Limited Food Options as More Students Return to Campus
By Jeffrey Perdomo
As campus reopens, the typical college experience returns after a two-year long hiatus. Students are taking in-person classes, participating in sports, as well as accessing the library and taking advantage of the opportunities that were lost during the pandemic. Yet the highlight of any college experience has always been the food.
Prior to the Pandemic, the college offered The Underground Lounge in the Lower Level of the Music Building. According to the College website, it offered a variety of food for students ranging from salads, sandwiches, pizzas and even Asian cuisines. The lounge sat up to 800 students, giving it a more traditional college cafeteria feel for students to hang out. The college also offered the Carman Cafe located in Carman Hall, allowing students to buy pastries and coffee.
The Lehman community usually get notifications from the Business Office with images of two flyers sent to their campus emails. Pictures of muffins, empanadas, sandwich wraps, and smoothies littered across the message. There is also much needed information such as hours and where these treats are located on campus. This semester is no different.
On campus this semester, students only have three options to choose from. They can visit the returning World Cup at Harmony Cafe located in the Music Building and try the baked empanadas, salads, soups and sandwiches with a free bag of Lays chips. The Cafe now offers limited seating but primarily is seen as a grab-and-go option for students.
Students can also try out the special Farmer's Fridge vending machine, not to be confused with the regular vending machines around campus. Located in the lobby area of Shuster Hall, it provides healthy options for students, including salads, snacks, and tofu that are packed in 100% recyclable jars.
Lastly, students can choose The Little Hot Dog Wagon every Wednesday behind the Fine Arts Building.
The wagon offers not only hot dogs but also a wide variety of burgers, grilled chicken and their homemade specialty kraut. The business is owned and founded by Dawn Demery, a former CUNY employee who lost her job due to budget cuts. Since the Wagon’s inception back in 2018, it has been featured on Thrilliest.com and has been featured in a video to promote the NYC Small Business Services’ ‘Avenue NYC Commercial Revitalization Grants program.
While these options sound great, many students have run into some issues. One freshman student named Cindy said she wishes she had more options to eat on campus. This would lead students to leave campus to enjoy a meal. Others like Hypathia, a junior, don’t have that luxury. Since her schedule has in-person classes three days out of the week, she doesn't have the time to travel off-campus to get food between classes. With so few options, she and many others are stuck with what is available.
Another student named Dayna commented that she preferred off campus food to the choices on campus.
“The prices are okay,” she said, “but a little excessive,” she added in reference to a recent purchase she made at the Cafe.
Another complaint was about the newfound experience of eating on campus. A freshmen student named Justin said there should be more staffing at places like The Harmony Cafe. He believes there should be at least two registers in order to keep traffic moving with no long lines.
According to the Assistant Vice President for financial operations Gina Harwood, the college doesn't have a vendor to provide full-time food service operations at this time. She added, “Our former contract expired during the pandemic and we will need to bid to obtain a new one.”
Normal cafeteria options for students won’t return unless the campus reaches a deal with an outside vendor to help serve students. Hardwood says she hopes to have food options available as soon as possible. She also added that students should expect to see The World Cup expanded to Carmen Hall soon.
In the meantime, students will have to exhibit patience, as the campus works to expand food options for students in the near future.
Lehmanites React to New Fall 2021 Restrictions
(Photo Credit: Smug Photos, seasonal pictures of campus)
By Rebekah Gamble
Excited energy could be felt throughout the comments on social media as students embraced the idea that the campus would open. Hope that we could resume a sense of normalcy despite fighting a pandemic, was palpable and made choosing an in-person course or planning to visit the campus something to look forward to.
On August 12th, President Fernando Delgado sent out an email that described how our beautiful 37-acre campus would be reopening but not reopened. In the lengthy email he states “many campus student services will be available in-person for the first time since March 2020, you will not be permitted to remain indoors in campus buildings unless you have active business in them.” This came as a crushing blow to any forms of engaging in safe, socially distant conversations with friends during the cold months ahead.
Bradley Santana, a senior media communications major commented on the recent announcement made by the College President. “He should have said this a while ago. I understand plans take time to finalize but this is something I would have considered when choosing classes months ago.” Bradley wasn’t the only one who felt concerned about the direction the Fall semester seemed to be heading in.
With only 50% of courses being offered on campus, according to a webinar hosted by previous President Daniel Lemons, the intention is to increase this with time. The restrictions placed make some students wonder how their freedom could further decrease as the population grows. The library is only offering hour-long reservation times, the Student Life Building has 20 open club rooms, and Grab and Go Food can only be eaten outside or under heated tents in the winter.
Christopher Gabriel, a senior Biology major stated “I’m ready to graduate. If I have the option to take online classes for the remainder of my time here, I will. I’m grateful that they’re trying to keep everyone safe but eating outside in the snow will be annoying.”
Updates from CUNY, The Chancellor, and The President will continuously depend on the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state. With “The Delta variant of the coronavirus being much more transmissible than what we were dealing with last March” according to President Fernando Delgado all precautions have to be taken. Tough policies will be put into effect. One example is that unvaccinated students are no longer being welcomed on the campus during the Fall semester.
Leah Benitez, a Computer Science junior understood what was happening. “This is our new normal. Unfortunately, the campus life we saw in early 2020 may not happen again. If we all still find ways to connect with each other and stay safe, we’ll get through these uncomfortable times.”
It raises the question of what will come in future terms at Lehman College and how much of virtual learning is here to stay. The campus energy wasn’t as amplified as it once was and speaking with other students showed that we are all dealing with the stress of the pandemic in different ways.
One thing is for sure, Lehman College is doing the best it can to prevent COVID-19 cases from hitting the campus at all costs.
How Living Through Segregation Shaped Cynthia Reel
By Rebekah Gamble
With almost 14,000 students, Lehman College has a student body that is mostly made of minority students. With 53% of the population being Hispanic and 30.3% being of Black ethnicity, every degree awarded is a win for urban communities. Today, we celebrate education in a way that was illegal in 1896 when the court case Plessy v. Ferguson, ruled that segregation based on skin tone was legal.
From the 1st to 6th grade, Cynthia Reel, a sophomore Africana Studies major, learned in a segregated classroom where every face in the room looked like her own. For Cynthia, being raised in the South during a time when freedom for African Americans was still up for debate was challenging. The times when she should have been enjoying childhood innocence, she instead saw violence in the form of riots as the country reacted to change. It wasn’t until 54 years after the original court decision of Brown v. Board of Education, that segregation in schools was considered a constitutional violation.
Prior to sitting down to talk with The Meridian, Lehman College had the pleasure of hearing one of her poems “When I Look At Me” during the Audre Lorde Great Reads campus event held earlier this Spring. Cynthia opens the poem with 18 lines of pure unfiltered, vivid language of what she sees as a Black woman when she looks in the mirror. She states:
“I see a woman who doesn’t judge.
I see a woman who treats others with respect.
I see a woman who expects to be treated with the same respect.
I see a woman who is still finding herself.”
In high school, she exhibited academic excellence and skipped the 11th grade. Despite the societal norms that were expected of women during that time, she knew college was where she belonged. But when tragedy struck as her mother passed away when she was 19, she had to make a decision. Like many others who were forced to grow up too soon, it was either take care of her siblings or choose her own dreams. She chose her family.
The last lines of “When I Look at Me” are a tribute to not only the women in her immediate family but to her ancestors, all of the African Americans who cried out to be free and fought for the opportunities we have today.
“I see a woman who looks to her ancestors for strength and guidance.”
The struggles of those before her are a reminder that not only she, but women and African Americans, belong in all spaces. Cynthia expressed a desire to “not be labeled in a box of what she should be.” Like many of her peers, college was a stepping stone and a path to a new life.
“I see a woman who dreams to be free like the spirits before her. So you see it doesn’t matter what you see when you look at me.”
History has painted an image of hopelessness when it comes to being of color and like other Lehmanites, Cynthia refuses to accept this as her fate.
