ISSUE 92.4
W E L C O M E
EDITORS
URVI PATEL
SAKSHI MALPANI
LOUISA TEDESCO
COVER PHOTO
CYGNUS-ART (HANSA)
@cygnus art
ART WORK
ALIV RHEANTORO
VICTORIA NG RUI QI
GRAPHIC DESIGN
URVI PATEL
SAKSHI MALPANI
LOUISA TEDESCO
CONTRIBUTORS
WIILLIAM GOH
FIONNE CHAI P NGAM
GRACE HARKINS
CHARLIE NOLE
ASHTON HILTON MILLE
We want to acknowledge that the University of Adelaide’s On Dit is written and created upon Kaurna land. The Kaurna People are the traditional custodians of the Greater Adelaide Plains and their culture, knowledge, and spiritual connections continue to run deeply within this Country.
We acknowledge that the University of Adelaide is a place of learning attended by First Nations People from around the continent and, like Kaurna, their land and sovereignty was never ceded.
We pay our deepest respects to the Elders of the past, present, and emerging.
WINNERS ON DIT
EDITORIAL EDITORIAL
To All the Readers of On Dit (Yes, All Three of You Still Waiting),
I’ve seen your comments and read your emails. I agree, I have been MIA wrapped in a blanket, crying my eyes out on some days, questioning every single life choice that led me here. Dark thoughts clouded my mind constantly: Was I failing the legacy of On Dit? Had I let down the editors who probably fought tooth and nail for this publication, working tirelessly? I mean, they likely had more caffeine in their veins than oxygen I know half of them survived purely on instant noodles and determination. And here I was, sitting in the dark, hugging a picture of my dog for comfort
A part of me wondered where it all went wrong It felt like I tripped on a rock, and instead of getting up and moving forward, I just crawled under it and stayed there. A question kept haunting me: If I could go back in time and change one thing, what would it be? But really, that question only wastes time, because you can’t change the past. What you can do is get up, clean your glasses (clouded by misery, hate, and self-doubt), and move forward no matter how hard it all seems
That’s what I chose to do
I met many of you during the Winter BBQ festival, and even more of you at Open Day Those conversations reminded me of the love I have for On Dit. It made me realize that I didn’t want to disappoint the lovers of On Dit I know there’s a small but mighty crowd that waits for the new edition like it’s the final season of your favourite TV show. And I most certainly didn’t want to dishonour the past editors who might haunt me in my nightmares.
I know I won’t be an editor forever (and judging by my schedule, not much longer). But whatever time I do have left, I’m going to squeeze every last drop of chaotic energy into making the last few editions of On Dit an amazing read for you. So, buckle up! It’s going to be a wild ride from here on out whatever’s left of it, anyway
Cheers to making the most of it, Your editor, Urvi (Back from her existential crisis)
IF Y IF YOU HAD T OU HAD T
EDITORS PICK EDITORS PICK
S U P E R H E R O S U P E R H E R O
S U P E R H E R O S U P E R H E R O
URVI’S
P I C K
Spider-Man is my GO-TO superhero because he’s more than just a guy in a suit fighting villains he’s the kind of hero who would walk me home if I felt unsafe at night. He’s the one who’d swing down from a rooftop to help me carry my groceries when they’re too heavy. Honestly, I can imagine him popping by in the morning, encouraging me to hit the gym, saying,
“With great power comes great fitness.”
He’s not just about fighting bad guys; he’s about being a good friend and motivating me to make better choices. I mean, who wouldn’t want Spidey reminding them to eat their veggies? He’s relatable, down-to-earth, and always puts people first, which is why I know if I ever needed a pep talk or a hero to look up to, SpiderMan would be there, cracking jokes and making life a little bit easier.
SAKSHI’S
P I C K
Mystique is one of Marvel's most intriguing and complex characters. As a shapeshifter, she can take on the appearance of anyone, which makes her both a foe and an ally. She’s known for being fiercely independent and often operates in morally grey areas.
Mystique’s backstory reveals layers of trauma, survival, and betrayal that shape her actions.
