The Good Life Magazine Spring 2024

The Good Life

Letter from the Editor

Welcome back for the Spring 2024 issue of The Good Life Magazine! I write this letter from London, UK, where I have spent the last semester traveling, experiencing, and producing my final magazine as Editor in Chief. I’m incredibly proud and excited to present this issue because of its unique blend of our always impressive Syracuse campus staff and a taste of both New York City and London from myself and our amazing Editor at Large, Leila Frankina.

This issue would not be possible without our talented staff. To all of you: thank you for welcoming your slack and email inboxes to spam messages from me at 5:00am EST.

This issue blends the familiar comfort of spring bloom with TGL’s consistent emphasis on stories that make and show change.

I wish for you that reading our Spring 2024 issue reminds you of the spring season our Syracuse campus so desires, along with my own adventures in my favorite cloudy city in the UK.

Signing off,

The Good Life

Maddie Crooke

Art Director

Emma Lenz Graphics Director

Writers

Lifestyle

Ava Lombardi

Section Editors Profile

Cecilia Catalini

Mikayla Melo Environment

Grace McConnell

Feature Julia Pryor

Fashion

Heather McClure

Social Media Team

Maya Kleinberg

Kate LaFountain

Anna Quigley

Isabelle Sareen

Sofia Abdullina

Sophie Chaitovitz

Fei Chan

Michela Flood

Madeline Goodheart

Rhylee Hudson

Katie Phillips

Georgia Randall

Jenna Sents

Designers

Caitlyn Begosa

Bailey Cox

Jessica Hammersley

Bea Kress

Megan Radakovich

Rorie Walker

Maisy Wood

Andy Wu

Harriet Brown Advisor

Syracuse’s First LGBTQ+ Affirming Youth Shelter

One of the few centers in the area focusing on solving youth homelessness in the LGBTQ+ community.

A14-year-old child comes out to their parents. Their family does not understand. Screaming and yelling fills the house. The child, feeling isolated, runs to their room and hides. That night they pack a bag and run away, but where do they go? They may not know anyone to provide safe, LGBTQ-affirming hospitality.

That’s where the Emergency Homeless Youth Shelter comes in.

Based in Syracuse, this shelter is open to every youth 12 - 17 years old. Amber Wells, the program manager for the Rescue Mission Alliance’s Runaway and Homeless Youth Shelter in Syracuse, helped curate a center that aims to provide LGBTQ+ affirming care to the runaway youth of the city and help them develop a sense of permanency and security.

Over the past few months, Wells curated a strong team of nine youth care specialists. From comforting youth who recently came out to teaching coping skills, each employee’s area of expertise brings something new to be

able to work with the diverse youth that may come to the shelter.

All employees undergo an extensive training program to ensure the team is all on the same page. This is crucial to make the youth of the shelter feel safe, especially in the context of their past experiences, Wells said. Wells describes the importance of this safety due to the youth’s past experiences.

“Their anxiety level goes straight through the roof if they feel like two adults aren’t agreeing,” Wells said, “they’ve probably seen that turn into something way bigger than just two adults maybe not agreeing on a little thing.”

One of the most important aspects of the shelter is presentation. As a mother of three, Wells understands the importance of catering to children. She framed the entire presentation of the shelter around the minds and lived experiences of youth, starting with the program documents. Wells made sure to make documents and pamphlets kid-friendly because some of the youth may be as young

as 12 years old and will not have a parent to help them understand the content.

Wells also aims to create a space of comfort and acceptance for the youth within the shelter. She explains that the use of individual bedrooms gives the youth their own space and can make it easier for them to feel comfortable, especially for children who may not want to identify as male or female. Small details like that make all the difference to encourage children to seek help rather than live in an unsafe environment, she said.

The Emergency Homeless Youth Shelter aims to be more than just a place of refuge. Walking into the house, you’ll see walls filled with bright and colorful posters. You’ll hear teens talking from every room, watching TV together in the living room, working on homework, or eating in the kitchen. Even though it’s a temporary safe space, it will still feel like home.

Wells expressed that the staff’s overarching goal is permanency. With three plans, the shelter will first work with the family to return the youth to their home. Their next option is to find adults that could be a permanent resource for the child. As a last resort, the shelter will identify systems of permanent support.

The children at the shelter are given an initial 30-day period. During that time, the shelter works with the children and reaches out to

their parents to try and repair the bonds. Wells calls her staff’s approach “strengthsbased”. This means they plan to help the children identify what they are good at, what is positive about them, and what they can bring to the world. Her approach to the families is similar.

Wells uses her parental perspective to create beneficial methods for both the parents and the children, providing guidance and hopefully repairing their relationships.

“I want these kids to learn that they have something to give”

“Parenting a teenager is not easy,” she said. “We’re going to approach them as if they’re doing the best they can do because honestly they probably are. Parents don’t set out to be awful to their kids”.

The shelter also works to find ways to help the parents through their stressors by finding healthy coping mechanisms like mindfulness techniques, resources, and more. In a world where stressed parents feel alone in their struggles, Wells tries to help reduce that stress and bring families out of “isolating darkness”.

“I’m excited to do that now that I’m a parent. Because I really can look at them and say, I understand,” Wells says.

One emerging idea Wells has is an educational drop-in center, which she is hoping to implement through the shelter. Some children may not have a stable place to stay after school to do their homework and use their computers without fear of them being stolen.

Wells wants to find ways to involve the kids in the community and feel a sense of belonging. One of her ideas is incorporating a garden into the shelter.

“I want these kids to learn that they have something to give,” she explains.

The staff emphasizes the importance of working with the children, discovering their gifts, and helping them utilize their gifts to give back. For example, Wells explained that if kids are good cooks, they can prepare food at the local church or the main Rescue Mission campus. When a child hones in on their gift and uses it for good in their community, they can better understand their identity. Coming from a home where their identity isn’t accepted, this recognition can make all the difference.

“They all have some kind of gift that they can give back to the world,” Wells said.

Dancing for Change

SU’s OttoTHON is dancing for all the children at Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital.

Every year, hundreds gather in support of one of SU’s many philanthropic organizations, OttoTHON, which hosts an event focusing on raising money for Upstate Golisano, a children’s hospital in Syracuse, New York.

Every year, OttoTHON’s biggest event of the year is in the spring. The organization plans a 12-hour dance marathon for the children at Upstate Golisano, filled with music, food, and dancing. This year’s theme is childhood nostalgia, and is called “Where Memories Meet Miracles.”

SU’s Grace Brashears, junior and the youngest-ever executive director of OttoTHON, joined the organization after participating in a dance marathon in high school. According to Brashears, many high schools have similar versions of OttoTHON, where they raise money for children’s hospitals.

Throughout last year, OttoTHON raised $103,849.97, and since 2014 when the

organization first started, over 1 million dollars for Upstate Golisano.

Every hour during the marathon, OttoTHON leaders teach a “morale dance” to get everyone energized and excited to keep going. Then, halfway through the event, marathon participants take part in a parade to Upstate Golisano and perform the morale dance, to include the children who were unable to come to the event.