Of all the major accomplishments she’s obtained, having the opportunity to attend Lehman is one that she is most proud of. While Cynthia has returned to college after 45 years, she is also the mother of two college graduates. Her own college experience has been rewarding and she completes each semester with more knowledge, passion, and friends.
She doesn’t know where her degree will lead her but each semester, whether online or in-person, she treks toward the finish line. Not anything, including the stroke she survived, the uphill battle of learning how to speak again, or the death of her loving husband could deter her from becoming all that she can be.
The CUNY system has become a symbol of the educational opportunities available to those from marginalized backgrounds. Our campus is thriving on educating, empowering, and serving low income students.
Now 65 years old, Cynthia Reel has lived a life that pushes against the notion that African Americans are just statistics. As Cynthia continues on to the next phase of her life, she’s determined to make her own happiness and find herself. She embodies what you can accomplish despite your background and how you are never too late to conquer your dreams.
Actor and Musician Aaron Dalla Villa Tells All
By Annel Then
New York City is filled with creative people from various walks of life, cultures, and languages. You will find talented photographers, musicians, actors, and artists in each borough. The diversity present in New York is the foundation of Lehman College. Our own student body is unique and stands out among other CUNYs when it comes to population, major, and background.
Before the pandemic, I had the pleasure of meeting my friend and actor, Aaron Dalla Villa. Multitalented is how most would describe Aaron since he is not only an actor, but a rapper, dancer, and entrepreneur. We connected online through Instagram, after he mentioned needing people for a shoot he was doing for one of his comedic characters known as, “Tucci Badaducci.”
It wasn’t until I watched his portrayal of Max in “Pledge,” a 2018 horror/thriller about a group of college freshmen getting more than they bargained for after joining a fraternity, that I understood the extent of his skills.
I became familiar with who he was and listened to some of his music, as well. Like other Lehman students, I enjoy learning about others and what drives their journey toward success. Dalla Villa was looking for extras for a music video shoot, and I volunteered to record some behind-the-scenes footage for him. With a background in photography and prior experience working behind the scenes at my art-specialized high school, I knew I could do it. I felt a mixture of emotions but one thing was for sure- I was excited to help out. It’s crazy to think that this all happened in 2019, before the pandemic fell upon us.
The Meridian: How did you get into acting?
Aaron: “Ah, the age-old question! I started off as a musician and dancer and kind of fell into acting... literally! I sprained my ankle while hopping over a turnstile in Chicago, and after being unable to accept an immediate contract from a dance company, I said ‘f*ck it! I'll act!’ And proceeded to hop on to Craigslist to seek only the finest acting work available. Eventually in NYC and before I knew it, I was really acting! In fact, it wasn’t something I considered pursuing at all, but the fact that I’m a naturally loud person helped a lot.”
TM: How do you hope to inspire others?
Aaron: “I want people to look at my career and say ‘Wow, that Aaron worked tirelessly to get where he’s at. His grind is on another level.’ I hope I inspire people with my hustle.”
TM: How was life during the pandemic after the shoot in 2019 when we met? Could you tell us how life changed for you as an actor and entrepreneur?
Aaron: “Life during the pandemic was fight or flight. Was I going to let a global pandemic get me down, or was I going to pull myself up by my bootstraps and get to work? I chose the latter. I jumped head-on into music production and voiceover work. I was able to stay busy and further diversify my talents that have recently resulted in musical collaborations and additional voiceover work. You have to continue to put your work out there because you never know when an opportunity will arise. When the world gives you a pandemic, get busy.”
TM: What is some advice you would give Lehman College students just starting out?
Aaron: “Learn the craft of acting. Study it. Read plays. Go to shows. Watch tv and film. Research. In other words... do the work. So much of this business is total fluff, so it’s important you know how to give producers and directors quality work. It’s the only thing that matters at the end of the day.”
I resonated with Dalla Villa when he said that "when one is in crisis, being able to bounce back and continue what you love is truly important. An entrepreneur can either choose to do nothing while others advance or get busy and work hard while the world is sleeping.”
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Since meeting back in 2019, Aaron Dalla Villa has kept busy doing voiceover work as well as working on the film “Alpha Rift,” acting in the musical “Camelot” by Bay Street Theater, and will be featured in “Gossip Girl” Season 2 Episode 9.
Currently, he is working on his “Tucci Badaducci” album, which will contain many enjoyable and entertaining songs. Dalla Villa’s story is not only about success during a difficult time, but also about working hard and believing in yourself no matter how difficult life gets.
With a plethora of creative majors offered at Lehman including dance, theater, journalism, media communications, and art, Dalla Villa’s story is an inspiration to our student body. He demonstrates how to persevere and do the best you can to get where you want to be. Sometimes situations do not go our way and we encounter obstacles. Being able to discover different talents and go for new opportunities are important no matter what life throws at us.
☺
A Heartbreaking Portrayal of ‘The Tragedy of Fred Hampton’
(Photo Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)
By Veronica Longo
"Judas and The Black Messiah" recounts the rise and fall of legendary civil rights figure Fred Hampton. Based on a true story, the film follows Hampton who was the chairman of the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party during the late-1960s. As the title suggests, the “Judas” in this story is undercover FBI informant William O'Neal (Lakeith Stanfield). This film evokes deep emotions, as many of the scenes are reminiscent of current events. The story begins with footage of the Black Panther Party performing their community activities such as feeding children, and teaching members of the community. It then pans to the FBI headquarters, where Director J Edgar Hoover, instead of praising their efforts, states, “The Black Panthers are the single greatest threat to our national security.”
Director Shaka King based these scenes on the real COINTELPRO program that took place from the years 1956-1971. According to PBS.org, “one of the purposes of the COINTELPRO program was to "expose, disrupt, misdirect, discredit, or otherwise neutralize the activities of the Black nationalists.” King portrays how fearful the U.S. government was of the Black Panther Party in these scenes throughout the film.
Historically, the FBI treated the BPP as a hostile internal threat to the United States. The film actually toned down J Edgar Hoover, head of the FBI at the time, in response to the Breakfast for Children Program. FBI.gov, shows how Hoover used COINTELPRO to investigate groups like the BPP. The FBI website states, “In some cases, FBI agents had infiltrated groups, sowed discord among their members, and attempted to discredit their efforts—even when there was little or no evidence of unlawful activities.” It is a stark reminder that while this film had taken liberties with real-life events, it showed the reality of what the FBI did to the BPP.
17-year-old William O’Neal or Bill, becomes an FBI informant after being faced with an ultimatum: serve a long prison sentence or infiltrate the Black Panther party. Bill is the “Judas” in the film, but he is also just a kid. Lakeith exceptionally portrays Bill as a self-serving but truly pitiable person in this role. In juxtaposition to Bill’s narrative, Fred’s begins with a powerful, inspirational speech. Daniel Kaluuya’s booming voice and considerable presence adds gravitas to the scene. The crowd is visibly inspired by Fred’s words. Fred is a larger than life figure, charismatic and bold in his role as chairman. However, the film takes pains to humanize him to the audience, much in the way it does with Bill.
When Fred meets his future wife Deborah (Dominique Fishback), she is able to see him as a man and have a real conversation with him. Kaluuya’s performance of Fred as a leader and more importantly, as a human, elevates the film. The man behind the legend can be best seen in his interactions with Deborah.
The score, composed by Mark Isham (“Crash,” “Once Upon a Time”) and Craig Harris (“Black Bones,” “Shelter”), highlights the high stakes and difficulties of choices made in the film. The last score, “The Inflated Tear,” especially does a phenomenal job showcasing the absolute despair of the events. Many situations are tense for Bill in particular. At certain points of the musical score, one can sense the internal struggle Bill feels as he no longer is willing to betray Fred.
The film is successful in garnering interest in Fred Hampton’s story. For many this film is the first time they are hearing of his name and the legacy he left behind. One of our own Lehmanites, Sha’Miera, a political science major, explained their reaction, “This film was amazing. I am so glad the story of Fred Hampton was told. I hope there are more movies made about The Black Panther Party.”