She’s antisocial by nature, often keeping her true feelings hidden beneath layers of deception. Kind of like me I might not always show what I’m thinking, but rest assured, my poker face is so good even I don’t know what’s behind it:)
LOUISA’S
P I C K
Disney’s modern reimagining of the Sleeping Beauty antagonist has an incredible complexity to her character. Maleficent’s past of love lost, betrayal and abandonment humanises her. We sympathise with Maleficent as she is consumed by her anger and hurts others, including Aurora. Yet, knowing the curse which would soon befall the grown Aurora, she feels an intense desire to protect her I’m in awe of Maleficent’s redemption arc; exemplifying the ‘true love’ Phillip’s first kiss could not bestow Her chaste kiss on Aurora’s forehead carried with it the promise that, even if Aurora did not wake, Maleficent would ensure no further harm would come to her Maleficent shows a genuine demonstration of ‘true love’ –not mushy gestures, or fuzzy feelings, but humility, repentance, and selfsacrifice I think if we all loved one another like this, rather than with a self-serving love that seeks instant gratification, the world would be a better place!
A N T IH E R O A N T IH E R O A N T IH E R O A N T IH E R O
YOUX
Dear Students and the University of Adelaide Community,
It is with deep gratitude and excitement that I deliver this report to all of you, in particular post-election The overwhelming support I have received as your SRC President elect for 2025, with 2 5 times more votes than the
idate, is a clear endorsement of our shared vision, reaffirms the trust we ’ ve built her throughout my current term, and the shared vision for a more inclusive, diverse, enriching university experience This moment isn’t just about the SRC or myself it’s ut us, the students, and our determination to create a better future for you in the new aide University as we approach the merger
e enter the third-last semester before the merger, my focus remains sharp on key ities diversity, inclusion, student success, and employability. These are not just words but essential pillars of what we aim to improve I am also dedicated with my of representatives to ensuring that the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) nues to be spent directly for your benefit, enhancing your overall university experience.
pleased to highlight one of our recent achievements: the SRC Food Pantry, which has operational for two months and has already seen over 1,400 students walk through oor.
initiative is a clear example of how small actions can make a big impact on our munity For those who are hearing about it for the first time, the Food Pantry operates y Wednesday from 12-2 PM on Level 4 of the Union House, excluding public and ol holidays Your continued support and involvement are greatly appreciated, and I forward to seeing you there along with my committee members.
We also recognize that many of our st global events or personal struggles At respectful campus environment where f learning of others
Locally, I’m aware that many of you ar it’s skyrocketing rents, grocery bills, or issues, and the SRC is working on way to help you navigate these difficult time
Looking forward, our primary responsi your student fees are put to good use,
The coming semesters will be pivotal a change, and growth I will continue to transition works in your favour and tha life.
Finally, with exams around the corner assignments approaching, I want to wi
VOX? POP!
best friend
erhero or villain alth struggles
I'd choose Spider-Man as a best friend! He's relatable, funny, and always there to help Plus, swinging through the city as his buddy would be awesome!
An underrated superhero is Moon Knight He’s often overshadowed by other Marvel heroes, but his complex background as a former Marine and his struggle with dissociative identity disorder make him a unique and fascinating character. His connection to Egyptian mythology also adds an interesting layer to his stories.
Comic book characters' mental health struggles often reflect real-life complexities and challenges, offering nuanced portrayals of issues like trauma and dissociative identity disorder. They address stigma and misunderstanding, showing that vulnerability and strength coexist Through these characters' journeys, comics can foster empathy and provide hope by depicting personal growth and effective coping mechanisms.
Maybe Batman I feel like any superhero would be cancelling plans allot and wouldn’t make the best friends, but at least he might be able to call me a fancy chauffeur service when he does, or let me hang with Alfred Would be great to have Bruce Wayne in my network as well 1 Joey Chestnut.
2.
3 saving the day. In real life, people’s struggles are rarely this two dimensional or so easily resolved Or maybe they are, I’ve never tried fighting crime in all fairness.
More often than not, I feel as if their struggles can be mirrored quite poorly from real life. While groups of men who refuse to talk about or acknowledge their mental health struggles and instead choosing to distract themselves with their superhero work or by taking their anger out on someone else may be quite on point, often any struggles these characters have can be overcome by defeating an evil villain or
JAMESSEXTON
For a best friend, Captain America would be a solid choice —loyal, honorable, and always dependable
1 An underrated villain is Mister Freeze, whose tragic backstory and deep emotional pain are often overshadowed by other major villains.
3
2. Comic book characters' mental health struggles, like Mister Freeze ’ s grief and depression over his wife’s condition, mirror real-life experiences of loss and emotional turmoil, showing how even villains can be driven by deeply human emotions.
DIVYANSHIDEVJANI
Superman because he believes in doing the right thing and tries his best to manage his two polar opposite lives. 1 Underrated villain has to be Megamind 2
3.
