Tina Chang ’91, an English professor and the director of creative writing and Jennifer DeGregorio Ph.D. ’21, a lecturer and the associate director of creative writing, headed the event and showcased the agenda for the night.

The event began with a brief introduction from Chang, who highlighted Ph.D. students on an English track, such as Samia Ahmed, Shannon Hearn and Derek Ellis, and praised their cultivation and growth in creative writing during their time at Binghamton University. The list included DeGregorio, who recently earned her Ph.D in creative writing.

Chang said that while writing is often solitary, developing community as a writer is crucial. Later, she discussed the University’s creative writing program and its efforts to help cultivate students’ creativity.

“I would say the mission of the creative writing program is to meet with a writer who has maybe an inkling, initially, of what it is that they love to do, and hopefully somewhere within the area of interest of either poetry, fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting,” Chang said. “These are just a few of the things that we offer, and to be able to help them cultivate those interests so that they deepen the interest and maybe even potentially imagine a career for themselves one day that incorporates the skills that they’ve learned here.”

The evening featured information from several campus organizations that contribute to the University’s literary and creative writing community. After Chang’s introduction, Ellis spoke about the Common Ground Reading Series, a program aimed at creating a safe space on campus where anyone can share their creative work with others in monthly readings.

Additionally, representatives from the Harpur Palate Literary Journal, the Common Ground Reading Series, the Triple Cities undergraduate literary journal, Eleventh Hour Literary, Creative Writing Club and the Binghamton Poetry Club discussed their work and the opportunities they provide for students. Their presentations introduced the audience to the different ways these groups support writing, publishing and literary engagement on campus.

Elaine Braunshweiger, co-editor-in-chief and co-founder of Triple Cities literary magazine and a junior double-majoring in English and comparative literature, shared the mission of the new magazine.

“The mission of our organization is to cultivate a stronger community around the creative writing undergraduate students on campus because there have been efforts in the past to bring us all together,” Braunshweiger said. “But as was mentioned earlier in the event, writing is often a solitary activity, but when we enter the literary magazine space, we have to come together, not only to write and publish, but also for anyone that wants to go into the publishing industry, this is a really good opportunity for them to get some hands-on experience. And for us, it’s a thoughtful career exercise as well — kind of learning as we go.”

After each organization introduced itself, DeGregorio presented Binghamton’s poetry award winners, who shared their work with the audience. Academy of American Poets Prize recipients went first, including Lisa Compo, a Ph.D student in creative writing and Olivia Drury, a senior double-majoring in integrative neuroscience and English, who presented thought-provoking and striking poems.

Last but not least was Priscilla Diaz, a junior majoring in English and the third-place winner of the Andrew Bergman Award, with a piece showcasing vivid imagery containing descriptive blends of gore and mutilation.

Chang later discussed a project called “Word of Mouth,” guided by herself, Daniel Thomas Davis, a professor of music, Thomas Goodheart, an associate professor of voice and William Culverhouse, associate professor of music and director of choral activities. The project is for poets and short-form writers who are interested in transforming their words into music, uniting poets, composers and performers across multiple mediums.

DeGregorio spoke about the distinct qualities that set Binghamton’s creative writing program apart, emphasizing its supportive community. This includes the diverse opportunities for student involvement and the range of publications and events available that allow writers to share their work.

After the presentation, attendees mingled over soft drinks and food, celebrating creativity and connecting over inspiring opportunities and artistic expression.

The Binghamton Center for Writers brought together the student body and helped foster strong relationships with the English Department. By connecting student organizations, faculty and peers, the evening showcased the collaborative spirit of Binghamton’s creative writing community, leaving attendees with a clearer sense of how they can evolve and grow as writers.

“Creative writing is actually wonderfully flexible,” Chang said. “Having a background in creative writing can really lend itself basically to any career, because in any career, you have to be able to write clearly and effectively and be able to express your thoughts candidly and with care, and that’s pretty much any job. And so I think that if we can help students to move toward a clear career choice, while also feeling like their work is deeply valued, I think that we’ve done our job.”

Editor’s Note (9/10): This article was updated to remove a quote attached to incorrect context.