Audience members cannot help but be moved by this tragic story, the echoes of which are still relevant today. This is a deeply important film and should be seen by all.
We are left with food for thought as the Jewel Cook, BPP member, during Fred’s funeral, exclaims, "If Fred could be murdered while he slept, remember what can happen to you, while you're on your knees facing that bed!" While the film takes certain liberties it does incorporate real archive footage to ground it in realism. This film represents a part of the U.S. that is very rarely spoken about. Furthermore, it should invigorate our current generation as Fred was only 21-years-old when his life ended. The feature is available now on HBOMax and select theaters.
Persevering Over Obstacles as a Non-Traditional Student
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
By Nefertiti Washington
When the pandemic began, I was in my final year at The Borough of Manhattan Community College. After a 20-year gap, my focus was to get my associates in Human Service and be an example of what can be accomplished through higher education for my sons. I wanted to show my oldest that if I could do it, he could too. Not only could he mirror my actions, but he could go straight to college and graduate. However, as much as I wanted to receive my degree, I began to wonder if I could do it.
I looked forward to finally graduating and marching down the aisle. I envisioned my children cheering me on as I wore my tassels and medallion from the National Society of Leadership and Success. The reality that the moment I waited 20 years for would not happen, dampened my spirits. Everything changed due to this pandemic, including my dream of graduating.
While attempting to stay positive during my last semester, I prioritized myself by attending to my health needs. I prepared by making arrangements for my children but as the time neared for my surgery, plans changed. The staff did not schedule my surgery and all my preparation went down the drain. I felt my mental health starting to spiral downward, but I was determined to persevere. I advocated for myself and successfully scheduled my surgery. Although I was admitted two more times, I kept hope alive, and this positivity stayed with me even when I thought I wasn’t going to complete my classes.
Through these trials and tribulations, I realized that I needed support and guidance to continue my career path. After reaching out to a previous advisor, Jean Cidone of CUNY Edge, he expressed what my next steps should be. He advised me to open up to my professors at my college and that is exactly what I did. Instantly, they showed empathy and sympathy towards me and my journey toward completing my classes brightened. He encouraged me during my lowest time. “Ms. Washington, do your best. Don’t give up, you're so close.” His words gave me the motivation to grab my laptop and charger every day. I worked hard and even attended Zoom sessions in hospital gowns with an IV in each arm.
Family and friends played an important part in my physical recovery. Their support helped get me to keep attending classes on days when I didn’t feel well. However, when I came home, the reality of how my life was different made me go into a depression. Having to depend on my oldest son to help me with basic functions was unbearable. As I recognized what was going on within myself, I reached out to my former professor and mentor, Keith Carter of The Creative Solution LLC in Manhattan, NY, Psychotherapy Practices and asked for occasional sessions. He helped me get over my obstacles. He was patient, kind, understanding and helped me to see that my feelings were valid. He also reminded me of my goals and how determined I was to achieve them.
In persevering over obstacles, I learned that everyone needs a supportive team when they feel overwhelmed. By talking with others, I realized that many people could relate and were even going through worse. I also learned not to compare my situation because my dilemmas were just as important. I needed to accept, process and not let them consume me.
In not letting things consume me, I decided to continue furthering my studies. Now admitted into Lehman College, I’m majoring in Social Work and minoring in sociology. I plan to pay it forward one day. I want to be there to encourage others as others were there for me. I know I can achieve that goal here at Lehman, as I did before.
There is help available if you seek it, and by utilizing the relationships I built with my professors and mentors from my previous college, I began to improve my mental health. I want everyone reading this to remember that while we all come from different walks of life, we share the same drive and passion needed for higher learning. Obstacles will come your way, but you don’t have to overcome them by yourself.
If you feel alone or that there is no one in your immediate circle you can turn to, you have a network and support team within CUNY. Whether it be your advisors, professors, The Counseling Center, or any college program you are a part of, always remember you can persevere over your obstacles.
Are Lehamanites Paying the Right Price for Textbooks?
(Photo Credit: Lightrocket)
By Veronica Longo
With job loss and unemployment at an all-time high for many students midway through the year of 2020, many can no longer afford the cost of textbooks. While there are alternatives to purchasing textbooks now, Lehman students still deal with income loss and struggle to make ends meet. Publishing companies, such as the Association of American Publishers, are trying to assist students with the cost of textbooks by offering stipends and lower cost textbooks with their Inclusive Access Program. Ultimately the responsibility of accepting this assistance from the publisher is up to the colleges. It brings into question if students are paying a fair price for textbooks.
To better understand, we must look at the history and legislation behind textbook affordability. On July 1, 2010, the first important legislation to make textbooks affordable went into effect. According to govinfo.gov, the HEO Act states, “The purpose of this section is to ensure that students have access to affordable course materials by decreasing costs to students and… encourage all of the involved parties, including faculty, students, administrators, institutions of higher education, bookstores, distributors, and publishers, to work together to identify ways to decrease the cost of college textbooks.”
Is it fair to put all of this pressure on our professors, should publishers’ shoulder some of the responsibility? Publishers speak about how their companies are cutting costs to make textbooks affordable to us. We spoke to a representative, Laura Knox, from textbook publishing company, W.W. Norton. She detailed how students can check if their college participates in W.W. Norton’s Inclusive Access Program. Laura explained the process: “I recommend inquiring through the bookstore, as they are directly involved with the Inclusive Access Program and help facilitate it.” This highlights that while the publishers are promoting these programs, the act of informing the students is our college’s responsibility.
Laura went on to state that individual students whose institutions are not part of the program will not be able to apply for this program. She laments, “Unfortunately not, because through Inclusive Access course materials are delivered directly through the campus LMS (Learning Management System) on the first day of class, and there are operational pieces that have to be in place for it to run. If a student is interested in the program, they should let their instructor and/or bookstore manager know.” Students can also raise the question with their major department to see if they can participate in Inclusive Access programs. The problem is many students aren’t aware programs like this exist.
But could there be students who are denied from the Inclusive Access Program? Laura detailed how to avoid this issue. She states, “When an Inclusive Access Program is offered in a given course, each and every student in that course is eligible to participate, unless they choose to purchase materials another way. That’s one of the benefits of Inclusive Access - that all students have access to the required materials on day one.”
This is just the beginning for these all-inclusive programs. She expects company expansion, “Programs like Inclusive Access have contributed to the steep decline in textbook costs over the past few years, and we anticipate that the program will only continue to grow. Especially given the shift to online learning, Inclusive Access has been a popular all-digital option for many students because they receive the required materials on the first day of class, at an affordable cost.”
Students at Lehman have found their own way around this cost issue. John-Luc Thomas, a CIS major, detailed their method of dealing with the cost of textbooks by using online free PDFs. He passed that responsibility to the faculty, stating, “Teachers should have free pdf options.” Considering that some professors add their own textbooks as a required text, the textbook cost-free option is gaining popularity within colleges across the United States.
In a report that Collegeboard.org released about the 2019-2020 school year, “The Average student spending on college textbooks and digital course materials has steadily declined in recent years.” It is important to keep in mind several things that may have skewed the results. Colleges such as Lehman do offer classes with the attribute of a “Zero Textbook Cost.” Many students have turned to websites that offer free downloads of textbooks to offset the cost.
Lehman students now more than ever need financial assistance in order to complete their college courses and obtain their degrees. The Higher Education Opportunity Act was passed to help students and colleges gain better footing over the financial crisis that many students face.
However, during the pandemic this crisis has steadily gotten worse. Students are opting out of college in order to go back to work and help support their families. Many Lehman students now have limited funds. It is clear, we as students need to voice our concerns in order to continue to decrease textbook costs.
Medgar Evers College Gives Higher Learning a Brand-New Meaning
(Photo Credit: Jules Antonio)
By Michael Omoruan
It was on April 30 2021, that then-Governor of New York Andrew Cuomo signed legislation that legalized the use and possession of marijuana for adults 21 years and older. According to the Marijuana Moment, a news publication focused on stories on cannabis, from January to March 2021. 3,687 possession-related summons have been issued by the New York Police Department with the majority issued to black and hispanic people. When it comes to arrests, a total of 148 black and brown people were incarcerated, while only six white people were arrested. Fortunately as a result of Cuomo’s signing, those formerly incarcerated on possession or other charges are set to be freed and have their criminal records expunged.