Coming to SU from Michigan, for Brashears, Syracuse has always been just the university. However, she acknowledges that this place is home and community for so many people.

“Something that I really like to see is my vision coming to life”

“I’m very fortunate to be able to do this, and it’s kind of like ‘why wouldn’t I do it? It is the least I can do since Syracuse has given me so much, and especially for all of the kids so they have bright futures ahead of them,” Brashears said.

Another student who is also involved in the planning of OttoTHON’s events is SU senior Ashley Goss. Joining OttoTHON her freshman year, Goss discovered and participated in dance marathons at her high school. Goss is from outside of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and says that Penn State University had a similar event called THON Weekend, which is 46-hour dance marathon. Her high school held a “mini-thon” which was 12 hours long, and all the proceeds went to the Penn State THON.

Last year, Goss was on the executive board of OttoTHON, where she was co-chair

for special events and operations. This year, Goss is on steering and is the organization’s internal director, where she oversees all of the special events as well as working with the families at Upstate Golisano.

“Something that I really like to see is my vision coming to life,” Goss said. “Seeing people happy at the event is what makes me happy. It’s just great to know that- yeah, I made this happen.”

Goss believes that she would not be able to do everything without the people who help her at the organization. She also emphasizes how being involved in OttoTHON affirms her desire to work in healthcare.

“OttoTHON only solidified my decision and desire to work in healthcare more,” Goss said. “Also, making it a more humancentered field. We’re not just a body to be taken care of, we’re a soul to be nurtured.”

This year’s OttoTHON marathon event raised $109,631.28. The dance marathon continues to help children admitted to Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital, creating miracles and making childhood dreams a reality.

Luna Cafe Syracuse

Haven’t You Heard?

Coffee is a Cat’s Best Friend.

Within the heart of Syracuse, local businesses thrive on the city’s patronage. One such business is Luna Cafe, a dual-sided cafe where one can experience a culturally rich Japanese restaurant on one side and a cat lounge on the other. The head chef and owner, Josh Davis, highlights the cafe’s original vision and how it has morphed over the years.

When entering the establishment, customers are met with the rich reds and blacks, and artwork of coffee and, of course, cats. The Luna Cafe’s main design is based on authentic cat cafes from Japan. Before opening the restaurant, Davis traveled through Japan to learn more about the culture and cuisine to “bring back authentic dishes with the Luna Cafe spin.”

When coming up with the original vision, Davis set out to find an idea that would bring a new experience to the Syracuse community. Several cat cafes were opening throughout New York City, but all were selling typical lattes, pastries, and biscuits. So, after years of learning from Japanese chefs, Davis decided to create Luna Cafe in 2018.

Davis said he aimed to make Luna Cafe somewhere the community could “hang out with cats, do your homework, and have coffee.” Davis made the restaurant’s priority comfort and relaxation, making it “a place that wasn’t explicitly for going out, but had a full kitchen to back it up.”

The original idea for the cat lounge motivated them to connect with the Central New York Cat Coalition. The real mission behind the cafe is to help give cats homes within the city. Several cats within the cafe were originally strays, or bred litters that were given to the shelters. The Coalition makes sure to vaccinate and fix every cat before it

is brought to the cafe. Rebekah Springer, head liaison between the cafe and the local shelters, explains the partnership.

“The cats we bring to the cafe are those who have been less fortunate and need a space that is putting the health of the cats first. Partnering with the Luna Cafe has helped us continue this mission,” said Springer.

Both Springer and Davis are invested in the welfare of these animals and giving them proper homes in Syracuse, by being critical of those who apply for the adoption of a particular cat within the cafe.

“Thecatswebringtothe cafearethosewhohave beenlessfortunateand needaspacethatisputting thehealthofthecatsfirst.

PartneringwiththeLuna Cafehashelpeduscontinue thismission”

Davis mentions the importance of the regulars of the cafe, saying that several “members of the community come by in order to eat and check in on the animals that are currently being housed within the lounge.” He expresses that the environment for the lounge and the restaurant was critical for the design and promotion of the cafe.

Throughout the year, Luna Cafe holds several events to further connect with the city community. Their largest event of the

year is Luna Con, a week-long annual anime gaming convention. With this year marking the third convention since they started, the cafe rents open space next door and holds events that people within the community can participate in.

Luna Con includes a Mario Kart tournament, a costume contest, movie screenings, and of course, a massive amount of play time with the cats of the shop. According to Davis, the convention brings together people of similar interests, helps more cats get adopted, and brings in various vendors to promote crossculture. Throughout the week they open up a specialty menu, that Davis curates himself, of meals from specific anime films and shows, along with specialty Japanese food.

Luna Cafe also holds several smaller events, such as movie nights, where patrons can come in their pajamas, watch the films, and have discussions about the concepts within the films. Luna Cafe also features Cat Yoga, held within the cat lounge. According to Davis, these events are used to give the cats more attention throughout the year and help connect back to the original purpose of the cafe: to create a space where people can go to get a slice of life that isn’t their own and interact with the animals less fortunate than others.

So support your local shelters and support your local businesses! They might be doing more work for the community than you even know.

“Another World”

It was another world that lay beyond the hill.

The once frozen buds of wildflowers now stretched and bloomed under the mild heat of the sun, and the bees buzzed secrets between their stems.

The trees, now blanketed in vibrant shades of green, fed Earth’s creatures with fruits of plenty and perched as pedestals from which mourning doves would sing.

The sweet scent of pollen filled the air, and the newly revived soil cushioned the fall of the stampeding steps of children’s feet who ran wild in the field below.

It was another world that lay beyond the hill. Finally, spring has come.

Highlighting SU’s Student Music Scene

Where student music artists and fans can come together off campus.

Redgate and Mudpit don’t just throw any ordinary weekend house party. Instead of having a DJ blasting our favorite hype songs, student-run off-campus organizations Redgate and Mudpit host student musicians who play their own music. For those hoping to support and discover small artists, these parties are a great option in the Syracuse nightlife scene.

Each weekend, these events boast an impressive array of talent, announcing their music lineups via their Instagram accounts. These lineups include rising stars like freshman Bella Fiske and the dynamic duo Luna and the Carpets taking center stage. From electrifying performances to soulful melodies, these events consistently deliver unforgettable experiences for audiences.

Bella Fiske is a Freshman at Syracuse majoring in communication and rhetorical studies at Syracuse’s College of Visual and Performing Arts. She is one of the artists who frequent Redgate and Mudpit, performing a significant amount of her own music compared to other artists who are still building their discography.

Fiske has released an EP and a few singles, with her most popular song, “Long Gone/ Think About It,” having 43,000 streams on

Spotify. For Fiske, these music events have been a positive, fun space for her to perform her music and connect with fellow students.

“I feel like I can be vulnerable at house shows and audiences have welcomed me onto the scene and seem so willing to listen to what I have to say musically which is really refreshing,” Fiske said. “Performing in a space like that can be a comfort in college.”

