racist

Photo courtesy of The Record-Journal “We were there to rally for know that my white coat doesn’t system in America,” she said. “I Dag Hammarskjold Middle School has reported two coronavirus cases since it reopened. peace and to basically shed light protect me. Just because I’m a think it’s really important that the risks of more cases emerg- to understand people and to not on the issues that are happening physician, it doesn’t mean I’m we have allies of all colors and By Trista LeBlanc-Serbyn ’22 ing, the Board of Education de- talk when others are speaking.” in society around police brutality not treated as a Black woman from all walks of life in disman- Reporter cided to keep schools open. Despite the unusual circum- — as I call them, the modernized in America...I have to deal with tling this system.” Hybrid learning poses a new stances that come with the hybrid lynchings of Black people — and racism all the time and people Following the event, on Sep- Despite coronavirus con- challenge for many students who learning environment, teachers really to organize and say that assuming I’m not a physician,” tember 22, National Voter Regis- cerns, Wallingford Public are asked to balance an intense still strive to provide students Black lives matter and that Black she explained. tration Day, Ms. Tomassi and the Schools (WPS) are now back in class schedule with the efects with a thorough academic ex- lives are important,” said Dr. Dr. Colhoun also spoke about other organizers held an event session with a new hybrid sched- of extended periods of screen perience. “Even though we are Amanda Colhoun, a psychiatry the importance of voting and the outside the gazebo on center ule. Students alternate between time. Delayna Strahowski, an in this pandemic, I feel that the resident at Yale University and prevalence of prejudice in our street in Wallingford encouraging taking their classes in-person eighth-grader at Dag Hammar- teachers that I have are making one of four guest speakers at the country’s systems that result in a people to register to vote. “Vot- and virtually on a rotating cycle. skjold, begins her day with two do with what they have and just event. “Black Lives Matter is not heightened rate of conviction for ing doesn’t solve everything,” she In order to limit the number of electives, followed by six unin- rolling with it. That alone is help- about a political movement. It’s Blacks who are then disenfran- said, “but it’s the start. students inside the school build- terrupted core classes. ful, because they are maintaining about our lives.” chised because of their criminal ing at once and accommodate for “I feel that one of the most a positive attitude, which is very The event was organized by record. Racist voting barriers Jessica Wu may be reached social distancing, students have difcult parts of the learning important,” Strahowski said. three Wallingford residents: Ms. like this, as well as mass incar- at [email protected] been split alphabetically into two structure is the back-to-back Within the hybrid structure, Alexa Tomassi and Ms. Farah cohorts that alternate in-person meets,” Strahowski said. “I can’t teachers have had to fnd ways to Salam-Rahman, who both grad- class days. During the school remember any of the things that keep students engaged with very uated from Mark T. Sheehan day, students, faculty, and staf they taught me, because I have limited physical activity, interac- High School, and Ms. Tyanna must wear masks at all times. no time to process the informa- tions, and hands-on projects that Housley, a Lyman Hall High After-school clubs and tryouts tion. It can get very overwhelm- would normally occupy a day. On School graduate. They spread the for fall sports have also been can- ing sometimes.” top of this, students are spend- word through invitations written celled for the trimester. When Wallingford Public ing only half of the day attending in the Wallingford Patch, Insta- Since the start of the school Schools frst began online classes in-person classes. Mr. George gram posts, and email. In June, year, three coronavirus cas- back in March, they provided stu- Bikakis, a teacher at Dag Ham- they organized a similar demon- es have already been reported dents with laptops. Despite this marskjold, said, “The district is stration on South Main Street. at Dag Hammarskjold Middle implementation, many students really trying to satisfy everyone. At the rally, the organizers School, only adding to the al- still struggle with technical issues, We get to see the kids everyday, provided QR codes that attend- ready stressful learning envi- including weak internet connec- but the problem is that we don’t ees could scan to sign petitions in ronment. After discovering that tions. Alison Connelly, a senior at have a lot of time.” support of the Black Lives Mat- the individuals were infected, Lyman Hall High School, report- “This is the frst time the ter movement. There were also the Board of Education tempo- ed that poor internet access inter- district is dealing with some- fyers containing an “anti-racism rarily closed schools for a day feres with schoolwork. thing like this. They are just ex- toolkit.” The list ofered ways to to disinfect the building. The “Lots of students don’t have perimenting and trying to fnd a take action, such as supporting Board then began contact trac- good service in the areas that balance. There is really no per- local businesses and urging the ing the infected students to limit they are, so their sound and vid- fect solution, but I’m optimistic Board of Education to imple- the spread of the virus within eo during the Google Meets are they’ll make adjustments,” Mr. ment a more diverse curriculum. the community. This investiga- extremely choppy and delayed,” Bikakis said. Dr. Colhoun was invited to tion is currently underway, and says Connelly. “It’s hard to hold speak by Ms. Tomassi, one of both the state and town Depart- a conversation or ask a ques- Trista LeBlanc-Serbyn her colleagues at Yale Univer- ments of Health are continuing tion during distance learning, may be reached at sity. “The focus of my speech Photo courtesy of The Record-Journal to monitor the situation. Despite because it becomes hard both [email protected] was really about exposing rac- Citizens protested in front of Town Hall on August 15.

Yale Agrees to Assist in Pfizer’s Vaccine Trials threshold of 50% efcacy, mean- some participants were showing By Linda Phan ’22 ing that the vaccinated popula- mild-to-moderate symptoms in- Copy Editor tion is at least 50% less likely to cluding fatigue, headache, chills, contract the coronavirus. Based and muscle pain. Data from As the country continues in its on the vaccine’s preclinical trial these phase three trials is partic- struggle against the coronavirus, profles, Pfzer has high hopes ularly crucial because they en- dozens of domestic companies that its vaccine will surpass this sure that companies are certain have been racing to manufacture requirement. Dr. Albert Bourla, about the safety of the vaccine the frst vaccine to be approved Chairman and Chief Executive prior to public release. by the United States Food and Ofcer at Pfzer, said at the JP- Even if a viable vaccine Drug Administration (FDA). In Morgan US All-Stars Confer- makes it onto the market, the the past few months, testing sites ence, “We have a low threshold public may be deterred from vac- have opened around the coun- of 60% efcacy. FDA has asked cination due to concerns about try to support these companies [for] 50%. We’re a bar higher be- safety precautions and proce- as they enter the clinical testing cause we are very confdent.” dures performed by the vaccine stages for their vaccine candidate. Months into the pandemic, the manufacturers. “Right now, [the On August 17, the Yale School coronavirus is still mutating into manufacturer’s] only require- of Medicine and Yale New Hav- diferent strains. These constant ment is to show the data to the en Hospital joined phase three changes have raised concerns FDA,” said Dr. Balcezak. “There of the vaccine trials for Pfzer’s about the potential efcacy of the are many who are calling for BNT162b2 vaccine. vaccine. “No one really knows the transparency in these trials.” BNT162b2 is an mR- answer to that question yet,” said Dr. Bourla announced on NA-based vaccine manufac- Dr. Balcezak. “But, the [corona- September 14 that they plan on tured by pharmaceutical compa- virus’s] spike protein seems to be publicizing an estimated efcacy ny Pfzer with mRNA technology pretty consistent. This particular of the vaccine by late October. provided by German company Photo courtesy of The Harford Courant virus hasn’t mutated a ton...there With 100 million doses set to be BioNTech SE. Seeking approval John Burkhardt, head of Pfizer Groton, speaks at a press conference in Groton, CT. is the hope that [we] are not going sold to the U.S. Health and Hu- for public distribution and use “You get an injection, and for their second injection. Over tis C, or Hepatitis B infection, as to need the new vaccines devel- man Services Department and of their vaccine, Pfzer opened that injection is either the vac- the course of two years, these well as provide additional safety oped and that this vaccine will re- the U.S. Department of Defense over 100 testing sites and re- cine or placebo,” said Dr. Thom- participants are scheduled to have and efcacy data,” Pfzer wrote in main efective against it.” (contingent on FDA-approval), cruited around 30,000 volun- as Balcezak, Executive Vice four follow-up visits. a public statement. The rush for an FDA-ap- the vaccine can potentially put an teers across the country for the President and Chief Clinical Of- On September 12, Pfzer sub- Pfzer’s vaccine candidate uti- proved vaccine also generates end to the pandemic. “[We] are vaccine’s clinical trials. As of fcer at Yale New Haven Health. mitted an amended protocol to lizes groundbreaking techniques concerns regarding the vac- going to have to make sure that August 26, over 400 volunteers “It’s a randomized controlled the FDA, expanding the trial to that are engineered to stimulate cine’s quality. Only in January it is safe. That’s the responsibility had signed up for the study at trial meaning that...the patient 44,000 people in order to include the body into creating corona- did scientists discover the vi- of the FDA. It’s the responsibility Yale. After flling out paperwork doesn’t know what they get and a more diverse population. “The virus spike proteins, which the rus’s genome, yet in less than a of the investigators, and it’s the on the Yale Center for Clinical the person who is administer- proposed expansion would...in- virus uses to enter cells. The im- year, nine vaccines worldwide responsibility of the manufactur- Investigation website, volun- ing [the injection] doesn’t know clude adolescents as young as mune system can then develop a are already in phase three test- er,” said Dr. Balcezak. teers begin their participation what [the patients] get.” 16 years of age and people with defense against those proteins. ing. Furthermore, on Septem- by receiving an injection and Three weeks following the ini- chronic, stable HIV (human im- To receive approval from the ber 15, Pfzer announced in Linda Phan may be reached getting their blood drawn. tial injection, participants return munodefciency viruses), Hepati- FDA, the vaccine has to reach a an investors conference that at [email protected] Friday, September 25, 2020 Page 5 || The Choate News

