The Role of Censorship on Merkel’s Exit

Chinese History The legacy of Angela

Censorship and how it Merkel, Germany’s first
affects Chinese female Chancellor.
historiography.
History-Page 5 Forum–Page 6

✦ e cineribus et ad astra ✦
april • Vol. 38, spriNg issue aCtoN-BoXBorough regioNal high sChool www.thespectrumabrhs.com

Headlines
Reflections on New Zealand
A message from the Mus-
lim Student Association.

Intro–Page 2

New Kelley’s Corner

Meet the alter-ego of
Kelley’s Corner: Celley’s
Korner.

News–Page 3
The New Watergate
What the Cohen hearing
revealed.

History–Page 4

The Effects of Heritage

A look into the heritage
of various AB students. Spring into Spring!
Keerthi Kamath / Guest Correspondant

The Role of Identity in the Harvard Lawsuitmissions (SFA) organization. white America. It erases the strug- munity. Hasan Minhaj, acclaimed
History–Page 4 By aNJali ramaN ’20
News Editor Julie Yao (AB ’16), contributor gles of those who immigrated to Indian-American comedian, dedi-
to the Columbia Spectator, says that America and had to build their lives cated the entire first episode of his
The History of Stand-Up Les Goodson was one of the some Asian Americans joined SFA from scratch. The idea of a “model Netflix series to attacking Asian
fifty black people who started at- and Blum due to “selfish indigna- minority” in some way connotes entitlement in the Harvard case.
Why did Washington tending Columbia University in the tion and frustrations from feeling a population both successful and While his arguments questioning
cross the Deleware? To get fall of 1969, after tensions from the voiceless in an often black-and- completely integrated into the fabric the lawsuit are completely valid, it
to the other side! Vietnam War, the death of Martin white racial binary.” of American society, which seems is disheartening to see the rift cre-
Luther King, and the Civil Rights The connection Asians feel to largely an attempt to suppress the ated by the lawsuit. Instead, the
Movement prompted the university Blum’s mission stems from the voice of Asian-Americans and deny anger in this lawsuit would be bet-
History–Page 5 to recruit a more diverse student “model minority” stereotype, which their history. ter directed towards those who have
body. Goodson was asked to leave claims that systemic discrimination The “model minority” label also been able to manipulate the system
Columbia after earning poor grades no longer exists—instead, “good” creates a societal expectation for and truly steal seats in universities.
Trader Joe’s Snack Review his freshman year, uncharacteris- minorities such as Asians have Asian-American success. America The recent college admissions scan-
Great - er Joe or Traitor tic of a graduate of his elite high worked for their own success while expects Asians to excel, and as dal involving wealthy parents brib-
school. Goodson couldn’t thrive at others have not. such, Asians feel pressured to con- ing coaches and admissions officers
Joe? Columbia because he didn’t feel at As Yao explains, “By promot- form to this stereotype, often by at- to get their kids into top schools is a
home there—he felt “phony” for ing Asians as the ‘model minority’ tending prestigious universities like perfect example of how the college
even interviewing and he felt un- [to] seemingly uplift the status of Harvard. In truth, people like Blum admissions system itself, and not
Forum–Page 6 represented by the “Eurocentric” Asian Americans, white suprema- have exaggerated the influence of affirmative action, is taking away
coursework. This cultural landscape cists label black Americans, who are race in college admissions, playing seats from deserving student.
can still be seen today on college fighting…for liberation for all mar- upon the fears of Asian-Americans The Les Goodson story shows
Girl Heroes campuses. However, new holistic ginalized people, including Asians, who feel the need to conform to why we need diversity in colleges:
Meet Mrs. McDonald: approaches to college admissions as the opposites of a ‘model minor- expectations. The personality rat- we are the culture we create. Di-
have the potential to create a fair ad- ity.’” Asian Americans are doing ing feared by many “does not ex- versity brings different stories and
the “ruler of the Writing missions process and to normalize a the same by opposing affirmative ist,” Yao explains. Harvard uses cultures to campuses, and because
Center.” multiracial experience in American action. a “whole person review” of their college is a formative period, it is
colleges. Although it’s very easy to dis- candidates, taking account of high important that appreciation for di-
The recent lawsuit against Har- miss this lawsuit as an outlet for school information and parental versity is integrated into the experi-
Forum–Page 7 vard University claims that the ad- Asian-Americans to justify why elite employment to get a sense for can- ence. The rift in Asian Americans
missions committee discriminates institutions may not accept their didates beyond their grades and test surrounding this issue really shows
against Asian-Americans through a children, it’s also important to look scores. Additionally, Yao points out how the legacy of white superior-
Love Nest: Spring Edition personality rating system. Edward into how Asian-American identity that “Asian Americans comprise ity and wealth continues to dictate
Fly like a mother bird into Blum, the prosecutor, has been may have helped build support for only 6 percent of the U.S. popula- American discourse on race despite
fighting against affirmative action this lawsuit. The classification of tion, [but] 23 percent of Harvard’s attempts by minorities to have a
the Love Nest. for a decade because he believes that Asian-Americans as a successful student body are Asian Americans. voice. Affirmative action should not
white students are denied admission race can be reductive to individuals’ Clearly, Asians haven’t been hurt by be the issue that fractures the Asian
in favor of underrepresented mi- experiences—it comes back to the the current policy regarding race.” community. It should be the issue
Off-Topic–Page 8 norities. Only recently did he merge “model minority,” and dismisses Perhaps the most harmful part that allows us to realize the real in-
his agenda with Asian-Americans the experiences of individuals who of the affirmative action case is its justices of the admissions process
through the Students for Fair Ad- have fought to secure their place in divisiveness within the Asian com- and seek to rectify them together.
 Intro
Page 2 The Spectrum April 2019

Letter From the EICs unexpectedly. Before we knew The Spectrum David Brusie
By Nithiyani Anandakugan it, we went from writing for the Genevieve Hammond
’19 and Jasmine Mangat ’19 paper to leading it. And in our Faculty Advisors
Co-Editors-In-Chief Founded 1982
new role as Co-Editors-in-Chief,
we found that The Spectrum had e cineribus et ad astra Contact Us
In this issue, we began hand-
ing off the torch to our next Co- taken on a whole new meaning 36 Charter Road
Editors-in-Chief. In fact, this for us. On Monday afternoons Nithyani Anandakugan Acton, MA 01720
paper is the last one that the became a place to be mostly un- Jasmine Mangat www.thespectrumabrhs.com
two of us will lead together. We productive. On Thursday after- Editors-in-Chief [email protected]
spent a lot of time over the past noons, it became a place to have
Facebook and Instagram @theabspectrum
few months selecting next year’s fun with our writers. During lay- Somya Prabhakar
Chief Staff. During this process, out weeks, it became a place to Chief Copy Editor
we’ve begun to transition our devour Ms. Hammond’s snacks.
new members into their roles. But above all that, it became a Copy Editors
As such, we’ve had quite a bit of place where we each met many Kaitlyn Chen Olivia Comolli, Michelle Gong, Katherine Gu,
Elizabeth Howard, Ellen Liu, Justin Shan, Eddie
time to reflect on The Spectrum new friends, and a place where Grace Du Wang
and the role it has played in our we figured out what leadership Chief Layout Editors
lives over the past two years. actually means. We cannot ex-
Staff
When we joined The Spectrum plain how grateful we are for the Madigan Anderson, Anna Charisse, Annabella
our sophomore year, we thought experiences The Spectrum has of- Teagan Smith
Chen, Kelsey Chen, Michael Cheng, Natalie
of it as an opportunity to write fered us. Mainspread Editor Dawn, Ananya Gade, Paolina Garro, Pratik Gazu-
outside the classroom and to Here’s to the past two years at la, Joyce Gong, Michelle Gong, Swetha Hariharan,
express ourselves in the way the The Spectrum and everything Anjali Raman Emily Hiltunen, Alisa Khomiakova, Ritika Koi-
we wanted to be heard. With- we’ve learned along the way! News Editor rala, Divyasri Krishnan, Iris Li, Rohan Muralidar,
in the following year, we rose Cheers, Srija Nagireddy, Emmie Ohnuki, Julia Olney, Ben
through the ranks quickly and Nithyani and Jasmine Orr, Anna Paradiso, Sonali Rai, Mila Rushkin,
Grace Gong Neha Saravanan, Francesca Servello, Supria Shroff,
Forum Editor David Tsitrin, Charu Tyagi, Aadhiti Vallatharasu,
Anushka Wani, Brandon Wu, Sophie Zhang
Prisha Dayal Columnists
Off Topic Editor Katherine Chen, Lizette Sta. Maria, Balwant-
Amrit Singh, Vera Tsang
Serena Han Layout Editors: Peter Bi, Sarah Jin, Eileen Kou,
Kirtana Krishnakumar Isaiah Lee, Amber Li, Jessica Zhang, Emily Zhao,
Publicity and Finance Milena Zhu