Fiske has always had music in her blood, starting from a very young age. She started out singing and began to take up piano shortly after.

“I realized I wanted to be an artist when I began writing songs my sophomore year of high school, I had always had a feeling it was going to be something I’d do,” said Fiske. “When I met my producer at a Berklee music summer camp I was like ‘this is finally it’ and decided I was going to just take action and release music.”

As Fiske reflects on her lifelong passion for music and the defining moment of meeting her producer, Luna and the Carpets, a duo of sophomores, share their own narrative. The focal point of their performances at these shows continues to be their debut album, “I Wish Venus Had a Moon,” which was

released in October of 2023.

Grace Ferguson is a music industry major in Syracuse’s College of Visual and Performing Arts, while Anjali Engstrom is enrolled in the Bandier Program. They were freshmen year roommates, and they never planned on starting a band together – “it just happened.” They both have a history in music, of course, experimenting with songwriting together in their early teenage years.

When they met and started to live together, they realized just how well they worked together. Ferguson recounts how often she would get writer’s block when attempting to finish a song.

“Anjali can finish my songs and we just flow together,” Ferguson said.

Since this discovery, they formed the band ‘Luna and the Carpets’, performing countless shows.

House shows like Mudpit have allowed Ferguson and Engstrom to showcase their all-female band: something that was very important for them to incorporate into the music scene.

“The music scene here at Syracuse, especially

at these house parties, is male-dominated,” Ferguson said. “Performing with an all-girl band in front of a crowd at these shows like Mudpit is really empowering, and feels like we are making a difference in the music community here.”

While artists like Bella Fiske and Luna and the Carpets bring the music to these events, it wouldn’t be possible without the actual event itself — Mudpit. Every week, those who run the events take on the responsibility of choosing who performs, and potential themes for the event.

Within the last few years, the amount of artists that have reached out to the Mudpit

has almost tripled in size. Typically, venues reach out to artists to play their events to gain traction, but that is not the case for Mudpit. Instead, they sort through DMs upon DMs on Instagram of artists wanting a chance to play one of their shows.

to vote on the bands, and they have had a “Freshman List” night, where all of their acts were freshmen. Emma Barbosa, one of the runners of Mudpit, comments on the ultimate goal of the venue.

Once a talent is selected for a show, Mudpit picks a theme. The venue has held shows with a variety of themes; among them, Jersey Shore, Rodeo Days, and Anti-Valentine’s Day, where no one was allowed to wear pink, and black was the non-negotiable dress code.

Mudpit also chooses themes based on the artists that are playing. They have had Battle of the Bands where the audience gets

“Mudpit’s ‘mission’ is really to create an inclusive environment for students as a nightlife option at Syracuse. And to highlight some of the talented musicians that are on our campus,” Barbosa said.

Mudpit makes a point that the events are primarily about who is performing at the events, and not about the people running the event and who it is associated with.

“I feel like I can really be vulnerable at house shows and audiences have really welcomed me onto the scene and seem so willing to listen to what I have to say musically which is really refreshing”

If you scroll through Mudpit’s Instagram account, you will see eye-catching posters promoting each week’s show and its theme, followed by who is performing the event. Social media plays a huge role in how Mudpit promotes itself and spreads the word, which plays into its value of inclusivity. They bring a solution to the problem of having to ask around to find out who is throwing a party and what is happening on a Saturday night.

So, for those in search of an artistic and inclusive activity reachable from our campus, an event at Mudpit might be the place to go. And who knows, maybe you’ll become a fan of an up-and-coming artist right here at Syracuse.

Snippets of Abroad by Our Editors

Two big cities, two different experiences

New York City, USA

The loud screech of the subway brakes on the rails, the synchronized stomping of footsteps storming down the stairs, the constant clicking rotation of the metal turnstiles. It was Monday morning rush hour at 34th Street Station in midtown Manhattan, and while I hadn’t left the state of New York, I had never felt so unfamiliar with my surroundings.

New York City is considered the biggest melting pot in the world. Visitors from all over the world travel to the city to see the bright lights of Times Square, the towering architecture of the Empire State Building, the vast green of Central Park, and more. It is rare to hear people only conversing in one language on the street. When I finally arrived at the 41-story hotel I’d be living in for the next four months, right next to Madison Square Garden, I began to question whether or not this diverse, bustling city could ever feel like home to me.

Since living here, I quickly realized the pace of NYC was fast. I could feel it all around me and knew I needed to adjust. The speed walkers, the electric bikes, everything here moves in the blink of an eye. On my third day here, I noticed herds of people not just walking, but sprinting to get to where they needed to go.

Back in Syracuse, I rarely broke out a hustle. I often took my time and my eyes stayed up, scanning the promenade for friends and

peers on my way to class. However, in NYC, eye contact is scarce as New Yorkers tend to mind their own business to reach their destination on time, whether it be work or personal matters. Everyone seems to have someplace to be at a certain time all the time.

In addition to the fast pace, the city also truly never sleeps. At my internship, I’ve found myself working late at the office. When I’m out with my friends at night, I’ve found myself staying out late. Similar to SU, NYC is a big work hard play hard environment. Just about every establishment keeps its doors open late and the city lights brighten the streets even during the darkest nights. It’s always bustling and there is always something happening on every corner. This energy radiates onto the people here as well, creating an unmatched liveliness that can be felt across the city.

New Yorkers can get a bad rap. Those not from New York will sometimes label them as rude or inconsiderate. I’ve found that New Yorkers may not be nice, but they are kind. They won’t make eye contact with you and if you are walking too slow, they might abruptly pass you. If you are visibly having a bad day on the subway, New Yorkers will probably ignore you. But it is purely out of respect.

If you are lost and need directions, just about anyone will help you find your way. Having trouble carrying bags of groceries or a heavy package? Chances are someone will notice

and give you a hand. Here, people let each other do their own thing, it’s part of the city culture. New Yorkers can be brutally honest; they won’t go out of their way to hear your life story but they will step up to assist you with the little things that end up going a long way.

My abroad experience didn’t take me out of the country, but it did take me out of my comfort zone—and I’m so glad it did. Between working for a publication, taking classes for school, making new professional connections, and exploring the city, I got a glimpse of what life could look like for me here postgrad.

Since living in NYC, I’ve gained a new sense of independence since coming to college and I’ve learned to take advantage of any opportunity that comes my way. And lastly, I’ll add that nothing beats the feeling of coming to the city and seeing the iconic NYC skyline grow closer and closer. It’s a feeling I hope to relive a million times more.

London, UK

The first time I stepped foot in a tube station in London I found myself speed-walking around people, head down, keeping to myself, as I’d always trained myself to do in any large, bustling U.S. city. It was a rude awakening when I finally lifted my eyes to what was happening around me in this foreign city that would become my home.