The ChoaTe News To my beloved grand piano, To All the Pianos I’ve VOL. CXIV You are literally the love of my life. I’m not jok th - 114 Masthead NO. I ing. Hearing one note from your keys could send me to happy tears. Since you live in Nantucket, I associate Played Before you with summer — when we reunite after nine months Claire Yuan ’21 Niki L. Gummadi ’21 Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor apart. When I’m with you, my favorite songs to play are By Charlotte Weinstein ’22 the music. For me, music is my showtunes, so that with your lid up, no one can hear any Opinions Writer defnition of self care — bubble mistakes over the cacophony of noise. Thanks for en - School News Local News Opinions baths just don’t do it. As some- abling my addiction to dramatic dynamics. You taught Esther An ’21 Peter DiNatale ’21 Rachel Pittman ’22 arlier this year, I was one who struggles to talk about me that if I can make someone tear up at a piece, I can JeeHwan Kim’21 Amanda Li ’21 Bianca Rosen ’21 get them to buy me a new songbook. searching for a new my emotions, music has provid- I played you, too, during quarantine. You never piece to learn on the pi- ed me a vehicle through which I Features Arts & Leisure Sports E failed to take my mind of of the coronavirus because Henrik Torres ’22 Tony Lee ’21 Greer Goergen ’21 ano when my teacher suggested can express myself. Indeed, this a Beethoven sonata requires a lot of attention. I give Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Pia- past year, many a piano have credit to you for my success with the frst movement to no Sonata No. 1” in light of his felt my wrath. So, in light of this Hanon’s evil book of fnger exercises. You’re the only Photography Graphics Layout piano I would willingly do metronome work on. Gretchen MacLean ’22 Sesame Gaetsaloe ’21 Laura Jiang ’21 upcoming 250th birthday. Of monumental year, here are a few course, I eagerly agreed, pour- letters to the pianos that have Stay tuned, ing the majority of my time into gotten me through it all: Charlotte Social Media Business Layout Sabrina Kim ’21 Linda Phan ’22 Bella Capuano ’21 Madeleine Dubrinsky ’22 Ho Jin Jang ’21 June Lu ’22

Video Multimedia Copy Dear Yamaha upright on which I frst learned to Lauren Cussler ’22 Declan Murphy Zink ’21 Kate Bailey ’22 Julia Alkhayer ’23 Adrienne Chacon ’22 play piano, Praj Chirathivat ’22 Online Adviser Renee Jiang ’22 Nico Campbell ’21 Mr. Mike Peed Linda Phan ’22 Oh my God, have you seen a lot of tears! Thank you Claire Fu ’22 Jessica Wu ’22 for being patient when I was not. I have to admit: six- Sam Anastasio ’23 year-old me had a lot of anger. I’m sorry for slamming Dear old upright at my grandmother’s house, my fsts down on your keys — those performance exams Staf Reporters seriously distressed me until I was old enough to talk I could never think badly of you. Mostly because my way out of them. Still, you stuck by me, and I like to Bella Capuano ’21 Joy Bang ’22 Sam Anastasio ’23 you’re in my grandmother’s house, but also because you Sabahat Rahman ’21 Angel Guo ’22 Brian Harder ’23 think that the frustration motivated me. I don’t think Calvin Walker ’21 Nick Visuthikosol ’22 Alexis Lien ’23 still sound good even though you’re not played nearly either of us could have anticipated that dreaded email Natarsha Yan ’21 Audrey Lim ’23 enough. Personally, I think your sound works best for informing me that spring term would be virtual. Still, as “The Peanuts Theme Song,” not classical music. Sorry, soon as the initial shock left my body, I rushed down - Beethoven. My heart almost stops every time a young stairs to play loud songs in minor keys until my fngers /choatenews @choatenews @choatenews child recklessly hits your keys (although we both know gave up. Throughout spring term’s online classes, you that I’ve done that myself). While I’m terrifying when Email us: [email protected] || Call us: (203) 697-2070 || Find us: thechoatenews.choate.edu tolerated hours of stress-playing as I took out my anger I don’t get enough sleep, I will never mind if my nap on you until your keys stuck. I thank you for your per - is cut short by your notes foating underneath my bed sistent patience and for teaching me how to play. - room door. Honestly, most of the time, I can’t even tell that you haven’t been tuned in years. Thank you for be Peace out Girl Scout, - ing my piano away from home. EDITORIAL Charlotte Until next time, Charlotte

Letter From the Editors Charlotte Weinstein is a fifh-former from Bermuda. She may be reached at [email protected]