Biological Make Up By Emily Hiltunen ’22

Cartoonist

Relections on New Zealand mosque, from going as well. He re- ward manner. Some thought that,
By Miriam Bounar ’20
fused. He came back that afternoon because people did not identify as
Guest Correspondant-MSA Muslim they felt it was not as neces-
and informed us that our mosque’s
On March 15th, 2019, the Mus- principal had given multiple an- sary to speak about the attacks. This
lims in Christchurch, New Zealand nouncements regarding possible mere thought prompted great con-
attended the weekly Friday prayer escape plans in the case of an at- cern and a sense of isolation. How-
known as “Jummah.” None of them tack. Children, five-year-olds, were ever, a spark was ignited in all of
were aware of what was to come, being told how to run for their lives the members, each concluding that
and none of them deserved any of it. if someone came with the intention we must do something to inform the
A man decided to visit the mosque to do harm. The following week, I public about the truths of our reli-
that day, and he was greeted with re- attended my class and met up with a gion. The only way to combat this
spect and kindness. The first victim third grader with whom I had bond- act of violence is by teaching. So
of the shooting welcomed the indi- ed over the past years. She ran to me teach we will.
vidual by greeting him with peace and gave me a hug, but this time lon- “Ignorance leads to fear, fear
and acceptance: “Salam, Brother.” ger than usual; she was shaking and leads to hatred, and hatred leads to
The rest of the story has been broad- I asked her what was wrong. Crying, violence. This is the equation.” - Ibn
cast internationally for the past cou- she told me she thought “they had Rushd
ple of weeks. A week later, smaller hurt me too.” If anyone has any questions or
attacks occurred at various mosques Attacks like these do not just would just like to learn more, please
in England, and the Saturday after damage those involved; they also come by Wednesdays after school
the attacks in New Zealand. 150 hurt those who identify with the in room 204E or email us! We are
lives were lost in Mali. victims. At the MSA meeting, in the works of planning an event
The news headlines will soon members— both Muslim and non- at the moment and will release fur-
fade away, but the horrors will never Muslim— were overwhelmed with ther information soon! Mosques
leave our minds. Personally, I chose emotions, the strongest being de- around New England will also be
to skip attending Sunday School at termination. They noticed that few participating in the annual Open
my mosque that weekend in fear people in the community were talk- Mosque Day. At the Islamic Society
of a possible attack. I attempted to ing about the incident, and instead of Greater Lowell (ISGL), it will be
convince my father, a teacher at the just sending condolences in an awk- on April 28th, from 2-5 PM.
 News
April 2019 The Spectrum Page 3

The Acton Historical Society

By JasmiNe maNgat ’19 four Acton residents with the same Korea and China. They’re prob-
name. In fact, when famous poet ably not going to stay here. We’ve
Co-Editor-in-Chief
Robert Frost summered in Acton, become a more transient society,”
As I walked towards the Jenks there was another Robert Frost liv- Klauer remarked.
Library on the gravel path, I could ing on the next street over receiving Klauer continued by comment-
hear the faint sound of cars rush- his fan mail. ing how being a transient society
ing by and the laughter of students Even the Jenks Library’s hun- means losing Acton’s past “rural
coming onto Main Street from the dreds of photos and records can be character.” As more people move
path in the woods. Pat Herdeg, limiting. Sometimes, the society’s in, the town is creating wider roads
the society’s secretary, stood at the members have to ask the town’s for increasing traffic, hiding old
door of the library to welcome me ninety-year-olds about what they stone walls behind sidewalks, and
in. I noticed large, laminated maps remember. building new houses in the place of
of Acton sticking out of a folder According to Klauer, “Once in old ones. Just across the street from
behind an old wooden plunger. a while, we strike gold and actually the Hosmer House are Dunkin Do-
Framed pictures of residents and learn something about [the person nuts, Not Your Average Joe’s, and
landscapes lied on the tops of the we were searching for].” more. The combination of a tem-
filing cabinets. Bill Klauer, the After discussing their experi- porary population and Acton’s ag-
president of the Acton Historical ence working for the Acton His- ing residents reveals the danger of

New Kelley’s Corner

Society, stood next to a folding torical Society, Herdeg and Klauer losing Acton’s history.
table in the middle of the room in a gave me a tour of the Hosmer Now, the question that remains
gray t-shirt and black Nike basket- House. Built in the 1760s, the is how the Acton Historical Society
ball shorts. building has been home to genera- should accommodate the current By Prisha Dayal ’21 to propose a tree replacement pro-
As a student at Acton High tions of families. Currently, it is the population trend while maintain- gram. Through this program, the
Spectrum Staff
School in the 1960’s, Klauer, a self- Acton Historical Society’s main ing Acton’s history. Further, what town will not only replace the trees
proclaimed “history nut,” was one museum and exhibition site. The does Acton’s new modern char- Given its proximity to the high it will destroy, but it will also plant
of the first people who signed the museum is unique in the sense that acter mean for the future of its school, Kelley’s Corner has always additional ones to form a barrier
society’s declaration during its for- it recreates what different rooms in historical record, especially in this been a hotspot for students visiting between pedestrians and vehicles.
mation. Back then, the society was the house looked like through the increasingly digitized world? coffee shops and restaurants during Others raised concerns about safety
comprised of only a small group decades. The back entrance leads Klauer explained how his role their free periods. However, even for children and people with dis-
of residents who felt as though the into a cold, dark room with wood- as a historian in the Society has with popular places like Dunkin abilities. To acknowledge this, the
town’s history was being lost as en beams on the ceiling and a giant shifted in just a few years. In the Donuts, the area lacks the needed town included traffic signals and
people passed away or moved out. chimney that was used for cooking past, he had to cut up obituaries safety to accommodate pedestri- an improvement to the current side-
According to Klauer, even after and heating the home in the 1700s. and index them. Now, they’re all ans. The location’s traffic conges- walks as part of its design. The traf-
fifty-eight years, the society’s task The house brightens up in the front online. There’s no need to keep tion creates chaotic crosswalks and fic signals will support the Ameri-
has remained the same: “looking where colorful, flowery wallpaper physical records for this part of his- an inaccessible area to pedestrians cans with Disabilities Act, and the
at how much Acton has changed.” covers the walls, replicating what tory anymore. with disabilities or strollers. In re- town will implement ramps, reach-
Having worked in Acton for the house looked like almost a cen- Given the increased reliance sponse, Acton has proposed a proj- able push buttons, safe crosswalks,
forty years as a firefighter, Klauer is tury later in the 1840s. Upstairs, on the internet, where almost ect to improve Kelley’s Corner. and street trees.
a valuable resource for the society there’s a room dedicated to Acton’s everything said or written is re- The initiative’s goals include The plan is encouraging because
when it comes to piecing together past industries, with items includ- corded, society has also become designing a more safe, accessible, it aims to make Kelley’s Corner an
parts of Acton’s history. ing pencils, stamps, and even piano more aware of the importance of and green area. The town plans to attractive and safe destination for
“I got to see change on a daily stools. The house is a visual repre- documenting the present, since we achieve this by adding more street pedestrians while also being envi-
basis as it occurred... I got to see sentation of Acton’s history. are currently a part of history. Dr. trees, bike lanes, accessible side- ronmentally friendly. According
new houses being built. I got to see But glimpsing into Acton’s past Anna Whitelock, a historian at the walks, left-turn pockets for busi- to MassDOT, the project includes
places being knocked down. I got in the Hosmer House reminds us University of London, points out ness access, and raised landscape planting 157 new street trees that
to see the effects of change,” Klau- how much Acton has changed. how many historians today have islands. To improve safety, intersec- will reduce carbon dioxide emis-
er explained. With its industrial period wiped to consider the following questions tions will be added on Main Street, sions by 73%. In terms of safety,
Herdeg, on the other hand, away, Acton is immersed in the along with analyzing the past: Mass Ave., Charter Road, and the 2.24 miles of sidewalk will
is not from Acton––in fact, she business of maintaining a top- “what should be preserved? How? Community Lane. Construction be better maintained through pe-
moved to the town for the schools, ranked school system, attracting By whom? And for whom?” will start in 2022 with a $14.5 mil- riodic renovation, and it will be
like many of its residents today. more and more families every Klauer now fears that because lion investment of state and federal wide enough for wheelchair us-
But, no matter how AHS members year. Just from 2010 to 2016, Ac- technology makes historical re- funds to supplement the project. ers as required by the Americans
reached Acton, they all have one ton’s population has increased by cords so easily accessible, and the During the planning process, with Disabilities Act. The five new
thing in common: their love for his- 5.9%. With 26% of its population population lacks strong ties to Ac-
the Kelley’s Corner committee and crosswalks, two new traffic signals,
tory. foreign-born, it’s clear that Acton’s ton, the Society is preserving to-
the Massachusetts Department of and four redesigned intersections
One of the society’s main jobs population isn’t filled with fami- day’s history for people who could
Transportation received public in- will reduce the traffic congestion,
is identifying the people in photo- lies who have lived in homes like care less about its future.
put through workshops, interviews, and increase pedestrians’ safety
graphs from the late 1800s. The the Hosmer House for generations However Herdeg has a more
open houses, and online surveys and accessibility. Further, the plan
society’s volunteers use old hous- anymore. Instead, Acton’s current positive perspective: “Acton is not
to consider the community’s opin- implements traffic calming tech-
ing records, newspaper clippings, population is more contemporary. my history. But I love history. I
ions. Still, many new concerns niques that force drivers to slow
and the internet to work through Klauer noted how this trend has want to keep it going. After I leave,
were raised about the effects of the down and pay more attention to
these naming puzzles. Finding occurred in the past, but now, it someone else will take over.”
project during a town meeting last their surroundings. Specific tech-
information about the life of a seems to have become a part of our Even with the uncertainty sur-
year. The owner of Bueno y Sano niques include raising landscape
former resident can be even more culture. rounding Acton’s changes and the
worries that construction would islands to reduce vehicle speeds,
challenging. It turns out that early “We’re still a migrant com- potential threat it could pose to the
drastically reduce restaurant park- narrowing curb cuts to make turn-
Actonian families were never par- munity today as much as we ever society, Klauer still believes that
ing. Another man commented that ing movements more predictable,
ticularly creative when it came to were. Perhaps people came here in “if there wasn’t any change, there
decreasing the number of lanes to and planting correctly positioned
naming their children. This often the 1860s from Ireland and settled wouldn’t be history,” which has
accommodate bicycles could in- street trees that will provide a buffer
means that the society must iden- here. But certainly, there are people now, ironically, become a popular
crease traffic and make the area for pedestrians, influencing drivers
tify a person who could be any of here today who came from South phrase among town officials look-
even more dangerous for pedes- to reduce their speeds. The speed of
ing to build more developments.
Herdeg further remarks how trians. Last year, the Green Acton traffic is not projected to increase,
given the different cultures mov- Board shared some suggestions for but the flow of traffic will become
ing in, Acton’s history is becoming the infrastructure project as well. more efficient. However, since the
richer now. Even this “temporary The Board expressed concerns design and the additional costs for
population” is a part of Acton’s about the destruction of trees to construction are still being final-
history. build the various intersections. In ized, residents will have to wait to
Even as new questions emerge response, the town hired an arborist see Kelley’s Corner transform into
about the changes in Acton and the to evaluate the lifetime of the trees a more environmentally-friendly,
impact it could have on the Acton to avoid removing older ones, and inclusive, and safe area.
Historical Society, we must ap-
preciate the work the Society has
been doing for almost six decades.
As Main Street transformed from
a small, dirt road into a street sur-
rounded by restaurants where cars
line up bumper-to-bumper, the
Acton Historical Society’s goals
to study Acton’s changes have re-
mained constant. And as Acton
continues to transform, the Soci-
ety is determined to help the town
remember what Acton was, reflect
on what it is, and wonder what it
History being preserved right here in our town. will be. The proposed plan for the new Kelley’s Corner.
ONLINE SOURCE ONLINE SOURCE
 History
Page 4 The Spectrum April 2019

