Volume 102, Issue 10
March 9, 2021
THE
CHARGER BULLETIN
West Haven, Conn.
The student news source of the University of New Haven.
STUDENT BY DAY, CREATOR BY NIGHT
Cover courtesy of Lismarie Pabon, Kayla Mutchler, and Christopher Colquhoun
March 9, 2021
BU L L E T I N B OA R D
Bulletin Briefs
The
Charger Bulletin
Page 3 Food trucks voted most popular on campus
300 Boston Post Road | West Haven, CT 06516
chargerbulletin@newhaven.edu | www.chargerbulletin.com
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Spring sports are back
Page 5 Charger Sports Spotlight
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An interview with an OnlyFans creator
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Women in music playlist
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Office: 203.932.7182 Our office is located on the second floor of 46 Ruden Street, Room 202.
Editor-in-Chief Kayla Mutchler Managing Editor Amanda M. Castro Student Life Editor Beth Beaudry Sports Editor Joe Klaus Entertainment Editor Tiara Starks Opinion Editor Kristen Marcus Staff Writers Elisa D’’’” Egidio, Isabelle Hajek, Barry Lewandowski, Shaylen Stancil, Mia Steadman, and Tyler Wells Multimedia Editor Jada Clarke Associate Editor for Photography Lismarie Pabon Associate Editor for Graphic Design Christopher Colquhoun Associate Editor for Videography Nick Meaney Advertising Manager Hannah Providence Community Engagement Editor Victoria Cagley Advisor Susan Campbell To view previous issues, go to www.OurSchoolNewspaper.com/Charger or issuu.com/chargerbulletin
No sign of $15 minimum wage
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A discussion on selfcare
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The Charger Bulletin staff strives for excellence and accuracy in writing and reporting. We recognize that mistakes may occur and encourage readers to notify the Bulletin if they feel a correction is necessary. Please email the Editor-in-Chief at chargerbulletin@newhaven.edu.
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Since 1938, The Charger Bulletin has been the official student news source of the University of New Haven. Advertising The Charger Bulletin ad rate sheets are available upon request or by calling 203.932.7182 or via email at chargerbulletinads@gmail.com. The Charger Bulletin reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. Advertisements within The Charger Bulletin are inserted by outside sources identified in the advertisements themselves and not by the University of New Haven. Advertising material printed herein is solely for informational purposes. For the most up-to-date information, visit www.ChargerBulletin.com/advertise. Letters to the Editor The submission deadline for letters to the editor is 5 p.m. on Friday for publication in Monday’s issue. Letters to the Editor are also published online the same day as the release of print issues. Letters should not exceed 300 words if they are to be considered for print publication. All submissions by outside writers to The Charger Bulletin, unless otherwise approved by the Editor-in-Chief, will be treated as letters to the editor. Letters to the Editor are published under the discretion of the Editor in Chief, and not every submitted letter will be published. The Charger Bulletin also reserves the right to withhold Letters to the Editor that are excessively vulgar or nonsensical, or do not meet our editorial standards. Letters can be sent via email to ChargerBulletin@newhaven.edu and must contain the writer’s name and contact information for verification purposes. The opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are of the authors themselves and not The Charger Bulletin.
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The Charger Bulletin
March 9, 2021
NEWS
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Food trucks: The most popular dining service on campus BY ELISA D’EGIDIO Contributing Writer Last semester, the University of New Haven brought a variety of food trucks to campus, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 4 to 8 p.m. and have become a popular spot for students to frequent. The Charger Bulletin asked students online, “What is your favorite place to eat on-campus?” Of the 28 participants, 50% of the votes were for the food trucks. Food On-Demand (FoD) ranked last, with 0% of the votes and Marketplace, second to last, with 4%. On Instagram, the Charger Bulletin asked students to share their favorite food truck in a submission box. Of the 21 participants, Spuds Your Way was voted the most popular. Amanda Foertsch and Alyssa Nooitgedagt, both freshmen criminal justice majors, said that they hope food trucks return next semester. They also said that Fork in the Road and La Mesa Food Truck are their favorites because “it hits different” and look forward to going Spuds Your Way
Photo courtesy of Lismarie Pabon
to them every week. Foertsch said that she likes that the food trucks offer various options and sometimes mix up their menus. “I think that the food trucks are a good way to add ‘spice’ to campus life because you have the dining halls,” she said, “and you can go there every day, and it is pretty much the same stuff [served to us] every day, we all know that by now… The food trucks change their menus sometimes, so you know when you go out, you have the option to try something new and I think that’s cool.” Nooitgedagt said that she enjoys having the option to interact with other students and the food truck attendants, “I like the food trucks because honestly it [has] different options… [it] also gets us out of quarantine and the room just to get something new because we can’t go to restaurants.” Sean Allen and Logan O’Neil, both forensic science juniors, and Jarredd Kane, sophomore biology major, love coming to the food truck, even saying it is “90% on there meals.” O’Neil is thankful for alternate food options and Kane said, “this is much better than
any [other] meal we have on campus”. The three are hopeful that the food trucks return, especially their favorite which is Fryborg. The Spuds Your Way food truck has been in service for about eight years. The truck’s owner Jared Chohen said, “Being at UNH last semester & this semester has been awesome! New people have gotten to try our food which help spread the word of our storefront in Hamden that opened a year & a half ago.” Based on what he has seen, Cohen said the most popular potato combination at the university is their Supreme BBQ shaved chicken potato. Liberty Rock Tavern was voted ‘Best Food Truck’ by Connecticut Magazine in 2019 and the truck has been in business since 2017. The truck’s owner Brian said, “Our experience here has been awesome! The students are super cool and love what we do!.. Thanks for the opportunity to be at UNH and we appreciate the support. If you have not tried our chicken sandwiches, come check us out!!” The most popular sandwich for the students at the university would be their O.G, according
to Brian The female-owned and operated small business, La Mesa Food Truck is known to accommodate dietary needs by offering gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options on their menus. “Our experience has been really positive; the staff has been incredibly supportive and helpful.” Owner Alba Garay said she would love to return next semester and for those to follow as La Mesa “want[s] to extend our gratitude to everyone at UNH for supporting our small business.” Fork in the Road loves working at different universities and events. The truck attendant, Marc said when they work at universities, fairs and festivals, their main priority is to meet new people and provide the best experience for customers. . Not only have the students been happy, but the trucks themselves have loved their experience at the university. Fork in the Road, Spuds Your Way and Liberty Rock Tavern all said
that if that university will have them, they will absolutely come back for the fall semester. General manager of food services Juan Dominguez said that traditional dining options – such as FoD and Marketplace – and food trucks cannot compare to one another as they are two different experiences, and it is just an additional option to have. Dominguez also said that he would love to hear more about students’ opinions on the trucks. On the future of the trucks at the university, Dominguez said, “Food Trucks brings additional cost to the program and efforts are made to give more alternatives to the students in difficult times. The future, short and long term of the Food truck program is uncertain, for sure they will be available until the end of the semester.” Dominguez said they are working hard to add trucks to the rotation. For now, students can use two meal swipes from their meal plan per week, and dining dollars, at the food trucks. Graphic courtesy of Elisa D’Egidio
March 9, 2021
S P O RT S
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University sports are back with release of spring schedules BY TYLER WELLS Staff Writer The Northeast-10 (NE-10) announced the release of their 2021 spring sports schedules, laying out the framework for the impending season. The conference posted the schedules throughout the week of Feb. 23, starting with baseball and ending with tennis. The decision to post the schedules comes following a conference-wide commitment to playing sports in some capacity this spring. The NE-10’s Council of Presidents held a virtual meeting on Feb. 15 to have a final choice on the fate of the season. There was concern among the conference following an outbreak at Franklin Pierce University that put the school under a temporary shelter-in-place order. However, nearly one year after spring sports were shut down, the NE-10 is looking towards a 2021 season.