Held at the amphitheater under Appalachian Dining Hall at 5:15 p.m., the event provided an open performance environment where inclusivity was the priority and everyone was welcome. Since its founding in 2019 by Dr. Dana Stewart, collegiate professor for Mountainview and an associate professor in Italian and medieval studies, and her husband, Bob Rynone, Mountainview Jams has become a staple of Binghamton University student life. With a full band setup, professional stage equipment and an open invitation to all skill levels and styles, the Jams give every participant what Stewart calls a “rock-star welcome.”

The evening kicked off with “Dr. Dana & the Jam Dept.,” led by Stewart and Rynone, featuring local artist Bob Alan Bricks on drums and Jams intern Calan Ibrahim ’25 on bass. The band frequently rotates its cast of student musicians and interns, keeping each show fresh and collaborative.

Following their set, Mountainview Jams social media intern and first-year master of business administration student Sarah Zarember ’24 delivered a moving performance of “Feeling Good,” popularized by renditions from Nina Simone and Michael Bublé. Her emotional vibrato and vocals carried across the amphitheater, heightening excitement for the rest of the night.

From there, the stage belonged to the students. Performers showcased a mix of original songs, covers and spontaneous collaborations. Some were seasoned musicians who commanded the spotlight with ease, while others were first-timers discovering the thrill of live performance. Each act was met with enthusiastic applause, creating an atmosphere where every performer, regardless of experience, felt supported and celebrated.

For Stewart, that growth and encouragement are at the heart of Mountainview Jams.

“I love to see people stepping up and challenging themselves, and I feel like the confidence that they gain by doing that transfers over into all areas of their life,” Stewart said. “So it’s not even just about the performing and the fun. It feels like it’s about personal growth and community and even mental health.”

Mountainview Jams thrives on collaboration and community, bringing together students, faculty and staff in a shared love of music. Performers often join forces for impromptu duets, group songs or full-band collaborations, creating a sense of camaraderie both on stage and in the audience.

The event’s inclusive spirit extended beyond the music, as even Sylvester, the Mountainview Jams mascot, made an appearance, posing for photos with attendees and adding a playful energy to the afternoon. From first-time performers to seasoned musicians, everyone had a chance to connect, celebrate each other’s talents and share in a truly communal experience.

After the event, Stewart highlighted the importance and purpose of Mountainview Jams.

“In my experience, music — especially live music — brings people together,” Stewart wrote. “In a world where many of us feel isolated from each other, music can connect us, strongly and quickly! Also, there have been many recent studies showing the positive effects of music (whether we are making it or listening to it) on both mental and physical health.”

“So what we are doing is fun, it also has so many benefits to all who participate in any way,” she continued.

The event thrived thanks to the team of student interns — dubbed the “Dream Team” by Stewart — who manage sound, lighting, signups, social media and more. Their efforts ensure that each Jam runs smoothly, while also providing valuable experience in teamwork, leadership and music production.

“Although I have only been here for one short year, I can most certainly say that Mountainview Jams is one of the most incredible things on campus,” Caleb Huchro, a Jams intern and sophomore majoring in environmental science, wrote. “It provides students a safe and respectful atmosphere to share a slice of themselves with the people of Mountainview College and Appalachian Dining Hall. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you are from, if you have a song to share, then Mountainview Jams is here to help facilitate you every step of the way.”

At its heart, Mountainview Jams is about more than live music — it’s about fostering friendship, creativity and inclusivity on campus, making it one of the most impactful traditions at Binghamton University.

The film’s blockbuster opening weekend reignited excitement for “Superman” and the future of the DC universe, with its vibe, colors, costumes, plot and overall atmosphere drawing from retro influences reminiscent of classic comic strips. It stars David Corenswet as Superman alongside Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, best known for her acclaimed title role in “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.”

In the film, Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult, is a power-hungry CEO determined to get his way no matter the cost. Backed by a team of soldiers, Luthor constantly throws new obstacles in Superman’s path.