Cohen and the New Watergate

By prisha dayal ’21 Trump and Nixon respectively. online media coverage, people
Spectrum Staff Both complied with their Presi- were already aware of the possi-
dent’s demands out of blind loy- bility of collusion between Cohen
At AB, we study the past in alty but publicly confessed the truth and Trump; the hearings did not
great detail. For example, we learn when probed afterwards. Dean illuminate a hidden truth. For the
that Mansa Musa had too much testified about Nixon’s illegal ac- Democrats, it reinforced their be-
gold, Matthew Brady took pictures tions to protect himself and expose lief that Trump is unfit for office.
during the Civil War, and Joseph Nixon’s misdeeds, which is exactly Some Republicans already knew
Glidden invented barbed wire for what Cohen did during his hearing. that Trump was flawed, but because
farmers to protect their property. Additionally, the Nixon adminis- they agreed with the ideologies that
We examine these facts diligently, tration tried to frame Dean as the he represents, Cohen’s trials had
but the question still remains: why source of the Watergate scandal, little impact on their opinion. On
should we care? even though Dean was more of a the other hand, no one knew the
Our history teachers respond point man guided by Nixon; simi- full story since there was less media
readily: “those who forget history larly, Trump also asserted that Co- involvement in the Watergate scan-
are doomed to repeat it.” hen acted alone. dal, so Dean’s testimony held more
Widely accepted as it is, this The Cohen trials are striking- significance to the general popula-
statement harbors some flaws. De- ly reminiscent of the Watergate tion.