“I’m grateful for the many individuals in the Conference who have worked cooperatively to chart a safe and responsible pathway forward for the spring sports to begin competition,” said NE-10 Commissioner Julier Ruppert. The University of New Haven has five sports that will be competing this spring: baseball, lacrosse, softball, track and field and women’s tennis. New Haven will be part of the conference’s Southwest Division, which is made up of seven teams including Adelphi, American International, Le Moyne, Pace, Saint Rose and Southern Connecticut. Softball will be the first New Haven team to play since the shutdown last March. The team announced a 38-game regular season that is slated to begin on Mar. 13 when they host Stonehill College. Their schedule is primarily composed of games against other NE-10 teams, with a lone doubleheader against
Molloy College of the East Coast Conference. Lacrosse is also scheduled to play on Mar. 13, opening their 13-game season against American International College. The Chargers enter the season ranked 15th in the country by the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA). The baseball team is set to play a 31-game schedule which opens on Mar. 19 with a home matchup against Pace Univer-
sity. This starts a seven-game homestand for the Chargers as they begin their season. Tennis, the final team to have their schedule released by the NE-10, opens their schedule with an out-of-conference game against Saint Thomas Aquinas College on Mar. 13. After that, the Chargers have 10 conference matches. The only team to not have an official schedule released was track and field. However, they are expected to begin meets
Baseball in a huddle
Photo courtesy of New Haven Athletics
sometime in March, junior pre-medical biology major and track athlete Erick McDermott said. Details on playoff structure and dates for each sport are still in development and will be released by the NE-10 at a later date. No official announcement on spectator limitations has been announced. However, Conn. Gov. Ned Lamont lifted fan restrictions on Feb. 18 for youth sports in the state, allowing 25% capacity and/or 200 fans. With or without fans, Charger sports will take the field again, 369 days since the university’s last athletic competition. All home games will be broadcasted on the Charger Sports Network for free. Live stats and information for each game can also be found on the Chargers website here under each sport’s page. Times and locations for each game can also be found there.
E-Sports Master’s Degree: The first of its kind in North America BY LINDSAY GIOVANNONE Contributing Writer Recognizing the value of esports and the need for new development, the University of New Haven has launched an online master’s program in Esports Business, the first of its kind in North America. The program offers courses on the integrity of esports, marketing techniques, and the value of live streaming platforms, among many others. Esports is an exploding industry; the popularity of video games has led to competitive gaming -- and competitive career opportunities. South Korea was one of the first countries to revolutionize their telecommunications system in the early,
unintentionally inventing a multi-billion-dollar industry. Esports, unlike traditional athletics, needs game publishers and developers to ensure the field does not become obsolete. Developers have intellectual property rights to their games and titles, being the only entity able to determine who may access the game and how distribution should occur. Maintaining the infrastructure and integrity of esports has become a growing concern of consumers. The high demand for quality video games creates an incredibly competitive market among companies, creating a niche for professionals. The university’s 12-month degree, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, and located within the Pompea College of Business, has been
placed as a top 5% of business programs across the globe. Over 495 million people participated in gaming, with North America having the largest revenue share in 2019 (40%). Esports is expected to be worth over $6.82 billion dollars by 2027 and the careers available are growing with its value. There is an increasing need for marketing managers to analyze information and understand the importance of developing new strategies to reach potential consumers. In an article written for the New Haven Register, director of the university’s esports program, Jason Chung, said that “the [games’] sustained popularity… has further validated the industry in the eyes of brands and investors alike.” This validation is what put New Haven at the
forefront of esports education. The rise in the gaming demographic among young adults has spurred a transformation in what it means to be a famous athlete. Chung said that there are “skeptics” about the legitimacy of the industry but implores them to “ask why they pay to watch strangers play football when they could just play themselves.” Esports allows gamers to immerse themselves in an alternate world where they are in control; it is an accessible and engaging activity that has a myriad of games for all ages. As fascination with esports accelerates, so does the requirement for qualified professionals. What was once seen as a geeky hobby is now a legitimate venture, offering professional opportunities for growth. The university’s unique program
prepares graduates to enter the industry equipped with the tools to pioneer a pixelated world worth billions. Students gaming in The Stable Photo courtesy of Lismarie Pabon
March 9, 2021
S P O RT S
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Charger Sports Spotlight: Megan McLoughlin BY TYLER GARNET Contributing Writer This edition of Charger Sports Spotlight features Megan McLoughlin, a junior health science major from Long Island and a defender on the Women’s Lacrosse Team. After graduation, she plans on applying for Physician Assistant (PA) school. McLoughlin’s main focus is on playing this season and describes herself as resilient. She has been on the lacrosse team for three years, but has seen limited games. Her freshman year, the team included an all-senior defense, so sophomore year would have been her first shot to play. Though an injury and the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt on games, that has not stopped McLoughlin from wanting to prove herself this season. “I want to have a comeback to not only prove to myself that I
can do a full season but to show that I worked hard enough in the off-season to get back into lacrosse competitively,” said McLoughlin. She dislocated her knee and needed surgery to repair it back in September 2019. She has continued to work hard to be able to play again, and her passion for the sport is fueling her comeback. McLoughlin’s love for the game originates from when she first started playing in elementary school. She became interested in lacrosse when her dad made her and her sisters start playing. McLoughlin’s dad played lacrosse as a child and was her coach for a few seasons. When she was younger, she also played soccer and never wanted to play lacrosse until her dad “forced” her to play. She fell in love with lacrosse and has her dad to thank for that.
