By: Clove Morgan You know the feeling. When a very hyper-specific craving hits at an odd time of the day, like an itch, you can’t quite scratch because nothing you have at the moment measures up to what you truly want. Not to get too niche, but for some reason, in my freshman year of college, I would crave the red peppers from Rainforest Café’s Spicy Korean Stir Fry (trust me, if you know, you know). That’s just one example of an extremely specific want, but you get the idea–no craving has a limit. I always thought I had to earn my favorite foods. As though there was some cosmic force dictating what I decided to have for a snack that day, I wouldn’t let myself have what I truly wanted, whether it was healthy or not. I had to finish my homework or do the dishes or clean my room or hang out with my friends first. Then, of course, there is a mountain of magazines and an infinite amount of diets to scroll through on social media telling you how and what to eat. A lot of girls and women alike have fallen into the trap of yo-yo dieting, going on and off over the years, or even innocently trying to better themselves and their health. There’s nothing inherently wrong with dieting, but I have come to believe that eating based on your intuition is the best way to feel your best. I discovered intuitive eating when going down the infamous rabbit hole of “What I Eat In A Day” TikToks. I was trying to find new vegan and vegetarian options to try out in an attempt to broaden my palette. However, I came across a creator’s video where they described their approach to meals as eating intuitively–essentially preparing their food with the intention of satisfying themselves with the taste as well as the nutrition. When I heard that, I thought, “Isn’t that just everyone’s approach to food?” It most certainly wasn’t mine, which I realized soon after, but a lot of people actually don’t follow their instincts when it comes to food. Whether it be financial, dietary restrictions, or a poor relationship with food/body image, some are unable to eat intuitively. If you’re willing to take the steps to heal your relationship with food or learn to care for your body in a new way, let me help guide you through the steps of intuitive eating. First, you have to understand that eating intuitively isn’t just eating whatever you want. You will want to consider the different benefits of a certain food–that includes the taste and overall satisfaction. You want to hit the major food groups for vitamins and whatnot, but make sure it's a pleasurable experience too. Food is meant to be enjoyed, not dreaded. For example, say you’re making lunch, and you really want the crunch of leafy greens, but you’re in the mood for something sweet. You could have a salad and a cookie at the same time; there is no rule telling you that you can’t! The beauty of intuitive eating is getting to make your own rules, and if your choice is to not have any, then that’s perfectly fine too. It isn’t easy to get used to. In fact, I’m still getting used to it myself. You have to be able to make exceptions and live guilt-free when it comes to your physical and mental health, which applies to intuitive eating. Identifying a craving versus a want can be tricky; I think the best way to distinguish the two is by asking yourself what exactly about the food will benefit you. It can be as simple as “It makes me happy” or as necessary as “It contains a lot of protein that will get me through the day.” By introducing this thought process, you will learn the different strengths a food may pose to you. Never underestimate happiness as a justification for eating. Personally, I can’t get through the day without a little sweet treat. Intuitive eating also has heavily to do with hunger cues. The next step is learning how to listen to your body along with your mind. If you’re feeling hunger pangs or hear your stomach growling, that’s a surefire sign that you should have something to eat. Our bodies are even more complex from there, though. If you get lightheaded or are feeling weak, you need to make sure you’re getting enough iron and protein throughout the day. Maybe you’re tired and need a pick-me-up of caffeine around noon to push you through the final hours of the workday. Paying attention to your body and its signals will not only boost your energy but naturally balance your relationship with food. It seems silly that we don’t naturally follow our instincts when it comes to food, right? But a lot of us were taught to think otherwise. Social media, magazines, and even conversations at our own dinner tables may have led us to believe that the goal of food is to look the best you can, not feel. Food is about feeling, though, it’s about nourishment and giving yourself the best care that you can. So have your childhood favorite soup, eat a salad filled with colors, have that slice of birthday cake, and buy yourself a six-dollar latte if that’s what makes your day the happiest and healthiest it can be. Make each day, and each meal, about you.

By Clove Morgan I was sixteen when I posted my first bikini picture on Twitter. It was my very first bikini ever–some purple floral two-piece with sleeves and a high waist, but a bikini nonetheless–and I had never posted in a swimsuit on social media before. Growing up, I rocked the edge between midsize and plus size, and it was the first period in my life where I felt confident enough to do it. Rightfully so, I looked downright adorable; the lilac-red hair-combo is hard to beat. I just didn’t realize that my body would be the main talking point of the post. One of the lovely plus-size models/influencers I followed at the time retweeted my post (you have to love girls supporting girls), but it also invited a ton of people to my account. Grown adults and teenagers alike were commenting on my body–some good and some not so good. I hadn’t prepared myself for the slew of sexualizing comments, seeing as I had my age in my bio and was very clearly a minor. The hate was certainly unexpected. I don’t claim to have made a wave with my post or to have been a major online persona by any means. Therein lies the real issue–why does existing online as a teenager warrant a reaction at all? There is no logical answer for it; the internet is a platform that is really a curated hub of extreme criticism and praise. You can’t demand answers from the billions of users worldwide or expect civility from behind the screen. However, you can learn to protect yourself online. Whether you’re thirteen exploring online spaces or twenty-five wanting to ensure you have a clean digital footprint, you can employ practices to keep yourself safe first. The first and most basic action is to make your account private. Only allow your friends and family to see your posts to keep strangers from seeing your content to begin with. However, this isn’t practical for some people, myself included! I wanted a public profile, and some of mine still are, but there are quite a few things you can do to make sure you’re sharing just the right amount of information so people know you without putting yourself in danger. For starters, if you’re a minor, don’t put your full name on your account. I went by quite a few pseudonyms during my time spent on different forums. Go by just your first name, a nickname, or even make one up–it’s perfectly fine to assign yourself a name to prioritize your well-being. In your bio, you can include your age or even just put “minor” somewhere in there so people know what is and isn’t appropriate to say. Not that this is foolproof, you will get some odd users here and there, but if you’re part of an online community, it can mean a world of difference with whom you interact. Make a habit of checking others’ ages as well. A general rule of thumb I had was avoiding those two or more years younger than me and three or more years older than me. Not only did it keep in touch with those in my age group, but it