Inherited Privilege
spite our detailed record of history, scandal, especially when consider- However, there are still some
it seems that mistakes are often re- ing that Nixon hired five men to parallels between the aftermaths of
peated anyways. For example, just break into the headquarters of the Dean and Cohen’s testimony. Al-
immediately makes him or her as John Dean was Nixon’s partner- Democratic National Committee though both testimonies damaged
By akshitha maQtedar ’21 seem more reliable. By obtaining a in-crime, Michael Cohen describes in hopes of finding information to the President’s credibility, neither
Spectrum Staff higher education, one acquires both himself as Trump’s “fix-it guy.” But defeat the other Democratic candi- of them had immediate drastic im-
implicit and explicit advantages in according to Vox, he’s a lot more dates. Nixon’s articles of impeach- pacts in the realm of politics. Even
At a school like ABRHS, the life. than that. For nearly a decade, he ment accused him of “approving, after Dean’s confession, the pub-
heater starts working as soon as the Recently, society became out- worked as a high-level executive in condoning, acquiescing in, and lic did not turn against Nixon or
October chill settles in. Supplies raged upon discovering that many Trump’s businesses, coordinating a counselling witnesses with respect hold him accountable right away. It
ranging from whiteboard markers affluent families had used their variety of contentious operations. to...false or misleading testimony was only after incriminating tapes
to science textbooks are updated wealth to get their children into In statements to prosecutors, Co- in duly instituted judicial and con- were exposed did people believe
and repurchased whenever neces- elite colleges in the “Operation Var- hen alleged that Trump had direct- gressional proceedings,” which is that Nixon committed an uncon-
sary. Students looking to finish up sity Blues” scandal. Many of these ed him to these operations with the exactly what Cohen accuses Trump stitutional act. Similarly, Cohen’s
some homework have a quiet place students lacked the merit to get into understanding that it was illegal. of. Nixon urging Dean to cover trial has little effect on the views of
waiting for them in the library and the school on their own but were Last month, Cohen testified up the White House’s connection the public, mainly because people
the counseling center. They have admitted after their parents bribed that Trump knew in advance to the Watergate break-in directly weren’t surprised by the allegations
access to a stable WiFi network the school or paid people to forge that WikiLeaks planned to pub- parallels Trump ordering Cohen to and many did not believe Cohen.
here, too. They enjoy these luxuries extracurriculars. Though this is an lish hacked Democratic National lie about his involvement with the Because of society’s rapid pro-
as a result of their privilege. extreme example of privilege, it Committee emails. The testimony hacked emails. If the testimony is gression, we believe we won’t re-
Inherited privilege is defined as also symbolizes the wide difference spurred controversy, and people true, both Trump and Nixon broke peat our mistakes from the past.
any unearned benefit or advantage between affluent and working class have divided opinions on Cohen’s the law, specifically by committing Yet, the Nixon scandals have come
one receives due to his or her iden- families; wealthier families already credibility. But one thing is for sure: perjury, the act of swearing a false back as the Cohen trials, leading
tity. For example, individuals might provide their children with an ad- this incident is not new. oath. us to ask the following questions:
enjoy privilege because of their race, vantage simply by having the mon- Cohen and Dean are strikingly Despite the similarities, the Co- why does history repeat itself, and
religion, gender identity, sexual ori- ey to send them to an expensive similar, not only for their role in hen trials have not impacted peo- more importantly, when will we fi-
entation, class, or wealth. Privilege university. Students without such covering up white-collar crimes, ple’s opinions as much as Dean’s nally begin to learn from our past
then becomes a tool that propels financial benefits cannot afford to but also in their relationship with testimony did. With torrents of mistakes?
people forward, even though they study at these schools, regardless
themselves may not have fought for
or chosen it. Though it can be diffi-
cult to understand one’s own privi-
of their hard work. Scenarios like
these demonstrate the inequality
created by privilege. Although dis-
How Our Heritage Affects Us
lege, many people possess it. mantling society’s unequal distribu- By Neha ViJay ’21 cultural background earlier. Know- a particular interest in a group of
Privilege has always been pres- tion of privilege is no simple task, Spectrum Staff ing that many students at AB have people, less than a personal heri-
ent in our society. In fact, many working to recognize privilege is had similar experiences, I decided tage.” -Michael Cheng (’20)
prominent figures have accom- a step towards understanding and The meaning of the word “cul- to interview some to gain different “I cook a lot for my family be-
plished great things due to their equalizing disparity. ture” changes based on the context perspectives on how they hold on cause I’m usually home alone, and
privilege. Malcolm Gladwell, while Indeed, many people in our in which it is used. A cultural back- to their native language and heri- I try to follow my mother’s La-
interviewing Bill Gates, describes school community have clear inher- ground usually refers to the shared tage and how that affects them in tino dishes because I think food is
the advantages granted to many ited privilege. However, not all of practices of people with the same daily life. one of the easiest ways to connect
multi-billionaires as they were us have the same amount of privi- ethnicity or racial background. “I was taught at a religious back to one’s culture. Just being in
growing up. For example, in a time lege. During an advisory activity, However, in a diverse country like school to read Hebrew, but I never an aroma of spices makes me feel
when many did not have access to students answered different ques- America, a person’s ethnic heritage learned how to understand what I like I’m actively being part of my
computers, Gates did, allowing him tions on a survey about our lives. and customs could be influenced was saying. But, whenever I meet culture and heritage. I wish I knew
to jumpstart his success. Gladwell The questions were as simple as by other distinctly “American” someone from Israel, I ask them to more about my Indian culture. We
predicts that without access to a “Are you right-handed or left-hand- traits. The part of people’s culture teach me a little bit [of Hebrew] so used to be followers of Sikhism
computer, Bill Gates would not ed?” while others were questions that stays with them while they live I can learn some. While in Ameri- from my dad’s side but after his
have achieved his level of fortune. like “Have you ever had nothing to in another country may also differ ca, I still use the one or two words passing, we’ve mostly focused on
Furthermore, Gates’s mother was eat for dinner?” Surprisingly, even based on specific circumstances: I know to connect to my heritage.” my mother’s Catholicism since we
on IBM’s board of directors, which being right-handed over left-handed which generation of immigrants -Alexa Kushner (’21) were never introduced to that be-
gave him connections to many is a privilege; many school supplies they are, how much their parents “The philosophies taught in fore. Unfortunately, we haven’t re-
influential people. Although Bill are designed for right-handed stu- educated them about their heritage, Hinduism have been ingrained in ally focused on any Punjabi culture
Gates’ talent did, of course, play a dents, leaving our left-handed peers or whether they are a mix of two or me since I was a child; they affect in a really long time and it would
large part in his success, he also had with a disadvantage. We have all more ethnicities. my perspective on life. Eastern phi- be nice to be able to know more
access to resources—like comput- seen or experienced the challenges With its diverse student body, losophies sharply contrast those of about it.” -Balwant Singh (’19)
ers and other successful individu- left-handed people face with scis- AB is filled with distinct perspec- the Western kind. Thus, the way I Regardless of an individual’s
als—that others did not. Many of sors, left-opening desks, and the tives on how their heritage affects feel about certain issues is differ- race or ethnicity, his or her heritage
the elite reap benefits of privileges smudging of pens! Although this is students in their daily lives. As a ent from the way some of my other will always have an effect on his or
like these. a very small example of privilege, it second generation Indian-Amer- friends feel. Ultimately, I think her life. In a community like AB,
Moreover, privilege is present in shows how privilege can affect our ican myself, my culture is a com- both the American and Indian cul- some may have similar ethnic back-
education. As AB students, we are everyday lives. bination of what my immigrant tural upbringings I’ve experienced grounds that help them connect
Acknowledging that our com- parents have taught me and what have helped me become the way I with each other while others have
privileged to receive such a strong
I have experienced as an Ameri- am today.” -Apurva Joshi (’21) different perspectives and stories of
education. However, many children munity contains diverse individu-
can citizen outside my family. For “I wish that I understood my their heritage. How we perceive our
do not receive the same opportuni- als with varying advantages is vital.
example, while I was a toddler, I culture a bit more than I do, but not culture and how we incorporate it
ties, leaving them at a disadvantage. After coming to this realization, we
had a slight Indian accent. It was that I would necessarily practice into our lives is eventually what
According to Global Partnership for can work to manage this privilege.
something my friends would point those traditions on a daily basis; helps us define who we are as hu-
Education, sixty-one million chil- Unfortunately, unequal access to
out whenever I would say words I would approximate it to taking mans in this world.
dren—many of whom are girls—do opportunity propels some forward such as “tree” or “comfortable.”
not have access to schooling. Indi- while impeding the progress of oth- As I grew older and spent more
viduals who lack the opportunity ers. Recognizing privilege allows time speaking English with my
to obtain a higher education, pos- individuals of every background friends and teachers, I lost that ac-
sibly due to familial and financial to access the same opportunities. cent, along with my ability to speak
restrictions, face a disadvantage in However, we all have many iden- my native language fluently. For a
society. The Bureau of Labor Sta- tities, based on race, sexuality, young child, the idea of growing
tistics quantifies that in 2017, those gender, nationality, and education up and being perceived as differ-
with the highest level of educa- level, among other factors. Each ent can be terrifying. It is a feeling
tion earned three times as much as identity secures a different set of that anyone of any background
those with less than a high school privileges and disadvantages. By can go through, and it is one I tried
diploma. Further, society values the observing and understanding these to avoid as a child. Today, I regret
opinions of individuals with higher differences, community can strive not trying to speak my native lan-
education more, regardless of the to provide equal opportunity for guage more when I was younger
subject. For example, simply add- all and help everyone achieve their because I realize how much I lost
ing the prefix “Dr.” to one’s name goals. by not trying to connect with my
 History
April 2019 The Spectrum Page 5

The Importance of History in China nese achievements and overlook Morning Post claims Beijing offi- Weiwei, who investigated govern-
By Sophie Zhang ’22
mistakes. According to the New cials argued that separatist ideals in ment corruption during the 2008
Spectrum Staff York Times, one textbook altogether Hong Kong stemmed from a lack Sichuan earthquake, I wondered
In eighth grade, my social stud- ignores the United States’ involve- of appreciation for Chinese history, if there were more protesters like
ies teacher showed us a documen- ment in World War II. The text- demonstrating the government’s him. My own mother, who grew up
tary about Chinese culture. The book states that, in Japan’s defeat, belief that political dissent would in China, often mocks the govern-
students in the movie lined up in “the fundamental reason for the run rampant if censorship ceased. ment and its propaganda. While
rows every morning to sing the na- Chinese victory is that the Chinese Indeed, the University of Hong watching the Chinese New Year
tional anthem with smiles across Communist Party became the core Kong states that around 47.7% of special, she commented on how of-
their faces. I watched the video power that united the nation.’’ In people in Hong Kong distrust the ten the hosts mentioned President
with skepticism, doubting their pa- reality, both the Communists and government. But in 2018, Hong Xi Jinping. My mother grew up
triotic fervor. Nationalists united against the Jap- Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam with Communist parents, but she tend to reform only when people
When I met a friend who im- anese before splitting over a bitter announced “that all Hong Kong has seemingly embraced Ameri- begin questioning their morals and
migrated from China, I asked her civil war. Further, textbooks inten- secondary schools would teach can ideals of free speech. However, reviewing their rights. Without
about it. She said that it was true. tionally leave out controversial top- Chinese history as an independent do the people in China notice this noticeable threats to Chinese eco-
Incredulous, I browsed through ics such as the Tiananmen Square compulsory subject at the junior propaganda? Do they even care? nomics and success, the ignition for
Youtube for more clips. In one vid- massacre and the Hong Kong pro- levels… to equip pupils with a Focusing on censorship, The Inde- change quickly flickers out.
eo, children walk around in a field, tests, both of which demonstrate sense of national identity.” pendent states that Chinese youth A few weeks ago, my mother
filing into neat rows. When the mu- rebellion against the government. In this period of globalization, have no interest in illegal Western showed me a video from her home-
sic blasts, they sing with joy, never Accompanied by Chinese censor- one might think China would begin sites such as Facebook or Google town. It depicts adults happily
missing a note. In another clip, stu- ship, the twisting of textbook nar- opening its curriculum to Western because China has many replace- clapping along to a song about Xi
dents wander into school and sud- ratives has blurred the youth’s view influences. The Ministry of Edu- ments for them, like Baidu and Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan.
denly freeze. They hear the anthem of their own country. The govern- cation’s 2017 work report, how- WeChat. Even if some dislike the They repeat two simple phrases
start to play, so they stop to belt out ment regularly checks their text- ever, reveals no major overturns in government’s influence, according over and over again, singing “Xi
their sacred song. books to make sure it aligns with textbook propaganda. Instead, the to the Washington Post, the Chinese dada, Peng mama.” Without
Over the years, China has cre- their socialist ideology. list focuses on increasing school government remains extremely knowing the language, one can
ated a strong sense of patriotism by According to Reuters, after attendance and socialist ideals. To popular today. Few citizens are detect the adoration towards the
subtly brainwashing its people. To discovering that publishers were cultivate “first-class talent,” the re- overly political, and most use the singers’ leader and “parent.” Chi-
maintain this influence, the govern- altering textbooks without their port pushes for “correct political internet to shop, play games, and nese propaganda has turned aging
ment closely monitors Chinese his- consent, China’s Ministry of orientation” and “socialism with check emails, not to rebel. Wide- adults into trusting, naive children.
tory textbooks, ensuring patriotism Education “launched a ‘com- Chinese Characteristics,” which spread support for the Chinese gov- As a whole, censorship creates a
and removing any criticism. prehensive’ inspection of school includes supporting Communist ernment stems from its nationalism childlike dependency on the gov-
The Chinese history curriculum textbooks to remove unapproved Party supremacy, sustaining Chi- and historical censorship. China ernment. Comparing the power
tends to focus on the positive notes alterations or foreign content… na’s global rise, and revering the lives in a perfect bubble separated of a father and son, the father will
of the past, highlighting honor and to combat Western influence in president. from Western influence and citi- always dominate, and the son will
pride. Teachers often glorify Chi- China’s schools.” The South China Seeing political activists like Ai zen dissent. However, governments continue to clap along.