McLoughlin’s favorite part of being on the lacrosse team here at school is “an instant 26 friends.” From the moment she stepped on the field to now she has always felt included. “We became family,” McLoughlin said, “Even before I got here people reached out to me and made the transition from high school to college an easy one. They are my sisters and we do everything together like get food, practice and some of us even live together.” If there is one thing this pandemic has taught Mcloughlin it is “resilience” and learning how to motivate yourself. She said, “It teaches you to be self-determined to put yourself through all these things. You are never guaranteed anything so everything you do you have to work for and push yourself to jump on every opportunity before it passes by. This whole
pandemic will definitely make anyone appreciate the little things in life that we may have taken for granted.” McLoughlin and her team hope that there is a season. She said, “Everyone has been working really hard to prove
that even though we had 5 months off this isn’t a setback but more motivation to win all of these games against the same teams as a competitive edge and prove ourselves.” Megan McLoughlin
Photo courtesy of New Haven Athletics
Progress in the pandemic: Fans to return to New York sporting events BY LYNDSAY MILLER Contributing Writer For the first time in almost a year, sport fans in New York will be allowed to attend events at venues with 10,000 seats or more, with proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72-hours of the game. In addition to proof of a negative PCR test, the State Department of Health will have to approve each venue. Fans will also be assigned seats and be required to remain socially distant and wear a mask. After allowing a limited number of fans to attend the Buffalo Bills first home playoff game in 25 years, as a pilot model, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that fans will be allowed to attend sport and entertainment events at 10% capacity, beginning on Feb 23. Seen as a step back to normalcy, junior forensic science major, Caitlin Estes and New
York resident said that the return of fan attendance at sporting events left her “feeling like a kid on Christmas morning.” Although it allowed for better communication between players, lack of fan attendance affected the intensity of players. According to Carrie Wicks, a Madison Square Garden
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons
sports psychologist, games are not only a competition, but a performance. Even if only 10% of stands are open, players are convinced that any number of fans will bring benefits. The New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets were New York’s first sports teams to act on the new protocol. Madison Square Garden, home to the Knicks, allowed a crowd of about 2,000
fans in their first game back, while the Nets and the Barclay’s Center opted to start small, only allowing 300. Despite limited capacity, Patrick Rowan, a senior national security major, sees the announcement from Cuomo as “a huge step in the right direction.” Rowan, a die-hard Yankee fan, said he’s felt like a piece of him was missing during the 348 days fans were prohibited from attending sporting events. “Even though there were still baseball games going on,” said Rowan, “it wasn’t the same. Games with no fans lack that level of competitiveness, the energy from players is what makes games that much more exciting,”. However, the return of fans impacts more than players and coaches. Estes said, “Sport games are about so much more than winning and losing... Growing up, I spent a lot of time
with my dad at sports games. It was our time to bond over something we have a shared interest in.” The connection between a fan and their favorite team is like no other. A series of studies done by Daniel Wann, a psychology professor at Murray State, reveals that fans who show a higher level of identification with a team helps them to feel less lonely and more relatable to their peers. Identifying with a sports team also means identifying with their fanbase. Aside from bringing liveliness back into NY sports, the return of fans will help boost the economy as many sport franchises count on ticket sales as a major source of revenue. With the professional sports industry losing $13 billion in fan spending during the pandemic, the goal is to safely reopen the economy, while trying to mitigate the COVID-19 risk.
March 9, 2021
STUDENT LIFE
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Student and OnlyFans creator talks sex-positivity and empowerment BY BETH BEAUDRY, AMANDA CASTRO, AND KAYLA MUTCHLER Staff Editors For some people, the sex industry is a taboo subject; for University of New Haven senior accounting major and OnlyFans creator Heather Chandler – who asked to be referred to with the name she uses on OnlyFans – she is living “the best of both worlds.” Students are now becoming involved in the industry because of platforms such as OnlyFans that have made it easy for them to become creators and gain a following. Despite students using such platforms to exhibit empowerment and sex-positivity, the topics of sex and the sex industry are still stigmatized. According to the platform’s Twitter account, “OnlyFans is a subscription social platform revolutionizing creator and fan relationship.” OnlyFans, which launched in 2016, is a subscription-based social media site where users can sell and buy original content, much of which is sexually-explicit. Users must pay a monthly subscription fee ranging between $4.99 and $49.99 to obtain access to the content. Creators have the capability to set prices, host live streams, post photos and videos, interact with users via private messages and receive tips from subscribers, among other features. The platform has even become popular among celebrities such as rapper Cardi B and “Teen Wolf” star Tyler Posey. Chandler said that for about two years before joining OnlyFans, she had been selling photos to people via social media. On July 15, 2020, she created Photo courtesy of Creative Commons
her OnlyFans account. Chandler is a full-time student, but still sets time around her school schedule to create content for the platform and promotional content to publish on her other social media. Now, with her commitment to the platform and the personalized experience she tries to give her followers, she said she is in the top 2.4% of OnlyFans content creators. Unlike the pornography industry, Chandler said that OnlyFans creators have full control over what they publish and the platform they build. According to the ABC News Originals and Hulu docuseries “OnlyFans: $elling Sexy,” streaming now on Hulu, OnlyFans has enabled creators to “call the shots” and “anyone can come in from the ground floor and start making money.” In the documentary, cameras follow creators as they explore “the choices they make as they increase their fanbases and income while facing the real-world impacts and stigma surrounding sex work.” “I’ve been doing OnlyFans since late July, but I’ve been involved in the sex work industry for over 2 years or so. I’ve made well over $18,000 through OnlyFans (and that’s after OnlyFans takes its 20%),” said Chandler. Chandler said that prior to OnlyFans taking their share of the profits she earned, she had made $23,495 in eight months. With her income, she was able to move out of her parents’ house. However, Chandler said she wishes the interface of the website was better, considering the company takes out 20% of revenue from creators. Along the with profit she has made, she said that her career with OnlyFans has given her a sense of empowerment for herself and sex. Chandler described it as a “huge confidence boost,” as she had to learn to use her image for her brand. With this,
