Tangents and Tirades

by The Cowl Editor on November 9, 2017


Tangents


Thousands of runners crossing the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge during the NYC Marathon. Photo Courtesy of AP Photo/Craig Ruttle.

Marathon Brings Nation Together

During a time when division and disunity seem to infiltrate all forms of media and dominate our lives, we often overlook the events that bring our nation and the world together.

This past Sunday, over 50,000 runners toed the start line of the 47th TCS New York Marathon, ready to begin their 26.2 mile journey.

As one of the largest marathons in the world, this international event brings people together from countries all over the world to run through the boroughs of our nation’s melting pot city.

Before the elite runners took off from Staten Island, race director Peter Ciaccia poignantly described the significance of the event, exclaiming, “Today, the spirit of humanity takes center stage and the spirit of humanity has no borders, only start lines.”

In light of last week’s attacks on NYC—and the numerous violent tragedies we have seen streamed across the news this year—events like the NYC marathon and others are hopeful reminders to everyone of the spirit of humanity.

This spirit still prevails in the strides of every runner, regardless of race, ethnicity, class, religion, etc. And despite the tragedies and hate that fill the world, we can still find unity and strength in recognizing the resilience and positivity of the thousands of people who come together every year to prove themselves on this difficult course.

-Sarah Kelley ’18

 

Never Fear, Basketball Tickets Are Still Here

Basketball is back at Providence College. This week marks the beginning of the 2017 Men’s Basketball season, and an exciting time for all Friar Fans.

The soccer games have been a great way to take a break from homework, show your support, and spend a few hours outside with friends, yelling out at bad calls and cheering whenever the Friars get a goal.

But basketball is a core part of Friartown, and this year, there is the dilemma that student season passes are all sold out. I myself lost track of time and tried to buy tickets later than normal but was disappointed to hear this news.

There is still hope, though! You can purchase tickets at the Dunkin’ Donuts center at each game or online.

This Friday, November 10 at 7 p.m., there is a game in Alumni Hall, and the student tickets are only four dollars.

However, if you want to go, make sure to get a jump on it because there are only a limited amount of students tickets sold per game.

So, even though you may have missed out on a great deal with the season passes, do not let this stop you from being a fellow Friar.

-McKenzie Tavella ’18

 

Change Discussion on Sexual Assault

The boost in response to sexual assault on social media after the allegations filed against producer Harvey Weinstein is a promising reaction to the long-silenced issue of sexual violence against women. With the recent restoration of the #MeToo campaign, women worldwide have had the opportunity to speak out about their horrific experiences ranging from harassment to overt violence.

However, the way the media frames the perpetrators of such unspeakable exploitation hinders the progress we are making. The Internet’s response to recent accusations against House of Cards actor Kevin Spacey is particularly concerning, as there appears to be a greater focus on the end of his career instead of the condemnation of his crimes.

When searching “Kevin Spacey” online, we find that nearly every article will briefly mention his misbehavior while the majority of the focus is on the consequences House of Cards will face as a result of his dismissal.

Men in entertainment who are convicted of assault tend to be regarded with sympathy, as their actions ultimately result in losing their career. Meanwhile, the victim of the violence is either unknown or ignored, and is rarely given the same attention in the media as his or her abuser.

In addressing incidents of sexual assault, it is important not only to identify the perpetrator, but to treat him or her as such. While Spacey has been punished, the attitude towards his behavior should not change.

-Hannah Paxton ’19