Discrimination Across the Nation
Natasha Watts '18
On June 26, 2015, same sex marriage was legalized across the nation. This was a huge step for LGBT+ rights in America; however, members of that community are still discriminated against every day. In fact, new laws, called House Bill 2 (HB2) in North Carolina, allow businesses to deny services to people of the LGBT+ community. Because of these discriminatory laws, many influential people and companies have canceled events and pulled out of deals with the states involved. Cirque du Soleil canceled three shows in North Carolina cities. Paypal, who had plans to base a global operations center in Charlotte, North Carolina, has withdrawn from this project, denying the state 400 jobs and an investment of 3.6 million dollars. Due to these controversial laws, it is expected that tourism in the state of North Carolina will plummet as well. These states have taken away many opportunities for growth by allowing a ban on anti-discrimination protection for people of any sexual orientation.
Under the aforementioned laws, a person may be fired for being gay or transgender, since many facilities create their own rules and policies (such as the regulation of their restrooms). Some laws in the Southern states, like those in Mississippi and North Carolina, force everyone to use the bathroom that corresponds with the sex on their birth certificate, meaning that transgender people will be forced to use the toilets they are not comfortable with, do not identify with, and do not feel safe using.
There have been many protests against the HB2 laws and many hope for legal action to take place sooner rather than later. These discriminatory laws are odious and extremely detrimental to all whom they affect. The struggles of the LGBT+ community are very similar to other human rights issues in the past, including the women’s suffrage and the civil rights movements. History tends to repeat itself, and by looking at the outcome of past struggles, it seems those who are in favor of HB2 are on the wrong side of history. Furthermore, there is simply no way to enforce this unreasonable law at every restroom by checking the birth certificate of everyone who walks through the doors. This form of discrimination forces society backward, and time and time again history has proven that denying rights to a group of people is never the right thing to do.
On June 26, 2015, same sex marriage was legalized across the nation. This was a huge step for LGBT+ rights in America; however, members of that community are still discriminated against every day. In fact, new laws, called House Bill 2 (HB2) in North Carolina, allow businesses to deny services to people of the LGBT+ community. Because of these discriminatory laws, many influential people and companies have canceled events and pulled out of deals with the states involved. Cirque du Soleil canceled three shows in North Carolina cities. Paypal, who had plans to base a global operations center in Charlotte, North Carolina, has withdrawn from this project, denying the state 400 jobs and an investment of 3.6 million dollars. Due to these controversial laws, it is expected that tourism in the state of North Carolina will plummet as well. These states have taken away many opportunities for growth by allowing a ban on anti-discrimination protection for people of any sexual orientation.
Under the aforementioned laws, a person may be fired for being gay or transgender, since many facilities create their own rules and policies (such as the regulation of their restrooms). Some laws in the Southern states, like those in Mississippi and North Carolina, force everyone to use the bathroom that corresponds with the sex on their birth certificate, meaning that transgender people will be forced to use the toilets they are not comfortable with, do not identify with, and do not feel safe using.
There have been many protests against the HB2 laws and many hope for legal action to take place sooner rather than later. These discriminatory laws are odious and extremely detrimental to all whom they affect. The struggles of the LGBT+ community are very similar to other human rights issues in the past, including the women’s suffrage and the civil rights movements. History tends to repeat itself, and by looking at the outcome of past struggles, it seems those who are in favor of HB2 are on the wrong side of history. Furthermore, there is simply no way to enforce this unreasonable law at every restroom by checking the birth certificate of everyone who walks through the doors. This form of discrimination forces society backward, and time and time again history has proven that denying rights to a group of people is never the right thing to do.
Flint’s Wet Issue
Elizabeth Rudderow ‘17
Since 2014, residents of Flint, Michigan have been provided with poisoned drinking water. In an attempt to save money, the city switched its water supply from Detroit to the Flint River, despite a 2011 study which concluded that the water was unsafe for consumption. Immediately, people complained of foul odor and taste, but city officials ignored them.
The problem became impossible to ignore in January 2015, when Virginia Tech funded a study led by Marc Edwards, an engineering professor and water quality expert. The team found that at least a quarter of Flint households have lead levels higher than the federal 15 ppb, some even reaching levels of 13,200 ppb. Edwards said, "It was the injustice of it all and that the very agencies that are paid to protect these residents from lead in water, knew or should've known after June at the very very latest of this year, that federal law was not being followed in Flint, and that these children and residents were not being protected. And the extent to which they went to cover this up exposes a new level of arrogance and uncaring that I have never encountered."