Comic book characters show how tough situations around them shape them into the person they are. For both villain and hero the situations are usually unkind but heroes change the circumstances around them while villains let the circumstances change themselves. This goes to show how mentality affects personality much similar to real life where mental health struggles are different for everyone and they shape everyone into the person they are
The Hard Truth
The monotonous words. The sorrow stares. The arched brows My ears strain to catch the inflections in your speech. My eyes involuntarily stray towards yours, searching for you The moment I notice those arched brows, my attention will wane My unconscious could never leave you alone
These gestures never concerned me until I realised, they were your expressions. They are loud to me now I hear you
When I read on my couch, you are right beside me When my neck aches from bending too long, goosebumps rise along my back as my neck anticipates your massage Lying on the cushion transports me back to resting my head on your arm. Your presence lingers, even when you're not there
You have become a constant in my head I no longer trust my senses, they lead me straight to you.
It has been a year. Why are you still here? Am I projecting memories or are you not over me? Time is supposed to heal us, but why do I feel as if I'm stuck in the moment I ended our relationship?
I should have ended it before you became more than just a companion
What will end this madness?
… Rays of neon yellow, sanguine red, and luminous blue ripple across a sea of people Jewellery and beads of sweat catch the light, making the crowd shimmer in the dim interior Music blasts from towering speakers, the bass reverberating through the air Bodies move in a chaotic dance, skin brushing against skin I weave through the crowd, but what I see ahead brings me to a sudden stop
In my peripheral vision, people glare as I block their path, but nothing can pull my attention from those silver eyes, each iris ringed with gold The world fades away His usual blonde mop is now styled into tousled waves, inviting touch The sturdy rectangle glasses are gone, exposing his stout nose. His thin, mahogany lips are tugged into a frown as he reads a message on his phone
His choice of clothes had changed immensely Gone are the monochrome baggy sweaters and black track pants A tailored three-piece suit hugs his sinewy physique, accentuating his broad frame. The golden liquid twinkles as he swirls the transparent crystal glass before finishing his liquor in a gulp. As he turns, our eyes meet
No hint of recognition in those cold distant eyes as our gazes meet across the growing crowd. My hope shatters, and a lone tear slips down my cheek Then, his brow lifts in surprise as he focuses on me again My heart races with anticipation. A syrupy voice calls his name as a young lady in flashy clothes whizzes by my side towards him. Hearing his name said in that tone reminds me that he no longer remembers me
We're strangers now This should lessen the withdrawal, the pain that brought me here, to dance until my muscles scream Physical pain is at least something tangible, something to fill the emptiness. I can’t endure this madness with a clear mind much longer I close my eyes, swaying to the beat, losing myself in the music. My head throbs from hours of dancing My legs beg for rest, but I refuse to stop I don’t care that I’m risking my ability to walk home.
A hand grips my hip, pulling me from my thoughts I shove it away without hesitation, moving deeper into the crowd
I stare at the ceiling lights, avoiding any more unintended attention. My phone vibrates in my pocket.
Still swaying, I pull out my phone and squint at the dim screen. The flashing lights make it hard to see. Getting off the dance floor is a better idea.
I can feel the sweat on my back once I come down from the high; my loose tank clings to me. I wave at familiar faces, blowing kisses at the compliments. The makeup S convinced me to try seems to be a hit. She drove me here and left with her boyfriend before I saw him.
I head to the bungalow, savouring the cool night air. My phone buzzes again, S’s photo lighting up the screen.
“Where are you?” I ask.
“We’re at the dance floor now. Where are you?”
“Oh… The bungalow… I couldn’t see my phone in there.”
“Did you see…Never mind… We’ll meet you there, Mathy.”
Yes, and he didn’t recognise me.
I sigh, looking up at the night sky. A few stars wink at me, the moon hidden behind thick clouds. The forgotten pain creeps back, and my neck aches. I’ll be bedridden all weekend. It’s almost 4 am, another record for staying out.
As the sound of heels echoes, I turn to leave but freeze when I see him standing there. My legs refuse to move. I turn away from him.
By Fionne Chai P Ngam
“Why did you cry?” His voice is cold, sending a shiver down my spine. My heart races, knowing he saw me.
My silence doesn't deter him. He steps closer, standing just to my right, his warmth palpable. I keep my face blank, counting in my head to calm my racing heart, but it’s useless. I silently beg for S to appear or call me. The dimming moon is no match for his undeniable presence. Nothing could prepare me for his next words—the ones that shattered my heart the last time we spoke.