prevented others from mistaking my age too. Confession time: I was on stan Twitter. If you don’t know what stan Twitter is, it’s essentially a side of Twitter filled with subsections of fans who focus on a specific form of media. I know, crazy times between the ages of fifteen and eighteen, but I made some amazing friends there. I’m still close with a good many of them today, I’ve even met a few in person. I was lucky enough to have found some of the best people I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing so well. Truly, friendship and human connection can transcend the screen. If you’re new to online communities, though, people can be intimidating or straight-up misleading. Don’t be fooled by those who claim to be your friend when really they want something more, perhaps something predatory. That being said, a great way to look out for yourself is by not oversharing your personal information. You can talk about your interests, hobbies, and daily life to a certain extent. Some examples of good topics can be music, television shows, activities you love, and even school work (remember to leave out names!). I always made sure not to drop my home state, town, or high school. Giving out that kind of information can lead to doxxing–when someone uses details to discover personal information like your address and private relationships. Know your personal limits; keeping it vague means keeping it safe. I could go on and on about the common sense of internet usage. Don’t be vulgar, don’t post inappropriate pictures, don’t direct message strangers, etc. I personally believe that to be a little unrealistic. One of the core pillars of teenage life is being a little reckless and pursuing new things. I think it’s reasonable, though, to want to ultimately protect your safety. Posting a picture in a skirt or a crop top or a bikini is perfectly okay–if weirdos flock to your page, don’t be shy about using that block button. If you end up wanting to get rid of your online presence in a very upfront way, like me, after outgrowing stan Twitter, simply deactivate your account. Start anew if you’d like and take your friends with you. Your digital footprint is a grey area when it comes to fully erasing it or not, there is no reassurance one way or the other, but an easy out is always available at your disposal. The best piece of advice anyone can offer is to become familiar with the platform you are using, and that can come from experience and exploration. There is no use limiting yourself in a world that is becoming united with technology in every capacity, so take advantage of it. The world is changing, and teenagers are with it. The internet is a tool and not something to live in fear of, so stay safe and surf those feeds!

By Clove Morgan Our adults are only getting younger. It sounds like a plot to a Goosebumps episode where every parent is turned into a baby, but I promise that’s not what I mean. Teenagers today are dealing with the same pressures that are typical of grown adults in their mid-twenties and beyond. Between school, adopting new life skills, and preparing to make some of the first life-long decisions a young person can face, it is no surprise that anxiety and depression are at an all-time high. In fact, the American Psychological Association (APA) has said: “We are facing a national mental health crisis that could yield serious health and social consequences for years to come.” Don’t let that declaration frighten you. The mental health crisis is very much our reality, but it is also one that can be dealt with. There are a plethora of resources out there to learn the extent to which teenagers are dealing with stress in their day-to-day lives. The majority of teens today have to cope with conditions like depression and anxiety, some even having severe symptoms of PTSD, identity struggles, and more. This issue isn’t new either; in 2014, APA conducted a study confirming that teenage stress levels rival that of adults. What is most jarring about this is recognizing the difference in lifestyles between these age groups. Adults have careers, families, and finances that generate anxiety. Which begs the question: what do teens have to be so worried about? I think we have all been in that same argument with our parents or any older relative. They say we have nothing to worry about because we’re not in the “real world” yet–whatever that means. In some ways, they’re right because the majority of teenagers are dependent on their parents until they begin to take on their own responsibilities. However, there is a certain type of anxiety that plagues a lot of today’s youth on the whole. What is most unique about Gen Z is that we are the first entirely electronic generation. Electronics broaden our reach from the time we’re infants as we grow into technology and advance alongside it. As the internet is relatively new, controls and limitations on content exposure haven’t yet been fully explored. This leads to an overwhelming amount of kids and teens witnessing media that may not be age-appropriate, on top of the ability to connect with just about anyone worldwide. It is possible early exposure could lend itself to desensitization–essentially causing a despondence to otherwise emotionally evocative or graphic content. Teenagers in the present have adapted to intensity in all of its forms. From breaking stories on the news of catastrophe and devastating loss to facing the decision of higher education that has been placed on the shoulders of teens for decades. So, how can we combat the mental pressures that accompany adolescence? There are a ton of sources that provide help on a professional level. Therapy and counseling are not only recommended but heavily encouraged for anyone undergoing major changes, and nothing is quite like the shift from childhood to adulthood. For some, though, therapy isn’t a viable option. Whether the obstacle is financial, familial, or a result of nerves–it’s okay!–there are still plenty of options to look into. I always found that my heart and mind felt the lightest when I sought authenticity. Our days are so often consumed by work, school, trends, research, and practically everything that can contribute to isolation, whether it’s mental or physical. Having a support system that’s grounding and tangible is the most important part of making peace with change and stress as you go. So make plans with loved ones, friends, and family members, especially one-on-one time. Having that interpersonal connection could lead you to a deeper conversation that may just satisfy that need to confide in someone else. Finding hobbies outside of technology is equally as essential. These not only offer you a break from the social expectations that breach the barriers of the screen but are stimulating in a way that allows your mind to focus on something beyond excessive self-comparison that may otherwise occur scrolling through social media. Plus, the sense of accomplishment that comes with a non-tech hobby is a reward in and of itself. Pick up a book, start crocheting, pull out a mixing bowl, and get to baking–whatever it may be, set time aside for it from time to time! The real world is intimidating enough on its own, but to be a teenager today, you’re not only exposed to it early, but you’re also trying to find out who you are at the same time. Give yourself a break when you can, and don’t be too hard on yourself, even if it feels like everything is against you. A tough conclusion to come to is the realization that you’re not alone while being able to see that you’re not like any other person. You can find out who you are day by day or minute by minute. There is no rush to perfect your identity at a young age, and mistakes are bound to happen–just try to find safety nets along the way. Individuality and community are not mutually exclusive; the sooner you learn to trust yourself then, the sooner you will trust others to guide you as well.