The central conflict of James Gunn’s “Superman” surrounds the Boravian-Jarhanpurian war when a hidden message from Superman’s parents is leaked by Luthor. The Kryptonian message causes public outrage while, behind the scenes, Luthor works with the Boravian president to secretly keep war prisoners in pocket universes. However, these pocket universes threatens humanity, tearing through the fabric of the universe.

The production offers a fresh and modern take on the iconic characters while still honoring the comics. The leads delivered genuine performances and their on-screen chemistry is undeniable. Corenswet’s Superman is a wholesome, charming and compassionate individual. Superman has always been a great role model for kids — and this version is no different.

The different iterations of Superman have been physically strong while exemplifying deep empathy and compassion for the ones they save and protect. They don’t discriminate based on race, nor do they advocate for only one nation — they represent themselves, making them an inspiring figure. Overall, Corenswet’s performance was genuine and distinctly Superman, paying tribute to previous portrayals by actors like George Reeves, Christopher Reeve and Tom Welling.

While the movie maintained a lighthearted tone, even showcasing a moment where Superman saves a squirrel during a major battle, it didn’t shy away from tackling serious themes like war and politics.

Most notably, there is a scene in the film depicting a little boy waving a Superman flag. When hope is at its lowest, he waves it and whispers Superman’s name hopefully. The scene parallels current global conflicts, envisioning a world where an outside source can save humanity from its destruction.

Some of the film’s criticisms surround the portrayal of the Engineer, a metahuman with nanotech-based powers, played by María Gabriela de Faría. Unfortunately, the Engineer plays into the stereotype of the “angry Latina,” often throwing in random Spanish words that feel cringeworthy. This makes her character feel one-dimensional, missing the chance to portray a more genuine and thoughtful role.

In addition to the larger conflict of the movie, Lois and Superman’s relationship adds to the complexity of the characters, grounding their emotional growth and development. They begin with a casual relationship clearly on shaky ground. Despite their underlying love for each other, they struggle with differing communication styles. Lois longs for support and emotional connection, while Superman is non-confrontational in times of conflict, often leaving her feeling neglected. Her reactions suggest she may have experienced past traumas, which adds complexity to their interactions.

After a particularly tense argument, Superman’s emotional distance becomes apparent when he fails to offer her comfort, even when she clearly needs it. However, as a series of unexpected events unfold, they find themselves drawn closer together, ultimately realizing they truly need and love one another.

Brosnahan was a fantastic choice for Lois Lane, seamlessly embodying the character and sharing some standout scenes with Corenswet. She played a multifaceted Lois who was sarcastic, witty, skeptical, yet ultimately warm and loving. Even Krypto the Superdog, Superman’s quirky sidekick, made a fun appearance.

James Gunn’s “Superman” is a must-watch and is definitely an enjoyable experience. The performances are convincing, capturing the heart of the comics with care and style. It offers a fresh take on the classic superhero tale, blending action, emotion and nostalgia with ease. Superman’s inner struggle with identity and responsibility is portrayed in a powerful and relatable way.

While the film isn’t without its flaws, its strengths far outweigh them — making it a rewarding experience, especially for fans of the genre. Ultimately, the film has the potential to breathe new life into DC, rekindling fan excitement, restoring faith in the brand and establishing a robust foundation for the future of the DC cinematic universe.

Rating: 4.5/5 [BOLD]

Held every semester, Palabras is an art showcase and open mic night where students can perform their creative work. This semester’s event was emceed by Isabella Florentino, LASU’s La Voz coordinator and junior majoring in business administration.

Inspired by the iconic Nuyorican Poets Café of New York City’s Lower East Side — a cornerstone for poetry, music and the arts since 1973 — Palabras brought that creative spirit to Binghamton University. Donna Villa, LASU’s president and a senior double-majoring in political science and history, elaborated on the event’s inclusiveness.

“Palabras, which is hosted biannually, is an open mic event inspired by the Nuyorican Cafe in NYC,” Villa wrote in an email. “Like the cafe, we aim to provide a free space for students of color to perform and watch art in all forms. We strive to create solidarity and a community through every event we host and Palabras is art focused which [has] always been a core element to LASU.”