“Who are you?”
Flashes of that gory night rush through my mind. The broken glass, the swollen eyes from crying, the scar on my hip aching. It feels like it happened yesterday. I look down at my feet, seeing the torn boots. I no longer see the bungalow floor but the gravel. The pungent gasoline fills my nostrils. When I look up, he’s gone.
I whisper to myself, “It’s not real. Breathe… 1, 2, 3.” My breathing slows, but the world remains the same. Suddenly, a warm hand grips my shoulder, and I scream. I struggle to break free, but the grip tightens.
“I’m here,” he says, his voice echoing in my head. As his hand rubs my back, tears start to fall. My legs give way, and I scream inside for the world to stop. He shouldn’t have looked for me; his memories would have been intact if he hadn’t saved me. He would have remembered why he steered clear from me after what I did.
My heartbeat pounds in my ears, a crescendo that abruptly fades to black. The last thing I hear is S’s voice, screaming my name, before unconsciousness claims me.
FEDERAL BUDGET ECON
What is the Federal Budget?
By convention, the budget of the Australian Federal Government is handed down annually on the second Tuesday in May. The Treasurer sets out the estimated expenditures and revenue of the Australian Government for the following year, as well as delivering the second reading speech outlining Australia's prevailing economic circumstances and major policy and fiscal decisions.
Education was a significant area of expenditure in the 2024-25 budget, accounting for 7.2% of total expenses after social security and welfare (36.3%) and health (15.3%).
Total education expenses are estimated to increase by 7 3% over the period 2024-25 to 2027-28 The budget allocates $1 1 billion over five years to several initiatives aimed at improving the university experience and reducing financial burdens on students. This funding, while substantial, represents a small fraction of the $37 billion sector, raising questions about its potential to drive transformative change
Key investments in education
HECS Indexation Reforms
$239.7 million will be allocated to changing HECS indexation, ensuring that annual indexation applies to the lower amount of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or Wage Price Index (WPI).
This change, which is backdated, is expected to wipe out an estimated $3 billion in student debt and reduce the average debt by $1,200 per student
This measure aims to prevent student debts from growing faster than wages, a significant step in addressing the financial burden on graduates.
What are the CPI and WPI?
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure that examines the average change over time in the prices paid by consumers for a basket of goods and services It is commonly used to gauge inflation, reflecting the cost of living by tracking the prices of items such as food, clothing, housing, transportation, medical care, and education. The Wage Price Index (WPI) measures changes in the wages of employees in different sectors and occupations across Australia
2024-25 ARE YOU A WINNER?
The recent Australian Federal Budget promises significant investments aimed at transforming tertiary education. Here is a basic guide of what you need to know about the 2024-25 Australian Federal Budget and its implications for university students.
Addressing Placement Poverty
Tired of unpaid placements draining your wallet? $427 4 million is to be invested to address "placement poverty" caused by mandatory unpaid placements. From July 2025, 68,000 students in nursing, teaching, and social work, along with 5,000 VET students, will receive $319 50 weekly during their placements
While this measure provides much-needed financial relief, it has sparked complaints from students in other disciplines who are excluded
Expanding Course Access
For many people, university courses feel out of reach. Therefore, $350.3 million will be used to expand access to preparatory courses, aiming to improve equity and help more students qualify for university.
This initiative is designed to increase the number of students completing their degrees by providing better preparation and support
A new "needs-based" funding system, set to begin in January 2026, aims to increase the number of students from First Nations families, low SES backgrounds, those with disabilities, and students from regional areas
Details of this funding model will be finalised after consultation with relevant stakeholders, adding to the delay in its implementation.
International Students
A significant change introduced in the budget is the cap on international student enrolments, part of the Draft International Education and Skills Strategic Framework This cap, effective from 2025, aims to ensure that educational providers can maintain high-quality outcomes amidst growing student numbers Each institution will have a maximum allowance for international students based on factors such as the availability of student accommodation and the institution's history of educational quality. The budget states, “The government will require universities to establish new, purpose-built student accommodation should they wish to increase their international student enrolments above their initial allocation.” Another initiative is the new MATES Scheme will allow Indian graduates and earlycareer professionals to live and work in Australia for two years from November 1, 2024
National Student Ombudsman
Starting February 1, 2025, a National Student Ombudsman will be established to provide advice and handle complaints from both domestic and international students about their education providers This initiative aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the education sector.