Dear Readers, This summer has been a tumultuous one. Set in the backdrop of an ongoing pandemic, the U.S. presidential campaign is nearing an end. Concurrently, as Covid-19 case numbers and death tolls contin- ue to rise, the country grapples with the decision of whether students should return to the physical classroom. After delaying the in-person reopening to the beginning of Oc- tober, Choate is now preparing to welcome students back to campus in less than one week. This year will look diferent: instead of dorm brunches and team dinners together in the dining hall, our meals will take place scattered across campus with our family units. In ad- dition to being tested on the material we learn in class, students will also be tested for the coronavirus each week. But we know all too well that Covid-19 is not the only thing weighing on Choate students’ minds as we return to campus for the frst time in seven months. This summer’s escalation of racial ten- sions has shed a new light on old issues, pushing communities to take a closer look at the institutions they belong to. Choate has not Graphic by Mia Katz/ The Choate News been spared in this process, with the School being forced to reckon with its own history of intolerance and discrimination. Across multiple social media platforms, the Choate community has spoken out like never before, sharing experiences that have gone IT HURT TO READ THE NICKEL BOYS. unvoiced for years. These personal stories have reached a wide audi- ence, with students, alumni, and faculty alike calling on the adminis- THAT’S A GOOD THING. tration for acknowledgement and action. By Caitlin Whitaker ’22 age showed a chilling eight minutes ticle about my 19-year-old friend traumatic symptomatology that The School has had a varied response to not only these stories Opinions Writer and 46 seconds of a death at the being pulled over for no reason. results from racially stressful but also the community’s growing desire for the administration to hands of someone hired to protect The police ofcer, who did not experiences.” Dr. Jones shared bring about meaningful change and take accountability for past y history teacher has a the public. This brutality was laid identify himself, had screamed at his experience watching some- decisions, such as inaction in response to racist incidents perpe- classroom norm that I bare for all to see. It’s indisputable: her to put her hands on her dash- one that looks like him getting trated by both faculty and students. Though the creation of the Mlove. If we feel the need, our nation is failing Black people. board while yelling: “Do you have shot in the back seven times Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force and the Choate we can step outside the room TikTok, Instagram, and Twit- a gun? Do you have a gun?” She on the news, not being able to Fund for Justice, among other measures, are certainly steps in when the class is watching a sen- ter gave platforms to global outrage was on her way to a picnic. sleep, and being terrifed of the right direction, there is no doubt that Choate still has a long sitive video or discussing difcult as viral videos swept our world. So, as I began my summer loud noises or sirens as a result. way to go before the campus environment matches the values of material. She doesn’t know how Everyone I knew was plugged in reading, I couldn’t help but draw “Well, these symptoms start to integrity, respect, and compassion that the School has laid out in the subject matter might afect us. and absorbing information all the parallels between these histori- sound a lot like a psychological its mission. But, what happens when a time. Immediate access to videos cal narratives and my own life. disorder called PTSD.” I was in This isn’t to say that The Choate News as an organization has group of students can never “step of people who look like you getting Though set in diferent time pe- a state of shock. I could hard- done enough to provide a platform for marginalized voices in outside of the room”? What hap- harassed or killed is traumatizing. riods, the worlds of both pro- ly distinguish these symptoms our community. Specifically, Black students, Black voices, and pens when the material that lies in For some, police harassment and tagonists are dictated by white from my own after the murder Black issues have historically not been featured as they should every page afects us in real time? brutality may seem abstract when supremacy in the United States. of Ahmaud Arbery. in this newspaper. This was the dilemma I faced as they watch it on TV or read about Both books navigate the trauma I am so thankful to Choate It’s time we begin to remedy that. I tackled my two summer reading it in the news, but the impact be- that the characters experience in for assigning stories that depict In this inaugural issue, themed articles across every section seek books, both by Colson Whitehead comes more real when it happens graphic and blunt language. The the reality of the racial violence to highlight how this summer’s events have changed the landscape — The Nickel Boys and The Un- to people you know. Nickel Boys, set at a Florida re- our nation is built on and for giv- of social justice movements, race, and identity both at and beyond derground Railroad. On May 31, I watched as the form school in the 1960s, reads, ing students the option to read Choate. On the front page, we detail how the administration and In the past year, every day has police shattered the car window “The leather slapped across the an alternate book. Indeed, I have the broader Choate community responded to the racial trauma and felt like a new tragedy, another of a Morehouse College student, a ceiling before it came down on learned so much from my class- subsequent calls for change that began last spring. While this arti- name added to a rapidly growing friend of my cousin. He was tased your legs, to tell you it was about to mates as we unpack these books cle is by no means an exhaustive account of the eforts of students, list of killings: Ahmaud Arbery, and dragged out of his car by a come down, and the bunk springs through difcult discussions alumni, faculty, and administrators to address this issue, we hope Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Eli- police ofcer. He had an epileptic made noise with each blow.” On around the virtual Harkness table. it will serve as a starting point for further discussion and attempts jah McClain. Black people are killed seizure before he was jailed for the page four of The Underground We must never forget that a to understand. at the hands of white people who night. His crime? Driving home Railroad, which details the har- fctional account for some students We recognize that our eforts cannot stop with a single themed abuse their assumed or assigned from downtown Atlanta, he got rowing plight of escaped slaves in may be very real for others, and issue. We as a newspaper must keep this dialogue going and ac- authority. The words of the police stuck in trafc during protests. The the antebellum South, a character students may feel uncomfortable knowledge that even if the national conversation surrounding these were accepted as truth over those incident, recorded by a bystander, is sexually violated. I put the novel asking for an exemption. It’s likely issues subsides, we must continue to support our Black peers. The of a Black person — the victim, went viral on social media. away for months, unable to stom- very isolating to be the only student Choate News commits to using its platform as a means to amplify the innocent. In the case of George On June 8, I awoke to my ach another traumatic episode in an English class who hasn’t read and uplift Black voices. Floyd, a video captured by a girl my mom shaking as she read an ar- against a Black person. the book as the rest of the class has While sweeping institutional change will not happen over- For Black students, the vio- a Harkness discussion. night, we hope that this year will be a step toward a school in lent systems of racism depicted I can’t claim to know how to which all students feel supported. We know that it is not easy to in these novels are not confned tread this line between practicing see that the School one cares about has harmed many of its mem- to those pages — they are an ev- sensitivity and leaning into discom- bers, but we must remember that rarely is change born in a place eryday reality. In a recent panel fort, but I do know that we must of comfort. facilitated by the Pathways Pro- keep trying to do so. I can only hope That same sentiment applies to us as editors of The Choate News. gram, clinical psychologist and that our community keeps giving We hope to cover the Choate community as thoughtfully as we can, professor Dr. Shawn T. Jones, space to uncomfortable topics. May and that means creating issues with a diversity of perspectives and gave listeners many examples of this dialogue continue. voices. If you ever feel that The News’s coverage is fawed or falls racial stress, a term he defned short of this, we always welcome you to write a letter to the editors or as, “a bevy of multifaceted ways Caitlin Whitaker is a fifh- send us feedback via email at [email protected]. in which racism reaches out and former from Chicago, IL. touches us.” He said, “Racial She may be reached at Graphic by Yuko Tanaka/ The Choate News trauma is the manifestation of [email protected] The Choate News || Page 6 Friday, September 25, 2020

