Perspectives

Election years are ridiculous years in the United States, full of politicking and partisanship, pessimism and petulance. But on a personal level, election years have always been exciting for me. Because politics aside, voting on Election Day is a quintessential part of the American experience. It’s our chance as citizens to participate actively in the democratic process. A … [Read more...] about Voting is more than a right; it’s a responsibility

International human trafficking is an issue that many people are aware of, but what has become very apparent especially of late is that human trafficking in the United States is also a serious problem, and I say serious because human trafficking is never a small problem. There are more slaves today than in any other point in human history. According to the United Nations, … [Read more...] about Take a stand for Prop 35

To Whom It May Concern: I am an alumna of Pepperdine University, and I have to say that the article “Racy costumes attract unsafe attention” published in the Graphic was incredibly disheartening. A reminder to be safe on Halloween is never a bad idea. However, the article’s overarching thesis that a woman’s choice of clothing can either serve as a possible deterrent or as an … [Read more...] about Letter to the editor

I am not a collection of parts.  I am a human being with autonomy, a free mind and full command of my personhood and my dignity. Some have tried to tell me that this is only true if I follow certain societal guidelines for how a woman should dress and behave, but I know it to be a constant and immovable fact. I am never an object to be conquered or dominated. If I am dressed … [Read more...] about Society should not blame the victims

An opinion column published in the Oct. 25 issue of the Graphic, “Racy Halloween costumes could attract unsafe attention,” has drawn widespread criticism for its choice of language and called our staff to consider the importance of word choice in conveying intended meaning. The article, written by a staff writer, argues that racy Halloween costumes could be unsafe for women … [Read more...] about Language should reflect ethical standards