London is known for its iconic Big Ben tower, the London Eye Ferris wheel, Buckingham Palace and the royal family, and double-decker buses. But beyond the tourist must-dos and photographic spots, this city is a home. In fact, London is home to an immensely diverse population – as I’ve learned in my classes, the city hosts 300+ languages. So, with the continued delusion that a true abroad experience is solely a semester-long vacation in a non-Englishspeaking country, I didn’t expect to feel like I could blend in.

In London, I’ve found that people do keep their heads up and make eye contact, and sometimes even smile in greeting as they pass. A Londoner’s average walking speed is likely half of an American in a major U.S. city. Londoners acknowledge you in passing, and seem to take their sweet time exiting tube stations and walking through department stores. There is an air of calmness in this city, despite the large population and busy work culture.

I had always heard that going abroad to London would be “just like living in New York City.” And quite honestly, I hoped it would be. I’ve always loved the speed and focus of New York City, the ability to blend into seas of people and keep to myself. I’ve never lived in long-term invisibility, and I almost craved it. In our Syracuse bubble, my head is up, preparing to bump into a familiar face on my walk to class in the freezing wind of upstate NY.

We’ve all heard the cliché about European cities: “In Europe, they work to live, and in the U.S., we live to work.” The phrase is

clouded by judgment of course, as Europeans pride themselves on their pub-like, aperitivo, happy-hour culture. As soon as the work day hits 5:00 p.m., or as Londoners would say 17:00, pubs are buzzing with the hectic sounds of suited-up professionals with briefcases, the clanking of draft beers, and drum-style live music.

But unlike New York City, the city that never sleeps, London is a city that does sleep. Establishments close early, and public train services usually don’t run all night long. It’s as if there is a mutual understanding amongst inhabitants of this city that leisure starts early, and ends early.

That’s not to say that London doesn’t have its nightlife culture, or that the streets aren’t bumping with music on weekends. Rather, Londoners seem to have a universal time and place for it, a large difference from the U.S., or even our college campus. This is one of the many reasons why I’ve found myself soaking in the culture of this city in the daytime when my friends and family back in the States are still fast asleep.

I need to disclose that studying abroad is not always the perfection social media can make it out to be; for many, the feeling of being out of place is a hard pill to swallow. In March, two months into my study abroad experience, I thought I had mastered the rules: don’t speak obnoxiously loud on the tube, be aware of those around you, and, if you’re American, you’re probably best keeping your mouth shut. My friends and I were following these unspoken rules but overheard a group of Londoners discussing how unfortunate it would be to have an American accent, followed by a mockery of “good morning” in their best American accent. We hadn’t even spoken, but we felt out of place. I often find myself thinking it’s not my fault that I have an American accent as if my identity is something to apologize for here.

I’ve had moments in this city that have created realizations of how the United

States and Americans are perceived abroad: Londoners asking if I’m American and if I’m concerned about our political environment, or how going to school in Manhattan is after I say that I go to university in the state of New York.

Studying abroad is a rude awakening, but not in a negative way. Living in London has made me consider the possibility of potentially living and working abroad. It has made me more independent, self-sufficient, and assertive in asking for help or directions in a foreign city. Although I’ve encountered bumps and obstacles along the way, I now find myself craving my return to London from trips elsewhere. This bustling city that does sleep, this melting pot of differing cultures and new experiences has become familiar in a semester of utmost unfamiliarity.

Sparking Civic Engagement

How do U.S. universities push their students to vote?

As the 2024 Presidential election nears, young adults across the country are preparing to cast their ballots. However, as Generation Z voters continue to come of age, the country is left with a question: how, if at all, should colleges be pushing to get their students to the polls?

According to Circle, Tuft’s University’s Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, roughly 41 million members of Gen-Z, born between 1997 and 2012, will be able to vote in November’s election – many being college students. Over the past few years, college students have been showing up to the polls at record rates, largely because of get-out-thevote initiatives that have been conducted in colleges nationally. These initiatives, however, differ amongst universities and regions across the country, leading to discrepancies in voter turnout.

“Whether it’s going into classrooms or student organizations hosting events on campus,” Sarah Batson, TX Votes Program Coordinator said, “it’s about helping students realize that the university does care, that it’s part of the university culture to be involved.”

TX Votes, a nonpartisan student organization at the University of Texas at Austin, works to increase voter registration through student outreach, fundraising, and programming. The group’s three pillars are voter registration, education, and voter mobilization, Batson said.

Although the organization employs several strategies to increase voter registration and student turnout, Batson said that one of the most consistently effective initiatives has been sending student volunteers from TX Votes to classrooms where they give presentations on upcoming elections, where to vote, and how to register to vote.

This strategy to reach students is one that has become popular on campuses across the country, many as a part of a national effort called ALL IN — a “democracy challenge” that empowers colleges and universities, including schools like UT Austin, the University of Florida, St. Olaf College and Syracuse University, to promote nonpartisan student civic engagement. This initiative is increasingly relevant to Gen-Z as the November election approaches, Teresa Cornacchione, civic engagement coordinator at UF’s Bob Graham Center for Public Service, said.

In the 2020 election, 66% of college students who were registered to vote cast their ballots — an increase of 14% from four years prior, according to the Washington Post. The voter turnout amongst Gen Z is expected to rise even more substantially for November’s election with about eight million new voters becoming eligible to vote.

“It’s incredibly important for Gen Z voters to understand that getting involved (by voting) is just as important as vocalizing your opinion, aloud,” Cornacchione said.

Elizabeth Whelehan, a sophomore and the chapter director of communications with University of Florida’s League of Women Voters chapter, said they encourage voter registration and participation through the ALL IN challenge. They do this through an app called TurboVote — a non-profit website dedicated to increasing voter turnout by providing voter notifications and resources. The app is provided by universities and has helped to tackle confusion on how to vote, which Whelehan said is a persistent problem. Another challenge, Batson said, is how little time there is between entering college for the first time and the start of elections in the fall.

To combat these perceived challenges,

campuses have prioritized using social media, tabling events, and collaboration with organizations across campus to increase visibility and promote student voter engagement. Batson said these initiatives are imperative because student voices need to be reflected in local, state, and presidential elections.

“It’s our greatest tool as a democratic society, voting matters,” Cornacchione said. “And I know it’s easy to say ‘Well, my one vote doesn’t make a difference,’ but the truth of the matter is that in the aggregate when you collect all the votes, these elections have consequences, especially at the local and state levels and especially for students.”

Many universities host unique programming events to get students educated and excited to vote, Batson said. For example, TX Votes hosted a concert where local bands performed and educated students on how to become engaged with voting, targeting freshman students who might be newly eligible, she said.

Whelehan said that Gen Z’s passion for change can sometimes manifest in performative social media participation. She, along with Cornacchione, said Gen Z is already “incredible” at vocalizing their opinions, so now they have to focus on translating that advocacy into the action of voting.

The biggest reason it is important for students to head out to the polls is because it amplifies the “increasingly important” voices of Gen-Z, Batson said.

