http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/09/sports/othersports/09boxers.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&ref=us
This article follows the story of Cheryl Ziegler, an 18 year old single mother who travels to various boxing matches with her trainer. Ziegler is a member of the Native American Warriors Pro-Boxing Network, which provides an opportunity for Native Americans to escape lives ridden with poverty, drug abus, alcoholism, etc. It is believed that organizations such as this one willallow Indians to help each other improve their lives
I think that, although organizations like this may provide more opportunities for struggling Native Americans, it can also be a very intimidating lifestyle for a majority of them. It seems like it may be forced upon many of them as it proves to be the lesser of two evils.
The article then goes on to explain some history of this network and profile some more members of it. I think that, although this lifestyle would appear less dangerous in the short run, it may actually end up having poor consequences for its members- both physical and emotional. Boxing obviously takes a heavy toll on the body, but I think the mindset required to be a boxer is very different from that of the average person. Therefore, if people are thrust into this lifestyle, they will be forced to adapt to it quickly and it may make them feel insecure, intimidated, and frightened.
Overall, however, I think it is good that this option is available to Native Americans because if they can put themselves in the proper mindset, they can adapt to this lifestyle and overcome challenges they were faced with in their pasts.
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2 comments:
I think that boxing should be one of many avenues that act as "outlets" for people in poorer circumstances ie ballroom dancing in inner city schools has been common for children. However, I think the best way is to attack the root of a problem rather than give people other options-boxing seems like just another option. Moreover, I agree with the point that boxing is a very intense environment: it is not for everyone. The example that these people are setting shows social mobility, but are they going in the right direction?
I really like the style of this article. The journalist (JERÉ LONGMAN) was able to completely describe his subjects, making it easier for the reader to put themselves in Ziegler's shoes. He really observed the peoples every moment and was able to capture it with expert clarity. Longman also provided sufficient background information on each of the people he talked about, which was helpful to the reader.
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