Uyghur Muslim Concentration Camps: RBG: AN EXAMPLE WE’LL NEVER LIVE UP TO Another Example of Trump’s Negligence By Hannah Wallinger ’21 as my role model. I passionately Opinions Writer read her renowned dissents and watch hours of her interviews, Last week, on the night that trying to emulate her fearlessness, former Supreme Court Justice tenacity, and drive in everything Ruth Bader Ginsburg died, my I do. RBG’s ability to command a mom and I were celebrating room, unrelenting devotion to her Rosh Hashanah with our annu- fght for civil rights through legal al serving of apples and honey: action, and perseverance through the apples to signify healing the countless obstacles she faced as and the honey to represent our a lawyer and Supreme Court justice hope for a sweet year. truly amaze me. Just after my mom and I Admittedly, the time follow- had finished cleaning up, I ing RBG’s death has felt scary and sat on the couch and read the uncertain. However, similar to the news regarding RBG’s death. honey I ate with my mom to com- Evidently, the honey we had memorate the start of the Jewish that night did not seem to be New Year, RBG’s enduring contri- an accurate representation of butions might signify hope. I be- the “sweet” year to come. lieve that people who feel unwel- The frst time I heard of RBG come in places “where decisions was in ffth grade. I had just fn- are made” will look to RBG as an ished a short Buzzfeed-esque quiz example. As these people follow that was supposed to help me her lead into “the room where it choose my future career. I proud- happens,” they might feel motivat- ly fashed my results to nearby ed to alter our society in ways that Photo courtesy of World Politics Review classmates; apparently, I was go- are long overdue. Uyghur Muslims protesting in Istanbul against internment programs in Xinjiang, China. ing to be a lawyer. I will never be able to fully By Wesley Boatwright ’22 and break his trend of negligence rights violations. Notwithstand- Earlier this summer, in an Naturally, I proceeded to express how thankful I am for Opinions Writer surrounding human rights. ing the president’s sympathies attempt to spur the president google “famous lawyers.” After RBG’s work and how she has President Trump routinely toward North Korea, no deal was into action, Congress passed scrolling for what felt like ages, I inspired me to continue pursu- In the Chinese province of disregards humanitarian crises, struck, and relations with the the Uyghur Human Rights Pol- clicked on the frst woman that I ing my passions. But here’s an Xinjiang, the Chinese Communist venerates dictators, and supports country worsened. The United icy Act, which requires the U.S. saw. I spent the next ten minutes attempt: Thank you, RBG, for Party (CCP) is engaged in a com- corrupt regimes. For instance, States should be fghting to end government to report incidences reading about RBG’s childhood showing young women that we plete erasure of the Uyghur ethnic President Trump is an adamant human rights abuses, not block- of human rights abuse towards and career. Immediately, I was belong in positions of power, and group. Over one million members supporter and ally of Saudi Ara- ing resolutions that try to stop Uyghurs by the CCP. Although moved by her story, and she in- for fghting for our rights and for of the Muslim minority have been bia — a country notorious for them. President Trump’s contin- President Trump has the power spired me to declare my future our country. Your work will never forced into thinly-veiled concen- its many human rights abuses. ued refusal to fght these crimes to levy sanctions on China, he has career as a lawyer to anyone who be forgotten or underappreciated. tration camps to endure human Even after the Saudi government against humanity further proves abstained from doing so. When would listen. rights atrocities. This may be the called for the murder of journal- his disregard for the ideals on asked why, President Trump told My ffth grade career quiz re- Hannah Wallinger is a largest religion-based imprison- ist Jamal Khashoggi, Saudi-U.S. which this nation was founded. Axios, “Well, we were in the mid- sult wasn’t completely of-target. sixth-former from Cheshire, ment since the Holocaust. relations remained intact. President Trump even seems dle of a major trade deal.” As a young woman interested in Conn. She may be reached at President Donald Trump What’s more, the Trump ad- to actively support the suppression Similar to the situation with law and politics, I look up to RBG [email protected] P’00 has previously voiced sup- ministration ignored a congres- of human rights in his own coun- North Korea, the president will- port for China’s human rights sional resolution that imposed try. People in U.S. immigrant-de- ingly ignores appalling human abuses. As former National sanctions on Saudi Arabia for tention facilities have virtually no rights violations simply “for Security Adviser John Bolton their civil rights violations. When access to medical treatment and the deal.” Ultimately, President wrote in The Washington Post Saudi Arabia launched a horrifc are separated from their families. Trump should use his powers to in June, “Trump said that Xi military campaign in Yemen, Recently, accusations have sur- levy sanctions on China and f- [Jinping] should go ahead President Trump vetoed a bipar- faced that women in these centers nally make a public statement de- with building the camps, which tisan resolution aimed at termi- undergo forced sterilizations. nouncing the CCP’s ethnic cleans- Trump thought was exactly the nating U.S. military assistance to If President Trump sup- ing of the Uyghur population right thing to do.” the Saudi government. ports the abuse of human rights through concentration camps. Instead of focusing on a Tik- Continuing the trend, Pres- in his own country, then it is no Tok and WeChat ban, the leader ident Trump blocked a motion wonder that he disregards simi- Wesley Boatwright is a fifh- of the free world should take a by the United Nations Securi- lar atrocities abroad and, in the former from San Francisco, stand against the CCP’s brutal ty Council aimed at mitigating case of the Uyghur concentra- Calif. He may be reached at Photo courtesy of The New York Times treatment of the Uyghur minority North Korea’s numerous human tion camps, supports them. [email protected] Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in 2013. AT 75, WILL THE U.N. Today, Activism Comes Out Bit by Bit FINALLY GROW UP? By Anika Midha ’22 cil. Other members are elected vided the P5: Russia is a staunch By Mealy Cronin ’23 Opinions Writer to two-year terms. Many coun- supporter of Syrian President Opinions Writer tries, such as India, Japan, and Bashar al-Assad’s administra- On September 21, the Unit- Germany, have sought mem- tion, while the U.S., U.K., and “We have moved from the ed Nations (U.N.) turned 75. bership in the past, only to be France have sided with the op- era of civil rights to the era of Praised for its global peace- blocked by rival members. position groups. Unable to reach human rights,” said Reverend keeping initiatives and at- The UNSC has the power to a consensus, the UNSC took no Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in tention to human rights, the impose sanctions and authorize action in Syria, despite the coun- May of 1967. This idea has en- institution has received con- military intervention. Members try’s ongoing war crimes and ex- dured across decades and is siderable credit for its work. of the permanent five (P5) can treme human rights violations. evident in today’s galvanized However, criticism has height- veto any decision — the U.S, for Additionally, there have been youth, many of whom have ened recently as people have instance, has utilized its veto instances where countries bla- spent the past summer de- begun more closely evaluating power 16 times since 1990, of- tantly ignored U.N. prohibitions. manding justice for victims of some of the U.N.’s practices. ten concerning decisions about For example, North Korea has police brutality, raising aware- While many of the U.N.’s Israel and Palestine. Given this repeatedly conducted nuclear ness about human rights atroc- humanitarian eforts have ben- reality, can the world rely on tests, despite warnings and sanc- ities, and encouraging dona- eftted the international com- the U.N. to make crucial deci- tions passed by the U.N. Such tions to nonprofits, one tweet munity, the institution has been sions and pass important mea- outright disregard for the U.N.’s and Instagram post at a time. plagued by power politics and sures when rivalries between directives undermines their au- Technology and social me- political biases. UNSC member nations can pre- thority and efectiveness. dia have revolutionized the Currently, the United Na- vent proper representation? In order for the U.N. to im- nature of protest movements tions Security Council (UNSC) Bitter relations between P5 prove, several issues must be in two ways. First, protests Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/The Choate News is composed of five countries countries have hindered prog- addressed. First, they must im- today can rapidly acquire mo- Critics of virtual activism Since most movements to- — China, France, Russia, the ress of U.N. eforts on numer- plement measures to ensure im- mentum; organizations com- argue that movements have be- day are widespread, virtual, U.K., and the U.S. — who hold ous pressing issues. Notably, the partiality. The P5’s unjustifed municate their messages on- come decentralized; for instance, and attracting more people by permanent seats on the coun- ongoing confict in Syria has di- veto power is a prime example line, where millions of people BLM doesn’t have an ofcial the minute, they don’t have the of an imbalance of power within can easily access and share leader or president that acts as same intimate sense of commu- the security council, guarantee- the information. Second, as the face of the movement. How- nity. However, a shared purpose ing that the interests of China, King articulated, this new era ever, centralized authority may still exists, which has the capa- France, Russia, the U.S., and the of protests is not restricted to not be as necessary as it was bility to forge even stronger con- U.K. will always be prioritized. protecting the rights endowed during the 1960s Civil Rights nections and transcend borders. Additionally, internal disagree- by our institutions; activists are Movement — social media can After all, people are now fghting ments and politics between P5 also fighting for human rights. carry BLM’s message to all cor- for change from living rooms countries should not hinder Because of social media’s ners of the world. As a result, un- and kitchens across the world. the process of making crucial accessibility and speed, virtual der the umbrella of BLM, small- Perhaps the most signifi- security decisions regarding movements are more success- er chains of Black activism have cant shift brought about by the third-party countries. ful at pulling together a sup- taken root, forming their own ease of interconnectivity is a Second, the U.N. must fnd port base. In today’s world, a focused communities. new emphasis on human rights. better ways to hold countries movement can grow overnight. Princeton University Profes- Before the internet and social accountable for neglecting U.N. Black Lives Matter (BLM) sor Omar Wasow said, “Part of networking, activists sought initiatives without infringing on started in 2013 as a Facebook what social media does is allow the liberties granted based on a country’s sovereignty. post and evolved into a globally us to see a reality that has been citizenship. Now, operating on Only after the U.N. improves recognized organization. With entirely visible to some people a global scale, youth activists in these two ways can it efective- one tweet, share, or post, hun- and invisible to others.” Howev- seek the rights acquired by the ly maintain international peace dreds of youth are called to im- er, he also noted the downsides very nature of being alive — and protect the human rights of promptu rallies and protests. of digitized movements: “There such as the right to education citizens in all countries. By any measure, the ability to isn’t a deep well of trust among and freedom of expression. reach the world’s population in demonstrators, as there was Anika Midha is a fifh-former from a matter of minutes has made among people who did the frst Mealy Cronin is a fourth-former Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/The Choate News Singapore. She may be reached the movement an overwhelm- sit-ins of lunch counters and all from Alexandria, Vt. She may be The United Nations celebrates its 75th anniversary this month. at [email protected] ing success. knew each other.” reached at [email protected] Friday, September 25, 2020 Page 7 || The Choate News