“Whenever there are more and more students who vote, the more it’s obvious that both politicians and the universities need to pay attention to their voice and I think that, as a voting bloc, (Gen Z) has a lot of power to be seen, recognized and have the issues we care about coming to the fore,” Batson said.

How reliable and accessible are campus safety features in the 21st century?

Don’t look down at your phone for too long when you’re walking, because might not see someone quickly approaching you. Don’t listen to your music too loud, or you won’t be able to hear footsteps running toward you. Stay alert at all times, at all hours of the day. Be painfully aware of your surroundings. And last but not least, the most important rule of all for young women in college: never walk home alone.

The list of rules is unwritten, yet deeply ingrained in our minds well before we step foot on a college campus for the first time. Fathers, brothers, mothers and sisters reiterate the list as many times as they can before their soon-to-be college student steps out of the nest they grew up sheltered in.

The horror stories that appear on the evening news leave parents questioning their decision to leave their children on a college campus in the first place, and leave students fearing the inevitable moment that they might become the next victim. The Brock Turner Case. The University of Nevada shooting. The Michigan State shooting. The Vanderbilt Rape Case.

When will the fear end? Are college campuses across the country taking precautions to protect their students from the many dangers of the 21st century?

Syracuse University’s campus is located in a city with one of the highest violent crime rates in America, according to Neighborhood Scout. However, SU has a variety of preventative safety measures and protocols in the event that danger is nearby, including the Blue Light emergency phone system, Orange Alert, the crisis notification system, and safety escort shuttles. Though

Beyond Blue Lights

these features are always available, many students do not feel safer because of them. Syracuse sophomore Julia Kehr is aware of the safety tools SU provides, but doesn’t feel that they’re actively in the front of her mind when she’s out and about.

“There’s just no chance that using the Blue Light System would even cross my mind in the event that I felt like I was in immediate danger, Kehr said, “I honestly don’t even know where any of them are.”

Syracuse is just one of many college campuses across the country that has implemented the Blue Light System as a safety measure. The system is active on 92% of all campuses across the country. Students at universities nationwide feel similarly to Kehr about the safety measures.

Hannah Kehoe is a junior at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut, where the Blue Light System is also one of the university’s main safety features. As a young woman on a college campus, she explains that the fear of someone approaching her while she walks alone never goes away, even with preventative measures in place.

“ I was walking home from work one night and thinking ‘if I walked past the blue light and then someone came and grabbed me, I realistically wouldn’t be able to get to the light,’” Kehoe said. “Luckily, I always have my metal water bottle with me, which I consider a weapon if it needs to be.”

The unfortunate truth about college campuses today is that young women need to be equipped to deal with the possibility of being attacked, especially at night when the only “bystanders” are blue light stations. If they’re unable to use the buddy-system, the

next preventative measure for young women is pepper spray, a personal safety alarm, or in Kehoe’s case, a metal water bottle.

At Tulane University in Louisiana, junior Charlotte Levine shares the only safety features she’s aware of: an app that neither she nor her friends have downloaded, and the Blue Light System. It’s no surprise that similarly to both Kehoe and Kehr, she feels that these measures aren’t adequate in keeping students safe.

It appears that many of the frightening scenarios take place on the outskirts of campuses where many students reside, rather than in the center of campuses, where the features are. Even for those who live on campus, nightlife outside of campus is a major aspect of the college experience for many students. Once a student steps off campus, they no longer have access to these safety features such as the blue light stations.

So what are students meant to do? Is endless alertness our only reliable tool to feel safe?

Universities are constantly attempting to create a sense of safety and comfort for their students. Even recently, after an influx of recent attacks right off campus here at Syracuse University, the Department of Public Safety is now increasing its presence and is working on off-campus security. But this doesn’t change the unfortunate reality and sentiment that many students share.

“ I don’t think these measures really work, to be honest,” Levine said. “Ultimately, at any school where there’s nightlife, women won’t be safe walking in the streets by themselves, unfortunately.”

Funny or Offensive? Where do we draw the line?

Comedy culture today has taken the world by storm. It’s all fun and games and full of laughs…until it’s not.

Need a laugh? Why not watch some stand-up comedy? According to Netflix’s statistics, more than 60 percent of their subscribers watched at least one stand-up title in 2022. With more eyes on stand-up comedians as their sets become more accessible to people everywhere, where exactly do we draw the line for what is considered humor?

Unfortunately, controversy wraps around those who have not thoroughly examined the limitations. If comedians aren’t careful, controversy and “cancellation” can wrap around those who have pushed the envelope, as we have seen with Matt Rife’s joke about domestic violence gone wrong on his new Netflix special. Even on the big stages of international award shows like the Golden Globes, writers and comedians simply aren’t being considerate of their viewers and can end up making jokes that are deeply offensive to their whole audience, like the well-known jab at the movie Barbie by 2024 Golden Globes Host Jo Koy.

Here at SU, student comedians are learning to navigate the world of comedy, while respecting fellow audience members on campus. Their comedy styles vary and their writing processes are different. But just like comedy in the big leagues, the student comedians are the ones who are ultimately delivering humorous messages to the audience.

For Jordan Bullock, AKA Moppn, the structure of his set is formulated around the “living document in [his] head,” as he adjusts his script mentally while sharing his jokes

with audiences. Bullock — who started to perform stand-up at the age of 13 — said his inspiration comes from random encounters or experiences he has. These “puzzle pieces” of humor come together when he is figuring out what he wants to talk about, causing him to think about the purpose of what goes behind a joke.

Similarly, sophomore Liz Crandalle writes her scripts for comedy sets based on her own experiences that incorporate “piece[s] of observational humor” and physical comedy. In addition to doing her own comedy sets, she works as a host on the Orange Television Network show, “Live from Studio B”.

“[Comedians] should defend their point in a way that shows that they are coming from good intentions, otherwise the audience cannot get the right idea”

Especially with comedic stories that aren’t clearly connected to the comedian, Crandalle expresses the importance of “separating your own personal experience” and changing the lens through which the joke is being told. This stops the audience from feeling isolated from the humor shared and considers their reactions and feelings about the jokes. As the host of a university comedy show, she also emphasizes communication with the writers of the show because if a joke isn’t working or is not humorous, they can work together to rewrite it.

“I think that it’s up to whoever is hosting to review the jokes and at their own discretion to say ‘That’s not funny. I don’t want to be saying something on stage that is not funny.

I’m a comedian,’” Crandalle commented.

When working with any live crowd, it is important to read the audience. The people in the crowd are the ones who judge the performance, and diverse groups of people make up different audiences. Comedians should consider what kind of reactions they create depending on the audience but, navigating the line of limitations comes with looking at who your audience is.

“There is a central lane. But sometimes I’ll lean left or lean right depending on the crowd,” Bullock said.

And if comedians do decide to cover more touchy areas of humor, how should they go about it? Student comedian Ronan Mansfield, who is a regular at off-campus comedy club The Playground, expresses the importance of connecting such topics to the intention of the joke, not just to say something controversial.

“[Comedians] should defend their point in a way that shows that they are coming from good intentions, otherwise the audience cannot get the right idea,” Mansfield said.