Location & History History of Stand-Up Comedy with relevant material for his audi- Stand-up comedy was eventu-
By Srija Nagireddy ’19 There is no doubt that students By Iris Li ’21
in different places are not taught ences based on daily news or gos- ally picked up by the television
Spectrum Staff Spectrum Staff
the same material despite being sip. Hope also utilized several writ- industry in the mid- to late-1900s,
When asked about causes for enrolled in the same course. Even Although stand-up comedy, a ers to come up with his act. with shows like the Ed Sullivan
the American Civil War, students textbooks—works viewed as ac- form of entertainment that often Modern stand-up comedy really Show (1948-71), the Cosby Show
living in New England would curate authorities on the subject— satirizes politics, stereotypes, news, took off with a man named Char- (1984-92), and Seinfeld (1989-98).
likely answer slavery. To many, have their problems. The textbook or even the oddities of everyday ley Case who performed his mono- Late-night television with Da-
that may even seem like a foregone used by an AB student in U.S. His- life, has been around for a few de- logues without any props or cos- vid Letterman and Jay Leno also
conclusion. However, this is not tory I is not necessarily the same cades, it has only recently gained tumes. Mort Stahl, a comedian with gained popularity, and it became
the case everywhere. This year, de- one used by a student taking the mainstream popularity with a rise a similar style to Case, appeared in many Americans’ chosen form of
viating from their original stance, equivalent course in Texas. Text- 1950; he would sit on stage with a newscasting as daily events were
in Netflix’s production of comedy
the Texas State Education Board book manufacturers modify dif- rolled up newspaper in one hand made more palatable by comedic
specials.
published a different approach to ferent versions of the same text and talk to the audience as if he levity. Soon, late-night TV became
teaching the cause of the Civil War for different locations by using Beginning in the early 1900s,
stand-up comedy took place in were having a conversation with another way for Americans to com-
in their Social Studies Texas Essen- the states’ individual guidelines
tial Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) that are tailored to what educators vaudeville or variety shows. A them rather than acting out scenes. ment on prominent social issues or
history curriculum. In the updated and parents want to see. Altering comedy set was often included in He often talked about politics, so- events.
TEKS, teachers are instructed to textbooks to fit certain regulations, a combination of specialty acts like ciety, and pop culture. From these In the 21st century, people now
explain the “central role of the ex- however, leads to texts reflecting acrobats, magicians, singers, and comedians’ work grew a prominent have the luxury of being able to
pansion of slavery in causing the the partisan and potentially inac- dancers. These routines were often feature of stand-up: most modern watch stand-up comedy on TV and
Civil War and other contributing curate views supported by states’ fast-paced, scripted, and character- comedians use this form to point online platforms such as Netflix in
factors including sectionalism and standards. In addition, book man- ized by one-liners or punchlines. out the faults in our society or gov- the comfort of their homes. Ulti-
states’ rights.” The change was due ufacturers often gloss over issues Rather than engage with the audi- ernment. For instance, during the mately, stand-up comedy has come
to increasing debate over the extent that could cause conflict for school ence, actors would usually interact Civil Rights Movement, African a long way from its roots in vaude-
of slavery’s role in the war. This administrators, something particu- American Dick Gregory used com- ville and has captured the hearts of
with each other.
debate has extended to the way his- larly prevalent in southern states edy as a way to bring attention to Americans all over the country in
over events such as the Civil War. In the 1930s and 1940s, comedi-
tory is taught in American class- racial issues. laughter and understanding.
rooms, and, more specifically, the As a result, students receive dif- ans from the Catskill Mountains in
biases inherent in the education of ferent accounts of history based on New York emerged with a variation
students from certain regions of where they live. For example, the on a classic comedy routine that
the country. U.S. History curriculum here at had pre-planned, interchangeable,
The US lacks a set of Federal AB emphasizes slavery as the main and easily repeatable comedic skits.
guidelines for its history curricu- cause behind the Civil War, staying These comics gained popularity
lum. Instead, each state creates its consistent with the curriculum set due to the different style of comedy
own cirriculum. A state’s standards forth by the Massachusetts Depart- that focused on actions rather than
are determined by its board of edu- ment of Education. In contrast, words. Some common routines at
cation, a group of elected officials. Texas’ curriculum used to list slav- the time included throwing a pie in
The boards can often be intensely ery as one of many contributing the face of a fellow actor or satiri-
partisan, leading them to phrase factors to the war, placing more
cal skits about gold-digging wives.
historical events a certain way to of an emphasis on state rights is-
sues. While these distinctions may Comedians tried to find topics
minimize or overstate the role of
these events to fit their political seem minor, they carry the heavy that could be understood by both
ideologies. This seemed to be the history of slavery with them and Americans and immigrants living
case in Texas, where many people the conflicts over its recognition in urban areas given that stand-up
felt concerned that board mem- today. Just last year, Americans in was mainly centered in New York
bers’ conservative bent influenced the North and South were divided City. They continued to use mul-
what they did and did not include. over whether Confederate stat- tiple punchlines in their routines to
For example, research by the Edu- ues should be displayed in public. keep the audience laughing. For ex-
cation Fund of the Texas Freedom Once again, the debate surround- ample, one popular one-liner from
Network, an organization created ing the causes of the Civil War had well-known comedian Groucho
to defend the freedom of religion reignited. Marx was, “Behind every success-
in education, reported that a sig- The past, while undeniably im- ful man is a woman. Behind her is
nificant number of proposed text- mutable, can be interpreted and
his wife.”
books in 2014 exhibited partiality analyzed in a multitude of ways,
towards Christianity, in some cases all of which depend on the per- Soon, however, comedians start-
overstating the influence religious sonal biases of those examining its ed to shift from timeless skits about
figures such as Moses had on piv- events. Conscientious issues can be the human experience to current
otal documents such as the Con- looked at in a variety of different events. Bob Hope, a radio host in
stitution. Therefore, concern is ways. The importance of recogniz- 1938, started the shift from script-
increasing over the wildly varying ing this concept and its effect on ed routines to on-the-spot comedy
standard of education for students students as well as partisanship is by improvising jokes based on the
across the nation. more pertinent than ever. news. On his show, he came up
 Forum
Page 6 The Spectrum April 2019