she was able to become more comfortable in her own skin and her sexuality. Chandler is a survivor of sexual violence. She said that being able to take control of her sexuality and approve of the acts that she performs also is empowering. “For months after that, I felt so gross. I didn’t want to be looked at, I didn’t want to be touched by anyone...Getting control and being able to present myself sexually again, but on my terms was really, really empowering and really helped me heal,” said Chandler. Despite her success on the platform, Chandler feels that she is unable to talk about her career as freely as she would like to. “Outside my friend group, I don’t really talk about it. I got harassed on Twitter by some [University of New Haven] kids over the summer for [being an OnlyFans creator], so I try my hardest not to talk about it.” “I’d love to talk more openly about it in the university setting but I don’t want to compromise my job due to the stigma surrounding OnlyFans, which is awfully unfortunate,” said Chandler. Chandler said that she sometimes gets nervous that her OnlyFans career will have a negative impact on future employment opportunities, as she feels that the world of business is not yet sex-positive. Chandler is not the only one who faces stigma about her career in the sex industry. Other social media apps make it difficult for sex workers to promote themselves. Instagram has a restricting feature that flags a post if someone tags or mentions OnlyFans. Workers like Chandler have had to learn to use specific vocabulary to promote their OnlyFans accounts without directly referring to the platforms, such as using the tag “OnlyFanz” instead. And Instagram is not the only platform
that Chandler has had an issue with. She has had three TikTok accounts taken down, though she didn’t post explicit content on these accounts. To be able to promote their accounts on social media platforms, such as TikTok, creators had to turn to call themselves “accountants,” according to Chandler. For example, a viral TikTok sound has become popular among creators on the app. Chandler said that another obstacle sex workers face is the 2018 Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act (FOSTA) bill and the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA) bill. These bills were meant to help prevent online sex trafficking, but according to Chandler, this can harm people in the sex industry
who are of-age and have granted consent. The Anti-Trafficking Review released an article about the harm these bills can have on sex workers. “Many [sex workers] said it was an overbearing, paternalistic law that does nothing to actually fight sex trafficking but, instead, is used to censor sex worker presence online and create more dangerous situations.” Chandler said that she has gotten into arguments with people who have attempted to undermine her career as a content creator, which she hopes changes. “[Being a creator] shouldn’t be a punchline, and we shouldn’t be reduced down to that.” Chandler’s income
Photo courtesy of Heather Chandler
March 9, 2021
STUDENT LIFE
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Marine Conservation Society: Helping students and environment BY BETH BEAUDRY Student Life Editor The Marine Conservation Society is not simply a club, rather it is a group of students who strive to help the environment. Their mission is to educate the campus community on the environment and issues such as climate change. In a pre-COVID-19 world, the organization held beach cleanups, water bottle exchanges (where students can return 15 plastic water bottles for a reusable one) and more. Recently, the organization has been working with sustainability office director Laura Miller to work on Campus Race to Zero Waste, a national competition, that includes Canada, where participating colleges can track the waste they produce, and try to create a plan on how to reduce waste. Now, to abide by COVID-19 guidelines, the organization
is focusing on virtual, educational events. They have held events such as, “Ways to go green during quarantine,” which educated attendees on ways to practice sustainability even during quarantine. In previous years, the organization dedicated one week in the school year to their cause: Marine Week. It would typically include beach clean-ups, a whale watch, and other marine-themed events. While the organization does not yet know what they will be able to do for Marine Week this year, because of the pandemic, they are still planning to host the annual week from April 18 to 24. It is recommended that students interested in attending weekly meetings follow the Marine Conservation Society Instagram and Charger Connection accounts to receive updates on Marine Week. Along with their goal to educate and improve the environment,
the organization is a way for members with a marine-based major to network with new peers and is a place to earn additional experience relating to their discipline. “Being a marine biology major has helped because we learn a lot of this stuff in our classes, about how to take care of the environment, what’s wrong with the environment currently. And we’re relaying that to our club members,” said senior marine biology major Sam Alaimo. “I think being in Conservation really fosters a community where we can help each other because it’s within our majors or between our majors,” said sophomore marine biology major Hailey Perez. “There’s a lot of cross-sectionality between marine bio and marine affairs, so even if you have a slightly different major, you can still find a lot of assistance within this club.” While the work of the orga-
nization is targeted towards individuals with a marine-based major, it is not a requirement to be in the club. Alaimo said that being in the organization has been a great way to meet those within her major and those who are not, but share the same passion for marine life.
“We have people of different majors passionate about marine biology and marine conservation as a whole, so it’s a great way for outreach, community service,” said Alaimo. Statistics from an MCS event
Photo courtesy of MCS Instagram
Does quarantine affect the relationship of roommates? BY LYNDSAY MILLER Contributing Writer Surviving quarantine with roommates means balancing your needs and wants with theirs. For some, this is easier said than done, as it can often require negotiation of new Celentano Hall
Photo courtesy of The Charger Bulletin
house rules and a high level of self-awareness. Now, more than ever, there is no doubt that being in quarantine can impact relationships between roommates. Sophomore communication major Taylor Keichner said that quarantine has made the relationship between her and her roommates “stronger than ever.” “I feel like I’ve seen many of
my friend’s relationships with their roommates deteriorate,” said sophomore criminal justice major, Annie Accquavita, one of Keichner’s roommates, “but being quarantined so many times really put things into perspective for our house.” Keichner and Accquavita live in an off-campus, two-story house with three other people. On three separate occasions, they had to undergo a 14-day quarantine after one of them was exposed to COVID-19. Although everyone in the house has been exposed, not everyone has contracted the virus. “When some of us got sick, it left us no choice but to come together and work as a team so we could get basic necessities,” said Accquavita. “It also taught us the value of sharing and reminded us to be a little more selfless.”
A study conducted by the U.S. National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health found an overall positive change in relationships throughout quarantine, as younger people were more likely to report a relationship enhancement with friends and the local community. Glossman and his roommate, Colin Waldbiling, sophomore national security major, share a bedroom. Waldbiling said they were able to “keep each other busy on the days that seemed the longest.” “We definitely got under each other’s skin once or twice,” said sophomore criminal justice major, Jordan Glossman. “But at the end of the day, we knew there were much bigger problems in the world happening.” For many students, like Glossman and Waldbiling, being
quarantined with roommates is almost routine. While it may improve relationships of those who live together, it also has an effect on outside relationships. A study by the Internal Journal of Social Psychiatry found that COVID-19 has made a negative impact on social relationships and communication within them. In the subject, Accquavita said, “Although my roommates and I are closer now than ever, I’ve never felt more distant from my family… My family only lives about 30 minutes from campus, but because we’re encouraged to keep social contact and traveling at a minimum, I haven’t seen them since the semester started. However, having limited contact with my family has truly helped me see how heavily I can rely on my friends.”