Gender-based Violence
$18.4 million will be invested over four years to introduce a National Higher Education Code to respond to gender-based violence Almost $1 billion over five years will fund the Leaving Violence Program, providing financial support and other resources for those fleeing domestic violence. This includes $152 3 million for the Temporary Visa Holders Experiencing Violence pilot and $16 5 million for legal aid for temporary migrants escaping violence While the Budget has addressed significant concerns of students introducing several initiatives aimed at alleviating financial pressures on university students and enhancing access to higher education, several critical issues remain unresolved.
By Grace Harkins
LLRC RC
LABOR CLUB
The recent Review commissioned by the Premier was implemented following concerns about the potential loss of jobs and about the long-term viability of a complete restructuring of services and research. Upon its completion, the Government announced it would accept all six of the recommendations - such as directly injecting $4 1 million into the museum and appointing a new board chair It is estimated that the current space available for public galleries and exhibits is only at a third of what is needed, with the review recommending a study into asset management and infrastructure in order to enhance the amount of space on offer A key problem that the museum has faced recently is a lack of funding due to decreased visitors and donors, with the review recommending that new opportunities be sought Regardless, it remains clear that the most reliable long-term method of funding our museums is to encourage more people to visit with their friends and familyhence the emphasis on marketing within the review We firmly believe that the museum is an important cultural and historical institution that should be protected; and oppose any outrageous attempts at repeating the infamous Liberal cuts to the arts sector.
Ellie Venning (Labor Club President) & April Glynn-roe
What do you make of the Premier’s decision to axe the restructure of SA Museum and instead contribute an extra $4.1 million to develop a new strategy for marketing, promotion of exhibitions and museum operations? Are you confident that the Premier’s new Strategic Plan will ensure the Museum remains “cherished by the South Australian public?"
GREENS CLUB
The Greens Club welcome the Premier’s decision to axe the restructure of SA Museum and provide funding for a new strategy. Earlier this year, a Greens motion initiated the State Parliament's Statutory Authorities Review Standing Committee (SARC) inquiry into the South Australian Museum The multi-partisan SARC inquiry has heard shocking evidence about the current Museum’s governance and funding issues The Greens want the Government to prioritise our cultural institutions This isn’t just about the museum; it is about safeguarding access to vital cultural and scientific resources for generations to come While we await the recommendations and report from the SARC Inquiry, the Premier’s new Strategic Plan signals a move in the right direction to protecting the Museum, but acceptance and implementation on the recommendations from the SARC Inquiry will signal true commitment
PROGRESS
Response not received
Valeria Caceres Galvez (Greens Club President)
The axing of the Museum's restructure is a win for the state of South Australia There aren't many issues which can unite the political spectrum, but this was one, with both the Greens and Liberal coming out against the proposal to restructure the museum, despite the latter's budget cuts while in office having put the museum in a position where job losses were a necessity We know that institutions like our museum need more funding, and the additional $4.1 million dollars will ensure that the museum can appeal to more people across our state Labor never should have accepted that elimination of the museum's researchers would be acceptable, but any time where the Premier decides policies based on public benefit is a very welcome change, and we are cautiously optimistic about the future for the museum
Cyrus Kelly
LIBERAL CLUB
The Liberal Club has, since day one, alongside our parliamentary team, called to save the museum and thus support the Premier’s much-delayed decision to axe the restructure of the SA Museum The SA Museum is a beloved icon of our city and our state, and the researchers and academics employed there are worldclass Therefore, it was utterly unacceptable that this government felt so brazen as to be willing to permit the abolishment of 27 scientific researchers’ jobs and remove some of our favourite galleries Similarly, we are pleased that an additional $4.1 million will be allocated to the museum However, we find it disgraceful that this government were more than happy to allocate over $10 3 million for a state voice to parliament, which South Australians resolutely rejected, while simultaneously refusing to provide the full $10 million academics and the public called for; only agreeing to provide less than half of that after over 10,000 signatures and months of public protests and outrage. The AULC firmly believes that the preservation and study of our history, both its triumphs and its challenges, are equally vital in shaping our national identity and ensuring a harmonious and united Australia in the years to come
Adrian
SOCIALIST ALTERNATIVE