So as comedy continues to rise in popularity, it is important that comedians consider the content of their jokes, the audience they are entertaining, and how they can make their comedy continually inclusive to all. Humor has the impact to bring positivity and fun moments for people in times where happiness is needed. Remembering that comedy at its core is meant to bring people laughter, and it is the duty of the comedian to make sure all audience members are having a good laugh.

The Forecast Calls for Florals (Or Not?)

Phil has predicted florals will be overhead.

Every year, we see new and emerging trends, good and bad (cue Mob Wife and clean girl chic), but something that has been a forever trend is florals. No matter your age, style, or gender, florals will be worn in spring. It’s a cliché! But why do florals remain a perennial trend? And how do we even style the floral patterns?

Pastels, new beginnings, and warmth are all things that come to mind when you think about spring. Polly Gilmore, a freshman magazine, news, and digital journalism major who is part of the fashion and beauty communications milestone, has her own opinion about the spring trend of florals.

“Every year, the floral trend reminds me of the scene from Enchanted in which Amy Adams makes a dress out of curtains. Although she obviously pulls it off, nobody else should assume that they hold that same power,” Gilmore said.

And she is not entirely wrong. For years, we have seen the rise and fall of trends, but the trend of florals in the spring is consistent. No matter what designer show you are watching at NYC Spring Fashion Week (my favorite floral look was Collina Strada’s Collection),

florals will be incorporated into the show one way or another. Not only did Stradas Collection catch my eye but so did The Orchid Show that took place at New York City’s Botanical Gardens.

Fashion week, no matter where you are, typically has an overarching theme that most designers fall into. This is not a bad thing, but spring typically brings in styles of clothing centered around flowers or florals.

As someone who likes fashion, I find myself searching for the latest from designers, and I usually meet them with the same dress with roses on it. Thinking about florals and fashion, I knew I needed to bring in the experts to help me formulate an opinion on this subject.

I am not directly in contact with A-list designers, but I am in contact with several fashion design students that attend Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in Georgia. As soon as Fashion Design students Sadie Bartletta and Ann Emerson Stands heard the question start with “Floral Trend,” they cut me off. It seemed as if they knew exactly where this was going and they needed to set the record straight.

“There’s no way they are still calling that a trend, like it is always in style in spring and summer,” Bartletta said.

Going off of what Sadie said, it seems like choosing florals is the simple route because they are such an obvious statement because they are what we constantly observe.

Ann Emerson Stands chimed in, “It’s literally because flowers bloom in spring; that’s why it’s always a trend.”

Stands is proving exactly what Bartletta said previously. She is simply highlighting how humans express themselves by using things they see in their everyday lives. So if they are observing this trend what’s next?

“Every year, the floral trend reminds me of the scene from Enchanted in which Amy Adams makes a dress out of curtains. Although she obviously pulls it off, nobody else should assume that they hold that same power.”

Although every year florals are done differently, they still have the basis of being florals. It would be different if florals were more neutral, but they are probably the least neutral pattern you can wear. Tessie Digregorio, another fashion student from SCAD, brought up a good point.

“Saying florals are a trend is like me saying that snowflakes are a trend; they aren’t just because of the season,” which all three students agreed on.

They also discussed how this “trend” is overdone and tired. No matter where you go to shop, the spring collection usually has flowers and pastels, but you can only wear or make so many things with florals on them. And Vogue agrees with the students’ take on the trend. Last year, while Alexis Benedict Parker was writing about florals and fashion week, she called florals “go-to prints” but made sure to emphasize that designers are adding different motifs to the trend to elevate the classic style.

But something about people who fall into trends is that they will incorporate the current trendy archetype. Because of this, florals are no longer reserved for formal occasions or special events; they are now finding their place in our everyday wardrobes, effortlessly blending into our casual ensembles with ease. This means that people, no matter their personal style, will find a way to make it work.

So, I am going to say it: florals should not be a part of streetwear unless you do it right.

The main point here is this: yes, florals are everywhere during the spring, and as fashion evolves and designers continue to learn the trend can only improve. Once we accept that florals are a timeless staple, we can finally start figuring out ways to pattern mix using brand-new fashion statements with florals. Let’s celebrate florals, and praise those who have stuck with the flowers all these years, and who knows? This could become an even larger fashion statement.

The Intersection of Fashion and Activism

How FADS is using fashion as a tool for societal progression.

Growing up as an alternative Black girl in Texas, Jada Williams was used to being bullied for her unique style. She was used to doubting herself. As she grew up, Williams found different creative outlets to express herself. Her artistic spirit led her to major in fashion design at Syracuse University, where she realized she had a talent for it. Since joining SU’s Fashion and Design Society (FADS), Williams has created a position for herself on the executive board and now works as their fashion director, despite only being a sophomore.

“All of my creativity, all of my creative background, all of my ideas and designs stem from not letting people who judge me define me,” Williams said.

Creative expression has given individuals the confidence to advocate for themselves and others for years. From the hippies and the anti-Vietnam War movement to the environmentalism movement, fashion has always played an integral role in shaping history. Fashion can further political movements, explore cultural identity, and challenge perceptions. It continues to do so today, both on the runway and on college campuses.

At Syracuse University, FADS is making waves in redefining what fashion can mean to people. Nina Tran, a designer for FADS,

explains how she uses fashion to connect with her cultural identity, and advocate for causes important to her.

Her recent collection was conceptualized to reflect her Vietnamese heritage and experiences as a first-generation student. Tran created this collection as a testament to how art can “illuminate hidden stories, challenge perceptions, and unite communities.”

“All of my creativity, all of my creative background, all of my ideas and designs stem from not letting people who judge me define me”

One of the collection’s pieces particularly expresses Tran’s personal identity as she works to find a balance between her American upbringing and cultural background. This piece and the rest of her collection works to express a story of shared experiences and a reflection on the Vietnamese diaspora.

“It challenges society’s preconceived notions of what it means to be a Vietnamese woman and embracing rage,” Tran said.

Because of how intertwined her designs were

with Vietnamese identity, Tran decided that she would have Vietnamese women model her looks.

“To have Vietnamese women unapologetically visible in their roots was such a beautiful and prideful moment,” Tran said.

Not only does she use fashion to express her cultural identity, but Tran uses it as a tool to emphasize current political movements. It was very important to her that her recent collection illuminated the movement for a free Palestine, and condemned the genocide against Palestinian people. Tran explains that she finds art “inherently political”, and that she intended to make a “clear and unapologetic statement” in solidarity for a free Palestine.

“For those who refused to listen to what I had to say, I found that I was able to have a conversation visually,” Tran said.

Tran explains how she enjoys using unconventional mediums, experimenting with textures and combining her passions for activism and art.

“I want to continue using my art as a platform to push important conversations,” Tran said.

Fashion, activism, and identity have been deeply intertwined as long as they have

existed. Even in the early 1900s, women in the United States and Britain used clothing to advocate for the women’s suffrage movement by wearing trousers and other less traditional feminine pieces. The looser styles associated the suffrage movement with practicality and dignity.