Exposure to lead can cause serious health problems. On January 18, 2016, the United Way of Genesee County estimated that 6,000–12,000 children have been exposed to lead poisoning. Childhood lead poisoning inhibits cognitive function, reducing IQ scores and problem-solving skills. Some studies have found that children exposed to lead poisoning are more likely to become criminals, be unemployed, or be dependent on government services. In addition, Legionnaires’ disease has been contracted by 87 people, killing 10. Although no direct link to the water has been proven, Edwards stated, "It's very possible that the conditions in the Flint River water contributed.”
Few residents continue to drink the contaminated water, but many still bathe and clean with it. Residents have also been provided with water filters which do not fit all sinks and are largely ineffective. The only safe option is bottled water, which much of the population can not afford in abundance.
Considering the events that have taken place in Flint, the residents deserve more attention when solving this water crisis. Citizens should be provided with more effective blood tests and immediate medical attention, which should be payed for by the government. Hopefully the polluted water will be purified and not cause any more suffering in this affected town.
Since 2014, residents of Flint, Michigan have been provided with poisoned drinking water. In an attempt to save money, the city switched its water supply from Detroit to the Flint River, despite a 2011 study which concluded that the water was unsafe for consumption. Immediately, people complained of foul odor and taste, but city officials ignored them.
The problem became impossible to ignore in January 2015, when Virginia Tech funded a study led by Marc Edwards, an engineering professor and water quality expert. The team found that at least a quarter of Flint households have lead levels higher than the federal 15 ppb, some even reaching levels of 13,200 ppb. Edwards said, "It was the injustice of it all and that the very agencies that are paid to protect these residents from lead in water, knew or should've known after June at the very very latest of this year, that federal law was not being followed in Flint, and that these children and residents were not being protected. And the extent to which they went to cover this up exposes a new level of arrogance and uncaring that I have never encountered."
Exposure to lead can cause serious health problems. On January 18, 2016, the United Way of Genesee County estimated that 6,000–12,000 children have been exposed to lead poisoning. Childhood lead poisoning inhibits cognitive function, reducing IQ scores and problem-solving skills. Some studies have found that children exposed to lead poisoning are more likely to become criminals, be unemployed, or be dependent on government services. In addition, Legionnaires’ disease has been contracted by 87 people, killing 10. Although no direct link to the water has been proven, Edwards stated, "It's very possible that the conditions in the Flint River water contributed.”
Few residents continue to drink the contaminated water, but many still bathe and clean with it. Residents have also been provided with water filters which do not fit all sinks and are largely ineffective. The only safe option is bottled water, which much of the population can not afford in abundance.
Considering the events that have taken place in Flint, the residents deserve more attention when solving this water crisis. Citizens should be provided with more effective blood tests and immediate medical attention, which should be payed for by the government. Hopefully the polluted water will be purified and not cause any more suffering in this affected town.
The Hard Truth on GMO’s
Michelle Seitz '16
It has been said that you are what you eat. Often times, doctors and nutritionists have used this expression in regard to junk food; however, it can be applied to produce as well. Between scientific studies and celebrity endorsements, it can sometimes be difficult to know what to purchase. Here is a guide to provide food for thought when buying produce this summer.