March 9, 2021
E N T E RTA I N M E N T
The beating heart of modern poetry BY SELENA SOTO Contributing Writer Poetry is an art form by which people can express their emotions, experiences and vulnerabilities. It provides a platform for people to address hard topics, past trauma and current issues. Poetry transcends written words. It is a powerful method for people to use their voice to call for action and change and unity, as seen in Amanda Gorman’s recent performance of her poem for the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Poets are creators of their own art form and new inspiring voices are breathing life into poetic pieces around the world every day. At just 22 years old, Amanda Gorman, a Harvard University grad has been named the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history. However, her astounding accomplishments in the world of poetry do not stop there. Amanda Gorman’s website states that she is a recipient of awards that include the Glamour magazine College Women of the Year and the Webby Award. Her website also mentions that Amanda Gorman
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons
she has been invited to perform for well known public figures such as Pakastani activist Malala Yousafzai, American actor Lin-Manuel Miranda (Cue Hamilton soundtrack), former United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, among others. Amanda Gorman has also written for the New York Times and has three upcoming books that will be published by the popular and successful publishing company, Penguin Random House. Be prepared everyone because Amanda Gorman has big things in store for us and her inauguration speech was just the tip of the iceberg. In honor of International Women’s Day on Mar. 8, an article published by Hong Kong Tatler, highlights seven female poets whose voices are shining loud and clear in Hong Kong. One of the seven poets, Sarah Howe, is a Chinese-British poet, who explores the relationship between her two racial identities and dives deep into her ancestry as well her life in Hong Kong. Tatler said that her first poetry book, titled “Loop of Jade,” won the T.S. Eliot prize in 2015. Mary Jean Chan, is considered to be one of the most influential
“BAME” writers in Britain, said Tatler. A “BAME” writer is someone who has won a literary prize and is representative of a British Black, Asian or minority ethnic writer. Mary’s poetry book, “Flèche” (Arrow), won the Costa Award for Poetry in 2019. There are many additional examples of modern day poets rising in popularity, such as Elizabeth Acevedo, Patricia Frazier, and Phil Kaye who were all featured in an article by the Book Riot. It is evident that any age can explore poetry and produce pieces that can move the masses. Aja Monet, is a Brooklyn-based poet in the U.S. who, at just 19 years old, became the Nuyorican Poets Cafe Grand Slam Champion, according to Read Poetry. Aja’s first poetry collection titled, “My Mother Was A Freedom Writer,” discusses topics such as spirituality, sexism and racism. Read poetry said that this collection was also nominated for a NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work. The voices and work of both modern and classic poets continue to be explored and heard. Poets have a gift that they share with the public as people get to experience the delivery of these diverse and impactful creative pieces of art. As the great and influential poet Maya Angelou once said, “The idea is to write it so that people hear it, and it slides through the brain and goes straight to the heart.”
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Women in music BY MIA STEADMAN Staff Writer
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Since March is known as Women’s History Month, let’s take the opportunity to appreciate some of the women influencing the future of the industry. “Test Drive” by Ariana Grande The dreamy and introspective tone of the album persists in this light-hearted track.“Test Drive” is one of four new tracks Grande released for the “Positions Deluxe” album. “Hazy” by Chloe x Halle Chloe and Halle Berry continue to show off their musical prowess with “Hazy,” a mischievous song with a hypnotizing beat. It is one of the two songs included in the newly released “Chrome Edition” of their second LP, “Ungodly Hour.” “Love Again” by Dua Lipa Dua Lipa is having a moment right now with the success of her second album, “Future Nostalgia.” Opening with haunting notes from the orchestra, “Love Again” perfectly encapsulates the euphoric feeling of throwing yourself headfirst into a new love, despite past heartbreak. “Rainforest” by Noname The alternative, hip-hop and rap artist packs a punch with her lyrical genius in “Rainforest.” Chicago-born Noname is known for her down-to-earth style. Fans eagerly anticipate her upcoming sophomore album “Factory Baby,” although it does not have a set release date. “drivers license” by Olivia Rodrigo It’s almost impossible to have not heard this song by now, but a playlist of current women in music wouldn’t be complete without mentioning this hit by rising singer/songwriter, Olivia Rodrigo. “Gimme What I Want” by Miley Cyrus Miley Cyrus asserts her independence in this banger off of her latest album, “Plastic Hearts.” With this album, the pop star showed the world her potential in the rock genre. “Love Story (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift Taylor Swift has been busy putting out two deluxe albums within the past year. This re-release marks the first of her earlier, re-recorded songs that will be shared with fans.
March 9, 2021
E N T E RTA I N M E N T
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What to stream in March Quinn XCII releases follow-up album have its long-awaited sequel. BY EMILY BROWN nearly six years after original EP “Coming 2 America” is a conContributing Writer March is here and this means streaming platforms are stepping up their game with many new and exciting shows and movies. Here are some notable picks to consider viewing this: WandaVision (2021) The story of Wanda Maximoff and The Vision continues in this stylized sitcom that premiered on Jan. 15 and if you haven’t caught up, now’s the time to do so. The mini-series introduces new characters such as Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn), and highlights the return of beloved side characters such as Darcy Lewis and Jimmy Woo, played by Kat Dennings and Randall Park respectively WandaVision is available to stream on Disney Plus. Biggie: I Got A Story to Tell (2021) Celebrate the life of the famed east-coast rapper Notorious B.I.G. with his posthumously released documentary film. Packed with in-depth interviews, rare and unseen footage and notable contributors, this film recounts Biggie’s journey from hustler to rap king. Don’t miss out on this incredible story available to stream on Netflix starting March 1. Coming 2 America (2021) The 1988 comedy film, starring Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall and James Earl Jones will A scene from WandaVision
Photo courtesy of WandaVision’s Twitter
tinuation of the first film where audiences will be following the whereabouts of the hilarious and dignified Prince Akeem as he returns to America to find his long-lost child. If you loved the classic or are looking for a good laugh and a heartfelt story, this is definitely a must watch. The film will be available to stream on Amazon Prime Video starting March 5. . The Falcon and The Winter Soldier (2021) A new addition to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe is set to appear as a mini-series with an unlikely duo: Sam Wilson, The Falcon and Bucky Barnes, the Winter Soldier. Their adventures are set on the global stage as they fight to survive after the events of “Avengers: Endgame.” Don’t miss this thrilling show and stream the first episode on Disney Plus March 19. Hunter Hunter (2020) If you enjoy horror or thrillers, “Hunter Hunter” is the film for you. The Shawn Linden-directed feature was released in 2020. The film follows a remote Canadian fur trapper and his family as they investigate the gruesome killings of a wolf. This film is bloody, brutal, and packed with tension you could cut through with a knife. Join hundreds of excited horror fans as they celebrate this film’s availability to stream on Hulu starting March 19.