By Clove Morgan If you are in tune with the film industry, you’re aware of the recent frenzy surrounding the Writer’s Guild of America (WGA) strike and its consequential spread among actors. One simple Google search will tell you that screenwriters are refusing to work as a result of unfair treatment for their labor. Rightfully so, right? Everyone should be compensated for their hard work. It’s a little more complicated than that, though, as most mass industry relationships are. I’m here to put the recent happenings in the simplest of terms and timeline for what this could mean for the future of Hollywood. It all started in May of this year (2023) when tension came to a head after years of monumental shifts taking place in entertainment. Most notably: the transition from broadcast to streaming. With younger generations favoring streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and AmazonPrime, cable television popularity has been dwindling at an accelerated pace. The difference between the two for writers is as follows: broadcast = more work and more staff, streaming = less work and less staff. This is because of a limited amount of episodes and a smaller writer’s room for most streaming shows, thus a resulting decrease in pay. As a means of combating this downward spiral, the WGA proposed an agreement to the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) for fair wages, work guarantees, and more staff per project to reduce the use of AI. They were denied. The reaction was over 10,000 screenwriters declaring a strike. Now for the big question, what does this mean for Hollywood? Audiences should expect a decline in the quality of the shows and movies they are consuming. Projects in the post-production stages have no writers to review the editing process, and those currently mid-shoot have no writers to create their scripts. let alone be present on set. A shutdown is inevitable, halting the turnout of TV and film for the foreseeable future. To put it into perspective, according to Deadline and ET, streaming favorites including Stranger Things, Cobra Kai, Euphoria, The Last of Us, Abbott Elementary, and many more have ceased writing for the time being. What is most surprising is that the same strike took place no more than fifteen years ago in 2007. In advocacy for the same causes, writers went on strike on behalf of needing better overall treatment, financial compensation, and employment guarantees. A lot of teenagers and young adults today may not fully recall the 2007 strike, but those who do remember a drastic downturn in the quality of TV and film scripts and production. Shows from that era of television that were affected include Grey’s Anatomy, The Simpsons, Breaking Bad, etc. This encouraged an increased consumption of unscripted reality TV. The 2023 strike introduces new problems to confront with streaming and AI possessing a new technology to compete with. With programs like ChatGPT that can write scripts with nothing more than a short description of the desired outcome, a lot of writers run the risk of losing their jobs. AI can complete tasks and flush out content at the drop of a hat. It may not be as clean, cohesive, or compelling in comparison to a screenwriter’s product–but some studios are willing to take lower-quality content in favor of not having to pay a staff of writers. Since May, a colossal update has occurred. The Screen Actors Guild (SAG), a union that serves as an umbrella for a variety of programs/media and their employees, attempted to reach an agreement with AMPTP for fair pay to support the livelihoods of working actors that ultimately failed. Around 65,000 actors have since declared a strike and are refusing to be present on set. The strike will include film and TV, with the news industry being the exemption. It is speculated and assumed that this may be a point of solidarity with the WGA, as both parties are demanding fair compensation for their work. This is the first dual strike in over fifty years. Social media news source Impact put together a collective of sources that find Studios unwavering in their stance against the SAG and WGA. They believe that the strike will run its course until writers and actors begin to need paychecks for their survival. The predicted negotiation will not take place until the fall of this year. Not only is this intimidating for those within the industry, but those just entering it as well. The dual strike and studios’ refusal to compromise threatens the livelihood of industry creatives. A rise in Artificial Intelligence, with a terrifying prediction in Black Mirror’s recent season, could possibly be a foreshadowing of today’s moral collision between technology and humanity. At what point does advancement get in the way of humane treatment? Nevertheless, the figurative spotlight is on the studios behind the scenes and their next move as writers and actors stand with each other and their united demands. Sources Used: Writer’s Guild of America Screen Actors Guild Deadline ET Semafor Impact

By Clove Morgan WARNING: This article contains minor spoilers for the Barbie movie. My Barbie’s name was Kenzie. She was president and lived in the iconic pink and purple Malibu Dreamhouse, she didn’t have a Ken, but her best friend in the whole world was my sister’s Barbie, with whom she shared my mom’s vintage baby pink Barbie camper. In the briefest of words, Barbie has been dearly loved for generations by many; myself included–this movie captured that love. Since the first teaser dropped, it has been one of the most anticipated films of the year. I have to admit; I was beyond thrilled with the mere look of the film when all we had to go off of were screencaps and trailer clips. People were planning their outfits, themed parties, and double features with the film’s shared premier of Oppenheimer. And when I walked into that theater, I wasn’t the slightest bit disappointed. I saw women and girls of all ages, and all dressed in some variation of pink. I was lucky enough to see it with the woman who introduced me to Barbie: my mom. From the very start, Greta Gerwig (director) had a vision, and it was executed exquisitely. The opening scene, though somewhat juxtaposing the aesthetic, was the perfect precursor to the cultural impact Barbie has had for decades. The transition to the technicolor dreamscape of Barbieland had one of the best set-dressing and designs I have seen in a film. Everything was meticulously selected to mirror the vision of Barbie through the years, drawing inspiration from real products, accessories, and fashion. If you were a big fan of Barbie, you will likely spot some familiar favorites in the shots! The casting was unexpectedly fitting for the roles. Margot Robbie was undoubtedly one of the top contenders from the very beginning for the real-life Barbie. She possessed the physical characteristics, and her acting range has been proven time and time again. This time, she was able to elevate the role to an entirely new level. Barbie’s character was transformed beyond a two-dimensional girly powerhouse to a commentary on what it means to experience girlhood firsthand. She covered a large spectrum of feelings with quick line delivery and glowing chemistry with her fellow cast members. Ryan Gosling, depicting Ken, was questioned by several online critics for not being right for the role. To which I say, he was more than Ken-ough. He brought the storyline full circle with the bonus of humor, heart, and a handsome face to complete the package. The script and plot were a delightful surprise, with maybe a little