It was under the leadership of Dr. Alicia Reid, chair of the Chemistry Environmental Sciences department at Medgar Evers and member of the Cannabis Education Taskforce, that Medgar Evers College became the first CUNY to offer a cannabis minor. What initially drew Dr. Alicia Reid to start this program was interest expressed from various students and the studies she would read in her spare time. In the days following Cuomo’s decision, Reid would begin to receive requests on teaching courses about the drug. It got to the point where she put out a survey to calculate interest and over 75 percent of students expressed their approval.
With the help of other students, Alicia Reid hosted a town hall meeting with a whopping 380 people in attendance. This meeting transformed the concept of having a class into a real minor offered at Medgar Evers College.
The audience consisted of students, faculty members, and community organizers who were invested in seeing the course come to fruition. Dr. Patricia Ramsey, president of Medgar Evers, stated “Education is a key step in raising awareness of the non-recreational benefits of plants such as cannabis. Oftentimes, communities of color are the last to benefit from emerging economic opportunities.”
The cannabis minor program marks the first minor dedicated to the studying and understanding of a drug in the history of the City University of New York. Dr. Ramsey isn’t too far off from the truth. In a study conducted by the Tax Policy Center, 74 percent of eligible white adults received stimulus checks, in contrast to 69 percent of African Americans and 64 percent of Latinx Americans. The lack of BIPOC representation and opportunities for individuals working in such a white, male-dominated industry was a key factor in this plan taking off.
Much of the cannabis industry is led by those that are white and male, and doesn’t reflect the diverse student body on campus. This program will allow students to maximize job and entrepreneurial opportunities after college.
A brief overview of the tracks available to enroll in as part of the minor program. Courtesy of MEC Cannabis Education Taskforce.
In an exclusive interview with the Meridian, Vikiana Clement stated “If we didn’t educate students and get them prepared, we’d be setting them up for failure.” Clement, a Medgar Evers alum and member of the MEC Cannabis Education Taskforce, goes on to state “If you gave 100 students licensing to sell cannabis, they wouldn’t know what to do with it. This program is meant to educate and put them into every sector of the industry to maximize their potential.”
Even though the minor degree program started at Medgar Evers, it is available to all CUNY students regardless of their campus or major.
Although many more are in the works, the four tracks available to concentrate on, for the time being, are the following: Formulating and Testing, Cultivation of Marijuana, Health, and Commercialization.
Rather than expressing concern about what their children would be learning, at least three parents expressed interest and had a variety of questions, including “Will FAFSA fund this?” and “Is this coming out of my pocket?”
Adults that are returning to school or are part of a continuing education program are eligible to enroll in the fourth track of the minor. There was an overwhelmingly positive response from different community members including married couples, and one grandparent even referred their grandchild to enroll in the program.
The program was spearheaded by the MEC Cannabis Education Taskforce and is housed in the Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science. The taskforce consists of four members, two faculty and two alumni. The faculty leads are Dr. Alicia Reid, chair of the Chemistry and Environmental Sciences department, and Dr. Micah Crump, professor of Business and Entrepreneurship. The two Alumni are Vikiana Clement, a corporate software engineer and entrepreneur, and Joel Strothers, a civil and environmental engineering Ph.D. student at Princeton University.
In the interview with The Meridian, Dr. Reid stated “We’re hoping that Medgar Evers becomes the go to place for workplace development. The training ground that people come to for mentoring, shadowing, and other opportunities within the cannabis degree program.”
The Cannabis Minor Program has been backed by highly regarded operations and organizations they’ve partnered with including industry-leading medical dispensary, Columbia Care, Gotham Gives, and the Webber Wild Impact Fund. This is a $100 million impact fund led by five time NBA all-star and hall of famer, Chris Webber, to assist cannabis businesses founded by minorities.
When the approval for the minor degree was granted, students were finally notified close to a year before registration for class was open. The task force initially created a survey regarding enrollment for the approximate 140 students that expressed interest in cannabis education.
“We’re hoping that Medgar Evers becomes the place for workplace development. The training ground that people come to for mentoring, shadowing, and other opportunities within the cannabis degree program.”- Dr. Reid
The main goal was to achieve, as Clement puts it, “entrepreneurial acumen” so that students who complete the program become a watchdog of sorts in the cannabis industry. This could increase the chance that many other marginalized communities can be protected.
As for what the future holds for the MEC Taskforce, Dr. Reid hopes that initiatives and other initiatives like this, serve as a blueprint for those in BIPOC and marginalized communities. Students can now have a competitive edge in the workplace and the ability to offer resources to their communities in their entrepreneurial activities.
Lehmanities and their Furry Friends Adapt to New Normal
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
By Nicole Flores
Maria Molero, a recent transfer student to Lehman had this to say about the positive effect her Golden Retriever, Leo, has had on her life: “In all honesty, Leo’s presence has always helped me cope with my mental health. I was diagnosed with chronic depression and anxiety when I was in middle school, and have had various episodes in my life since then. Cuddling with my dog is a surefire way that I’ve been able to cope when I get really down.”
According to the CDC, prolonged quarantine lockdown measures can have severe effects on physical and mental health. Social isolation and loneliness can increase stress and anxiety which can then manifest in a number of ways including changes in sleep patterns or appetite, difficulty concentrating, and increased use of tobacco, alcohol, or other substances. Other research by the National Institutes of Health has linked loneliness to an increased risk of diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and other adverse health outcomes.
However, a recent UK study by the journal PLOS One found that owning a pet can mitigate some of the more negative effects of quarantine and isolation. The study surveyed almost 6000 participants about 90% of which owned at least one pet. The aim of the study was to “investigate links between mental health and loneliness, companion animal ownership, the human-animal bond, and human-animal interactions; and to explore animal owners’ perceptions related to the role of their animals during the lockdown.”
Many pet owners reported that their pets were a source of significant comfort even if they did worry about practical aspects of care. An issue that many pet owners can sympathize with. Some research has shown that when a pet owner cannot meet the needs of their pet it negatively affects not only the pet but also the owner.
Marie-Claire Milius, a junior majoring in psychology, made a heart-wrenching decision to give her pet rabbit Bunbun away to another family. “It was hard for everyone to grasp seeing Bunbun go, especially my little sister, but the truth is we didn’t have time for her anymore. You’re supposed to let your bunny out at least once a day, with a watchful eye, and with everyone’s busy schedules it just wasn’t a life for a bunny being all caged up. It was the right decision to let her go to the loving family in Connecticut.” Miluis also owns a tabby cat, Darling.
The results of the study noted the strength of the bond between pet owners was individual of species and that poorer mental health pre-lockdown indicated a stronger human-animal bond. Finally, owners compared to non-owners showed smaller decreases in mental health.
Sharaah Aquino, a sophomore studio art major, expressed similar sentiments about her Yorkshire Terrier, Chocolate. “He has helped me tremendously. When I need some grounding, being present with him and playing or petting him calms me down. I’m also pretty sure he can tell when I am having my worst days or when I’ve been crying because he won’t leave my side.”
The appeal of owning a pet was clear to many before this study was published. Anyone on social media might remember the surge of interest in adopting pets at the start of quarantine measures. There was so much interest in adopting pets that back in April, the Chicago’s Animal Care and Control shelter ran out of adoptable animals.
However, lead author Dr. Elena Ratschen told Forbes that people should exercise caution against running out and getting a pet. “While our study showed that having a pet may mitigate some of the detrimental psychological effects of the COVID-19 lockdown, it is important to understand that this finding is unlikely to be of clinical significance and does not warrant any suggestion that people should acquire pets to protect their mental health during the pandemic.”
