Special-Interest-Community

Amid concerns over the coronavirus, New York City government officials canceled the Summer Youth Employment Program earlier last month, which engages thousands of youths in paid pre-professional work. But city advocates, including Manhattan Community Board 9—a local advisory board representing Morningside Heights and surrounding areas—expressed concerns and suggested that the program continue remotely to provide economic benefits for underprivileged youth.

It is time we hold the administration of the School of General Studies to its word. If administrators truly mean that their primary goal is to make General Studies as affordable as possible, they must change their transfer credit policy to accept online classes from other accredited colleges and universities. It would save General Studies students tens of thousands of dollars in student debt.

During a days-long occupation of what would eventually become the Malcolm X Lounge in April 1970, students from the Afro-American Society demanded that Columbia create an official space for Black students on campus. Their demands reflected the momentum from the 1968 protests, during which students occupied Hamilton Hall in protest of the University’s plans to build a segregated gym in Morningside Park.

One of my mother’s favorite stories, which she likes to tell at my expense, has to do with my first day of preschool. I suppose I was a bit of a brat when I was younger. It happened to be someone’s birthday, and I apparently exclaimed that it would be my birthday soon as well. Thankfully, my teacher was feeling diplomatic and told the class, “Let’s sing Happy Birthday to Philip!” to which I responded, “Who’s Philip?” Up until then, I hadn’t left the sheltered confines of home where my parents had only called me by my Korean name. I didn’t know who “Philip” was, but I would come to find out very soon.

A majority of us are confined to our homes during this pandemic—perhaps in our childhood bedrooms, homes or apartments. Regardless, it’s understandably difficult to be in touch with friends and the rhythm of Columbia’s community like we usually are. Although it takes a bit more effort than usual, it’s not impossible to foster a sense of solidarity and community among Columbia students and others who have also moved to quarantine and, subsequently, virtual learning. If you’re feeling a little disconnected lately, try exploring some of the options below, and hopefully, you’ll find some that brighten up your day.

Community leaders raised concerns over shifting to virtual meetings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, citing issues about informing residents and maintaining public engagement.