too much ground and not enough time to cover. Real World VS Barbieland was implied from the beginning, with teaser images and the trailer setting up a strange crossover that felt reminiscent of The Chronicles of Narnia. Barbie and her real-world counterparts, played by America Ferrera (Gloria) and Ariana Greenblatt (Sasha), explore themes of womanhood, mother-daughter relationships, and the growing pains of what it means to emerge as a woman in society. As the two worlds begin to influence each other, leading to the corruption of one over the other, there is a distinct message being sent to the viewers. The “Real World” is harsh on women and even harsher on the little girls that reside inside of all women. To be seen on the screen in such a clear, concise, and familiar way was simultaneously jarring and heartwarming all at once. Misogyny and patriarchy were caricatured to extremes yet still reflected the very tangible effects and damage they left in their wake. Of course, I do believe that gender and their accompanying social connotations combined with a deep analysis of womanhood, on the whole, is a little much to pack into two hours. In all honesty, I felt as though the themes could have been dug into deeper. There is too much to explore, and I admire Gerwig’s attempt to do so in one film. However, it ended up working against the pace of the film as I was left wishing we lingered with Gloria and Sasha, Feminine self-worth, and the connections that bind women together. I adored every takeaway and do not fault the movie for trying to cover all of the bases, but the time could not warrant a fulfilling analysis on its own. The film wraps up with a magnificent monologue delivered by Ferrera and a reflection on the consciousness of women. My heart was touched. The waterworks sprung forth four times with an extra teary-eyed moment before and after the movie. My mom and I clung to each other in the final twenty minutes as we came to an unspoken understanding of each other–of every woman in the theater. Walking out of the film, I can confidently say that it conquered joyous and melancholic femininity in a way only the words and vision of a woman could. The film was indeed for everyone; it packed a punch in the delivery and softened the blow with pastels and an outstanding performance of Michael Cera as the one and only Allan. In the restroom directly after the end credits, I overheard a little girl no older than nine say, “I want to see it all over again.” I am right there with her. If you see it once, you’ll want to see it all over again.

By Clove Morgan The inevitable list of “summer goals” is written into journals or typed into the notes app, and if you’re anything like me, it often includes a promise of reading a few books. The thing I struggle with the most is knowing what to read next. What truly makes a book suited for me? I asked myself that question when making this year’s to-be-read list and noticed a common thread among my favorite novels: a strong female character, of course. I’m a lover of a well-written main character I can root for and also relate to. So, to shorten your search, I put together a list of my personal favorites I’ve had the pleasure of reading. 1. A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder by Holly Jackson In what is likely one of my favorite trilogies of all time, we follow Pip Fitz-Amobi as she takes on the task of the local detective for a school project. The book is a Nancy Drew-esque mystery with a darker twist as she covers the town’s infamous murder of schoolgirl Andie Bell. While digging deeper, she discovers secrets, coverups, and some new allies in her search for real answers. Pip is strong-minded, opinionated, and witty, which is the perfect combination for a refreshing character for a young adult piece. She’s not only a relatable character for the next generation of teen girls, but the story cultivates a stimulating experience that will have you on the edge of your seat. I read this in the autumn of last year, and I have to say that the vibes of the book around Halloween will have you locking your window and shutting your curtains at night–all the while wishing you were as brave as Pip. 2. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo By far the most impactful book on a more personal level, Bardugo is a master of developing multi-dimensional characters–especially for the girls. In the Six of Crows duology, we get a literal two-for-one and have two members of the main cast of characters be exceptional representation for young girls. The plot follows six older teenagers, most of them criminals, who conduct a heist, with each of them playing instrumental roles in its success. Inej Ghafa starts us out strong, being only sixteen and having endured a lifetime of hardships. She is quick on her feet and with a knife–earning her the nickname “wraith”–yet her morals and faith withstand every obstacle thrown at her. Nina Zenik, a “heartrender” or witch, is flirty, fun, and a force to be reckoned with. Her strong personality earns her the respect and friendships of the other “crows” even as she is confronted with past mistakes and high stakes. 3. Legendborn by Tracy Deonn Legendborn was recently recommended to me by a friend, and I have to say it is absolutely worth the read. The plot follows Bree Matthews, a teenage college student, and her attempt to infiltrate a magical society. With the involvement of real-world issues like class dynamics and racial bias intertwined with fantastical elements, the story makes for a stunning concoction from which a strong lead emerges. Bree Matthews is a powerful, intelligent main character who maintains a perspective that is not only entertaining but thought-provoking. Her interactions with the world around her provide a necessary commentary on social hierarchy and internalized conflict she faces. As she digs herself deeper into the new environment she has entered, she is simultaneously uncovering mysteries about her mother’s death and who she is now that she has inherited magical abilities. The books prompt a necessary conversation with a compelling protagonist as our guide. 4. Crying In H Mart by Michelle Zauner Not all female leads need to be fictional, and Michelle Zauner proves it. Zauner, also known as music artist Japanese Breakfast, wrote Crying In H Mart as a memoir detailing her relationship to her mother, herself, and her culture through food as the primary motif. The emotional range and growth throughout the piece is potent, consistent, and above all else, captivating. I could not put the book down once I started. Zauner’s upbringing may not necessarily be directly relatable to readers, but her experiences and emotions authentically represent what it means to be human. When describing a powerful female lead, most people minimize it to being physically and mentally capable of handling anything that is thrown their way. But Zauner shows us being strong also means allowing yourself to feel and process grief, love, and even resentment. Emotion is power, and Zauner uses her story to show everyone that strength doesn’t equate to unwavering resilience. 5. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid When it comes to magnetic character-driven works, Reid outsells. It took me a long time to decide which of her books I wanted to add to this list (honorable mentions going to Carrie Soto Is Back and Daisy Jones & The Six), but I had to go with Evelyn Hugo. The title is offputting, some may assume it could be a misogynistic take on women with multiple marriages, but they couldn’t be more wrong. Evelyn Hugo is the biggest star in Hollywood, going from living in borderline poverty to starring in big pictures, and it’s a classic rags-to-riches with a juicy indulgence in drama and romance. She faces hardships, including abuse and mistreatment in the industry, but Reig intertwines these moments with beautiful friendships and a queer romance that happens to be one of my favorites I’ve read in the last year. If you ever wanted to get into a particular author’s work, start with The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo and dive headfirst into their universe–not to mention that more than one book-to-screen adaptation is in the works. 6. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins I had to include this modern-day classic on this list. The Hunger Games has recently experienced a resurgence in popularity, with the prequel novel The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes being made into the latest film in The Hunger Games universe. Katniss Everdeen is somewhat of a blueprint for the modern female young-adult fantasy protagonist. She is a strong-willed teenage girl with a fire in her so bright it became her namesake. In the past, the greater plot and character development was minimized to the Team Peeta V.S. Team Gale debate. Now that the previous targeted audience has aged, though, a new evaluation is being popularized as the true message is spreading like wildfire on bookish social media pages. Katniss is a character that possesses classic traits of a dystopian powerhouse, but remember that she is just a teenage girl. Her capacity to feel and her consciousness is what makes her character so unique and a must-have on this list. 7. Inseparable by Simone de Beauvoir Inseparable, to me, is an underrated piece of feminist literature. Not all books need to have upfront commentary on social ladders or a grand plot filled with adventure and battles. In the simplest terms, it is a story about a friendship between two girls as they mature with age. However, if you choose to read it from the analysis perspective of female dynamics, you will find something much deeper. Friendships between girls are bonds that cannot be replicated through other dynamics, and there is a certain level of intimacy and understanding that accompanies their shared experiences and outlooks on the world around them. De Beauvoir conveys how she learned from her early-made friendship with this girl, and how she saw freedom, desire, and faith completely changed. Isn’t that what makes a strong female character–the impact one leaves on another?

By Eliana Oliver Planning enjoyable activities with your friends is a great way to strengthen your relationship and make the most of your summer break. However, not all activities are affordable. Visiting theme parks, going out to eat, and seeing your favorite artist in concert are some examples of things to do that can get pretty pricey. Sometimes you may want to save some money by doing something inexpensive or, better yet, free. To help you out with both your budgeting and friendship endeavors, I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 activities you can do with your friends without spending money. 1. Host a Movie Marathon In the age of streaming, we have all of the world’s greatest films right at our fingertips. Plan a night full of fun with your friends in which you vote on your favorite movie series and sit through all of it (or most of it). Whether it’s Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, Marvel, Twilight, or a random selection of films, hosting a movie marathon is a surefire way to ensure a good time. 2. Watch the Sunset and Go Stargazing If the weather allows, taking time at the end of the day to visit nature is always a pleasant experience, so why not share it with your friends? Find a park or trail or beach where you can lay out a blanket and watch the sun make way for the moon and stars. Use this time to talk about anything and everything that’s been on your mind. Play your favorite music. Look at the stars. 3. Bring Out Your Competitive Side with a Game Night Everyone has a game they grew up playing. Maybe it was Sorry, Clue, or Monopoly. Maybe it was a good ol’ fashioned Egyptian Rat Screw. Whatever it was, it’s time to go dig into the depths of your closet to pull it out for Game Night! Invite a group of friends to play–the more competitive they are, the better. Let your inner child run wild and lean into the fun that gaming brings. 4. Find a Scenic Park and Go on a Picnic Picnics are one of the easiest outings to put together, and yet we don’t do them quite enough. Look in your pantry and grab whatever snacks, sips, and sweets you have available. Don’t have a picnic basket? No problem. Throw the food into a tote bag or lunch box. If you aren’t in possession of a picnic blanket, a couple of beach towels will do. Lastly, grab your friend and find the cutest park in the area. Now, picnic away! 5. Let Your Creativity Flow and Paint We all have creative energy flowing through us. Sometimes the hustle and bustle of school, work, family, and friends stop us from expressing our creativity on a regular basis. What better than to let it all out on an abstract painting date with your friends? If you don’t have paint, markers or pens work as well. All you need to do is grab some colors that speak to you and put them on your canvas. Once you’re done, compare (or better yet trade) your work of art with your friend’s. 6. Take a Trip into Nature and Try Birdwatching If you’re anything like me, you think animals are just about the cutest things in the world. Research places in your area where birds may be found, then take your friends there to enjoy the beauties of the animal kingdom. If you’re really into it, whip out your phone and take some pics. Whoever gets the best bird action shot wins! 7. Invite Your Friends Over for a Potluck Food is certainly one of life’s greatest gifts, and it’s even better when you can share it with your friends. Scour your kitchen for some ingredients, and then throw together a family-sized dish that you can bring to a potluck. Tell all of your friends to do the same. If you want to have even more fun, task each person to make a different course. For example, one could craft an appetizer, the next could cook up an entree, and then the third person could bring a delicious dessert. 8. Try a New Fitness Class Many gyms and fitness groups offer a free class to newcomers. Search for what’s available in your area and bring your friend to try it out with you. Alternatively, you can find a workout video on YouTube to do at home with your friend if you want to avoid a crowd of people. Whether it’s Jazzercise, Zumba, Yoga, or HIIT, working out is good for the soul. And if you don’t like the class, you don’t have to do it again. 9. Put Together an At-Home Spa Day Break out your body lotions, nail polish, and hair masks for a luxurious at-home spa day with your bestie. Put on your favorite music or tv show while you relax and doll up. Feel free to add in whatever treatments you’d like, such as massages, facials, or foot baths. 10. Complete a Closet Clean Out No one will be more honest with you about what you need to get rid of than a true friend. Bring over your most trusted ally to go through your closet from top to bottom, inside and out. Try things on if needed. Use your friend’s objective perspective to help clean out and reorganize your wardrobe. Then repeat these steps, but this time you’re the one helping your friend clean out their closet. This way, you’ll both reach your organization goals.