Fresh fruits and vegetables such as blueberries and tomatoes will soon be making their way to farm stands and grocery stores. These products will be arriving in grocery stores from all over the state, as well as the country. In order to take advantage of all New Jersey has to offer, look for products promoted by “Jersey Fresh” and avoid purchasing bruised or damaged produce. Also, check firmness and color to ensure the product is at its peak ripeness. To prevent foodborne illness or food poisoning, wash and scrub produce thoroughly prior to preparation or consumption. Organic produce is the most sought after for many reasons. USDA certified organic products are not sprayed with pesticides nor do they contain antibiotics or genetically modified chemicals. Organic fruits, such as strawberries, are higher in antioxidants than those that are non-organic. However, organic produce is more expensive than non-organic produce. When purchasing organic produce, steer clear of fruits with a thick rind or peel. Also, when possible, check the nutritional value of products to ensure they do not contain added sugar. A concern when purchasing fresh produce is the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). GMOs are the result of scientists inserting the DNA of one species into the genes of another. Most GMOs are derived from viruses and bacteria, or other plants/animals that could contain viruses and/or bacteria. The most common foods containing GMOs are corn and soy products. Also, certain additives such as canola oil and processed sugar contain GMOs. GMOs can cause complications for allergy sufferers or those who are on antibiotics. When purchasing GMO-free produce, look for products with a “GMO Free” seal of approval. There are many options for purchasing produce. Just because one is highly publicized in the media or touted as better, does not mean it is factual. GMOs are talked up to be better for the environment and higher in nutritional value. However, they also tend to be derived from viruses. Although organic produce is all the rage, it is more expensive than regular produce and there is not a lot of evidence supporting its increased nutritional value. Farm fresh produce may be the best bet as long as products are washed thoroughly; however, it is advisable to take all factors into consideration prior to making any purchases.
It has been said that you are what you eat. Often times, doctors and nutritionists have used this expression in regard to junk food; however, it can be applied to produce as well. Between scientific studies and celebrity endorsements, it can sometimes be difficult to know what to purchase. Here is a guide to provide food for thought when buying produce this summer.
Fresh fruits and vegetables such as blueberries and tomatoes will soon be making their way to farm stands and grocery stores. These products will be arriving in grocery stores from all over the state, as well as the country. In order to take advantage of all New Jersey has to offer, look for products promoted by “Jersey Fresh” and avoid purchasing bruised or damaged produce. Also, check firmness and color to ensure the product is at its peak ripeness. To prevent foodborne illness or food poisoning, wash and scrub produce thoroughly prior to preparation or consumption. Organic produce is the most sought after for many reasons. USDA certified organic products are not sprayed with pesticides nor do they contain antibiotics or genetically modified chemicals. Organic fruits, such as strawberries, are higher in antioxidants than those that are non-organic. However, organic produce is more expensive than non-organic produce. When purchasing organic produce, steer clear of fruits with a thick rind or peel. Also, when possible, check the nutritional value of products to ensure they do not contain added sugar. A concern when purchasing fresh produce is the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). GMOs are the result of scientists inserting the DNA of one species into the genes of another. Most GMOs are derived from viruses and bacteria, or other plants/animals that could contain viruses and/or bacteria. The most common foods containing GMOs are corn and soy products. Also, certain additives such as canola oil and processed sugar contain GMOs. GMOs can cause complications for allergy sufferers or those who are on antibiotics. When purchasing GMO-free produce, look for products with a “GMO Free” seal of approval. There are many options for purchasing produce. Just because one is highly publicized in the media or touted as better, does not mean it is factual. GMOs are talked up to be better for the environment and higher in nutritional value. However, they also tend to be derived from viruses. Although organic produce is all the rage, it is more expensive than regular produce and there is not a lot of evidence supporting its increased nutritional value. Farm fresh produce may be the best bet as long as products are washed thoroughly; however, it is advisable to take all factors into consideration prior to making any purchases.
The Internet... More Harmful Than It
Appears?
Sanjana Kondapalli ‘18
Although the internet has changed the world today, it can unfortunately cause a psychological problem called Impulse Control Disorder, also known as Internet addiction. Based on a study performed by the University of Hong Kong, about six percent of the world’s population has been diagnosed with this addiction, which is a lot considering only 39 percent have access to computers.
Similar to gambling addicts, people with this addiction often check their phones constantly. Some may have an emotional attachment to the internet through online friends and group chats, and can have trouble socializing and thus avoid human contact. Many feel negative emotions such as anger, sadness, or disappointment when trying to quit their internet addiction. The denial and lying can lead to job loss, low self-esteem, and loss of trust. “There are core features that cut across those conditions,” comments Marc Potenza, a psychiatrist from Yale University, on addiction problems. “Things like the motivation to engage in the behaviors and put aside other important elements of life functioning, just to engage in them.”
Despite the serious symptoms of this addiction, the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders omits this disorder (although it includes gambling addiction), showing that there is not enough data proving the true validity of its status as a mental disorder. What makes it different from other disorders is that “we don’t know what’s normal,” Potenza says. “It’s not like alcohol where we have healthy amounts that we can recommend to people.” Some scientists think that the addiction creates a gateway for other mental disorders like depression or OCD. Regardless of its current status, people should be aware of the problems of internet addiction.