The event started at 8:30 p.m. in the University Union’s Underground Lounge and featured singer Ezequiel Pujols, a Dominican artist from the Bronx, as the keynote speaker. He was invited to perform by the LASU E-Board, which said it admired his music and felt his message aligned with the goals of Palabras.

The event was an all-inclusive showcase, offering a space for people of color to express themselves through art and storytelling. Free refreshments were provided to attendees, creating a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.

Florentino interviewed Pujols for around an hour, discussing his music career, creative process and the challenges of songwriting and being inspired. Pujols offered thoughtful advice and reflected on his growth as an artist to the audience.

During the event, several people practiced their chosen art forms on stage, including Pujols, who sang a selection of bachata covers and original songs for the audience.

“It was amazing having Ezequiel Pujols for the event as he brought such great insight for aspiring artists,” Villa wrote in an email. “He’s a young up and coming artist from the Bronx and our executive board has listened to his music before so it was an honor to interview him.”

Pujols performed pieces that blended Spanish and English lyrics, showcasing his bilingual artistry and adding a personal, cultural layer to his music.

Some of Pujols’s most popular tracks include “Who Can Blame Her,” which has amassed over 10 million streams on Spotify and “Every Night,” which has over 1.3 million streams. With 418,536 monthly listeners as of May, he has built an impressive following as an emerging verified artist.

Some highlights of the evening included an engaging presentation by Jayden Perez, the LASU secretary and junior majoring in psychology, where he ranked various Dominican dishes. Ashley Mera, the organization’s historian and a senior majoring in economics, followed with a heartfelt rendition of “I See the Light” from Disney’s “Tangled,” adding even more vocal talent to the event.

The event saw a strong turnout, which members of other organizations in attendance attributed to the open, inviting atmosphere. The energy in the room was supportive and uplifting, creating a sense of community transcending organizational boundaries. Palabras proved to be more than just a showcase — it was a safe space for expression and connection, encouraging creativity and cultural pride while allowing anyone who felt inspired to step up to the mic and perform.

“My favorite part was when multiple [general body] members performed their art of choice,” Villa wrote in an email. “I love to see all the talent and see how this space provides them with a stage to showcase their talents.”

Pujols echoed this sentiment, sharing how LASU’s Palabras allowed him to reflect upon his artistry while engaging with other aspiring creatives.

“I absolutely loved my experience at Binghamton’s PALABRAS event,” Pujols wrote. “My goal was really to encourage every artist and even non-artist in the room to go after whatever they’re passionate about. In the end, I found myself inspired by everyone else. It was amazing getting to see some students share some of their own talents and interests.”

Jerry Valentin, the organization’s president and a senior majoring in cinema, welcomed everyone to the event. A low rumble vibrated through the room, building anticipation as the lights centered onto the stage — a dramatic transition that ushered in the host’s grand entrance.

“The Haitian Student Association’s mission for this event was to spread and bring awareness to our culture, as well as highlight our culture’s beautiful food, people, clothing and everything we have to offer,” Valentin said. “We also want to bring light to the political atmosphere of Haiti and take the support of Haiti as well, talk about the corruption of the government [and] gang violence. Tonight, we highlight that Haiti is not just about bad things but also about the beautiful aspect that it brings to the world, to the countries around us through our food, music and our culture itself.”

The host, Brandon Cabraie, a senior majoring in accounting, hyped up the crowd with his infectious enthusiasm and brought an additional host to the stage, Sade Frazier, a master’s student studying business administration, who had a wonderfully scripted segment with Cabraie. They riffed off each other, making the event amusing and lighthearted.

The hosts detailed the menu items and encouraged everyone to enjoy the appetizers as traditional compas music played. Two separate dishes were served for the appetizer on a three-tiered serving platter. Korné, stuffed scones with beef, was served with bannan ak pikliz, a tasty dish of fried plantains and pickled vegetables.

Along the Mandela Room’s walls were posters featuring Haiti’s tropical landscapes, with a dash of purple lighting covering the room in an alluring glow. The tables were adorned with white cloth, golden plates and small candle centerpieces that created a comfy and luxurious ambiance.