The end of lockdowns doesn’t necessarily mean life will snap back to normalcy. Molero is worried about how Leo will adjust when not as many people are at home. “I’m a bit worried about the aftermath of the lockdown. He’s become used to having at least three persons in the house at all times... he’s going to suffer from some serious separation anxiety when our schedules all get back to normal. He’s always been pretty clingy, so I’m not looking forward to that.”
Aquino faces a similar issue with Chocolate. “The hardest part of lockdown for him I think was getting used to having all of us in the house for so long and as things started opening up having to get used to some of us not being around anymore.”
Season Four of “Attack on Titan” Leaves Fans in Limbo
(Photo credit: Funimation)
By Nicole Flores
The long-awaited season four of “Attack on Titan” has ended on a cliffhanger, leaving fans with even more questions than when the season began.
Premiering nearly eight years ago, “Attack on Titan” took the anime world by storm. Based on the manga by Hajime Isayama, the series takes place in another world where humans are living behind three gargantuan walls. On the other side of those walls are the titular antagonists — the titans. They eat humans, so the last remnants of humanity are forced to hide behind the walls, their primary source of protection.
However, humanity has one last weapon up its sleeve: the Scout Regimen. Soldiers tasked with venturing beyond the walls to discover any weaknesses the titans may have and perhaps save humanity for good. The series follows Eren Jaeger and his friends Mikasa Ackerman, and Armin Arlert as they navigate their way from childhood to the Scout Regimen after a devastating attack lets titans within the walls.
With exciting visuals and a unique premise, the series immediately garnered praise and a veritable army of fans. However, due to production issues with its animation studio, Wit, the second season did not premiere until nearly four years later. This hiatus did not stop the momentum, and “Attack on Titan” has secured its place in the top ten highest-grossing anime of the 2010s.
For its fourth season, production moved from Wit Studio to MAPPA. Producer Kensuke Tateishi had this to say about the move in an issue of “Newtype”: “While season 3 was in production, we consulted with Wit Studio, and it was decided that a different production studio would create the Final Season...As creators, we wanted the anime to escalate even further. Through many talks with Wit Studio, we understood that the continuation would be difficult, so we looked for a new studio.”
The fan response was initially negative; however, after the first trailer dropped, the overwhelming fan reaction was positive. With season four currently airing, the response has remained favorable.
Season four is chock full of political intrigue, war, and of course, titans. The season opens in Marley, the enemy country of Eren Jaeger, where we follow season three antagonist Reiner Braun and the Marleyan Warrior Unit, elite soldiers in the expansive Marleyan army. The first few episodes give insight into Marleyan society and the lives of the Eldian people who are treated as second-class citizens there. True to the manga, episode one opens with large action set pieces as the Marleyans fight their way into enemy territory, eventually conquering the last bastion of their adversary, Fort Brava. During this battle, fans are treated to an incredible spectacle; titans falling from the sky.
MAPPA has certainly exceeded fan expectations and established itself as a contender in the industry. They also boast a roster of other highly successful anime productions, including this season’s shōnen darling Jujutsu Kaisen. The producers of “Attack on Titan” wanted its final season to be bigger than ever, and MAPPA has certainly delivered. The animation is top tier, elevating the series to new heights. As a bonus, the new animation style closely mimics Isayama’s signature art style. Each frame looks like a manga panel come to life.
Another pleasant surprise this season is the humor. Attack on Titan has long been known for its heart-wrenching, ruthless tone but it does have its moments of levity. It is good to see that trend continue especially as we hurdle toward the darker days to come. Speaking of pacing, this season seems to be moving at breakneck speed rapidly condensing many chapters of the manga and yet still remaining true to the major and even minor story beats. The effect leaves viewers feeling equal parts befuddled and horrified but eager to see what happens next.
The last episode of season four aired on March 29th leaving fans anticipating how the show will wrap up. MAPPA has confirmed there will be a part two of season four premiering in early 2022. With many more chapters and plot points to cover, viewers are unsure if the anime will get a proper conclusion. The fandom waits to see if MAPPA and Isayama will be able to stick the landing.
Wandavision Spellbinds Audiences At Start, Sputters Towards End
(Photo Credit: Marvel Studios)
By Michael Omoruan
Opposites really do attract. After launching 2 years ago on November 12th and releasing a backlog of content from Disney films and series, Marvel films and series, National Geographic, and more, Disney Plus has now stepped into the original streaming series game when releasing “Wandavision”.
Starring Elizabeth Olsen as the Sokovian sorceress Wanda Maximoff and Paul Bettany as the sharp synthezoid Vision, the first piece of media to take place after the events of “Endgame” juggles a myriad of genres and Marvel Cinematic Universe characters for a unique take on the newly married couple tropes. While it starts off on the right notes, towards the end is where it tends to falter.
We are first reintroduced to the truly dynamic duo in Westview, New Jersey through a retro yet risky black and white lens. Both Vis and Wanda do their best Dick van Dyke and Lucille Ball routines respectively with great comedic timing and endearing chemistry. They enter their new home but have trouble recalling their lives before they entered the garden state. The first few episodes follow several sitcom cliches that will delight older viewers but could slightly put off those younger.
Almost as if being called to set, the two are soon introduced to Agnes played by the effervescent Kathryn Hahn with food already in tow to welcome the two to the neighborhood. Hahn takes what could’ve easily been a phoned-in performance and turns the ham to 11. Through the show, she plays the pesky, noisy neighbor in the ilk of Full House’s Kimmy Gibbler and Married with Children’s Marcy D’Arcy incredibly well.
One of the highlights is seeing Olsen and Bettany playing different versions of their characters through decades of show structures and costumes that genuinely fit. The theme songs and brief intermissions in the form of in-show commercials
As mentioned, the series brings back many old faces and names fans may have forgotten including the always charming Randall Park as FBI agent Jimmy Woo, who first appeared in Ant-Man and the Wasp, and a now adult Monica Rambeau played by Teyonah Parris who was last seen as a young girl in Captain Marvel.
The show begins to enter darker territory as Wanda and Vision’s home as well as the Westview neighborhood start to witness weird occurences around them. For fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, tune in if only to see more of the relationship developed between the 2 Avengers that started in Avengers: Age of Ultron.
It’s been confirmed by Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige that the Scarlet Witch will soon make an appearance in the Doctor Strange sequel entitled “Multiverse of Madness” directed by “Spider-Man” trilogy helmer Sam Raimi which means Wanda will definitely be making a mark on the MCU going forward.
Lehman’s Own DishwithDina Raises Over $1k During Virtual Wellness Retreat
A photo promoting Dina’s MadeWithLove Virtual Retreat. Courtesy of DishwithDina.
By Michael Omoruan
As confirmed cases of Covid continue to rise and movie theaters have been shut down, it can feel pretty draining trying to keep spirits up and energy high. Lehman College nutrition professor Dina D'RAlessandro has taken it upon herself to make this daunting and depressing time to host a virtual event focused on proper logistical mindset, healthy eating, and all-around focused on positivity.
D’Alessandro, or more commonly known by her online moniker DishwithDina, not only works as a Lehman professor, but is also a registered dietitian. D’Alessandro frequently hosts Instagram lives for her nearly 2,000 followers, where she welcomes nutrition enthusiasts and experts. She also allows up to 30 minutes of free nutritional and all-around guidance on many online platforms, including Zoom and Zocdoc.
The MadewithLove Virtual Wellness Retreat was held all day on Dec. 5 via Zoom and featured a list of talks hosted by many of D’Alessandro’s friends and colleagues.
When asked what inspired her to make this event, Dina stated to the Meridian “This all started as a way for me to end the year with self-care. All too often, we think we have to wait for the "New Year, New You" promotions before we can take time for ourselves and get back on track with our goals.” She went on to explain that she also wanted to raise money for a good cause, which she more than accomplished as donations for Mental Health America reached over $1000!
Dina’s banner for her Dishwithdina website.
One of the first talks was hosted by Andrea Gonzalez, a Miami-based medical student, author, and creator of the Plan with Productivity brand, which focuses on teaching people how to chase their biggest goals and aspirations. Her talk focused on practical advice like limiting one’s time on social media, making alarms to get ready throughout the day, and gradually learning to stick with a routine.