BY ELISA D’EGIDIO Contributing Writer
On Mar. 5, Mikael Temrowski, known by his stage name, Quinn XCII, released his highly-anticipated album, “Change of Scenery II.” Fans were instantly entranced by the singer’s 12-track album in which he employs honest lyricism as he explores past life experiences. “Change of Scenery II” is a continuation of his EP, which was released in April 2015. The album starts off with an introductory song, “We Made This Album in Newport.” The 58-second track is characterized by a whimsical melody, alongside a light guitar strumming. He references his song “Native Tongue” from his previous EP with the lyrics “so don’t change.” “Distracted Youth” is second on the tracklistand is rife with powerful lyrics about young adults looking for a quick fix in relationships. The track, “My Wife & 2 Dogs” wonderfully combines Quinn’s electronic and hip-hop vibes with his rap-style versess. The music video, in which the artist is shown riding and singing on a Vespa around a neighborhood, premiered on Feb. 12. The song’s lyrics reflect on how Quinn feels “stuck” on Quinn XCII performing
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons
the work he does but sometimes it is important to unwind and enjoy the benefits of hard work. In“SOS,” the pulsing instrumentals give springtime vibes, like laying on the grass and unwinding. With a romantic tone, he promises that he will always stand by his partner’s side no matter what life throws their way. In track five, “Hey, Goodbye,” Quinn re-lives a former relationship that ended abruptly. The nostalgic melody works wonderfully with the light and smooth electric guitar that plays while he sings the pre-chorus, “I thought we were doing just fine / I thought you were really just mine.” “Doris Terrace” is a more downtempo song than the others on the album, featuring Jeremy Zucker’s soft voice, combined with ayokay. The lyrics portray an internal battle of self-doubt. The conclusion of the audio is a whisper of a conversation in which a male voice says that no matter the doubts and criticism, the final product is special and amazing. On Dec. 4, the song “Stay Next To Me” featuring Chelsea Cutler was released, making it the duo’s fifth song together. The song sets listeners in the middle of a crowded party where they want to find that one person to escape with. “Mexico City” is one of the more cheerful melodies of “Change of Scenery II,” telling the tale of two strangers meeting to eventually “f*ck around and get drunk” and spontaneously going to Mexico City. The song gives off a spring-break feel, even in the time of a global pandemic. Similar to the electronic beats of a song from his previous album, “A Letter to My Younger Self,” “Monday Morning”and“Am I High Rn” feature drumming and higher-pitched
Photo courtesy of Quinn XCII’s Instagram
vocals. In “We Don’t Talk Enough,” featuring Alexander 23, him and Quinn share a story of how events in life sometimes interrupt relationships and friendships causing the people involved to grow distant. “Feeling Something” is the 11th track on the record. Although it still covers the topic of internal battles, Quinn livens it up with his fast rapping style, guitar strumming and hand clapping throughout the song. Lyrics such as “we drink and smoke every night / It’s not gonna fix my sadness / Even though it does sometimes” describe struggling in a deceptively up-beat manner. “Look How Far We’ve Come” concludes the record. The song reminisces on Quinn’s past and acknowledges the journey traveled to to arrive at where he currently is in life. The interlude references the instrumental from “Another Day in Paradise,” which was the final song in the original EP. Quinn brings it all together with the chorus, “Look how far we’ve come / When you and I were young / This is all we wanted.” A collection of all of Quinn XCII’s work can be found on his website. “Change of Scenery II” is available on music streaming platforms.
March 9, 2021
POLITICS
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Trump supporters remain strong after departure from office BY TYLER WELLS Staff Writer When former President Donald J. Trump exited office on Jan. 20, he left behind a base of vocal and devoted supporters. On the back of the former president, his supporters have successfully shifted the foundations of contemporary politics and ushered in a new era of government. Even though the prospect of a traditional two-term presidency for Trump Trump supporters holding signs Photo courtesy of Creative Commons
ended, his base has no plans of going anywhere. Trump’s exit from office has not ended the rise of far-right politics. Instead, the voter base has continued and evolved as it looks towards future elections. Ever since announcing his candidacy for the 2016 presidential race, Trump has constructed an appeal that targets the anxieties of American society. In this effort, he captivated millions of supporters by shifting their worries towards more defenseless members of society. He effectively instilled a fear of Mexican immigrants as being “drug dealers, criminals and rapists.” His ban on citizens from predominantly Muslim countries entering the U.S. further pushed anti-Islamic sentiment. These were just some of the cases in which Trump and his administration targeted minorities. This messaging may appeal to someone who believes they have become disenfranchised from the political system. It is a
belief that the establishment is corrupt and fails in making tangible improvements for society. The unpresidential personality of Trump gave reassurance that their perceptions of the nation’s government were true. Because of this, his supporters will not go anywhere. The four-year, anti-establishment messaging from the Trump Administration ensured that it did not matter who won the 2020 election. Despite the Democratic Party’s attempt to present the most moderate candidate in President Joseph R. Biden, nothing would dissuade the Trump voter base. The truth is that nothing will. Yes, Trump supporters have lost a leader that most represents their movement. However, while so much focus was given towards taking down that leader, the ideology has only grown stronger. Instead of dissipating after President Biden’s inauguration, the former president’s supporters are faring well even after the shift in presidential power.
They have continued expressing support for Trump, donning his flags while hosting small-scale, local rallies. There is an anticipation that Trump or one of his contemporaries will win the 2024 presidential election. Though it is very early, Trump would be the overwhelming favorite, according to prominent GOP figures such as Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah). “I don’t know if he’ll run in 2024 or not, but if he does, I’m pretty sure he will win the nomination,” Romney said in an interview with the New York Times on Feb. 23. Allies to the former president, such as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley, all target that same base. If Trump eventually faces criminal charges, any of them could take over as the Make America Great Again (MAGA) Party’s leader. For his voting base, there is a sense of security for the 2024 election. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party is in a difficult position.