After a brief intermission filled with music, mingling and appetizers, the first round of the date auction began. Bachelors and bachelorettes took the stage with confidence, competing for the prize of an all-expenses-paid date.

In honor of the night’s theme, “The Pearl of the Antilles,” each bachelor and bachelorette was introduced as a “pearl” — a nod to their value, charm and the beauty they brought to the stage.

Jasmine Braziel, a senior double-majoring in philosophy, politics and law and sociology, was called onto the stage and walked up like a runway model. After a brief introduction, the auction began and people started placing bids. Adding a fun cultural twist, all bidding was done using Haitian currency, immersing the audience in a unique experience.

For 500 gourdes, the lucky bidder joined Braziel on stage, where the two embraced and posed proudly for photos, sparking cheers and laughter throughout the room. In a playful nod to the night’s theme, the newly matched pair took their seats on a whimsical clam-shaped set piece — the perfect backdrop for a moment that was equally charming and unforgettable.

Throughout the night, other pearls graced the stage with confident walks, including Aiyana George, a senior majoring in cinema; Maya Taylor, a junior majoring in human development; McKenzie Skrastins, a junior double-majoring in mathematics and an individualized major in data science; Julian Rasberry, a sophomore majoring in economics; and Darius St. Victor, a freshman majoring in integrative neuroscience.

The auction created a lighthearted atmosphere, fostering a sense of community and romance that continued to grow as the night went on.

After the auction, attendees played “Pop the Balloon,” a widely popular social media game. Based on the Netflix show “Pop the Balloon Live,” a single contestant stood in front of a group of potential partners, each holding an inflated balloon. The main contestants introduced themselves and shared what they wanted out of a date.

The game progresses as the contestant asks questions related to personal preferences or circumstances. As the interaction continues, the contestant can pop the balloon to indicate disinterest. However, potential partners can also pop their balloons if they are not interested in the contestant. Each participant answers questions to determine whether or not they are the right match for the contestant, leading to unpredictable results. The dramatic fast-paced format has gained millions of views, leading to real-life romances.

Cabraie and Frazier looked for volunteers and picked people from the audience, including Shania Adams, a sophomore double-majoring in Africana studies and musical theatre.

“It was definitely nerve-wracking,” Adams said. “But my friend encouraged me to go up there ,so it got me out of my shell, definitely. It was nice.”

Adams and a group of two other individuals stood on the stage with a new male contestant appearing every three rounds. Sparking conversation on common dating struggles, two male contestants said they did not feel the need to pay for the first date, inciting an audible gasp from the audience.

In the end, one contestant matched with their “HaSA bae” of the night and walked off the stage together. The segment included lots of laughs and created a lighthearted atmosphere.

Following the game, guests were treated to a flavorful spread of traditional Haitian dishes, including Haitian mac and cheese and an option of shrimp, fried chicken, fish or beef, along with a plate of rice. To complement the meal, attendees enjoyed a refreshing Haitian fruit punch and a sweet serving of blan manje, a creamy coconut custard drink that added the perfect finish to the night’s culinary experience.

“I hope this event just brings more awareness that we’re actually here and present on campus and the community itself, and among that as well that we’re here to also share and spread our culture of love, food and music,” Valentin said.

The event started around 2 p.m. and began with a quick introduction from three E-Board members, who made their way to the apron of the stage and stood in an orderly formation near the curtains, smiling with anticipation. As the members went onto the stage, the atmosphere quickly shifted to one of excitement and engagement as attendees settled in. The room buzzed with suspense for the activities ahead, setting the tone for a lively and fun event.

Katherine Peters, the organization’s president and a senior majoring in biomedical engineering, Veronica Raffaele, the vice president and a junior double-majoring in philosophy, politics and law and Spanish, and Elise Frenyea, the treasurer and a junior majoring in psychology, welcomed the audience and kicked off the showcase. The applause then went quiet, the lights dimmed and the first act began.

Dressed in sleek pink costumes, the dancers took the stage with fierce confidence and fluid grace, starting the show with a bold attitude.