Girls Just Want Equal Funds
Rachel Seligman ‘16
Feminists have worked relentlessly to make certain that both genders receive equal treatment. Recently, there is one hot topic that is causing controversy in Hollywood and top business firms alike -- females are continuously struggling to receive equal wages to men. The statistics prove the salary gap is indeed true, but how is America acting to change this terrible misfortune (pun intended)? Wildly popular celebrities such as Jennifer Lawrence, Emma Watson, and Charlize Theron have adamantly spoken out about the injustice. Even the U.S. Women’s Soccer team has demanded equal pay to the U.S. Men’s Soccer team. Women across America are speaking out, so why isn’t change taking place?
Women certainly have a higher status in today’s society than 20 years ago. Women have now become increasingly successful multitaskers, with top-of-the-class CEO’s for companies like Yahoo! and PepsiCo, while also raising their children and juggling many other tasks. It is absurd to justify a lower pay by using the excuse of maternity leave or flexible hours to raise their children. There should be no discrimination or assumed expectations for each gender, and thanks to the feminists working tirelessly and advocating for these equal rights, light has been shed on the wage disparity. The tables have turned with modern times, so why is nobody listening? Why are the paychecks still applying to yesterday’s standards? According to the Labor Department statistic, women still only make 79 cents to every man’s one dollar. April 12 was even dubbed “Equal Pay Day,” rallying women together to change this statistic.
The only way to resolve this inequity is to continue speaking out. Just like every other feminist issue, enough talk and awareness will lead to success. Beloved feminist and actress, Emma Watson, speaks out on the issue: “We are not supposed to talk about money, because people will think you’re ‘difficult’ or a ‘diva,’” she says of the perception. “But there’s a willingness now to be like, ‘Fine. Call me a ‘diva’, call me a ‘feminazi’, call me ‘difficult’, call me a ‘First World feminist’, call me whatever you want, it’s not going to stop me from trying to do the right thing and make sure that the right thing happens.’” With intelligent and outspoken big names like Emma Watson on women’s side, equal pay will come sooner than later.
Rachel Seligman ‘16
Feminists have worked relentlessly to make certain that both genders receive equal treatment. Recently, there is one hot topic that is causing controversy in Hollywood and top business firms alike -- females are continuously struggling to receive equal wages to men. The statistics prove the salary gap is indeed true, but how is America acting to change this terrible misfortune (pun intended)? Wildly popular celebrities such as Jennifer Lawrence, Emma Watson, and Charlize Theron have adamantly spoken out about the injustice. Even the U.S. Women’s Soccer team has demanded equal pay to the U.S. Men’s Soccer team. Women across America are speaking out, so why isn’t change taking place?
Women certainly have a higher status in today’s society than 20 years ago. Women have now become increasingly successful multitaskers, with top-of-the-class CEO’s for companies like Yahoo! and PepsiCo, while also raising their children and juggling many other tasks. It is absurd to justify a lower pay by using the excuse of maternity leave or flexible hours to raise their children. There should be no discrimination or assumed expectations for each gender, and thanks to the feminists working tirelessly and advocating for these equal rights, light has been shed on the wage disparity. The tables have turned with modern times, so why is nobody listening? Why are the paychecks still applying to yesterday’s standards? According to the Labor Department statistic, women still only make 79 cents to every man’s one dollar. April 12 was even dubbed “Equal Pay Day,” rallying women together to change this statistic.
The only way to resolve this inequity is to continue speaking out. Just like every other feminist issue, enough talk and awareness will lead to success. Beloved feminist and actress, Emma Watson, speaks out on the issue: “We are not supposed to talk about money, because people will think you’re ‘difficult’ or a ‘diva,’” she says of the perception. “But there’s a willingness now to be like, ‘Fine. Call me a ‘diva’, call me a ‘feminazi’, call me ‘difficult’, call me a ‘First World feminist’, call me whatever you want, it’s not going to stop me from trying to do the right thing and make sure that the right thing happens.’” With intelligent and outspoken big names like Emma Watson on women’s side, equal pay will come sooner than later.