We welcome the decision not to cut the jobs of museum staff, which came after months of protests, petitions, and community pressure But many of the problems with the previous proposal for the museum are present to an even larger extent in the university merger which the Premier is pushing ahead with Job cuts, existing staff having to reapply for new positions, the savaging of the library and a callous disregard for cultural institutions in the name of profits, not to mention trimesters and cuts to face-to-face learning What the campaign to save the museum shows is that when we fight it is possible to reverse cuts A much larger campaign will be needed to stop cuts happening in the merger process, which is why it’s important to get organising now. We’ve launched the Student Fightback campaign as a way to do this, and would urge anyone who cares about saving our university to get involved As for confidence in the Premier’s new plan for the museum, time will tell, but considering it only came about after a campaign it’s likely this is not the last time there will need to be a fight to stop cuts there either
As part of our commitment to fostering an inclusive and informed campus community,weinvitedpoliticalgroupstosharetheirpoliticalinclinationsintermsof "EconomicInclination"and"SocialInclination"
LABORCLUB: EconomicInclination:Centre-Left
SocialInclination:Centre-Left
PROGRESS:
EconomicInclination:Centre-right(Socialdemocratic)
Webelieveinfairdistributionofresources,withapragmaticapproachanchoredineffective economicmanagement,focusingonefficiencyandvalueformoney Ourpolicieshavesome levelofmarketorientation,motivatedbyawillingnesstoinvestinstudentservices
SocialInclination:Central-left(Progressive)
Wearecommittedtoprotectingstudentsfromadversesocialandpoliticalinfluences,witha primefocusoninclusivity,welfare,andcampusunity Ourstanceisprogressiveonsocial issues,andwetakeaproactivestanceonsocialreformsandwelfarepoliciestobettercaterto studentissues
TRANSPARENCY:
EconomicInclination:"WHATEVEREUROPEISDOING"
SocialInclination:"THEEXACTOPPOSITEOFTHEUS"
GREENSCLUB:
WebelieveineconomicandsocialpoliciesbasedonthepillarsoftheSAGreens:ecological sustainability,grassrootsdemocracy,socialjustice,andpeaceandnon-violence
EconomicInclination:Left-wing
SocialInclination:Left-wing
SOCIALISTALTERNATIVE:
EconomicInclination:Socialist
SocialInclination:Socialist
Alex Bastiras
The power of mergingABLEISMAND
By William Goh
I was asked to write about the merger of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia into Adelaide University from a neurodivergent student’s perspective.
It bothers me a lot.
I’ve been looking on the bright side and keeping my head buried in the sand with the three monkeys on my back: “It will be great for me, as our university’s international ranking will go up!” However, now ’ s a good time to expose a simple truth. One that could impact every student minority and person who feels isolated here.
The Transition Of Power
Before university, I studied and worked in human resources for a few years. I have learned about and experienced more than a couple of mergers and restructures in medium to large organizations (up to 15,000 employees). When you have a merger, the strongest culture and sub-cultures mostly survive. Power, money, and personal beliefs often guide these transitions. The change is good for some and bad for others, with cultural majorities focused on.
Change management is never easy, especially when you know your department will likely take a hit I once had to process and shortlist the applicants for my own HR department’s restructure (directors to admin assistants). All 45 of us had to reapply for our jobs. There were fewer positions than staff. Naturally, I wasn’t allowed to process my application. I saw friends lose their preferred jobs, older people take early retirement, and I was only a ‘temp’ so my position was cut with a permanent employee rightfully taking my duties The world was turned upside-down, lives were changed, and tears were shed.
Getting side tracked, back to the story…
Afterthought: Bugger! I’m A Minority
So, just how minor am I at uni?
When I started my PhD Candidature, support was lacking for severely dyslexic students. I had to fight the uni for half a year to get an appropriate accommodation. I successfully acquired an Academic Assistant to help me learn statistical computer coding. It’s the equivalent of attaining a scribe but for computer coding.
d-white “ no ” , since no one yslexics don’t need them d perceived costs were the sm at work. I have been w of other dyslexic PhD d support like you. Why rite ‘War and Peace’ on nto this later.
My fight was an involved, stressful battle and took a good half a year out of my PhD studies. I spent many hours each week formulating and implementing my arguments There was no choice, as no one was going to do it for me, and the university was not going to budge.
It was worse for two other trailblazing severely dyslexic PhD students at other Australian universities. Their fights took one year and three years to get a similar vein of just disability support (respectively a thesis editor and a part-time employed scribe). I’ve spoken to the people involved, and the impacts are still raw. Yet, with grit, expert support, and tangible peerreviewed evidence, we convinced those needed that equity was required. We won our right to an equitable education. I have been told I’m the first at our university to get this type of accommodation. Thus, there might be only one in my dyslexic minority Only one
So, what if after the merger the other university’s disability support policies are adopted or ours changed? If everything reverts to what it was, then… I don’t have another half a year of fight left in me. The personal cost has already been too much. And if I can’t, then what chance do others have?