Blending modern dance with hints of vogue-like movement and contemporary flair, their dance was marked by striking flexibility and seamless transitions that pulsed with the beat of the song. Partner work showcased not just physical strength but emotional support, echoing themes of unity and empowerment. The performance radiated pride, resilience and self-celebration, turning the stage into a space of unapologetic expression.

The first act featured a dynamic lineup of 15 performances, showcasing a diverse range of styles including ballet, hip-hop and contemporary dance. Among the standout pieces was Yulia Garaeva’s powerful interpretation of “Army Dreamers,” which left a lasting impression with its emotional depth and precise choreography.

“For my solo ‘Army Dreamers,’ I took inspiration from my own personal grief and deep conflicts in life,” Garaeva, a ballet III choreographer and a senior majoring in sociology, wrote in an email. “I wanted to showcase vulnerable components of real life that people could connect to and feel along with me. Evolution Dance Company has given me the opportunity to perform such aspects of my life and provide a stage and audience to share my choreography with.”

“The arts are so important in navigating difficult concepts such as grief, loss, and tragedy; EDC allows full liberty for their choreographers to express themselves and tell a story that is close and dear to them and to many people in the audience,” she added.

Following Garaeva’s emotional solo, the showcase continued with a vibrant mix of performances that kept the energy high and the audience engaged.

MODA brought dynamic movement and swagger to the stage with a high-energy hip-hop routine, while Tap That delivered a synchronized tap performance full of rhythm and charisma. Paradox entered the scene with a captivating blend of K-pop and hip-hop influences, combining sharp formations, expressive gestures, bucket hats and a powerful stage presence. Each group brought its own distinct style, adding depth and variety to Act I.

Act I concluded with a striking piece choreographed by Anjali Durjan, set to a medley of Kendrick Lamar’s “United in Grief” and Childish Gambino’s “Me and Your Mama.” Rooted in contemporary and modern dance styles, the performance channeled raw emotion and intensity. Dancers wore messy T-shirts, with smudged black makeup and eyeshadow that amplified the chaotic, expressive energy of the piece.

The performance had character and emotion, and it completely enraptured the audience as cheers and name-dropping filled the room.

The dancers’ movements were sharp and unpredictable — at times furious, at times still — with moments where they collapsed to the floor or laid down completely, embodying themes of exhaustion, rage and release. Jazz hands appeared unexpectedly, adding an unsettling edge to the choreography. As the performance drew to a close, the dancers slow-walked offstage, their backs to the audience, as the music and lighting gradually faded into silence.

“The vision for this semester’s showcase, specifically in my own dance, ‘United in Grief,’ was to introduce a piece that was different to EDC,” Durjan, a modern III choreographer and a junior majoring in art history, wrote in an email. “While this being my first time choreographing for Modern 3, I wanted to bring my different dance interpretations and techniques to the club. I wanted to create a piece where we all embodied a crazy and unique character. A character with ups and downs and I believe we accomplished that. I wanted to challenge everyone to reach their full and ‘limitless’ potential, hence the show title name.”

Several dancers remarked on how much they would miss the graduating members, expressing deep appreciation for their leadership, friendship and the impact they had on the group’s community and spirit.

During intermission, Jennie Po, a sophomore majoring in nursing, shared her gratitude for the spring showcase, where she performed with MODA and her EDC team.

“I met so many friends,” Po said. “They supported me, especially when I was on MODA, and then they saw me perform, and they congratulated me afterward. It’s so rewarding.”

After a brief intermission, everyone went back to their seats, and the lights dimmed once more. Act II began, introducing a fresh wave of 16 performances that carried the momentum forward with renewed energy and passion.

Raffaele choreographed a solo performance for herself that was both dramatic and emotionally charged. Her movements were expressive and deliberate — falling gracefully, flipping with ease and maintaining a strong sense of composure and focus throughout the entire piece.

Raffaele, who will be graduating a year early, admitted to feeling bittersweet in the days leading up to the showcase, knowing it would be one of her final performances with the group.