President Biden has pushed messages of unity for the government while signing a record number of executive orders. However, the recent opening of a migrant facility for children and bombing in Syria has received criticism from progressives. The Democrats have the full strength of congressional power but continue to show weaknesses in policy decisions. The party has yet to take any major steps forward, putting itself at risk of losing the House majority during the midterm elections. This is a common trend for the Democrats. This makes the election loss more comfortable for Trump supporters; changes under President Biden may only be marginal. These circumstances give them the opportunity to regroup and prepare for the future elections, continuing the Trumpism movement. The election loss may have brought a moment of sadness for them, but it will charge years of rebuilding what was lost.
Biden fails to overrule the Senate on denying $15 minimum wage BY BARRY LEWANDOWSKI Staff Writer Almost immediately after his inauguration on Jan. 20, President Joe Biden announced his “American Rescue Plan,” an ambitious $1.9 trillion legislative package designed to combat the COVID-19 health crisis. Among its goals were a $1,400 per person stimulus check to working families, including dependent adults, and raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour. But since announcing the package, President Biden has softened on raising the minimum wage and won’t commit to fighting for its inclusion in the bill. On Feb. 27, the House of
Representatives passed Biden’s rescue plan, with only two Democrats voting against it. To make sure the bill passes, Senate Democrats plan to push the bill through Budget Reconciliation. This means that the bill only needs a simple majority in the Senate to pass, and cannot be filibustered. This gives Senate moderates such as Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) a lot of power, as their vote could swing the process. But not everything can be passed through Budget Reconciliation. Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough, who helps decide what can and can not be passed through reconciliation, considers the raising of the minimum wage a “major policy change,” ruling that it
cannot be included in the bill. “I was extremely disappointed by the decision of the parliamentarian who ruled that the minimum wage provision was inconsistent with the Byrd Rule and the reconciliation process,” said Senate Budget Committee Chairman Bernie Sanders (DVt.). “But even more importantly,” he said, “I regard it as absurd that the parliamentarian, a Senate staffer elected by no one, can prevent a wage increase for 32 million workers.” Progressives, such as Sen. Sanders and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), have argued that the parliamentarian should be overruled, which the senate could do with a 50-50 vote if Vice President Kamala Harris
commits to siding with her own party. But neither she nor President Biden, are willing to do so. “It is an issue that the president remains committed to. He wants the minimum wage to be raised. That’s why he put it in his package,” said White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki. Psaki also noted that neither President Biden nor Vice President Harris was willing to overrule the Senate Parliamentarian, as they “respect the history” of the Senate chamber. And while a Reuters poll indicates 59% of American adults support raising the minimum wage, the refusal to overrule the parliamentarian or remove the filibuster leaves the $15 minimum wage dead in the water. While it has been reported that
Biden is “disappointed” about the failure to raise the minimum wage, this comes after Biden privately told a group of governors and mayors that he didn’t think the raise was likely. “I really want this in there but it just doesn’t look like we can do it because of reconciliation,” said the President. “We have to prepare for this not making it.” Now, with President Biden having refused to push for $50,000 in student loan forgiveness, the continuation of mass deportations and failing to consider overruling the senate parliamentarian for a $15 minimum wage, many are left to wonder how many of his campaign promises Biden intends to keep.
March 9, 2021
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OPINIONS
Is self-care even a priority for students? BY KIANA WHITE Contributing Writer This day and age, the phrase “self-care” is common, but some college students see it as a joke. Several students may comedically say “what’s self-care” or “that’s no-existent to me” but self-care, especially, is most needed by college students. Take a moment to think about it. When was the last time you practiced self-care? As college students, we face pressures from academics to extracurriculars and even with job employment. We as college students need self-care like we need food or water -- it’s a necessity. The University of New Haven recently implemented ReCharge days to seemingly relax, cool-down and rest. Honestly, though: did students actually feel renewed, refreshed and “recharged?” Personally, although I appreciate days set aside for relaxation, four days just isn’t
enough. With COVID-19, it is more difficult to find ways to relax than ever before. The thoughts of wearing masks 24/7, making sure to social distance in public and the lack of daily social interactions can feel tiresome. Thus, more Re-charge days are needed and desired. With these Re-Charge days, although few in number, we as students should make the most out of it. Despite of COVID-19 and the workload piling up there is no excuse not to prioritize your self-care. Self-care is something that many students joke about, whether it’s through memes or social media referring to the overdramatized struggles of a college student. While these timeless renditions of laughter are in fact funny, the concept of not prioritizing your mental and physical state is no joke. Self-care is prioritizing ample time in which you do activities that help you to relax. Not
taking time for one’s self-care is like a running car without breaks. If you continue to remain on the gearshift drive, you’ll eventually run out of gas, causing an overheated engine. In other words, you can burnout. When students get to this state of extreme fatigue or burnout, they often question how they arrived at such a state. This is a sign that you are lacking selfcare. Take a moment to think about when the last time you made yourself a priority. If it has been awhile, then ask yourself these three questions. Have you been properly managing your time? Have you engaged in activities that help your well-being? And lastly, have you experienced constant fatigue? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I encourage you to engage in activities that will help your overall well-being. And I know you may think that disregarding assignments or half-heartedly
completing them is not a form of self-care. Neither is not attending classes or disregarding university emails, yes, I know it’s very tempting not to. But self-care is relieving stress and anxiety. Some of the ways I can recommend to practice self-care are creating a jam session by listening to music, developing a consistent skincare routine, or even hanging out with friends on the weekends. In all honesty,
it all depends on you. Whether it be finding a quiet space to meditate or go to the gym and work out, do whatever makes you feel comfortable. The beauty of selfcare is that it can tailor to everyone’s needs. So if you haven’t considered taking up an activity solely for your well-being then I ask for you to reconsider. From one college student to the other, make time for yourself. You are your own priority, own it.