In the 1960s, the popularization of the miniskirt became a symbol of feminism and a form of political rebellion. Representing women’s liberation, the mini-skirt was used to advocate for sexual freedom and autonomy. The introduction of the mini-skirt redesigned the image of a modern woman, depicting her as powerful and independent.

In the early 1970s, the Black Panthers Party, a militant organization advocating for Black rights during the civil rights movement, developed a statement look for the group. The uniform was fully black, with a black leather jacket, beret, and dark sunglasses. The look became iconic for the Black Panthers, and spread their message that “Black is Beautiful”.

Fashion is used to express all aspects of one’s identity, whether that is cultural, social or personal. Vianca Sawant, the head of styling at FADS, describes how the organization has helped her express her identity.

Growing up in India, Sawant was immersed in Indian culture, describing the fashion as “lively” with lots of bright colors and

textures. She explains her unique perspective of fashion, seeing designs through the lens of her personal experiences, and contrasting American and Indian fashion. Fashion can be used as a strong medium of self-expression, Sawant said.

“There is so much artistic intention behind each thing that we’re creating,” Sawant said.

For Amaya Evans, a designer for FADS, a large amount of her inspiration comes from her personal identity as a Black woman.

“Taking the time to connect fashion to your own terms can take you on a beautiful path of who you are and how you want to present yourself to others”

When asked what inspires her, Evans responded, “Black communities. Black culture. Black everything.”

Evans describes fashion as “creative communication” and emphasizes how important it is to reflect on your own identity in fashion, no matter what that is. Even the smallest decisions in the morning, like what

shirt you are going to wear, demonstrates a choice that was made and reflects on the individual.

“Taking the time to connect fashion to your own terms can take you on a beautiful path of who you are and how you want to present yourself to others,” Evans said.

Evans is hopeful for the future of fashion at Syracuse. She sees potential in the fashion community on campus, in FADS and in her fellow designers. The current fashion community struggles with inclusivity and accessibility, as well as leaving space for designers that may not have a large platform. There are issues in mass production, consumption, and the relentless cycle of trends that can sometimes prevent personal expression and creativity.

Williams hopes that more people will become more open-minded to different aspects of fashion and make room for smaller designers to share their personal identities. She emphasizes the importance of putting the competition aside, allowing people to do what they love, and being open and willing to change.

“Fashion is just a way for people to express themselves because everybody’s creative in their own way, everybody’s being influenced by something, and we’re all just being unique and true to ourselves,” Williams said.

Starting a New Legacy

Affinity communications organizations on campus create a professionally-oriented home-away-from-home for students.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are terms that have become a part of our daily dialogue, especially on a college campus in 2024. But, how does that look in journalism and communications, both of which are fields that are evolving and changing every day?

For students who come from a variety of backgrounds and carry a wide array of experiences, identity-based affinity organizations are groups that allow them to feel closer to home and build a close-knit community. The Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) are both identity-based communications organizations that have been established within the last two years on Syracuse University’s campus and are making a difference in the lives of student journalists of color.

AAJA was re-established during the fall by Patricia Duong, a broadcast and digital journalism graduate student. Prior to her time at the Newhouse School, there was no existing AAJA chapter on campus. There was the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), the Association of LGBT Journalists (NLGJA), NAHJ, and other identity-based affinity organizations with national affiliations based in the communications field. Duong, surrounded by all of these other communications organizations, wondered why there wasn’t one for Asian students.

“I thought it was important for the younger generation to have a community, to have a platform, to be supported by fellow Asian journalists and be able to have the chance to speak up about bias and their experiences, but also get that career development that they need,” Duong said.

SU is a Predominantly White Institution (PWI), meaning that 50% or more of student enrollment is from white students, as defined by the US Department of Education. Duong said this makes the presence of these organizations all the more important for the students of minority backgrounds on campus.

As of Fall 2023, the total percentage of minority students in Newhouse is 27.43%, according to Newhouse’s Fall 2023 Census report.

“I went off to college [for my undergraduate degree] at a PWI, so that didn’t allow me the platform to speak out about things because there were barely any minorities on campus,” Duong said. “So when I came here for grad school, I figured it would be a good time to bring [AAJA] here.”

Duong explained that while the process of establishing the chapter was long, she received support from the other organizations on campus, one of these being NAHJ, which underwent a similar road to reestablishment on campus.

“When I first started [AAJA], I met up with the leaders [of the other organizations], and we talked about some different plans for events we want to have together,” Duong said. “They’ve really given me guidance and told me their experiences with starting and leading an association.”

NAHJ was reestablished at SU in 2022 by Marnie Muñoz, a 2023 Newhouse graduate. The chapter is now led by Luisana Ortiz and Sarah Torres, who serve as president and vice president, respectively.

Torres described how NAHJ serves as a comforting support system in a predominantly white environment.

in the chapter.

“Just knowing people who are like me, and especially on our e-board, having a group of people who are committed to the same goals, which is to expand our community here on campus and just also dedicated to our advancement within the industry as well–that’s really what any student needs,” Torres said.

Both Torres and Duong hope they can leave a legacy at SU for future journalists of color, explaining that getting the chapters established was not a one-person effort.

“I think the most difficult part about it is just understanding all of these complex systems, and then also having the knowledge that you need to pass this down after you leave so that the [organization] keeps running,” Torres said.

“Just to know that people are here that are like me, and also having older members of our organization I can come to”

“It’s hard being here and kind of noticing that I’m the only woman of color in the classroom and things like that,” Torres explained. “So just to know that people are here that are like me, and also having older members of our organization I can come to…and just getting their opinions while also having similar experiences as me is just really helpful.”

In her time being a part of NAHJ, Torres has been able to attend its International Training Convention and Expo, network with other Latino students and industry professionals, and bond with other members. The experiences and opportunities this membership has brought Torres hold significant meaning to her and other students

To foster strong communities and give organizations primarily consisting of minority students proper support, institutions such as SU can provide more guidance on how to establish chapters, obtain budget money, and collaborate with other organizations.

Newhouse faculty and students can show their support by attending these organizations’ events, whether they are group get-togethers, speaker events, or regularlyoccurring meetings. There is always an opportunity to learn something new–listening and meaningfully applying what they learn to the classroom, their peers, and any future projects will contribute to shifting the rapidly-changing media industry to more accurately reflect the world around us.

Navigating Representation

A conversation with Dr. Charisse L’Pree about the Barbie Movie, the Bechdel Test, and diversity on the big screen.

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023 was undoubtedly a year of broken box office records for the film industry, but equally as important were the broken glass ceilings from long overdue conversations about representation in the media. Whether referencing the cultural reset that was Greta Gerwig’s Barbie or Lily Gladstone’s Golden Globe-winning performance in Killers of The Flower Moon, it seems like Hollywood is finally amplifying marginalized voices, and the public is listening.