Are DNA Services Worth It? Review: Trader Joe’s

By miChelle goNg ‘21 In addition to having access to visit their doctor and catch the ill- By graCe goNg ‘19 Candy Cane: A seasonal flavor
Copy Editor your DNA, some services require ness before it becomes too serious. Forum Editor that rolls around near Christmas
the user to give other personal de- However, finding out that you are time. It’s very high in demand, so if
Although humans rely on future tails such as lifestyle choices, claim- more susceptible to Alzheimer’s Many Acton residents make you see a box, grab it and go! The
experiences to better understand ing the additional information can also cause unnecessary fear and space in their weeks to shop at Trad- candy cane filling tastes exactly
themselves, more and more people will increase the accuracy of your pessimism throughout your life, re- er Joe’s, a self-proclaimed “neigh- like a candy cane with little candy
have begun looking into the past results. All this knowledge about gardless of whether you end up ac- borhood grocery store” that sells chunks. The texture of the filling is
for answers. From 23andMe kits someone’s attributes and personal- tually acquiring the disease. everything from fresh produce to more grainy, most likely from the
to National Geographic tests, there ity make it very easy for anyone to The recent rise in people buy- perfume. What’s special about Trad- candy cane grits, but it’s not bother-
exist a variety of DNA analyzing find and identify these people. ing these kits could be due to our er Joe’s, however, is that it has its some. The cookie part itself is the
programs that you can use, to find “You can say this is a 39-year-old innate desire to belong to a clearly own line of products and rarely sells same as the original. No complaints
whatever you want to know. For woman from Westchester County defined group. Discovering our other brands, unlike most traditional here. 10/10
instance, through such programs, who is five feet, seven inches tall, ancestral paths can explain our supermarkets. This makes much of Pumpkin: This seasonal flavor
you can see where your ancestors who has blue eyes and has cystic fi- traditions and behaviors and even its food a toss-up on flavor and qual- definitely tastes like pumpkin.
originated, how much Neanderthal brosis—it wouldn’t be that hard for introduce us to new cultures and ity, and many choose to stick with Both the cookie—which is a little
DNA you possess, or even whether somebody to find you,” says Hank people. With this innovative, acces- brands they know rather than trying softer than the original—and the
you can have red-haired children. Greely, director of the Center for sible technology on the market, it’s the goodies hidden in this grocery creme are pumpkin-flavored. But
The number of purchased geneal- Law at Stanford. This invasion of hard to resist the opportunity to de- shop. To help fellow shoppers out, it’s not a pumpkin flavor exactly:
ogy tests has doubled this year, but privacy could increase the chance termine our identities—an abstract here are some thoughts on well- it’s more of a pumpkin spice flavor.
one has to wonder if spitting in a of identity theft and endanger those concept, but an idea crucial to our known Trader Joe’s snacks. The sweetness is a bit overwhelm-
bottle and sending it to a mysteri- who participate in genealogy tests. existence. So, despite privacy dan- Joe-Joe’s: If you don’t know ing, and I can’t eat more than two
ous corporation for over $100 is Some DNA analysis services gers, if you’re still willing to take what Joe-Joe’s are, they’re the Oreos at a time. 5/10
worth it. provide your likelihood of develop- a chance, buy a kit. After all, these of Trader Joe’s. Although they look Cheddar Cheese Puffs: The
The phrase, “Everyone is ing certain hereditary diseases such tests do give you the perfect op- quite similar, this cookie is more Trader Joe’s version of Cheetos,
unique,” is pretty common, but as Huntington’s or heart disease. portunity to bet over whether your chocolatey and a little softer. Un- though—like Joe Joe’s—they’re
there is scientific basis for this cli- This information could be helpful friend actually has Native Ameri- like in Oreos, the filling in Joe-Joe’s not exactly the same. They look
ché line. Every human has a DNA to some as it could prompt them to can ancestry. tastes like vanilla. I’ve had the plea- like the original Cheetos, except
sequence with a unique combina- sure of trying four distinct kinds of lighter in color due to a lack of
tion of genes that helped create a Joe-Joe’s: original, thin-style, candy artificial orange. They are gener-
person who has never existed be- cane, and pumpkin. 7/10 ally what you’d expect in taste, but
fore. Therefore, if you send a swab Original: You can’t go wrong they’re lighter in flavor, without as
of your saliva to a corporation, you with the classic. There is more fill- much salt or overwhelming cheese
essentially give up the key to your ing than I initially expected, but the powder. They come in large bags,
identity. As Peter Pitts of the Center taste is great. It is in many ways but I can still finish one in a day!
for Medicine puts it, “It’s the most more unique and refined than the 8/10
valuable thing you own.” Oreo. The cocoa powder and the Ghost Pepper Chips: A popu-
Because people are realizing the vanilla bean come out strongly. The lar well-known Trader Joe’s snack,
dangers of sharing DNA sequences, texture is noticeably less crispy than the Ghost Pepper Chips (or GPC
companies like Ancestry.com have an Oreo, but still relatively crunchy. as my friends call them), are very
attempted to ease worries by claim- 7/10 spicy. These potato chips come
ing that they value privacy and do Thins: Personally, I think that waffle-style, with a coating of spic-
not sell your DNA to other parties. the Thins are even better than the es: pepper, paprika, salt, ghost pep-
However, critics argue that guar- Originals. Thins hit the golden ratio per, and parsley. The crunch of the
anteeing total confidentiality is im- between filling and cookie by shav- sturdy chips is respectable, but their
possible. When we sign up for any- ing the filling down. The overall feel flavor is mesmerizing. The heat lin-
thing, our lazy gene kicks in, and is crispier, but not with too much gers on the tongue just long enough
we don’t read the fine print. If you cookie. Thins are also easier to fit in to keep the consumer eating. Just
do spend twenty minutes reading the your mouth. 9/10 beautiful. 10/10
terms of agreement, you still might
not understand the rights you are sur-
rendering. As a result, you could be
giving up your identity to a company
that could sell your results to third Is giving out your identity worth finding it?
parties without your knowledge. ONLINE SOURCE

A Look at Marjory Stoneman Douglas, One Year Later

By Neha saraVaNaN ‘22 but the public immediately re- brother of a student who died in Rick Scott signed a $400 million As students, we trust that no
sponded in anger, saying that this the Sandy Hook shooting. Addi- bill to tighten Florida gun laws. Al- one is willing to harm students
Spectrum Staff
did not detract from the severity of tionally, the tremendous celebrity though the bill did not ban assault while they are in a building of
On February 14th, 2018, sev- his crimes. In February of 2017, support expresses the popularity of weapons, like many protesters learning, of safety, of sanctuary.
enteen students and faculty mem- 18-year-old Cruz legally purchased the movement and shows how the had hoped, it did increase the age We believe that it won’t happen, at
bers lost their lives when a gunman an AR-15 from a Coral Springs media has worked to create a dem- to purchase a gun from eighteen least not to us. But that is exactly
opened fire at Marjory Stoneman gun store. A year later, he used the onstration that people of all ages to twenty-one. A new law allows what the students at Sandy Hook
Douglas High School in Parkland, same rifle at Parkland. can support. officers to temporarily remove Elementary believed. It is what
Florida. Assailant Nikolas Cruz On March 14th, 2018, the The National Rifle Association, guns from those who show warn- the students at Columbine High
caused the deadliest high school one-month anniversary of the or NRA, downplayed the response, ing signs of violent or aggressive School believed. It is what the stu-
shooting in U.S. history and was shooting, students led a march on stating that “protests aren’t sponta- behavior. Hours after the bill was dents at Stoneman Douglas High
charged with seventeen counts of Washington called March For Our neous. Gun-hating billionaires and signed into law, the NRA filed a School believed. And it is what
premeditated and attempted mur- Lives. Similar demonstrations took Hollywood elites are manipulating federal lawsuit against the state, so many other students nation-
der. place in thousands of towns and and exploiting children as part of citing the Second Amendment. wide who have become victims to
The shooting lasted approxi- cities nationwide, including Acton- their plan to destroy the Second Many U.S. companies have cut off school shootings believed. It is that
mately six minutes. Three staff Boxborough, to express solidarity. Amendment.” ties with the NRA due to public very belief that creates hesitancy
members and fourteen students Protestors marched in support Politicians had several varying pressure and discomfort. for students to even think that
were killed, either in the school of stronger laws to prevent gun responses. Republican Marco Ru- The movement is still pushing they have to advocate for laws that
or in the hospital, from gunshot violence. These laws include uni- bio stated that people would not for more change; it is currently ad- protect them. Instead of trying to
wounds. Aaron Feis, the school’s versal background checks on gun support the ban of firearms due vocating for universal background prevent the event from occuring in
assistant football coach, died pro- sales; increasing the legal age to to the same reasoning given by the checks, a high capacity magazine the first place, it has become nor-
tecting two other students from purchase guns to twenty-one; the NRA. Former senator Rick San- ban, a limit on the firing power mal for schools to have students
bullets. Geography teacher Scott closing of the sale of firearms by torum criticized the movement, available to civilians, extreme risk practice what to do in the case of a
Beigel was murdered when he private sellers, also known as the saying that students should spend protection orders, the disarming of shooting. People in power tell us to
opened his classroom door to let gun show loophole; restoring the their time learning how to protect all domestic abusers, an end to gun protect ourselves rather than imple-
fleeing students in. Senior Mead- 1994 Federal Assault Weapon Ban; themselves from a shooter instead trafficking, and much more. menting laws that can save our lives.
ow Pollack tried to cover a fresh- and stopping the sale of high ca- of asking lawmakers to “solve their On March 22nd of this year, But this has to change.
man girl, Cara Loughran, but both pacity magazines and bump stocks. problems.” In contrast, Governor Sydney Aiello, a survivor of the We do not just march for the lives
were shot dead by Cruz. Almost two million people partici- of New York Andrew Cuomo shooting, took her own life due to of the people we have lost; we march
Investigators discovered that pated in the protest, making it one stood at the front of the student-led PTSD and survivor’s guilt. She was for our lives. We march to bring
Nikolas Cruz is horribly racist, ho- of the largest demonstrations in march in NYC. close friends with victim Meadow change for our friends, our peers,
mophobic, and xenophobic. Since the United States. In Washington, Since then, the March For Our Pollack and suffered greatly with and students nationwide. Driven by
childhood, he has had a troubling D.C., survivors of the Parkland Lives movement has achieved depression after Pollack’s death. those lost lives, we also march to cre-
fascination with guns and severe shooting such as Cameron Kasky many victories. The US Depart- Aiello was nineteen years old and ate a safer world for the people who
anger issues. State investigators and Emma Gonzalez addressed ment of Justice banned bump graduated last year. Even though are very much alive. We march for
claimed he had depression, au- the crowd. Other speakers included stocks, a gun accessory that turns she survived the shooting, hers our important, revolutionary, beau-
tism, and ADHD in an attempt a boy from Chicago whose brother semi-automatic rifles into auto- was another life stolen by Nikolas tiful lives. We march so these atroci-
to justify his actions to the media, was shot leaving church and the matic weapons. Florida’s governor Cruz. ties aren’t committed ever again.
 Forum
April 2019 The Spectrum Page 7