A highlight of the event was the exercise intermission hosted by Amber Trejo, a certified personal trainer. It served as a way to liven things up and was much more active than other online events tend to be. And since most gyms and recreation centers have been closed, it helped in getting those in attendance up on their feet and shaping muscles that most likely haven’t been strengthened for quite some time.
Jaime Maldanado, a recent Lehman graduate, stated “I truly loved the variety of speakers. [Dina] had… just what I needed to hear! It was a great event to attend and I’m so glad I did."
All in all, Dina hosted a great number of events that helped everyone in attendance take a brief pause from their daily lives, whether they’re students currently in the last stretch of the fall semester or parents needing some time to focus on themselves.
One can only hope for more events to be hosted like these in the future to mitigate any wariness those in school and even those out of school might feel. To quote recent Lehman graduate Mitchelita Touzin, "Please make this a yearly event.”
Link to her Instagram.
Link to her Twitter.
Asian Business Owners Respond to Recent Surge in Hate Crimes
(Photo credit: ABC News)
By Michael Omoruan
Hate crimes in major cities in the United States such as Los Angeles, California, and New York City involving Asian people has increased by almost 150 percent from 3 reported crimes to 26 and 7 to more than double at 15 respectively, according to a study conducted by the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University.
Many factors could be playing a role in this but Karthick Ramakrishnan, founder and director of demographic data and policy research nonprofit AAPI Data, believes that former President Donald Trump and his repeated comments on China being the country of origin for the ongoing coronavirus pandemic have increased the hate towards the Asian community.
“What Trump did is that he weaponized it in a way,” Ramakrishnan told NBC “Trump's rhetoric helps set a certain narrative in place — and presidents have an outsized role in terms of shaping narrative. They don't call it a bully pulpit for nothing, and especially Trump, the way he frequently used Twitter as well as press conferences and off-the-cuff remarks to campaign rallies to frame the narrative in a particular way, it likely played a role.”
Jennifer Tam, co-founder and marketing chair of Welcome to Chinatown, a grassroots initiative that supports local businesses and communities in the neighborhood, echoed Ramakrishnan’s comments.
“The atmosphere of the businesses is both a heightened sense of fear for safety, but true to Chinatown's spirit, everyone remains resilient,” Tam said. “I think this speaks to the spirit of the community -- driven largely by immigrants or multi-generational family operations, who work hard to make ends meet... I don't step out of my home anymore unless absolutely necessary, as a safety precaution. It's unfortunate given that like many New Yorkers, I am anxiously waiting for things to return to normal in the city following this pandemic, yet I think many Asian Americans are feeling that we should still remain home for our safety and the unknown of what could happen as anti-Asian violence has become more prevalent.”
On March 16, another racially motivated hate crime occurred as eight people were killed in massage parlors in the Atlanta, Georgia area with six of the victims being of Asian descent. Local authorities captured the suspect in Crisp County, a 21-year-old man identified as Robert Aaron Long who claimed he committed these atrocities due to a “sex addiction”. He is currently being held without bond in Cherokee County, where he faces four counts of murder and a charge of aggravated assault, according to the county sheriff's office.
Lizy Yee, the owner of Tonii's Fresh Rice Noodle in Downtown New York, describes the atmosphere at her shop as generally safe because of a network of businesses that look out for one another. But Yee is angered by the thought of people being afraid of racially motivated violence.
“The recent crime surge gets me angry because no way should ANY elders have to look over their shoulders when they go out. No way should they be scared to go out in public because of their skin color or because of how they look.”
Students and Staff Anticipate an Open Campus This Fall
(Photo Credit: Lehman College's Facebook page)
By Rebekah Gamble
As registration for the Fall 2021 semester approaches, Lehman College students are forming opinions about the upcoming semester. When the 37-acre campus closed in March 2020, it was the last time that thousands of students laid foot in the college.
The Spring 2021 semester included 90% of all classes being taught online but the approaching Fall 2021 semester will allow for more in person classes.
In an email to faculty sent in March, Interim CUNY Executive Vice Chancellor and University Provost, Daniel Lemons stated, “The occupancy of each space will be adjusted to its particular characteristics. Some of our spaces have 100 percent outside air entering and high room air changes per hour, allowing higher than 50 percent occupancy. Other rooms may require lower than 50 percent occupancy due to their size and air distribution pattern.”
For some, this is exactly the news they were waiting to hear. Christopher Cabrea, a 21-year-old junior Exercise Science major, stated, “I’m nervous but I can’t wait for in person classes because I learn better.” When asked how he felt about wearing a mask for long periods of time he stated “I don’t mind wearing a mask since I’m used to it. I just hope other students can say this so we have a better chance at staying safe everywhere on campus.”
Whether the community will be safe for return is a concern for other students as well. The New York Times reported, that due to proactive safety measures as of April 8th, there were 4,178 cases. This is 20% less reported cases than the previous 14 days.
It begs the question of how a campus that previously had up to 15,000 excited students, plans to comply with NY safety standards, once 50% of classes are held in person. This will largely be the responsibility of staff members to make the departments safe environments.
Some of the busiest departments include Bursar, Financial Aid, and The Admissions Departments. Abigail Laryea, an Undergraduate Admissions counselor, expressed her own feelings of caution and anticipation for the Fall 2021 semester. She stated “My department will allow for staggered schedules so that we are complying with the CDC guidelines at all times. I trust that the precautions I plan to take in regards to sanitizing and the administration as a whole will promote safety.”
Which classes are offered in-person are a top priority for Rebeca Aragon, a junior Biology major. She stated, “I’m so thrilled that our campus is finally going to open. Until everyone is vaccinated we should still take safety precautions. I look forward to having my labs in person, but I’m still not comfortable being in a large lecture setting yet.”
One thing is for sure: it will take a collective effort to make the campus a safe space for everyone.
‘Antebellum’ Brings to Life a Horrifying Historical Nightmare
(Photo Credit: Lionsgate)
By Veronica Longo
A psychological thriller that portrays the traumatic realities of slavery with startling realism, “Antebellum” sends a poignant and clear message: saying and doing nothing is not an option in these tense times. Reminiscent of similar mind game conceptions such as “Get Out” and “Us,” the film is the feature-length debut of Gerard Bush and Christopher Renz, known for their past work on the video short “Kill Jay-Z.” Originally slated to hit theaters in April, movie theater closures due to the Coronavirus pandemic delayed “Antebellum’s” premiere on the big screen until it was finally released through video on-demand services, including Amazon Prime Video and iTunes, on Sept. 18.
The emotionally-charged opening sequence introduces us to the main cast. In the midst of the Civil War, slaves Eli (Tongayi Chrisa) and Eden (Janelle Monae) are caught trying to escape. As they are brutally and graphically punished, the opening score is heavy and haunting. Musical composers Nate Wonder and Roman GianArthur capture perfectly the tragic nature of what is happening on-screen. The effects of the score are highlighted by a lack of dialogue - the characters’ actions alone are speaking volumes. The scene also gives audiences their first glimpse of the film’s antagonists, Senator Blake Denton (Eric Lange), Elizabeth (Jena Malone), and Captain Jasper (Jack Huston), those responsible for catching and punishing Eli and Eden. It’s a tense opening that’s hard to watch. Quite suddenly, though, Eden wakes up.
Janelle Monae is now Veronica Henley, a renowned sociologist in 2020 who leaves her family to travel to a conference and speak on intersectionality. A sense of foreboding follows her, and on her trip back to her hotel she is kidnapped. Once more awakened in her bed, this is how the film comes full circle as we join Eden. It is revealed that these are no mere dream sequences, Eden and Veronica Henley are one and the same.
This film seeks to create a connection for viewers who suffer this type of cognitive dissonance that atrocities of the past don’t happen anymore. Unfortunately for Veronica, the sights she witnesses were not just nightmares. It becomes apparent that these injustices of the past were actually all taking place in the modern day and not the 1800s, to her. After the abuse of another kidnapped victim causes a suicide, this is what spurs Eden and Eli into action. The film reflects an unfortunate reality, that people will often say nothing about injustice until a tragedy spurs people into action.