SOCIAL MEDIA ACTIVISM: BRINGING BURIED STORIES TO LIGHT

By Linda Phan ’22 and dig deeper into [what] the Copy Editor real issues are.” Regardless of whether these In recent months, we have in- Instagram accounts are consid- creasingly read in our social-me- ered social activism, it is undeni- dia feeds of the often traumatic able that the accounts have pro- experiences on campus of Black, vided an additional outlet for the Indigenous, People of Color Choate community to speak out (BIPOC), and LGBTQIA+ stu- and raise awareness for change, at dents from the Instagram ac- the School and society as a whole. counts @BlackatChoateOfcial, Mr. Camarotti acknowledges @LifeatChoate, and @Queerat- that those who have infuence or Choate. Each Instagram account power are responsible for imple- advocates in its own way for a menting such structural changes. more equitable and just School “If those in power are not meeting and society. But what, really, is the necessary expectations, the “social activism?” next step is to hold them account- Associate Director of Eq- able until we have an equitable uity and Inclusion and science and just community,” he said. teacher Mr. Filipe Camarotti Mr. Camarotti emphasizes a said it was, “taking actionable continuous efort for improve- steps to bring attention to cul- ment. “Just because the bar has tural, institutional, and system- been raised an inch, doesn’t mean ic structures that are failing a Graphic by Julian Hurley/The Choate News it has been raised high enough. society with the intention of We should certainly celebrate improving it or changing it so backlash from administrators or ers to take action.” (A message to them and show the world that movement and daily re-posts of accomplishments, but only cel- that it becomes equitable and the community.” @BlackatChoateOfcial requesting you care about them, I think you societal issues with no efective ebrating accomplishments is an just to all.” Still, the representatives an interview was not returned.) have to do more than just social follow-up actions. example of privileging partici- @LifeatChoate, @Queerat- from @LifeatChoate and With social media, users can media posts and more than just Yet, despite the possible pation in the movement over the Choate, and @BlackatChoateOf- @QueeratChoate are hesitant to successfully spread awareness, an Instagram story post and re- downfalls of activism in a digital needs of the movement,” he said. fcial started this summer with label their Instagram accounts educate others, and call for ac- ally go out there and get involved age, Maddox fnds the Instagram Maddox pointed out, “It is the goal of ofering students and social activism. “We didn’t have tion on a variety of topics such as in multiple other things.” accounts inspiring and powerful. important to remember [the rea- alumni a platform to share their any specifc goals other than pro- climate change, gender equality, Alumnus Caleb Maddox ’20 is He said, “I think a part of ac- son] why we’re having all of these experiences. A representative viding a platform for queer peo- and racial injustice. A represen- a vocal activist on Instagram, but tivism is highlighting the experi- discussions is that we all care from @QueeratChoate said, “I ple to share their experiences at tative @LifeatChoate cautioned, he is quick to point out the poten- ences for the purpose of educat- about Choate, and that’s why we think students want to make their Choate,” said the representative however, that social media “is tial perils of social media activism: ing the community and a source are doing this. It’s really because voices heard.” from @QueeratChoate. good for raising awareness, but “I think we get stuck in this place of of healing, and I think those are we care so much about the com- A representative from The representative from it’s not the whole fght.” ‘I’ve done my job today. I’ve post- equally important. I have read munity, and we just want to see @LifeatChoate added, “Some @LifeatChoate commented, “We, Raye Osayimwese-Sisson ’23, ed a few articles to read about said so many @BlackatChoateOfcial it be better. We can’t get to that people that have had trou- as an account, aren’t asking for a student activist who attended topic, and that’s it,’ and that isn’t and @LifeatChoate posts. I place if we don’t acknowledge bling experiences just want to specifc changes or advocating for protests this summer, said, “I going to do anything.” This points think they’re doing a great job what has gone on for so long in be heard without having those certain positions on issues. All we think there is some level of social to the ornamental act of posting of of opening discussion. The most all of the communities.” closest to them look at them any aim to do is provide a platform for activism that is performative, black squares with hashtags such important thing is that people diferently. Others want to share people to speak about their expe- and while it is important to show as #BlackLivesMatters or #Black- aren’t just glancing over it. It is Linda Phan may be reached their experiences without facing riences, and hopefully inspire oth- other people that you care about OutTuesday in solidarity of the causing people to ask questions at [email protected]