Angela Merkel: Asylum and Approaching Retirement

By Vera Tsang ’20 of the European Union and the has stepped down from her position
euro, she famously stated that “the as the leader of the CDU and has
International Affiars Columnist
euro is our common fate, and Eu- announced that she does not plan
Once considered the world’s rope is our common future.” to seek another term as Chancellor.
most powerful woman, Angela Referred to as the de facto leader Recently, the CDU has elected
Merkel has announced that she will of Europe, or the “decider,” Merkel Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer as
soon be stepping down from her has made decisions regarding the the next leader of the CDU, a mod-
position as the Chancellor of Ger- euro that haven’t been so popu- erate who also happens to support
many. As the first woman to hold lar. During the Global Recession, Merkel and her policies. However,
this role, Merkel is a person of great Germany was able to thrive under not even a Kramp-Karrenbauer
prestige on the international stage, Merkel’s control as she cut govern- win will alleviate the growing con-
regarded as not only the leader of ment spending to reduce unem- cerns about what could happen
Germany but also of the European ployment. The stabilized German with Merkel’s future absence. Since
Union. Her soon-to-be sixteen-year- economy prompted many strug- the Eurozone and migrant crises,
long leadership has been marked by gling nations to turn to Merkel for a Europe has seen a rise in far-right
courageous political moves, such as solution, especially Greece. Despite and nationalist politics in elections,
standing up to leaders like Donald the decreasing value of the euro, threatening Merkel’s hopes for a
Trump, and allowing more than a she was desperate to hold onto united European Union. Because
million Syrian refugees into Ger- the Eurozone and demanded that the majority of new European lead-
many. With the recent rise of right- Greece make huge spending cuts ers view the EU in an unfavorable
wing politicians in Europe, Merkel while taking loans from the EU light, Merkel is essentially the last Angela Merkel plans to step down from Chancellor of Germany.
is the last true leftist still in power, and the International Monetary defender of a united Europe; in the ONLINE SOURCE
and the question as to whether her Fund (IMF). Ignoring increasing coming years, Brexit could repeat

Library Girl Heroes

legacy will endure remains a mys- anger from Greece and the rest of itself across Europe.
tery. But, who is Angela Merkel? Europe, Merkel found it more of a Throughout her term, Merkel
What exactly has she done not only priority to hold onto the euro: “if has served as an empowering fig-
the euro fails,” she believed, “Eu- ure, being a prominent female es” to describe Native Americans.
for Germany, but also for the rest of By Anne Lizette Sta. Maria
Europe? rope fails.” leader on a male-dominated plat- As such, she had to rely mostly on
’19 herself to teach her Native Ameri-
Inspired by the fall of the Ber- In 2015, Angela Merkel opened form. Despite some of her more Girl Heroes Columnist
lin Wall, Merkel became involved German borders to Syrian refugees controversial actions, her push for can students. And that takes an ex-
during the height of Europe’s mi- progressive ideologies with moder- The best teachers are the ones ceptional amount of grit that only a
with the growing pro-democracy
grant crisis, and she pushed other, ate undertones has been met with that go above and beyond to sup- true girl hero could harness.
movement in Germany. She joined
more reluctant countries to do the much praise. Angela Merkel’s hope port their students. To me, that “I wanted to feel like I was mak-
the Democratic Awakening before
same. Though her “open arms” for a unified Europe is important teacher is Mrs. McDonald. ing a difference,” she said to me
merging with her current party,
policy was initially met with ap- for not only the countries in the EU, Mrs. McDonald is my advisor at when I asked what made her com-
the Christian Democratic Union
proval, people quickly turned but also for the world. As seen from AB’s Writing Center, where twice a mit to this challenging program for
(CDU). After becoming actively in-
against it. After an attack at Co- other nations, divided peoples and week I tutor anyone who needs help one year.
volved with the party, Merkel was
logne, Germany, initiated by men beliefs have generated more prob- with their essays. Usually, however, It was her first year out of col-
appointed as the Secretary-General
of North African descent, approval lems than solutions, and the pos- very few students come during the lege. She grew up in the suburbs,
of the CDU and then won the
ratings of lax border laws fell along- sibility of a deeper split incited by last period of the day. That leaves went to a good school, and studied
CDU nomination as challenger to
side Merkel’s own approval ratings. Germany won’t be any better. Well plenty of time for Mrs. McDon- abroad in Europe during her youth.
then-Chancellor Gerhard Schröder
Since then, a far-right nationalist aware of this threat, Merkel ended ald and me to simply catch up and Inspired by her missionary grand-
in 2005. She subsequently began
party dubbed the “Alternative for an interview with a positive sug- chat. It’s one of my favorite things parents, she wanted to feel like she
her tenure as the Chancellor of
Germany” (AfD) has emerged, gestion: “[w]e will only master the to do after a long day at school. was giving back.
Germany, bringing a progressive
expressing their disagreement with challenges of our time if we stand Once, she told me a story about That stuck with me.
yet moderate perspective to the role.
Merkel and her actions. Aware of united and work together with oth- her job as a middle school teacher Simply by being there every day to
Merkel has always pushed for a
her growing unpopularity, Merkel ers across borders.” at the Pine Ridge Indian Reserva- talk to me and by opening my mind
united Europe. An avid supporter
tion near the Black Hills of South with her stories, she was making a dif-

Brazillian Election: Bolsonaro

Dakota. There, the residents were ference in my life. I made sure to tell
given government surplus meals: her that in my Christmas card for her.
bland cornflakes for breakfast, I was recently rejected from
By Vera Tsang ‘20 attributed his victory to how “dif- the problems in Brazil. buffalo stew for lunch, and buf- my dream college, and I came to
ferent” he was. Despite his misogy- Of course, for every supporter falo “soup” for dinner—in other Mrs. McDonald seeking consola-
International Affiars Columnist
nistic remarks and casual relation- there will always be an opposer. words, just a watered-down version tion. She not only gave me a pep
ship with the law, he was somehow Bolsonaro’s growing popularity of lunch. They weren’t guaranteed talk but enlisted the help of Mrs.
First comes May, then comes able to gain nationwide attention alarmed many and incited a move- proper housing and many slept in Secino to come in and talk to me,
Trump, now comes Bolsonaro with with active support. Furthermore, ment titled “Ele Não” or “Not heatless cars at night. Pine Ridge too. Imagine two women gathered
his Brazilian chums. he was viewed as the “lesser of two Him.” Protestors rejected his re- was at one point considered among in a tiny room at the corner of the
As proven by Jair Bolsonaro evils” when compared to Hillary pulsive comments about minori- the ten poorest communities in library just to lift me up with kind
and his narrow victory in Brazil, Clinton, as her private email scan- ties and praise of legal torture and America. and encouraging words. It was by
the shift toward in right-wing politi- dal and husband’s impeachment dictatorship. In addition, they dis- Having grown up in Wellesley, far one of the sweetest, most spon-
cians has become almost inevitable. raised questions about her honesty. agreed with his campaign promises, Mrs. McDonald admits that she taneous things I’d ever experienced
This conservative trend has spread While Clinton did not address the which included looser gun laws and thought she knew the image of pov- at school.
not only in Europe and North disappointment regarding jobs in cutting down the vast majority of erty in the U.S. when she walked It’s no wonder that Mrs. Mc-
America, but also to the largest de- America, Trump made big prom- the Amazon rainforest for develop- the streets of inner city Boston. Donald was recognized with a Uni-
mocracy in Latin America. ises of improving the economy and ment, mining sectors, and agribusi- However, her experience teaching versity of Chicago educator award
Winning the election against “taking America back,” bringing a ness. Even people outside of Brazil at the reservation showed her an by AB alum and former Writing
former Sao Paolo mayor Fer- nationalistic, xenophobic perspec- voiced their support for Ele Não, even darker side to American pov- Center tutor Riona Chen. Mrs.
nando Haddad with 55% of the tive to his campaign. including public figures such as erty that she describes as “embar- McDonald has touched the lives of
vote, Bolsonaro became president In the 2018 Brazilian elections, Imagine Dragons, Dua Lipa, and rassing.” many, and I’m delighted to be hon-
of Brazil despite his history. Re- this pattern repeated. Brazil’s ver- Cher. The U.S. History textbooks that oring her in this way.
ferred to many as the “Brazilian sion of the Democratic party, the Bolsonaro’s win in Brazil sig- she was given to teach with were To my girl hero, the “Ruler of
Trump,” Bolsonaro could actually Workers’ Party––known as Partido nifies not only a radical shift in also outdated. They used offensive the Writing Center.” Thank you for
be far worse. He has a reputation dos Trabalhadores or PT in Por- Brazil, but in the rest of the world words like “redskins” and “savag- everything, Mrs. McDonald.
for offensive and infamous remarks tuguese––has not maintained the as well. People blame past liberal
about women, gay men, black peo- best reputation. Since 1985, people leaders for their nations’ problems,
ple, and immigrants. When accused generally disliked the party because and they are now reaching towards
of encouraging the rape of an an- with one party president in jail and conservatives, viewing them as a
chorwoman, Bolsonaro stated that the president before Bolsonaro, promising alternative. This change
he wouldn’t rape her because she Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, currently underlines the growing polariza-
was “too ugly.” He described the being investigated for corruption. tion between the right and the left
descendents of African slaves as Haddad, Bolsonaro’s opponent, as the world grows more and more
lazy and “good for nothing,” and he was not only part of the Workers’ divided. Unity is vital to any coun-
compared black activists to animals Party but also happened to be Sil- try—it’s the only way people can
that must be “returned to the zoo.” va’s running mate. Brazilians were come to an agreement and create
In addition to equating pedophilia also upset with the 12% unemploy- sustainable solutions. However,
to homosexuality, he said that he’d ment rate and the increasing crime unity cannot be found in leaders
rather have a dead son than a gay rate, which included a 2.9% rise in like Bolsonaro. A man who dehu-
son. Especially when examining his homicides. Blaming Haddad for manizes women and minorities to
praise of the former dictatorship, these issues, people turned away the point of utter ignorance and
people still question how a man from him and paid attention to Bol- bigotry is not, and never will be,
with his background and beliefs sonaro. worthy of leading a country like
secured leadership of the world’s To the people, Bolsonaro was Brazil. Despite presenting himself
fourth largest democracy. different. They liked his simple re- as an “alternative” to Brazil’s crisis,
When Trump won the 2016 pres- sponses to complex questions, and in reality, Bolsonaro may be a new
idential elections, political analysis they considered him a solution to crisis in and of himself.
 Off Topic
Page 8 The Spectrum April 2019

Love Nest: The Birds And Bees stand why.