Ableism And Me
Ableism means to discriminate in favour of able-bodied people. This meaning is evolving to include neurodiverse people too, used as an expression to address the barriers to fairness in life. I feel it’s becoming a “dirty” word that describes an ignorant person. The truth is that ableism is often embedded in naivety, and as common as covert ageism, sexism, racism, and a whole bunch of ism’s. Many just don’t know they do it.
For dyslexic-me, ableism is seen when someone makes me send emails instead of me seeing them or phoning every time since it’s more comfortable and convenient for them. It’s seen when someone assumes all dyslexics are the same and need the same accommodations, even though there’s a large diversity of dyslexia types and support needs. Seen when detailed policies and procedures are all written, and not verbally explained in detail There are many examples After a merger, I can only guess what impactful ableist practices may be further embedded and adopted Many minorities are too often an afterthought
To address ableism, we all need to change. Ableism occurs because normality and stability feel good and it’s an easy path to follow for most. Many don’t like change, as change can be seen as disruptive, costly, and even an erosion of abled individuals’ wants and needs. The truth is severely dyslexic students, academics, and staff are novelties in Australian universities since cultural barriers work so very well. Like with other minorities.
Still, rejecting the monkeys, I also see this merger as an opportunity to evolve into a more equitable culture emulating other institutions’ best practices. So, as a potential minority of one, a student feeling no real power, I join others in waiting to see if our worlds will be turned upsidedown.
This diary entry is dedicated to the three monkeys: ‘See no evil’, ‘hear no evil’, and ‘speak no evil’.
SSTEM TEM
YOSHITAN
Who are you and what is your research about?
My name is Yoshi Tan, and I am in my first year of studying a PhD in Medicine
I am researching the efficacy of anti-natal corticosteroids, which are steroid drugs administered
OnDit interviewed Yoshi Tan to chat with her about her research and her life as a PhD student.
What do you enjoy most about your project?
to pregnant individuals at risk of pre-term birth (giving rth prematurely) Babies born pre-term don’t have a atural rise in glucocorticoids, so that’s why they need in synthetic (drug) form My project investigates the nderlying mechanisms of the glucocorticoid receptor which receives chemical messages – corticosteroidslling the body’s cells to grow) and why the efficacy of orticosteroids on receptor signalling varies ”
I’m only in my first year, so I spend most of my time reading, writing, and being trained in new techniques but I’m sure there’s a lot more to come! One of the post docs in my lab is studying lung ventilation in pre-term infants using a sheep model – which is some cool stuff. I never thought I’d have the opportunity to be involved with this sort of research, which is really exciting! I enjoy working within a team and brainstorming ways we problemsolve Every day is so different – you have to keep adapting. I definitely like the challenge of having to overcome problems The sense of satisfaction you get when you conquer them is great, but the stress of it –not so much **we broke into fits of giggles because, having done Honours together, we can both relate**. That’s why I’m so fortunate to have a really good
relationship with my supervisor. We spend a lot of time yapping at each other, some would some say “enabling” each other to go further down the rabbit hole **Yoshi chuckles** ”
What is your proudest moment in your scientific journey so far?
Other than the typical milestones of graduating?
HAHAHA Seriously though, it’s rough out here for us international students, so actually getting a PhD Scholarship has been pretty cool!! I also managed to get an award in my undergraduate degree, which allowed me to travel to Melbourne for ComBio, which is a conference hosting a mixture of different research organisations I went there with members from the lab I was with at the time, which was fortunate because I wouldn’t have any idea of what I was doing if I went by myself. That was a great time, especially the free merchandise – I brought back 2 drink bottles and 30 pens Also, finally submitting that Honours thesis would have to be a pretty big achievement!!”
Do you have any advice for our budding science students?
Be strategic with your course choices Sure, pursue what you ’ re interested in, but also be realistic. Don’t choose courses to get an easy A, have a futureoriented mindset. Take subjects that will keep your employment options open down the track. For me, I let my curiosity lead the way; I chose a range of subjects: from statistics to geology. I pursued my interests and, in doing so, I picked up many skills that were useful. Even if they weren’t always useful in a technical sense, having a wide range of skills still gave me a sense of achievement and confidence to take initiative and say “ yes ” to opportunities that came my way. Do a placement even if it isn’t compulsory It’s such a good way of getting experience – you can choose days which days you go in, making it flexible around work and study Another piece of advice - talk to people! Talk to your prac demonstrators, many are HDR students themselves Don’t be afraid to email professors out of the blue! Many will be happy to grab a coffee and chat about their research with you and if they aren’t? No hard feelings, they’re probably just busy!”