“I’m most excited to perform one last time with all of my favorite people,” Raffaele wrote in an email. “Watching everyone’s hard work over the past year — from weekly rehearsals and full company run-throughs to social events and late-night dinners — come together on stage is so rewarding. Showcase day always has a special kind of energy: a mix of excitement, nerves, and bittersweet emotions as everything wraps up. I’ll truly miss everything about EDC, but especially the incredible people I’ve met along the way.”

Act II ended with two climactic performances titled “Drake vs. Kendrick” and “Gaga,” which included the entire EDC E-Board. In the former, the dancers were split into two groups — one half was dressed in red track pants and the other dressed in blue — visually representing the contrast between the two artists through a dynamic hip-hop routine.

“Gaga” followed with a modern piece that featured expressive movement, glittering costumes and a standout moment where one dancer was lifted, adding a sense of elevation and theatricality to the performance.

The night came to a heartfelt close as all the dance groups gathered on stage for a final bow. Graduating members were honored with roses, a touching gesture that celebrated their contributions and marked the end of their journey with the team.

Peters described EDC’s bright future.

“This show is 10 years of EDC and we have incorporated some components to give thanks to our past,” Peters wrote in an email. “We appreciate how far we have come and what those before us have done to help foster an environment full of creativity and connection. We want to show that the possibilities are ‘limitless’ for the future of EDC.”

The Haitian Student Association, a club that spreads awareness on campus about Haitian culture, introduced the basic plot of the film before its screening.

The film, “Perro Bomba,” directed by Juan Cáceres, describes the story of a young Haitian immigrant named Steevens, played by Steevens Benjamin, who settles in Chile and experiences deep racist reactions in an urban environment. The film is entirely shot in Creole and Spanish, emphasizing the linguistic and cultural duality of the charactersʼ experiences.

Steevens built a stable life in Santiago. He integrated into his community, formed friendships and enjoyed simple yet meaningful moments. His world seemed secure until the arrival of Junior, played by Junior Valcin, a childhood friend from Haiti.

Eager to help, Steevens gets Junior a job at the same construction company where he works. At first, things go smoothly, but there’s one major obstacle — Junior doesn’t speak Spanish.

Tensions come to a head during a lunch break with their coworkers. Their boss, played by Alfredo Castro, who they refer to as “Jefe” in the film, enters the scene. Frustrated with Junior not knowing Spanish, their boss mocks him openly, making racist remarks. Without permission, he grabs Steevens and Junior’s arms, placing them side by side. Smirking, he asks, “Are there differences between blacks?” His colorism is blatant, and he revels in his cruelty.

The harassment escalates. After being bullied by Peruvian coworkers, Junior once again finds himself the target of workplace harassment. This time, his boss goes even further, degrading Junior and Haitians as a whole. Unable to hold back any longer, Steevens snaps. He attacks the boss in a moment of raw anger — a moment that is caught on video and spreads online.

The fallout is swift and unforgiving. He is on the news. His community turns on him. Friends abandon him. He loses his legal status, his job and his home.

Forced onto the streets of Santiago, Steevens struggles to survive. The walls of society close in, pushing him further into the margins. To avoid being recognized, he cuts off his long locs — shedding a part of himself in the process.

Desperation leads him down paths he never imagined. He takes odd jobs, many exploitative, compromising his morals and even his sexuality.

He meets Esperanza, played by Blanca Lewin, a pro bono lawyer who offers to help him regain his legal status. But even this opportunity is laced with exploitation.

One night, the homeless shelter is full. With nowhere to go, he ends up at Esperanza’s apartment. The power dynamic shifts as she satisfies her own desires under the guise of offering refuge — another transaction in a world that constantly takes from him.

As Steevens spirals further into survival at any cost, he is forced to question what remains of himself in a society that refuses to see him as anything more than an outsider.

Throughout the film, food arguably serves as a symbol of unity and community. It is a shared experience that brings people together, fostering warmth and connection. Nearly every meal scene is filled with joy —people laughing, appreciating the food and embracing the sense of belonging it provides.

At the beginning of the movie, over a dinner of stew chicken and plantains, an older Haitian man says, “They make us believe God is a white man.”

Food becomes more than just sustenance in this film. It is a space where people feel comfortable enough to express themselves freely and speak the truth.