By Balwant Singh ’19 tests problem-solving skills and
maturity. Now, while they’re figur- Does your boyfriend plan to
Love Doctor
ing out how to get out of their re- major in anatomy or want to be a
My two friends are fighting spective basements, you’ve created veterinarian? Unfortunately (or for-
over a dude. What should I do? for yourself the perfect opportunity tunately—however you choose to
Whose side should I choose? to steal their man. You basically take this), your boyfriend is a Scaly.
Obviously, the only way to de- know everything about this guy al- But don’t worry! There is nothing
termine who you should support ready, and your two “friends” are wrong with this. This article is a
is by testing who is superior. The nowhere to be seen. Good luck. judgement-free and inclusive zone
first test is the Spit Test. Have them (for your boyfriend at least). Being
both hold as much water in their This girl I don’t really like a Scaly means your boyfriend just
mouths as possible, and have them asked me out and I couldn’t say really likes dragons or any type of
spit as far as they can. The one no. What should I do so she reptile. He finds them very cute!
with the farthest projectile is the doesn’t like me anymore? It’s comparable to how Mr. Krabs
clear winner. This test determines Easy. First, go to Starbucks for loves money. In my opinion, he’s
how far one can spit out their wa- your first date because that’s quite just trying to show his affection to-
ter whenever they hear something honestly one of the lamest first ward you.
ridiculous. Statistically speaking, date ideas ever. You’ll seem unin-

Our Strange History

all partners will at some point say teresting right off the bat. Next, or- What are some of your favorite
something rather dumb; by finding der a water with less ice, but make pet names?
who can spit the farthest, one wil sure to say “medium” instead of Infant Female, Crybaby, Body
know who will produce the largest “grande.” During the entire date, Full of Sacrificial Blood, 7/11 Ad- set the trend of swallowing a live,
By Supria Shroff ’22
reaction. Farther spit projectiles try to stay on your phone as much dict, Esteban Julio Ricardo Mon- wriggling goldfish…in exchange for
toya de la Rosa Ramirez, Tasty, Spectrum Staff ten bucks. Sounds reasonable, right?
ensure larger reactions, and ex- as possible. It would be even better
travagant reactions ensure healthy to start talking to a random strang- Batman...just to name a few. Humans have now populated the Apparently, lots of other college kids
relationships. er instead of your date. At the end Earth for what feels like an incred- thought so, because they participated
The second test involves getting of the date, make sure not to say My crush is going to the Uni- ibly long time. Our extended stay in the challenge too—for free! This
to know the guy. Make sure you goodbye at all and just leave. versity of Chicago but I didn’t ap- on this planet has left us with some trend swept the 1930s, and the abil-
know a lot about this dude—his Or…how about you be a decent ply. What should I do? strange moments that ought to be ity to swallow tons of live goldfish
hobbies, after school activities, fa- human being and just tell this per- If this were literally any other remembered. Here are a few past turned into a coveted prize. Now, I’m
vorite subjects, and favorite colors, son you don’t want to go out in- situation, I would say forget about events that are sure to raise a chuckle sure after hearing this, you all want
etc. Then, quiz your two friends on stead of lifting her hopes up? them! However, this person is go- (or a gasp!). to try this challenge. Unfortunately,
who knows this guy better, or who ing to one of the best universities in in the UK, one can now be fined and
matches with him better. Lately, my boyfriend has been the country, so I mean if you get in, The Great Emu War encounter legal troubles for swallow-
The third and final test is lock- asking me to wear a komodo you 1) could possibly be with the Emus are cute and innocent ing fish. Bummer. Wait…I didn’t say
ing them both in their basements to dragon costume whenever we go LOVE of your life and 2) go to a re- birds, right? Well, they might anything about the United States
see who can get out quicker. This out, and I honestly don’t under- ally good school. This is a Legally seem that way… until they swarm though, did I?
Blonde situation, except you’re go- an entire Australian town. After
ing to be way more successful than WWI, in western Australia, farm- Phone Booth Stuffing
Reese Witherspoon. You’re going ers started to grow wheat, but they Fast forward twenty years later
to have to send in a very late appli- were soon met with a huge disrup- to the 1950s, the period of the first
cation, but UChicago is usually for- tion. Swarms of emus—20,000 pre- hula hoop, hovercraft, alkaline bat-
giving about this! Just make your cisely—migrated west and wreaked teries, and cute trends like piling into
essay as compelling as possible. havoc by eating all the wheat and phone booths. The objective was to
Make them cry. Make them laugh. destroying all the fences. The shove as many people into a phone
Make them fall in love. Then get people of Australia were losing booth as possible. Once the booth
a recommendation from Michelle valuable food and property to fat, was full, someone had to make a call
Obama—who doesn’t love her? flightless birds! To solve this issue, in order for the attempt to be deemed
That should pretty much guarantee the farmers asked their Defense successful. Much like goldfish swal-
an acceptance. Minister to send armed soldiers lowing, this trend was primarily
If none of this works out, to take care of the emus once and embraced by college students, who
what’s wrong with pulling a Lori for all. The soldiers were equipped used their newly learned Geometry
Loughlin? with 10,000 rounds of ammuni- and Calculus skills to devise a way to
Spring is the perfect time of year to find love.
ONLINE SOURCE tion, but during the soldiers’ first fit more people in the booth. I guess
attempt, the emus escaped! that’s what teachers mean when they

Harvard Harvard Harvard Harv–

On their second attempt to get say that the things we learn in math
rid of the birds, the Australian mili- will be applicable one day!
tary staged an ambush and released
definitely boosts your chance in since zero divided by zero is infin- hundreds of bullets, but they had no Alligator Farm
By Amber Li ’20
acceptance. “Buying a twenty- ity, buying a Harvard sweatshirt success with eliminating the emu In the 1970s, people were able
Layout Editor to enjoy alligators up-close-and-
dollar sweatshirt in Downtown is a guaranteed spot in a Harvard population. One soldier recalled see-
Walking around ABRHS, Crossing shows a clear interest in class. However, this unknown ad- ing the emu respond to a leader, who personal at an alligator farm. The
students often see many of their the academic vivacity Harvard is vantage in admissions is still criti- ordered the group to stampede. craziest part is that children were
classmates repping college mer- looking for,” says recent gradu- cized. Some say Harvard sweat- The military made more attempts allowed to ride the older alligators!
chandise. Harvard sweatshirts, ate Edward Wang. “When I see shirts still perpetuate a classist to get rid of the emu, but it soon re- Along with this entertainment, the
Harvard lanyards, and Harvard a student wearing that beautiful alized the futility of their actions; farm also sold belts, purses, and
admission process. Critics say the
stickers are at every turn. But ac- crimson sweater, I know they’re the emu weren’t scared of guns or tchotchkes made of alligator skin.
only students who buy sweatshirt
soldiers! The emu were there to stay. This doesn’t sound dangerous at all!
cording to Naviance, out of 423 ready to handle Harvard’s intense are upper class, stuck in an ivory
The emu had won. Also...maybe someone should con-
applicants, only five have been ad- competition and thrive in that tower and shrouded from poverty
sider calling PETA.
mitted in the past two years. This environment!” explains Harvard in a childhood of private schools
Goldfish Swallowing So, in the future, if you ever de-
warrants a major question: Does president Lawrence Bacow. But and nannies. But we all know that
Originating in Massachusetts in cide to take a nap during history
wearing college merch help your what does the data say? the college admissions process class, just remember what you could
the 1930s, goldfish swallowing was
application? Out of the acceptance pool isn’t always fair, so don’t be afraid be missing out on: (1) those special,
the brilliant idea of a student attend-
According to former Harvard of zero from Class of 2017, zero of buying a sweatshirt next time ing the prestigious Harvard Universi- but strange moments in history, and
alumni, Harvard merchandise wore Harvard merch. Therefore, you’re in Boston. ty. This clever undergraduate student (2) passing the class.

The Importance of Our Hidden Roots By Annabella Chen ’20

Cartoonist