By Clove Morgan It’s safe to say that this Pride Month has been a rollercoaster of emotions for community members and allies alike. On one hand, with every passing year, our cause grows stronger, and our web of support from today’s youth brings us closer to a more accepting tomorrow. On the other, the United States has become an increasingly less safe place for the LGBTQ+ community. While the queer population is steadily becoming more and more normalized in media, our lives are still at risk on a daily basis, and our momentum for action cannot die out now that June has passed. Pride doesn’t need to end once the month is up. In fact, it can’t for the sake of our rights. According to The Human Right Campaign, LGBTQ+ rights are in a declared state of emergency. 2023 now appears as a regression in the progress made by queer activism as decades of political movements are overshadowed by the mountain of homophobic and transphobic legislation being passed nationwide. The U.S. has been divided in ways that were too soon assumed to be smoothed over. However, the political climate is always changing. Women’s rights, POC rights, and LGBTQ+ rights are not ensured in the way young people may believe. After the overturning of Roe V. Wade in 2022, it is up to us to take advantage of our access to activist spaces and the ability to use our voices to speak up against unfair treatment. A surge in anti-trans ideology threatens the transgender community–legislation has been passed in several states, promoted by powerful political figureheads, that ban gender-affirming healthcare. Not only is this a blatant display of transphobia, but further prevents adults and children from receiving the best possible medical care that facilities are capable of. On the whole, the LGBTQ+ community is being silenced. States have been limiting or banning queer influence in education by removing books from libraries or restricting teachers from talking about queer people and families in the classroom. As a kid, I had no idea that queer relationships existed. Television, books, movies, and media only portrayed examples of heterosexual couples and individuals. It not only prevented me from discovering myself but stunted the acceptance of those around me. LGBTQ+ people have always been a part of our history, and erasing them is not doing them or the future of education justice. Keeping them present in media will help kids like myself feel seen and heard while giving kids an understanding of the world they have been born into. A way to help the queer community is by familiarizing yourself with what is working against them. Being from Florida, I am always making myself aware of the controversies Florida law has sparked. Governor Ron DeSantis has passed laws like those mentioned above. The Don’t-Say-Gay Bill and limits on transgender care are a direct threat to the queer community that I am capable of speaking out against. Everyone needs to make themselves aware of what is happening and what they can do about it. The Human Rights Campaign found that 80% of the United States is actually against these laws. It is time that we act on that belief. I noticed a distinct lack of support from brands this year. In the past, there would be pride campaigns spread over social media from the country’s most popular brands. Rainbow icons and merchandise were promoted so heavily, but this year there has not been as much noise from these companies. Fear of backlash extends beyond corporations and into the very existence of the queer community. The risks the queer community faces are daunting and frightening, but there has also been immense support for it. The advocacy on social media and protests against the federal and state courts’ legislation to ban or limit queerness is just the beginning. The Supreme Court recently ruled that it is constitutional to deny queer couples service–a national impact that needs to be discussed, just as the state-issued pieces of legislation being passed around the country deserve the same cause for concern. There are ways that everyone can promote and become more educated on LGBTQ+ rights and political movements, even those of us that can’t vote yet. Not everyone likes to turn on the TV and watch people that are decades older than them talk about the nation’s or world’s issues. Gen Z has a different relationship with the world around us compared to generations in the past. An easy method of integrating current news into your daily routine is by following social media pages that post content so that it appears in your feed. Not only is it a simple action, but it makes you aware of multiple perspectives in a way that isn’t disruptive and is suited for you. You can share these posts, too! A two-for-one action for change is that easy. Talk to your friends and family members. Sometimes difficult discussions need to be had in order to make substantial progress. Of course, your well-being should never be jeopardized, but if you feel safe to bring up political topics, then there is no reason you shouldn’t. I am lucky enough to have friends and family approach me and ask what they can do to help. If you gain their support or are able to educate them, then you are doing your part. If you are met with resistance, don’t let frustration get the better of you. Resistance is a sign that work needs to be done and that you were taking the action needed to widen the reach of safety for the queer community. Just because merchandise is removed from shelves and the rainbows are being flushed from social media feeds does not mean Pride Month is over. LGBTQ+ people can still wear their identities proudly and it is the continued responsibility of allies to uplift them in any way they can. The celebration does not have to end. Channel it into campaigns and movements for a better and safer Pride Month next June and all the Junes thereafter.

By Clove Morgan Bright and colorful, loud and proud, pride month is a kaleidoscope of parades, posts, and activism. Pride month is all about its name: pride. For those in the LGBTQ+ community, it’s their opportunity to strengthen their support system and a connection to their identity. Allies can join in on the celebration and advocate on behalf of loved ones and strangers. That being said, allies and queer people alike might struggle to navigate their participation, especially if this is their first pride month they are able to take part in. Here is a short guide on a few ways to make an impact in big and little ways. The current political climate has made pride month a little less inviting compared to the past. With transphobic and homophobic legislation being introduced across the country, taking part in overtly pride-based events might not be comfortable or even safe for those of us in the queer community. The best thing you can do to show your support is to speak up. If you’re old enough, vote. Take action by doing your part and uplifting candidates and political figures that work toward securing LGBTQ+ rights. If you’re under the age of eighteen, use your voice and start the conversation for a better, safer future. Social media is an amazing tool and is undeniably one of the best ways to both raise awareness and advocate. When I was in high school, I was one of the few openly queer kids. I struggled to find people with which I felt safe, but the peers that frequently posted showing their support of my community were the ones that I knew I could be myself with. Reposts of political activism or even a colorful visual can go a long way. As for my fellow community members, not all of us have the access or the environment to allow for blunt displays of our pride. Fortunately, there are plenty of other ways for us to show off our identity. Purchase subtle designs with your pride flag or from queer-owned businesses. A great way to find them is by looking through social media. A quick type into the search bar can introduce you to some great new brands with fresh, unique pieces perfect for pride. If money is an issue or you’re unable to make purchases on your own, no worries, I’ve got you covered. You can show your pride in smaller ways instead. If you like to paint your nails, pick your flag’s colors. Wearing a certain color scheme or accessorizing in accordance with queer fashion is a great way to make use of pieces you already own or try out a new look. Personally, I made a bracelet with my flag’s colors and haven’t gone a day this month without it. I consider it a little piece of pride to take with me everywhere. Another great way to celebrate, whether you’re an ally or queer, is by supporting LGBTQ+ artists. If you know of any small businesses, buy from them. Look into new musicians or stream your favorites that you know are a part of the community. Don’t be afraid to show them to your friends–some of my favorites are Kali Uchis, Ethel Cain, and Clairo, and they will be blasting through my headphones and stereo throughout the whole month. While pride month is known for its flashy, fun displays of out-and-proud queerness, you can be equally as indulgent in a variety of ways. Some of us might not get to join the bigger events, and that’s completely okay. Validation isn’t about being the loudest; it’s about supporting and celebrating when and where it counts. Allyship is about uplifting LGBTQ+ people. If you’re in the community, this is your month to connect with yourself as much as others. Use your voice, stay safe, and have joy-filled pride.