Graphic courtesy of Christopher Colquhoun
Smash or pass? The culture of violence in sex BY ISABELLE HAJEK Staff Writer Smash or pass? Those are seemingly the only two options in the current culture of hookups and little-to-no commitment relationships. The way in which people refer to sexual acts is commonly violent in nature. Think back to the last time you and a friend discussed a sexual topic: you most likely did not refer to sexual acts as “making love.” Instead, the words f**k, screw and bang may come to mind. This link between violence and sex in language is not a modern phenomenon. In classic literature, double-entendres are ripe with this imagery. William Shakespeare is prolific for their use. He commonly used the
term “sword” to mean both the weapon and a penis, an ode to the item’s phallic shape, and the action of stabbing to mean the actual harmful strike and as a euphemism for sex. Modernly, terms are used freely and interchangeably to mean sexual acts and threats. The common retort to an unpleasant interaction of “f**k this” or “f**k you” takes the sexual term and connotes it to anger and aggression. When it is once again used in the context of sex, that connotation is still present. This is also apparent with the terms “suck it” or “screw you”. The reason sex and violence are linked in our language can be traced back to how sex and relationships have been understood historically. At the conception of the U.S., marriage was defined to be between
a man and a woman. These unions signified the transfer of power over a woman from her father to her husband; women were infantilized to the status of a dependent, like children are today, unable to own land or participate in the legal system. Up until the late 1800s, a husband had the right to physically “chastise” his wife in the privacy of the home. The acceptance of physical abuse in the home was gradually limited and prohibited until the first comprehensive federal legislation against domestic abuse was passed in 1994. Rape was considered a property crime against the father or husband of the victimized woman until approximately the 1970s and the word “rape” itself originated in meaning to be property taken by force.
In essence, women did not achieve full sexual and physical autonomy and protection until 1994. Prior to this, sex and relationships were defined by an ever-present threat of violence; this may be where the link between violent imagery and sex originates. In understanding sex and relationships as a form of control maintained by violence, many terms used to describe sexual acts make sense. Contemporarily, the link between sex and violent language transcends the traditional male-female union. Language is a reflection of the culture that uses it. The U.S. has adopted a language of violence when speaking about sex that is reflective of the sexual violence present in the nation. Some sources attribute the use of such language to the perpetuation of
rape culture in our country, as it normalizes the presence of violence and force in sexual acts. In the U.S., one in five women and one in 38 men have experienced attempted or completed rape; one in four female children and one in 13 male children experience sexual abuse in childhood. If these figures were applied to an infection rate, they would qualify as an epidemic or public health crisis. Because language is the central tool by which people communicate, by normalizing the link between sex and violence colloquially, the English language promotes sexual violence. So the next time you are asked the question, “You hit/tap that?” think twice about your answer.
March 9, 2021
OPINIONS
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2, 4, 6, 8, what other sizes do we appreciate? BY ELISA D’EGIDIO Staff Writer Shopping can be a miserable chore. It is stressful, stores are always overcrowded and there never seems to be that one item of clothing that you originally came for. To make matters worse, if you happen to finally find an item, it may not even fit. My roommates and I went to the Connecticut Post Mall for back-to-school clothes during our freshman year. In comparison to where I typically shop, I was disappointed with their selections. Stores such as Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe had big signs dictating where the “plus-size” clothing would be, only for there to be one, small shelf with a less than minimal selection. How can an entire department that represents a maPhoto courtesy of Elisa D’Egidio
jority of women only be located on one shelf? Most stores only hold up to a size 10 in their regular women’s department, starting their “plussize” selection at a size 12. The average dress size for a woman in the U.S.s is 18 or 20; whereas the average size for a teenage girl in the U.S. is a 12. It should no longer be recognized as plussize as this is the average size of women across the country. Being curvy means shopping online, paying extra for items because of size or shipping fees and constantly having to pay close attention to size charts because fashion sizes are not universal. In 1958, a size six was the same as a present-day size 12, as brands have shifted their measurements -- waistbands can vary as much as six centimeters – to give a false sense of confidence by allowing shoppers to feel thinner.
In women’s sizes, two pieces of clothing in the same size can fit differently. For Eliana Docterman, her two size small dresses had this issue. She said, “The first one is tight enough that I struggle to breathe. The second balloons around me.” In Docterman’s article, she also includes a size chart comparing different brands and their measurements for their size eight. According to the chart, H&M’s size eight bust is 34.5 inches and Guess’s bust is 37.5 inches which is a three-inch discrepancy. Zara’s size eight waist measurement is 27.6 inches whereas Calvin Klein’s is 29.5. The fashion industry has constructed this idea of “beauty,” which has always been slim, long and thin. There is no such thing as “one size fits most”. All women are made uniquely, being different shapes and sizes however there still is a lack of size diversity in the industry. Brands are still stopping at size large (typically size eight or 10) before moving to their plus-size collection – if it is not simply ignored. In an interview with Time, Melissa McCarthy said, “Women come in all sizes. Seventy percent of women in the United States are a size 14 or above, and that’s technically ‘plussize,’ so you’re taking your biggest category of people and telling them, ‘You’re not really worthy.’” Many corporations, such as Victoria’s Secret, Lululemon Athletica are significant parts of the problem as they say that plus-size clothing isn’t a part of their “formula” for success. Victoria’s Secret chief marketing officer Ed Razek said, “We attempted to do a television special for plus-sizes [in 2000]. No one had any interest in it. (People) Still don’t.” Being a size 10, 12 or 14 is not plus-size and should not represent those who are. . The fashion industry has debuted
plus-size female models that are becoming more and more wellknown, such as Iskra Lawrence, Denise Bidot, Precious Lee, Paloma Elsesser and Danika Brysha. Plus-size model Ashley Graham is known to be a U.S. size 16. She was the first-ever size 16 model to be the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. Graham defends traits that the media has portrayed as anything but average as completely normal. She said to Fox News, “Girls who are insecure about their bodies, girls who feel fat, girls who have cellulite, girls who have stretch marks on their body – those are all the things that I had as a kid.” Shoppers should not have to experience lower quality and higher prices for the necessity of clothing. Comfort, affordability and style should be a must for larger sizes, just how it is for smaller sizes. Graham’s swimsuit line, Swimsuits For All, has a range of designer styles, patterns and colors for suits ranging from sizes four through40. Similarly, Rhianna’s company Savage X Fenty is known to embrace people of all shapes, sizes and skin tones.
More brands that are wellknown for having a larger size selection include American Eagle, Aerie, Smart Glamour, ASOS, Zara and Athleta. Some retailers you may not be familiar with are Ashley Stewart, Hanky Panky and Hope and Harvest. Growing up, I never felt represented as I always struggled to find clothes that fit me properly. I am thankful to now have numerous inspirations to look up to and stores where I can shop and feel confident and comfortable. Photo courtesy of Elisa D’Egidio
Graphic courtesy of Elisa D’Egidio