Still, the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative found that in the top 100 films of 2023, only 25.4% of lead characters were from underrepresented racial or ethnic groups, and according to the Geena Davis Institute, male characters outnumber females 2 to 1 in G and PG rated films. These statistics show that there is a long journey ahead for each media citizen to demand a space for all groups on the big screen.

Amid these shifts in the media landscape, Dr. Charisse L’Pree is a leading voice in this conversation. She is a professor at

Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communication with a focus on social psychology and critical media studies, examining how media influences identity and behavior. Dr. L’pree asserts that there is no one-size-fits-all representation and that if we are going to discuss a topic this broad, there must be nuance.

“No one representation is a good representation,” L’pree said. “The only good representation is multiple representations.”

“No one representation is a good representation, the only good representation is multiple representations”

This conversation can’t be complete without mentioning the Bechdel Test, a popularized metric for the depth of female characters in films. Originating from Alison Bechdel’s comic strip “Dykes to Watch Out For,”

the test was first satirical, pointing out the absurdity that so many films do not have two named female characters that speak to each other about something other than a man. Dr. L’pree says that we can apply the findings of this test to other marginalized groups as well.

“The Bechdel test.. it’s just easy. It’s very tangible... What is the representation? It’s not just that this show has a black person,” L’pree said, “do they have two black people? And do these black people talk to each other about something other than being black?”

For many years, minority groups have been omitted and trivialized in the media leading to symbolic annihilation, but mindfulness can stop this from happening. Slowly but surely, we can move towards a future where just as important as a score on Rotten Tomatoes is a passage of a representation index.

Dr. L’Pree emphasizes the importance of individuals taking proactive steps to amplify marginalized voices in media. She advocates for a collective effort to demand diverse representation and challenge the status quo. It’s not enough to passively consume media; instead, individuals should actively support content that promotes inclusivity and authenticity. Asking yourself about what you are not seeing on your feed, in films, and TV shows is just as important as analyzing what is put in front of you. In essence, she champions actively seeking out and supporting media that reflects the diversity of human experience. This means amplifying voices different from our own in all areas of media, from films and television shows to books and social media content.

By telling more stories, we equip the next generation of storytellers with the language, context, and empowerment necessary to tell their own.

L’pree’s call to action is swift and succinct: “Support shows and content that make you uncomfortable... Support with your engagement. That will put them in a position to be more desirable to the traditional media industry,” she said.

Holding Celebrities Accountable: The Fight Against Climate Change

Private jet carbon emissions cannot be ignored.

We’ve all heard it: climate change has hit a point that is now irreversible, and we must all do our part to stop it. This meant growing up with a fear of how climate change could impact our lives in the future, and with the knowledge that with every small action, we could be indirectly contributing to it. We must turn off lights when leaving rooms, take shorter showers, and avoid running water when we’re not using it.

But it seems, sometimes, that these rules don’t apply to everyone; many do exactly the opposite. And, ironically, it’s those that are idolized and glamorized in the media that end up producing a large portion of

“Planes affiliated with celebrities emitted an average of more than three thousand metric tons of CO2 — roughly 480 times more than an average person’s annual emissions”

the carbon emissions from private jet usage, according to the Washington Post.

A report cited by the Washington Post stated that planes affiliated with celebrities emitted an average of more than three thousand metric tons of CO2 — roughly 480 times more than an average person’s annual emissions. The report used data from a popular Twitter account that tracks celebrity jet movements based on public information. This account was suspended by Elon Musk, Twitter’s owner, soon after.

Many environmental sources bring attention to particular celebrities and their waste, even comparing and listing the carbon emissions they produce. But when will the repercussions begin? Society is constantly

criticized and reminded to reduce waste, recycle, and care for the environment. Lavish lifestyles may seem desirable, but they often have immensely negative effects on the environment.

According to the Los Angeles Times, in July 2022, Kylie Jenner was referred to as a ‘climate criminal’ on social media, after taking a 17-minute jet ride. The trip would have taken Jenner about 40 minutes using a car, which would cause far less carbon emissions, according to The Guardian.

Additionally, according to a report published last year by Transport & Environment, a private jet emits two tons of CO2 in a single hour, which, if looking at a yearly footprint, should be the amount aimed for in a single year, according to economist and social scientist Timothée Parrique.

“On average, a private flight pollutes 10 times more than its commercial alternative,” said Parrique.

So, although Jenner’s flight may have been short, the negative environmental impact was heavy. Following the post, Jenner found

“On average, a private flight pollutes 10 times more than its commercial alternative”

herself amid a social media attack. And she is not the only celebrity who has been directly linked to this behavior. Yard, a UK-based marketing agency, conducted a survey analyzing celebrities’ worst private jet emissions in 2022 and the names that found their way to the top of the list were Taylor Swift exhibiting over 8,000 amounts of CO2 emissions, Floyd Mayweather Jr. with over 7,000, and Jay-Z with over 6,000 emissions. These rates were deemed even more disheartening because they only regarded private jet usage, completely disregarding other daily factors that could contribute to carbon footprint or how much waste a person exhibits with their lifestyle.

So this brings us to a central question: why should the public be held to different standards for reducing carbon emissions than celebrities when the negative effects of climate change impact all of us?

Sarah Pralle, an associate professor of political science with expertise in climate change and energy, understands that there is a huge divide between celebrities’ carbon footprint in comparison to average individuals on several levels. Despite this, she acknowledges the

reality that there is little accountability placed on celebrities to change their habits.

“It’s not just celebrities, it’s wealthy people in general too. I think we focus on celebrities because they’re more visible. But it’s really about

“It’s not just celebrities, it’s wealthy people in general too. I think we focus on celebrities because they’re more visible. But it’s really about levels of wealth”

levels of wealth,” Pralle said. “Wealthy people have a higher carbon footprint and that’s true about wealthy countries as well.” With the prevalence of climate change today, many place blame on celebrities for their emissions. However, Pralle urges a stronger focus on solving the problem rather than the blaming mentality, which she thinks is counterintuitive. She refers to the drastic emissions as a “systemic problem” rather than one that can be blamed solely on certain individuals.

Pralle urges the importance of focusing on reaching out to congressmen and joining climate activism groups to spark change.

“You can’t really understand the issue without understanding the politics,” Palle said, “You can’t just study the science of it or the economics or the technology and engineering issues, you’ve got to focus on politics and policy as well.”

Certain celebrities, such as actors Shaline Woodley and Leonardo DiCaprio, have expressed dismay and advocated for awareness of the growing climate issue. According to the Volunteer FDIP Organization, in 2019 Woodley partnered with the largest environmental NGO, serving as a Greenpeace Ocean Ambassador and joining the fight against plastic pollution.

Celebrities using their platforms to raise awareness is just one essential step in the fight against climate change; however, as Pralle emphasizes, it is a systemic problem that requires policy attention. That is not to say that people should abandon their use of daily necessities. Rather, all individuals – including those with the luxury of using private jets – must put a foot forward towards a healthier Earth because nothing will change unless our actions change too.