By Clove Morgan I was ten years old, sitting between plastic green bus seats, when the girl seated next to me told me she was bisexual. Being that young, the word was too big and too far outside my vocabulary to put two and two together and guess the definition. She debriefed me on what it meant to be bisexual: having a crush on a boy and a girl at the same time. It was a flawed explanation, literally elementary at best, but it altered the trajectory of my life from that moment forward. My sparkly, hot pink, Justice-brand diary was my trusted confidante for the rest of the fifth grade as I mulled over the impending doom of middle school and a sexuality crisis. No one knew about my glitter-gel-pen revelations, and by the time I reached the sixth grade, I shoved them in a storage bin beneath my bed and to the back of my mind. I thought nothing of sexuality–girls–for the better half of middle school. I happened to be lucky, it didn’t plague my day-to-day life, and it should never have to for anyone. Sexuality and the experience of queerness shouldn’t have to be linear for validation. Still, my teenage years wreaked havoc on my perception of romance. I grew up in a small town with girls in their boyfriend’s football jerseys and boys holding promposal signs for their girlfriends. Straightness wasn’t just the expectation; it was the standard. As nice as it was to go with the cutest guy in my friend group to my freshman-year homecoming, I really wanted to take my girl friend–take note of the space between those words, brutal. There is something to be said about the relationship between a girl and her girl best friend, that doubles as her crush. The romantic undertones and intimacy exchanged with a girl my age with whom I could share my deepest feelings and secrets is something entirely unique to queer female friendships. It’s hard to put into words, but I still find myself wondering what we had. The chemistry and emotions were charged, but I wasn’t accustomed to the possibilities, and as I got to know them, I became equally aware of the consequences. At fourteen, we could only be girls together, and to be only that was enough. She was the catalyst for my coming out. If I had to offer my advice to anyone coming out, it would be to do it in slow phases that start on the outside and work inward. It’s not foolproof, but it’s what I did, and even with the bumps, I wouldn’t have done it any other way. I admitted it to acquaintances and to friends, my sister, extended family, and finally, my parents. Though some reactions weren’t supportive or accepting, over time, my confidence in myself and my sexuality grew, and I didn’t feel that approval was a necessity. I was treated differently but was loved by those who cared for my well-being first. I was less afraid of cutting people off that didn’t respect me; I didn’t owe them my kindness or presence as long as they weren’t going to support me. Social circles change, it’s an inevitability, and it brings the gift of choice when it comes to who we want in our lives. My junior year was a tumultuous series of events that wrapped up with forced self-reflection as a result of the pandemic. Though the circumstances were far less than ideal, I wouldn’t have such a strong relationship with my identity in the present if I had no time away from the world. Isolation at such an extreme isn’t healthy, but it taught me that taking a step back from everyone once in a while could help me become more in tune with myself. Over the course of 2021, walled inside of my bedroom, I had my first queer relationship. It was a short-lived, long-distance girlfriend, but it elicited some of the most intense emotions I had ever felt for someone. In the past, I went through crushes on boys faster than my favorite Minute Maid lemonade. Most of the time, they were on some conventionally attractive sporty guy in my grade that shifted from one to the next every few months. My crushes on girls, on the other hand, were almost always a friend. That was the case with my first girlfriend, too. We fell into each other, shared every interest and memory, and laughed together, but it fizzled just as quickly when our worlds opened back up again beyond the confines of our phones and bedrooms. The falling out was difficult but ultimately a beautiful disaster as we took the time to grow into ourselves and become friends again in the present. I moved on and into my dorm room for my first year in college and my first serious relationship with someone who happened to be transgender. I faced an entirely different kind of judgment then, one that was almost like a second coming out, as if I had to remind everyone that queerness extends beyond individualized sexuality and into the very existence of an LGBTQ+ relationship. My firsts were unconventional and frankly odd to the people and world around me. However, my relationships with women and other members of the community offered me comfort and understanding that I never had in my heteronormative endeavors. While my experience is varied, expansive to some, and minimal to others, I am assured by the queer friends I made throughout the years. I always try to express my gratitude to them. Finding people who share similar feelings was instrumental in my growth. Moving away from a small town to a city, taking advantage of internet spaces, and connecting with my peers gave me the opportunity to forge a web of support and meet like-minded individuals. Sometimes I’m still unsure of my label. I wear bisexuality proudly, but there will always be “what-ifs.” What if I’m lying to myself? To others? What if I’m not attracted to men at all? What if I don’t have enough experience to know for sure? I came to terms with the constant questions being normal a long time ago. Doubt plagues every facet of identity, not just sexuality. Time is always moving, and I’m always changing, and there is no use trying to rush to the finish line of personal discovery. The world isn’t going to come to an end if a nineteen-year-old girl doesn’t know who she is yet.

