Dear reader,

We live in harrowing times: war, famine, political unrest, the list goes on. Across the globe, we have seen far-right authoritarian leaders elected and stain the marbled pillar of democracy. While these issues feel so far away, they could not be closer. As activists and journalists, The Yowl must stay vigilant and protect Davidson students as a crucial whistleblower. To that end, chilling events have been moving in the shadows here at Davidson, as the Union Board has taken a terrifying authoritative shift.

Many readers might not have even noticed that Union Board leaders have been chosen right under our noses. It was done without fanfare, without publicity, and it was the first year in this journalist’s tenure that it was done without a vote. Sadly, we ignored previous years’ signs of this authoritative shift: only one party on the ballot last year, the militarization of trivia hosts, the announcement of this year’s Frolics theme as “Obedience and Servitude” and surveillance cameras being planted in the Build-A-Bae animals.

This silent coup should scare the public. Our way of life and our representation is facing an existential threat. We must keep the faith and fight back when we see this power being used to oppress students. At Union Board’s after-midnight sweatshop next week, create your own bracelet ideas and not just the Disney power bands they want you to make. At karaoke this Live Thursday, even if the only available song is the Union Board “Peace for All” anthem, sing that song you don’t know the words to. Put up posters in the Union even if they aren’t approved. And DO NOT, I REPEAT DO NOT, attend this Wednesday’s panopticon event (even if they serve Milkbread). They subdue and placate the masses with Milkbread. We can only eat true Milkbread once we are all free.

I wish I could say more, but I fear I must end this article. My bonsai tree from the DIY bonsai event is starting to emit a whirring sound as it sprays a green mist. Be safe out there Davidson students… and fight the power!