“Antebellum” is the story of both Veronica Henley and Eden. The picture shows the trials that she and the others face. This film is strange but the ambience and the music pull people in. As the final twist is slowly shown, it is up to the audience to use the clues to figure what is actually going on. The shifts in “Antebellum” will keep readers intrigued, and the tone makes the film a great addition to any scary movie binge-watch.
Paulson Delivers a Mesmerizing Look with ‘Ratched’
(Photo Credit: Netflix)
By Michael Omoruan
The nurse is in. From the dark and twisted mind of “Glee” creator Ryan Murphy, starring Emmy-award winning actress Sarah Paulson of “American Crime Story” and “American Horror Story,” “Ratched” tells the story of Nurse Mildred Ratched’s beginnings, long before she encountered the rebellious McMurphy in “One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest.” Among a plethora of reboots and films, “Ratched” is led by acting juggernauts like Vincent D’Onofrio, Sharon Stone, and obviously Paulson. But despite these stars, overall the show felt a tad superfluous and even teetered into soap opera territory at points.
Right from the jump, we meet a Nurse Ratched with an already sardonic demeanor and a facade that she uses to hide her true wicked nature. We see her serve in the military before being dishonorably discharged, using that experience to find a position in a local psychiatric facility.
Based on Ken Kesey’s revolutionary novel and Milos Forman’s 1975 film, the show takes place in Lucia, California and plants Easter eggs over the course of nine episodes that call back to key moments in “Cuckoo’s Nest.” Most notable are a scene featuring a lobotomy and someone being smothered to death with a pillow. The first makes sense in the context of the show and displays Ratched’s twisted pleasure from the suffering of others, but the second felt too forced, as if Murphy wanted to remind the audience that this was based on the novel and film.
A side by side comparison of Sarah Paulson and Louise Fletcher as Mildred Ratched (Photo credit: Netflix/Shutterstock)
“Ratched” touches on many pressing matters such as how society views mental health, same-sex relationships, and female empowerment. Characters are described as mentally ill who today would just be considered normal- two older lesbian women and one child who was caught daydreaming, for instance. “Ratched” highlights how flawed perceptions were of what constituted a mental disability back then, when the slightest deviation from the norm could be considered a sickness or ailment.
In some instances, the staff seem more disturbed than the patients. When news of a serial killer who has murdered several priests makes front pages, Nurse Dolly (played astutely by Alice Englert), falls in love with him. The head of the mental ward, Dr. Hanover, is shown in several scenes injecting, inhaling, and filling up his body with a host of medication and barbiturates when he is alone.
Nurse Ratched herself is revealed to have grown up in foster care, subjected to abuse and made a spectacle of by her families. These early experiences leave her emotionally reserved and prone to rejecting the advances of both men and women. She forges documents and uses everyday slip-ups and mishaps at the psychiatric facility to advance her career. However, as the story progresses, the plot begins to feel a bit contrived, especially when the governor of the state, played by D’Onofrio, visits the ward where Ratched works.
One of the series’ highlights is definitely the production design. The use of garish colors throughout, like pastel pinks and greens, works well to transport modern viewers in 2020 to how life looked back in the early 1940s and 50s. The show overwhelms viewers with entire scenes full of bright greens and reds when Ratched or her eventual boss Dr. Hanover are present. Cropping up often in moments when they are about to or have just committed a malicious act, the color symbolizes not just the field of medicine, but also wealth and corruption. The show is shot very cinematically with wide sweeping shots showcasing cars and the costume design with finesse that deserves just as much praise.
Season one of “Ratched” ends on a cliffhanger that’s just intriguing enough to have audiences hooked. However, there are so many unearned deaths just when we’ve begun to see backstories and development for several key secondary characters that audiences will have to gauge for themselves whether they’re interested in a second season.
Lehman Students Fear the Impact of Justice Ginsburg’s Death
(Photo Credit: Sebastian Kim / August)
By Rebekah Gamble
The death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg on Sept. 18 devastated many Americans. For Lehman students, 68 percent of whom are female, the news caused a wave of uncertainty regarding the future of gender equality.
Samantha Didonato, a Lehman junior majoring in Anthropology, Chemistry, and Biology and a visible advocate against racial discrimination and for LGBTQ rights, cringed at the thought of what a more conservative supreme court could do to the country. “As a woman, I have the right to get an abortion right now if I felt it was necessary for me,” she said. “I think that if we have a Conservative appointed to the Supreme Court, I will likely lose that right.”
At stake with Ginsburg’s newly confirmed replacement, Justice Amy Coney Barrett, is the ability for a woman to exercise her right to an abortion. With the Supreme Court already leaning to the right with a 5-4 conservative to liberal vote, a sixth conservative justice can set back progressive change decades at a time. With conservatives in power, a woman’s right to choose an abortion could become illegal, and this could increase the number of children born in the US without tackling poverty and the lack of educational resources that are prominent in minority communities.
As an advocate for equal rights, the “Notorious RBG” was known throughout her career for her fiery dissents and powerful opinions. She did not hesitate to speak up for both men and women.
In the 1973 court case of Frontiero vs. Richardson, she became an outspoken leader against discrimination based on sex in the workplace. Before the determination that this violated the Fifth Amendment, the right to due process, women were not allowed the same benefits as men, and they could not report violations to their male supervisors.
In the 1975 case Weinberger vs. Wiesenfeld, Ginsburg fought for the rights of a father who lost his wife and needed social security benefits. When he went to apply for the benefits typically granted to widows, he was denied on the basis that he was male. According to The New York Times, “although he was caring for his child in an identical situation as a widow would be, [the benefits] were payable only to women and not to men.”
Through this case, Ginsburg sought a world where sex was not a reason to deny someone the right to an opportunity-filled life. During her tenure on the Supreme Court, the Affordable Care Act was challenged but never defeated.
Jean-Luc Thomas, a computer science junior at Lehman, said: “I look forward to fatherhood in the future, and I would feel more comfortable knowing that this country would support my child and me. I want paternal rights, and if the new nominee is the opposite of Ginsburg, we’ll all be in for hell.”
Some Lehman faculty reflected on how Ginsburg’s career paved the way for future generations, one court decision at a time.
Political Science Professor Ira Bloom stated, “Both as a litigator and later as a judge and then a Justice of the United States Supreme Court, she was one of the people at the forefront of expanding the scope of opportunities available to many of the people in succeeding generations.”
Female Heroine Brings Relevance and Charm to Sherlock Holmes Franchise
(Photo Credit: Netflix)
By Brittany Aufiero
Netflix’s “Enola Holmes,” the newest adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s notorious Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, centers the detective’s lesser-known -- but equally brilliant -- little sister, Enola (Millie Bobby Brown). Released Sept. 23, the film features a star-studded cast and has profound political relevance for a period piece set in Victorian London. Director Harry Bradbeer succeeds in modernizing the appeal of the franchise, presenting a balanced film that empowers even as it maintains the elements of intrigue and mystery that fans have come to expect.
Enola Holmes is barely sixteen when she wakes up to find that her mother, Eudoria (played by Helena Bonham Carter), has vanished without a trace. Since she’s still underage, her brothers Mycroft (Sam Claflin) and Sherlock (Henry Cavill) are called in to organize her care. Mycroft arranges for Enola to complete her education and training at Miss Harrison’s Finishing School, but Enola has other plans. Determined to uncover the truth of her mother’s disappearance, she sets off on her own and must avoid her powerful brothers along the way.
In contrast to past adaptations of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s world, the film aligns itself wholly with feminist movements. In this it differs from its predecessors, including BBC’s “Sherlock,” created by Steven Moffat, which gained a reputation over its four-season run for sidelining its female characters and using them primarily as plot devices and for male character growth. “Enola Holmes” side-steps such issues entirely and takes things further by prioritizing its women and framing the actions of its men through a critical lens. Woven throughout the plot are mentions of a reform bill which, if passed, would grant women the right to vote. Overall, the film goes to great lengths to emphasize that girls and women are capable of great things.