By Molly E. Sandwell Rosie Couture is one of those amazing humans who, once they have established a goal, will not stop until it is achieved. Seventeen-year-old Rosie Couture is the executive director and co-founder of Generation Ratify, a youth-led organization whose mission is to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment and further gender equality in the United States. Just what is the Equal Rights Amendment, exactly? As Rosie broke it down for us at the Girl’s State of the Union Address, the ERA is a proposed amendment to the United States Constitution that would prohibit sex-based discrimination. “That may come as a surprise to some people,” Rosie explained, “but our Constitution does not include women and queer people.” Passing this amendment, Rosie noted, “would enshrine gender equality and give women and queer people the full power of the law behind them.” So, here’s a little history on the ERA. In 1972, the United States Senate passed the Equal Rights Amendment, clearing the way for it to become the 28th Amendment to the Constitution. However, the ERA has still never been added to our Constitution because Congress set a deadline by which the amendment had to be ratified. Congress determined 3/4 of the states had to ratify the ERA by 1979. And although later extended to 1982, this deadline still passed three states short of the 38 needed for ratification. Recently though, three states have gone on to ratify the ERA in the past five years (Nevada in 2017, Illinois in 2018, and Virginia in 2020) leading us to the 38 originally required to pass the amendment, but because the established deadline has passed, the amendment has not been added. When Rosie learned about the ERA in 2019, she could not believe it wasn’t already in the Constitution. She was at first shocked, then angry. This is where Generation Ratify was born. Generation Ratify first launched in 2019 as a small community organization in Arlington, Virginia. They began their mission by aiming to elect pro-ERA leaders through phone and text banking, protesting outside the Capitol, informing people about the ERA and encouraging people to go out and vote for pro-ERA majorities and candidates in the upcoming election. That upcoming election, as you may have guessed, was the 2020 election in which Virginia finally ratified the ERA. All thanks to the work of Generation Ratify and other advocacy organizations. Yet, Rosie’s journey with activism originally began elsewhere. Rosie first became involved with activism in the space of gun violence prevention after the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, but her true call to action came when she herself endured a shooting scare at the DC Pride Celebration in 2019. It was then that Rosie decided, “I was going to commit myself to get involved in the fight for advancing legislation that was going to protect people regardless of their identities and be able to celebrate themselves without the fear of there being a shooting.” Soon after, Rosie became interested in gender equality and the ERA, realizing that these were intersectional issues that affected people here and now in her generation. To this day, Rosie emphasizes the need for young people to be involved in causes like the ERA and take an intersectional approach to gender equality, including those who are non-conforming, non-binary, and other gender minorities in these movements, as these populations are affected by gender equality as well. Her organization continues to fight for the ERA to finally be added to the Constitution, using its four pillars of action: education, advocacy, elections, and empowerment. Rosie’s advice to other girls and young women who have their own causes? “Just go for it,” Rosie proclaimed, “don’t be afraid to get involved. There’s no wrong way to show up for yourself and your equality, so don’t be afraid that whatever you’re doing is wrong or you’re doing an action that’s too small. Whatever you can do, however you can do it, whenever you can do it, that’s enough, and that’s awesome.” Rosie went on, “Plug into groups like [Zhive], like NOW, like Generation Ratify. Find people in your community that are organizing, make friends with them, and just start going for it.” We couldn’t have said it any better ourselves, Rosie. Check out Rosie’s organization Generation Ratify, for more info on the ERA and ideas on how to get involved. Inspire a friend, share this story on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or through email.

By Izabel Salken For many of us, we go through a period where we are unsure of what we want to do or who we want to be. I remember sitting there in the room I had spent the last 4 years of high school in, wondering how I would ever start a whole new life at college. At that point, I was not even sure what I wanted to study. There I was, surrounded by photos of my friends and family, the artwork I had made, and even my stuffed animals. I knew I did not enjoy math or science, and I did not want to be a nurse. I have always loved the idea of running my own business and being my own boss. “What do you want to do when you are an adult?” That might be a question you have heard multiple times in your life. Today’s day and age are full of opportunities to be your own boss and take control of your future. Maybe you do not see yourself partaking in a traditional career or are just curious about what makes an entrepreneur who they are. Here are 5 signs you might enjoy a career in the entrepreneurship world. You love meeting new goals. Do you find that making and reaching your goals excites you and brings you joy? Of course, most people enjoy meeting their goals. However, not everyone values success as much as others. Being an entrepreneur comes with goals that need to be set and achieved, and if you enjoy seeing your goals become a reality, this career could be for you! Creative freedom is something you value. Entrepreneurship comes with the territory of being your own boss. That is how most young entrepreneurs find themselves in the start-up world, from the desire to do things their own way. Sometimes, traditional and corporate jobs do not leave much room for creative freedom and individuality. When you run your own business, you can call the shots! You find yourself leading the group. In school projects or when you are out with your friends, do you find yourself leading the group? There is such a thing as a “natural born leader,” and this quality starts displaying at a young age for most people. Whether you have a love for helping others, orchestrating the group, or inventing, entrepreneurship might be calling your name! As a kid, you used to sell things. Were you one of those kids who had a lemonade stand? Or maybe you sold silly bands at recess, walked dogs in your neighborhood, or babysat. These desires to make money or run something are telltale signs of a budding entrepreneur! You feel like you don't fit in the status quo. Does a traditional path through life or career just not sound appealing to you? Maybe you dream of a world where you control your future and make decisions. If you feel like you have something special to offer the world (which we know you do), consider bringing your idea or dreams to life as an entrepreneur. Many different qualities make up an entrepreneur. In the world of entrepreneurship, there are endless possibilities of who you can be, what you can create, and how you can offer it. If you resonate with any of these 5 signs, maybe you could be a part of the future of entrepreneurs! Inspire a friend, share this story on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or through email.