Conversations Arise New Year, from Summer Reading New Goals By Praj Chirathivat ’22 By Brian Harder ’23 chives and see the oldest re- Copy Editor Staf Reporter cords, walk to the KEC, swim at the waterfall, write an arti- In order to help students ap- By now, we’ve all heard in cle for The Choate News, and preciate literature and gain ex- countless emails about how “un- participate in someone’s Last posure to the works of contem- precedented and uncertain” this Hurrah ask.” porary writers, Choate’s English year has become. Students and Zoe Tray ’21: Department assigns a new book teachers have endured months “I'd like to build a snowman written by a living author every of online learning, and when with my friends on Mem field! year for its required summer we do eventually return to cam- I’ve never been able to do that. reading. The author then comes pus, it will still be far from the Bake and decorate cookies in to campus during the school quintessential Choate experi- the St. John Hall Kitchen with year to speak to the Choate com- ence we have come to know and friends. Find the supposed munity, prompting students to love. Nevertheless, students are dark room that exists some- develop a more meaningful con- hopeful of the untapped possi- where on campus to develop nection with the book they have bilities in this school year and photos. Go stargazing with the read. This past summer, the En- dream of what they may accom- astronomy club and see plan- glish Department chose the win- plish. Some students shared the ets with the telescope.” ner of the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for items on their bucket list for Cassatt Boatwright ’24 Fiction: The Nickel Boys, by Col- this year. When those featured “I’m really going to work son Whitehead. in this article are interviewed on going to bed earlier, as I The book is a work of his- again next May, hopefully they definitely do not sleep enough. torical fction novel that depicts will have accomplished their Also, I plan to organize my an abusive and violent reform goals and more! belongings better to improve school in mid-20th century Flor- Noah McBride ’23: time management. I want to ida. The main characters, Elwood “Make it to 2021. I want try and finish a book every and Turner, encounter physical Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/The Choate News to finish a couple chapters of week or two this year, improve brutality, psychological trau- ling narration. “Not all historical message. The system needs to derstanding of systemic racism,” my book. With so much time my drawing skills, and try out ma, and racial inequality. “The fction is exciting, and I think change, not just the people.” Ethan Chapman ’22 commented. on my hands, it’s probably the for volleyball.” Nickel Boys is a story about how [Mr. Whitehead] did it in a cap- Dr. Myers described what she When asked what he took best time for me to work.” Joy An ’23: powerful people get away with tivating way that made you want hoped the students would learn away from the novel, James Bruce Dubel ’22: “My goals for this year are abusing the powerless and are to keep reading. [The story] felt from the reading. “As some- Njoroge ’21 said, “The book re- “This year, I have three to branch out and try different never called to account,” said Mr. complete. We were getting clo- body who has a background in fects our society today. Even goals. 1: Learn to ride a unicy- kinds of dance, meet some of Whitehead in an interview with sure along with the souls of the Black studies, I think this histor- though it was set in the past, cle. 2: Solve a Rubik’s cube in the new students, and make The Guardian on June 21, 2020. victims at [Nickel],” noted Direc- ical fction brings a voice to the issues like racism and sexism under 10 seconds. 3: Build my the most of all my classes. I’m As a Black American, Mr. White- tor of Equity and Inclusion Dr. marginalized sector.” To guide actually change our lives much own PC.” also going to try not to let the head faced racism throughout his Rachel Myers. students’ thought process, Dr. more than we think they do. Shawn Yang ’24: whole pandemic get me down.” life, and the ongoing protests in While the novel has been Myers, along with young alumni I think that it will hopefully “Three goals I have for this Claire Fu ’22: America refect the kind of police praised, The Nickel Boys also re- and English teachers Ms. Alex change people’s perspective on year are to work on my time “My goal is to be that one brutality and inequality The Nick- ceived some comments regard- Ashford, Ms. Ellen Devine, Ms. life as a whole [and] make them management and procrastina- person who can walk past any el Boys depicted. ing its depiction of oppression Victoria Pierotti, and Ms. Megan more empathetic, especially if tion, not stress myself out too tree or plant and be able to “In connection with the cur- and violence. “Reading about Shea, created and curated a re- they are privileged.” much, and to focus on my men- state the Latin name of the rent Black Lives Matter Move- all the injustices and unfairness source guide for The Nickel Boys. Literature is a powerful tool tal health more.” species without giving it so ment, I think The Nickel Boys makes your skin prickle,” Max The guide was written to empha- that can raise the voice of mar- Celine Pirard ’21: much as a second thought.” emphasizes the need for equality Zhang ’22 said. size issues of racial injustice in ginalized populations and ac- “Ride my knee scooter In spite of the challenges this and the historically Black and A key goal for the required the United States, advocate and knowledge ongoing problems down the steepest hill on cam- year will bring, Choate students White divide,” Rebecca Alston ’22 summer reading involves chal- empower the Black American in society today. Choosing The pus. Go on a spur-of-the-mo- will continue to push themselves said. “A school with the task of lenging the students to consider culture represented in the book, Nickel Boys as the summer ment long weekend trip to NYC to achieve their goals. Many of reformig contradicts [its] actions new thoughts and ideas. To start and explain the history the nov- reading challenges the readers (like totally unplanned — I just these will be diferent than nor- of abusing and killing children. In the conversation on the com- el is based on. Currently, many to not only further their analyt- go). Watch the stars from the mal given the reduced number the same vein, a police force with plex notion of systemic racism, English classes are using the re- ical skills and appreciate con- science center roof.” of feasible extracurriculars and the task of protecting and serving the English Department chose source to unpack the themes and temporary literature but also Reagan Bajus ’22: other activities. As our return contradicts taking innocent lives. a story that involves cruelty and messages of the story. fnd deeper connections and un- “Stargaze on the PMAC to campus approaches, the stu- The job of the police is to enforce trauma to better describe racial “The guide helped me under- derstanding about Black Ameri- roof. Eat everything on the dents interviewed all remain the law, not to be the law.” injustice. “[Elwood] never had a stand the author’s thoughts when cans and their experience. menu at Half Moon. Take a po- committed to achieving their The beneft of choosing this chance, and it didn’t matter if he he was describing certain char- lar plunge in the waterfall.” goals, despite the pandemic. particular book for summer was doing everything right,” Dr. acters and scenes. After fnishing Praj Chirathivat may Matt Syms ’21: reading is the combination of its Myers noted. “There’s oppression the book and reading through be reached at “I’d like to ring the chap- Brian Harder may be reached historical accuracy and entral- and oppression: that’s part of the the guide, I achieved a newer un- [email protected] el bells, visit the School’s ar- at [email protected] The Choate News || Page 8 Friday, September 25, 2020

Arts Family Tree Sprouts Connections “Choate Creates” Between New Artists and Mentors Showcases Student Art for the Choate Arts Department. diferent felds and levels of ex- By Reagan Bajus ’22 Celeste van Dokkum ’23, Although she initially focused perience and mastery. Reporter who has been drawing since on ballet before Choate, Carlier Fifth and sixth form mentors middle school, is a frequent found a home in the theater pro- in the family tree will plan sev- The social isolation of the participant in Choate Creates. gram and would like to encourage eral meetings throughout each last six months has given Choate “It gives me a chance to be cre- other young artists to branch out term. “Within the coming weeks, students across the globe time to ative,” van Dokkum said. “It’s and explore diferent art felds. each branch will have their frst fnd a new interest or pick up an nice to have something that Interested students can gathering and start getting to old hobby. When virtual learn- forces you to do art because, join the Family Tree by flling know each other,” said Carlier, ing began this past spring term, with classes and everything, it’s out a short form posted on the and assured that all safety guide- Joy An ’23 worried that without kind of hard to prioritize that.” student portal, in which they lines will be followed for in-per- access to campus and the phys- “If there’s a good prompt, identify their form, time zone, son meetings. ical sense of community, many then I’m like, ‘I have an idea for and art discipline(s). Prior ex- In order to foster and pre- Choate students would lose the this! I’m going to draw it!’” van perience is not a prerequisite to serve long-lasting connections, inspiration and motivation to Dokkum continued. “Sometimes join; anyone interested in the students will remain in the pro- explore their creative side. Her it doesn’t work out, but you get arts is welcome. Each student gram even after graduating and solution was to launch Cho- excited about it. It’s fun.” is then placed into a “branch” will transition to being an alum- ate Creates, a prompt-based, A dancer and violinist, An of the tree, determined by their ni mentor in their designated monthly art showcase displayed admitted that she is not very primary feld of study. branch. Currently, the Arts Fam- on the Choate Student Council good at drawing but appreciates Carlier clarifed that multi- ily Tree only consists of current Instagram account and in all- the art nonetheless. According disciplinary artists, such as a vi- Choate students, but Carlier school emails. to An, being in orchestra de- sual artist who wants to venture hopes to invite alumni into the An credited Inktober as her veloped her love of how music,