That’s why it’s so disheartening when “Jefe” disrupts Steevens and Junior’s meal at work, shattering that sense of comfort and community. What was once a safe space for connection and free expression becomes a moment of humiliation and division.

When asked about the use of cultural food in the film, Montenegro spoke about her own experiences. She said that food serves as a way for people to connect with their culture. For her, having grown up eating plantains, there’s nothing better than seeing Caribbean food represented on screen. Watching “plátanos” being cooked brings a sense of familiarity, joy and festivity.

After the screening, Robyn Cope, an associate professor of romance languages and literatures, facilitated a discussion, encouraging students to reflect on the film. The conversation revisited key themes such as masculinity, youth and colorism, allowing the audience to express their emotions and interpretations. In spring 2026, Cope will be teaching a course related to themes of slavery and colonialism in the Caribbean titled “Maroon Nation.”

Reactions varied: Some students voiced frustration, while others expressed outright anger over the film’s pivotal moments. A few even described a sense of hopelessness as they watched the story unfold.

Cope continued the discussion throughout the night, encouraging the audience to reflect on the real-life issues portrayed in the film. The conversation allowed students to brainstorm and share their thoughts on the film’s social and cultural themes.

When asked about the choice of film and how it related to colorism and awareness, Montenegro reiterated the event’s purpose.

“I think that’s part of what the festival is trying to address as well, looking at the multitude of Caribbean and Latin American identities,” Cope said.

Cope added: “And how those are juxtaposed or intertwined and sometimes align or not.”

The event was in collaboration with the Romance Languages and Literatures Department, the Institute of Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention, the Department of Political Science, the Department of Africana Studies, and LACAS students and faculty.

The film highlighted Afro-Latin American voices, struggles and systemic racism through the lens of a young Black man. Touching on the pressures immigrants face, the screening prompted conversation and raised awareness of overlooked marginalized groups.

Lipps opened the evening with a reading from his collection, setting the tone with themes of love, death and sadness, all woven with a strong connection to nature. Originally from rural western Michigan, his upbringing plays a significant role in his work. Lipps mentioned how growing up on a farm became part of his DNA.

When asked for advice for aspiring writers, he emphasized the importance of challenging literature.

“Find good things to read,” Lipps said. “Things that you can respect, things that challenge you, not just ideologically or politically, but their intensity and style, that maybe it’s a little challenging to read, but then you get comfortable with it, but then you grow. Read and keep writing.”

Lipps is the author of “Built Around the Fire” and “The Body as Passage.” He teaches at Central State University in Ohio, and his work has appeared in “Best New Poets,” “Colorado Review,” “North American Review” and more.

Umansky is an author, poet and writing coach with three collections to her name. Since 2011, she has also hosted the COUPLET Reading Series in New York City.

Following Lipps, Umansky shared a thoughtful reading from her latest collection, “OF TYRANT,” which included the poem “Love Tyrant Love” and others. Her work delves into themes of instability, corruption and the many faces of tyranny — societal, intimate, emotional or career-related.

“I think that the poems are about the many faces of the tyrant, and it could be political, personal, romantic, professional,” Umansky said. “And so for me, it was very therapeutic. I kind of needed to write those poems to kind of get through some of the horror that was happening in the world in 2015, 2016 and after that.”

The event concluded with a Q&A session, where both poets were interviewed and discussed their creative processes further.

Lipps was asked about writing in the present political climate and shared some insights. He reflected on the state of the world, suggesting that while it might be a stretch, history has always had its dark moments, and this could be one of them. Rather than focusing on the turmoil, he prefers to write about ordinary people navigating everyday life, letting their stories unfold in simplicity.

The event provided attendees with an intimate look into the minds of two accomplished poets, each bringing their own perspective and voice to the Q&A.

Umansky reflected on her writing process and the evolving space of poetry.

“More and more people are being connected to poetry and are discovering poetry in more ways,” Umansky said. “I think we’re exposed to it in more outlets now. And I would like to think that just the stringing together of a common sentence can make someone inspired to write, to create and to do several different things.”