The political undertones of “Enola Holmes” are a pleasant surprise that work to the film’s advantage. One of the most entertaining moments is when Sherlock is told to check his privilege by Edith (played by Susue Wokoma), a friend of his mother’s and Enola’s former martial arts instructor. Edith, a black woman, reprimands Sherlock how little he cares about politics, stating that his attitude is “because [he has] no interest in changing a world that suits [him] so well.” For American viewers watching during an election year, the plot is a call to action with a clear message: change will only happen if you show up to the polls and vote in November.
Ultimately, what makes “Enola Holmes” so special in a sea of franchise adaptations is Enola herself. Self-possessed, stunningly clever, and well-trained in physical combat by her unconventional mother, Enola is a heroine who has a lot to prove in a world that still views her as a member of the inferior sex. She has all of the intelligence of her detective brother but far more humanity; as shown when she elects to cease her search for her mother in order to help the young Viscount Tewkesbury (Louis Partridge), a young man of noble blood who is being pursued by a persistent assassin.
Best known as the telekinetic adolescent Eleven in the Netflix original series “Stranger Things,” Brown shines as Enola. Her delivery in comedic moments is spot-on and her performance in tender moments is exquisite, allowing audiences to share in the pain and abandonment she experiences at the loss of her mother. Also worth mentioning is Cavill’s Sherlock at times also shows emotional warmth uncharacteristic of Doyle’s original sleuth. This change seems to propose that now more than ever, empathy is a valuable ability we should all be practicing.
“Enola Holmes” is a charming coming-of-age adventure. Younger viewers will see themselves in the free-spirited, daring Enola, determined to reject the expectations society has placed on her due to her gender. Hard-core fans of Doyle’s Sherlock may find themselves disappointed, since this film’s Sherlock lacks the extreme stoicism of previous depictions. Regardless, the film is well-written and well-acted, and it’s a worthwhile watch for those who enjoy their movies with a side of political commentary.
Millie Bobby Brown as Enola Holmes, flanked by Henry Cavill as Sherlock Holmes (left) and Sam Claflin as Mycroft Holmes (right). Photo courtesy of IMDB.
Students, Presidents, & Union Reps Discuss the Impact of COVID at Lehman
(Photo credit: Lehman College News Center)
By Emmet O’Boy
College students have seen their worlds change drastically throughout the COVID-19 crisis with dorms shut down, classrooms closed, and social lives screeching to a halt. This has prompted them to question the new academic order they find themselves in. “I think it is unfair of Lehman to charge their students the same price for arguably less engaging and effective online classes,” said Leah Benitez, a junior in the Lehman Scholars Program. “We pay the current rate of tuition for on-campus instruction, readily-accessible student services along with social and extracurricular opportunities. Not to sit behind our computers.”
Dr. Daniel Lemons, the interim president of Lehman College, acknowledged this complaint. However, when asked if tuition would decrease, he told the Meridian, “No, I don’t think it will… I think it is really hard to see how any reduction in tuition would work. I think it would hurt students.” He added, “Truth is we aren’t able to provide our students nearly what I wish we could provide. Our students deserve that but we can’t offer that.”
“We pay the current rate of tuition for on-campus instruction... Not to sit behind our computers.”
Students also raised objections to distance, or online learning, which has been the only viable option for CUNY’s almost 300,000 students during the fall semester. Asked whether this might change by spring Lemons said, “I don’t think I would even say possibly. We are looking to be fully online in the spring. There is nothing to suggest that we will have a different situation by January.”
The pandemic has also hurt CUNY’s finances. While the federal CARES Act allocated $118 million in funding solely for the students of CUNY, a 5.1 percent decrease in enrollment will cost $52 million, a loss that will add pressure to cut costs. This means that students are not the only group deeply impacted by COVID-19 on college campuses. Queens College’s, The Knight News stated that CUNY has laid off approximately 3,000 adjunct professors in response to the pandemic. When questioned about layoffs, Lemons redirected the conversation towards union issues Lehman has faced. “We also needed to get the agreement with the union to extend the amount of time during which employees could take their vacation,” he said. “The initial deadline was Aug. 31, and fortunately there was an agreement to extend that until December.”
Robert Farrell, the chair of PSC CUNY’s Lehman Chapter, told the Meridian that this fight was not so black and white. “In May, the PSC demanded that CUNY extend the deadline. It wasn't until August that management was willing to bargain on the issue and that after a major campaign from workers in July,” he explained. “The PSC wanted to extend the deadline into 2021, but management put forward Dec. 2020 again, after waiting several months and keeping staff in a state of suspense.”
COVID-19 has changed the shape of higher education, possibly forever. As the pandemic continues, Lehman students, faculty, and administration continue to redefine and debate what the best course of action is for universities to take. Until it is safe enough to go back to the classroom, there will be no more “normal” college experiences at Lehman for any community members.
HBO’s “The Vow” Uncovers the Truth about NΧΙVM
(Photo via HBO)
By Veronica Longo
A new, 9-episode docuseries produced and directed by Jehane Noujaim and Karim Amer examines how NXIVM was able to enrapture so many of Hollywood’s elite so quickly. Released on Aug. 23, “The Vow” highlights the contrast between former members’ initial attraction to the cult and their disillusionment about its true nature and crimes.
Noujaim and Amer, whose previous works include “The Great Hack” (2019), created this series to uncover the hidden truths behind the cult founded in 1998 by Keith Ranier and Nancy Salzman. NXIVM appeared on the surface to be a self-help community for professional development championed by several actors and directors across Hollywood. The group enjoyed positive feedback worldwide. Even the Dalai Lama praised it in its prime and spoke at an event where he honored Raniere with traditional ceremonial Tibetan garb.
In the first episode, viewers are introduced to Mark Vicente, Sarah Edmondson, and Bonnie Piesse, all long-standing NXIVM members who attended the Executive Success Program, a 5-day convention. The series provides background on how they came to join NXIVM and shows all of the seemingly positive changes that occurred in their lives as a result. Mark and Bonnie, for example, end up getting married. However, Bonnie’s words to Mark ominously foreshadow what’s to come when the episode ends with her words: “there are a lot of things that I am starting to see in the organization that are not right.”
After the first episode, “The Vow” takes a dark turn, delving into the details of why and how members sought to leave the group. Layers are peeled off one-by-one as Mark, Sarah, and Bonnie descend deeper into the culture of NXIVM. They find evidence of a secret organization within their group, called the Dominus Obsequious Sororium, or DOS. Convinced to take part in the order’s vow of obedience, Sarah agrees to offer up a compromising video of herself as collateral. She falls down the rabbit hole into a world where submission is expected and where she has essentially become a slave. She keeps her vow secret but begins to ask questions when it becomes clear that crimes are taking place within the program. This revelation acts as the catalyst, giving Sarah, Mark, and Bonnie the courage to leave NXIVM.
Even after deciding to leave, the main characters find it difficult to cut all ties. They are worried about all the younger people who had also been recruited into NXIVM’s ranks. These young, naive starlets were the real target, and most of them were a part of DOS. This is what led them to reach out to a blogger to leak the information about the secretive organization while keeping their identities anonymous. It caused ripples in the community, and the fallout gave more people the courage to leave.
Those who left the group feared legal fallout from the organization since NXIVM, equipped with top legal representation, began to threaten all the former members with legal action. While the ex-members had released a plethora of information about the cult’s illicit practices, none of them had yet officially gone on the record. To save more of the younger recruits, some former members chose to go on the record in a New York Times expose on the group, putting themselves in great danger.
Although only five of the nine episodes have so far been released, “The Vow” does not fail to engage its audience. Cults are often very secretive, so people rarely have access to visuals that can help them understand what a cult looks like. The directors do a fantastic job showing how easy it can be for anyone to fall prey to deception such as those perpetrated by NXIVM.