Graphic by Tony Lee/The Choate News into dance, are also welcome. program within a few months. main inspiration for the initia- visual art, and dance can melt According to Carlier, the pro- Although the initial dead- tive. Started in 2009 and a pop- together and become one. She By Rebecca Alston ’22 advice about arts courses to op- gram embraces how intercon- line of September 13 has passed, ular tradition to this day, Inkto- cites art as a powerful reminder Reporter portunities in their specifc con- nected the arts are and hopes Carlier still encourages anyone ber challenges artists to create of the universal languages that centrations. Carlier explained, members of the Family Tree will interested in being involved in the one ink drawing per day for the connect us, transcending time, This year, students seeking “Having a connection to another frequently collaborate across Arts Family Tree to join through month of October, each day lin- distance, and cultural barriers. guidance from veteran artists student in the same discipline disciplines. In fact, she chose the form on the student portal. ing up with a single word from An’s goal is for Choate Cre- can fnd it through the new Arts but diferent grade and experi- to call the program a “Family the ofcial prompt list. ates to become a monthly re- Family Tree, a networking and ence level will allow students to Tree” in order to emphasize her Rebecca Alston may be reached “It struck me that it was may- minder both that art has the mentorship program started by get mentorship in whatever their goal of connecting artists of all at [email protected] be harder to fnd inspiration for ability to connect students Sabrina Carlier ’21 that connects journey as an artist may be.” art in quarantine,” An said. “I cre- worldwide, and that people are artists from diferent disciplines The idea for the program blos- ated this Choate Creates program still creating art and fnding in- and backgrounds. somed from Carlier’s concern that in an efort to encourage people to spiration in the world despite the The program aims to provide new students would not be able to continue creating artwork, even ongoing pandemic. a close-knit support system for receive the same heart-warm- when we were all stuck at home.” artists, where experienced upper- ing, in-person welcome and Reagan Bajus may be reached classmen can provide knowledge experience on campus at [email protected] to arts greenhorns, ranging from that cemented her love

Graphic by Tony Lee /The Choate News

RENAISSANCE THEATER, A CAPPELLA, AND ENSEMBLE RISES MUSIC ENSEMBLES KICK OFF THE FROM THE PANDEMIC YEAR WITH ONLINE AUDITIONS

By Adrienne Chacón ’22 cal. The video featured soloists By Angel Guo ’22 Copy Editor Maxwell Brown ’21, Lucas Eggers Staf Reporter ’21, Eliza Marovitz ’21, Dominic Art can often be a response to Thomas ’21, Cristian Castro ’22, Since last year’s virtual spring current events and changes in cul- and Skye Figueroa ’22; the en- term, Choate’s theater, music en- ture or a refection of people’s emo- semble was comprised of Sabrina sembles, and a cappella groups tions during tumultuous times. Carlier ’21, Will Flamm ’21, Em- have adapted to the School’s Galvanized by the recent calls for ily Goodwin ’21, Matthew Syms “new normal” and are ready to racial and social justice, as well as ’21, and Ava Maha ’23. embark upon the 2020-2021 the ongoing pandemic, students “The Ensemble provided a school year with innovative ideas at Choate joined students from sense of unity in a lonely time,” to solve the difculties imposed fve other New England schools Maha said. “Virtual rehearsal was by distance learning — starting — Kingswood Oxford School, The a great way to rekindle friend- with auditions. Loomis Chafee School, Deerfeld ships with familiar faces.” Given the current circum- Academy, The Hotchkiss School, The Ensemble has a focus on stances, theater cannot exist in its and Phillips Exeter Academy — to social justice; as part of “The Key traditional form of stage produc- Graphic by Tony Lee/The Choate News form the Renaissance Ensemble of Change” performance, the tions attended by a physical au- Whereas Take-Away conduct- The fall play held auditions their rhythmic integrity, as this and create art inspired by the cur- Ensemble started a GoFundMe dience. Adapting to this unprece- ed its auditions through Zoom, through video call; a cappella indicates if students can play co- rent moment. campaign to raise money for the dented situation, Mrs. Kate Doak, a cappella groups on campus re- through recording fles; instru- hesively with other members in On August 30, as a fundrais- LDF. The group expressed that English teacher and director of this ceived their auditions through mental ensembles approached an ensemble. As Mr. Wie said, er for the National Association their beliefs center on progress term’s main production, co-wrote Google Forms and Dropbox fles. auditions with a hybrid of both. “The deciding factor is rhythm, for the Advancement of Colored and equality, voicing their sup- the fall play Take-Away with a Auditioning students each submit- Returning ensemble members rhythm, rhythm!” People (NAACP) Legal Defense port for the Black Lives Matter group of students — Ethan Bar- ted an audio recording showing of were only required to submit a Lauren Kee ’24, a third-for- and Education Fund (LDF), movement. Furthermore, they doe ’21, Maxwell Brown ’21, Eliza their vocal skills through Dropbox, recording while new students had mer in the Symphony Orchestra, the Renaissance Ensemble de- stated that systemic change is Marovitz ’21, and Audrey Lim ’23 and select students will be further to each schedule a live Zoom call preferred auditioning through re- buted their concert “The Key to necessary to bring about equal- — over Zoom this summer. interviewed in callbacks. Although with Mr. Gene Wie, Instrumental cording to performing in person. Change” via YouTube. ity, and the arts have the power “I decided to write a play be- the deadline for auditions and the Ensembles Director. Although she is a new student, Kee Hotchkiss student Benjamin to open hearts and minds and cause we were having problems announcement date for callbacks Mr. Wie said he was more submitted a recording since she Weiss ’21 gave a statement on inspire change. getting rights to shows for Zoom, were initially set for September generous in assessing students’ was unable to schedule a meeting the formation and tenets of the “In our schools, institutions and they all felt like they would be 16 and 21, respectively, a shortage abilities during real-time Zoom due to time zone diferences. Ensemble: “A group of eleven that pride themselves as learn- a lesser version of themselves if of auditioning students forced the auditions than via recordings. “Recordings were better for me strangers with the connection ing communities of diverse and staged in Zoom,” Mrs. Doak said. groups to tentatively extend the Since self-taped videos could be because I didn't need to compare of being high school students, of supportive members, we’ve “So we wrote something towards dates to October 4 and 11. recorded multiple times, artists my performance to other people. I having love and passion for mu- heard countless stories on how Zoom and screens. We wanted Chloe Brink ’21, co-president of have the freedom to record an was just trying to outcompete my- sical theater … got together on that hasn’t been and still is not to craft something that could be Lilith, one of two all-female a cap- unlimited number of times until self,” Kee said. However, she not- Zoom to open their hearts and do the case,” Weiss said. “Your staged no matter the circumstances pella groups on campus, acknowl- they capture their best attempt. ed that recorded auditions lacked what they love. From that, the Re- voice has an impact. You have of Choate's term.” edged the difculty of assessing In contrast, video call meetings, interactions with the conductor, naissance Ensemble was born.” an impact. What you learn, As Take-Away explores an some aspects of students’ abilities similar to in-person auditions, are which is essential in understand- Since the original Renaissance what you do with that knowl- unconventional form of theater through recordings. However, one-shot opportunities that can ing the conductor’s expectations. era was born from the bubonic edge has an impact,” he contin- that is staged virtually, Mrs. Doak since a cappella’s main focus is on cause stress and anxiety, afecting Whether future auditions will plague, the Renaissance Ensem- ued. “So share it, find others, and the students who co-wrote the members’ voices, Brink was musicians’ performances. be online for certain theater, a cap- ble was fttingly born from the speak out, make change, be- the play decided that it was essen- confdent about the efcacy of on- Instead of focusing on catch- pella, or instrumental groups after coronavirus pandemic. cause your voice matters.” tial to hold the auditions through line auditions. “Recordings don’t ing minor mistakes during audi- the pandemic remains unknown. Choate students contributed Zoom to see how diferent parts change your voice too much, and tions, Mr. Wie said he evaluates a rendition of “Wait For It” from Adrienne Chacón may be reached played out on camera and on the through them we can have a general students mainly on their ability Angel Guo may be reached Hamilton: An American Musi- at [email protected] online platform. idea about the singer,” said Brink. to play the symphony pieces and at [email protected] The Choate News

Friday, September 25, 202o Vol. CXIV • No. I

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION ON THE FIELD

By Naomi Fleisch ’22 ate an accepting and inclu- Reporter sive environment. According to Mr. Roney Eford, Director This summer, inspired by of Athletics and a member of nationwide protests against the DEI Task Force, “It is very police violence and systemic important for a team to have inequality, Choate students a culture of inclusion and not turned to social media to share just be diverse.” their accounts of racism at One of the most signifcant Choate. An often overlooked parts of sports culture at Choate aspect of these stories is the is the sense of togetherness and role that race and inclusion family inspired by the team set- play in sports on campus. ting. Students at Choate come Mr. Charlie Fuentes, one from an array of backgrounds and of the 11 faculty members that cultures. If there is any place on make up the School’s Diversi- campus where these paths cross, ty, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) it is in the Athletics Department. Task Force formed earlier this According to Bo Goergen ’22, year, is also a Boys’ Varsi- co-captain of Boys’ Varsity Base- ty Soccer coach. When asked ball, “Racism and exclusion have how racism affects the athletic no place on sports teams. Players world, Mr. Fuentes said, “Rac- are unifed under the auspices of ism and anti-Blackness do not hard work and bond over their differentiate between everyday shared love of the game. Teams life and a game field. Often- are open communities for all who times, many of the same issues put the work in.” that persist throughout society Graphic by Senching Hsia/The Choate News Sports often refect, on a small- can be seen inside of sports. ic Department at Choate con- hours spent in the gym or on fected in society,” said Mr. Filipe the collective group of people in er scale, issues of injustice that are Just the other day, Neymar, demn injustice and create an the field, coaches are there to Camarotti, Associate Director power should be diverse. Thus, prevalent in society. They also one of the most popular and inclusive environment? push athletes when they feel of Equity and Inclusion and a a consequence of that message have the ability to act as a unit- influential soccer figures in One of the ways Choate defeated and help them when Boys’ and Girls’ Varsity Volley- is that the institution does not ing force for people from various the game right now, was called does this is by appointing a they need guidance. ball coach. “At Choate Rosemary value an individual seeing them- backgrounds. Accordingly, sports a racist term by an opposing diverse coaching staff. Fre- In order for an athlete to truly Hall, a coach is a position of pow- selves refected in society.” at Choate are an essential part of player during a match.” quently, students’ greatest role feel inspired by their coach, they er. If there isn’t equitable repre- While appointing a di- creating an inclusive and equitable This incident is hardly the models at school are coaches often need to see a part of their sentation amongst a collective verse coaching staff does community. first of its kind. So, if racism with whom they have culti- identity in the coach. “Repre- coaching staf, then the message serve as an important foun- is such a widespread issue in vated a mentor-mentee rela- sentation is one way in which an the institution sends to its com- dation, it does not necessarily Naomi Fleisch may be reached sports, how should the Athlet- tionship. During the countless individual can see themselves re- munity is that they do not believe mean that the team will cre- at [email protected]

Athletes Zoom Training Together from Afar with CoachMePlus

By Sam Anastasio ’23 porating Zoom practices and the best serve our student athletes designed for athletes with or Through Workouts Staf Reporter use of the app CoachMePlus. given the circumstances,” Mr. without access to weights, “The CoachMePlus app has Holloway said. and macronutrient and weight After the Founders League’s been around for a number of The app has a wide vari- management trackers designed July 15 announcement cancel- years, serving the needs of over ety of uses, including allowing to help players either gain or ing all interscholastic play for 250 professional and Division I coaches and players to inter- lose weight. Another feature of the 2020 fall season, along with programs,” said Head Athletic act with each other through an practicing remotely is that ath- the School’s August 20 decision Trainer Mr. Brian Holloway. in-app messaging feature and letes can participate in work- to delay the reopening of school Mr. Holloway, along with share important documents, outs at any point in their day, until October, prospects for the Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Coach photos, and videos. The app from any location. fall season of Choate athletics Mr. Ethan McDonnell, has also tracks and analyzes per- When players open the app, were grim. Sports are an inte- been looking at potential use formance metrics and players’ a detailed outline of their work- gral part of the Choate experi- of the software since 2019, wellness by having students fill out plan with specific instruc- ence, and, for athletes, often a when the two were working on out surveys and add their sta- tions from their coaches ap- deciding factor when applying a player developmental mod- tistics. The app enables coach- pears. Athletes can then check to high school and college. el before the lacrosse season. es to “make better informed off exercises as they go, and will Choate’s Athletics Depart- The sudden necessity for re- decisions regarding team and get credit for that day. ment is now working hard to mote athletics accelerated this individual athlete preparation,” Varsity and JV Football adapt to remote athletics. In lieu plan. The coaches “elevated said Mr. Holloway. have taken full advantage of the of physical practices, Choate the product from ‘would like to Highlighted features in- CoachMePlus app. The football sports have gone virtual, incor- have’ to ‘must have’ in order to clude training plans that are team, although sidelined for

the 2020 season, is determined Photo courtesy of Boys' Varsity Soccer Instagram to maintain and improve their Boys' Varsity Soccer hosts practice over Zoom skills. The CoachMePlus app has helped to maintain aspects By Renee Jiang ’22 workouts, the team can imitate the of the typical football season, Copy Editor normal training plan. In spite of like letting players weigh in these successes, “it’s defnitely been and weigh out before and after During this remote peri- a challenge to maintain high ener- sessions. In some ways the app od in September, sports teams gy while staring at your teammates has also enhanced their ability have found innovative ways to through a computer screen during to prepare for a unique season. stay connected and maintain group workouts and calls,” said Offensive Line Guard Oliver ftness, whether through Zoom co-captain Ella Sklar ’22. Howard ’23 said, “The app is or CoachMePlus — an app of- Boys’ Varsity Soccer has also good because it has a lot of as- fering sport-specifc training remained determined to bond as a pects of the athletic experience. programs. To welcome new stu- team and train rigorously. Similar It has nutrition, workouts, indi- dents joining teams, captains to girls’ volleyball, “We do work- vidualized stats, and more.” have also hosted introductory outs on Zoom two to three times Page Wildridge ’21, co-cap- meetings to imitate the start of a week, with some asynchronous tain of Varsity Field Hockey, a normal season. workouts mixed in,” said co-cap- added, “I love the app! It offers For the past few weeks, Girls’ tain Allen Zheng ’21. To keep things great workouts and it will be Varsity Volleyball has been con- interesting, Zheng said, “Our super helpful for me to stay in vening over Zoom for group work- coaches have done a good job mix- shape, even while I’m not out outs every Monday, Tuesday, and ing [the workouts] up. For exam- on the turf.” Thursday, as well as organizing ple, we just did one where we were The responses from play- weekend calls for team bonding ac- split up into three breakout rooms ers and coaches thus far have tivities. Co-captain Morgann Skoda and had a competition to see what been promising. Lacrosse player ’22 said, “I’m devastated that we group could do the most reps in 30 Zephyr Simus ’23 lauded the la- can’t get together and meet each minutes.” In order to integrate new crosse team’s ability to integrate other. However, virtual calls keep athletes into the team, Boys’ Soc- the program into their training, us on our toes. We are constantly cer has also hosted “team bonding saying, “I’ve found it’s a really trying to discover new ways to best meetings led by the captains, where great way to communicate with engage everyone through Zoom.” we talk and watch flm to help ev- teammates and coaches.” In order to increase ftness lev- erybody get to know each other a The integration of Coach- els to those of a normal season, the little better even though we aren’t MePlus is the next step towards team’s captains have held everyone on campus,” according to Zheng. enriching athletic performance accountable by hosting mandatory Though many students will both remotely and in-person. workouts. Without being physically be back on campus in October Mr. Holloway said, “We are together, the team tried to develop and sport teams will fnally be planning to utilize the program workouts that specifcally target the able to meet in person, student to its full potential when we re- muscles used in volleyball. Their athletes will still have to adapt to turn to sporting competitions.” workout last week, for example, social-distancing requirements. included intense HIIT intervals, Sam Anastasio may be reached core-focused exercises, and a team Renee Jiang may be reached Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/The Choate News at [email protected] wall-sit. By developing their own at [email protected]