~ Interviewed by Louisa Tedesco
DDIT IT
The history of comic books is a rich and evolving tapestry, spanning decades and touching on numerous social, cultural, and political moments
From their early beginnings as humorous strips to their evolution into a powerful form of storytelling, comic books have grown from a niche form of entertainment into a significant cultural phenomenon Their history can be divided into several key eras: the Golden Age, the Silver Age, the Bronze Age, and the Modern Era, each contributing unique elements to the medium
The Golden Age (1938-1956)
The Golden Age of comic books is often seen as the true beginning of the medium, with the rise of superheroes during a time of global uncertainty
The birth of Superman in 1938, in Action Comics #1, is often considered the official start of this era. Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, Superman became an instant sensation With his superhuman strength, ability to fly, and unwavering moral compass, Superman embodied the qualities that readers craved during the economic hardships of the Great Depression and the onset of World War II
Following Superman’s success, other iconic characters were introduced Batman, created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, made his first appearance in Detective Comics #27 in 1939, quickly becoming a dark, brooding contrast to Superman’s bright and optimistic persona.
Wonder Woman, created by William Moulton Marston in 1941, provided readers with a strong female superhero who became a symbol of empowerment and justice
World War II played a significant role in shaping the content and popularity of comic books during this time Many superheroes were depicted fighting the Axis powers, often appearing on the battlefield in storylines to boost morale on the home front Captain America, introduced in 1941 by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby in Captain America Comics #1, famously punched Adolf Hitler on the cover of his debut issue, symbolizing the role comics played in rallying national pride and supporting the war effort
Superhero comics were the dominant genre during the Golden Age, and titles like Action Comics, Detective Comics, and All-Star Comics became iconic representations of this era
The Silver Age (1956-1970)
After the war, interest in superhero comics began to decline However, the Silver Age of comics saw a resurgence in superhero storytelling, marked by innovation and the introduction of new characters that would become lasting icons in the industry
The Silver Age officially began with the release of Showcase #4 in 1956, which introduced a revamped version of the Flash, a character originally created during the Golden Age.
This version of the Flash, Barry Allen, was the first superhero reimagined for modern audiences, leading to a wave of superhero revivals During this time, DC Comics and Marvel Comics became the leading publishers DC introduced the Justice League of America in 1960, featuring superheroes like Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and the Flash.
Marvel followed in 1961 with the Fantastic Four, created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, marking Marvel’s rise.
The Silver Age expanded the superhero formula. Marvel’s heroes, such as Spider-Man (introduced in Amazing Fantasy #15 in 1962), balanced heroism with personal struggles
Characters like the Hulk, X-Men, and Iron Man tackled themes of identity, discrimination, and power Artists like Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko used dynamic art to enhance the emotional impact of these stories Comics also began reflecting Cold War anxieties with themes of nuclear fear, alien invasion, and dystopia.
In the Bronze Age (1970-1985), comics grew darker and addressed real-world issues like drug addiction, poverty, and racism. One key story came in Green Lantern/Green Arrow (1970), which tackled racism and addiction. Spider-Man addressed drug abuse in The Amazing SpiderMan #96-98, even without the Comics Code
Authority’s approval. Batman returned to darker roots in The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller Anti-heroes like Wolverine and the Punisher emerged, and genres like horror and fantasy gained popularity with titles such as Swamp Thing and Ghost Rider.
The Modern Era (1985-present) brought more diverse and complex storytelling Groundbreaking works like Watchmen and The Dark Knight Returns deconstructed superheroes, offering darker, adult narratives Independent publishers thrived, with titles like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Spawn The digital age also saw the rise of webcomics and graphic novels like Maus and Persepolis, gaining academic recognition
Comics have evolved into a powerful cultural medium, influencing global entertainment and becoming integral to mainstream pop culture
Written by - Urvi
References:
Petty, John ‘A brief history of comic books’, Heritage auction galleries, pp. 1-24, https://rb gy/0tkgs0
COMICS TO CINEMA
1.TOBEY MAGUIRE
CHARACTERS PLAYED BY
4.TOM HIDDLESTON
7.ELIZABETH OLSEN
2.CHRIS HEMSWORTH
3.MARGOT ROBBIE
5.GAL GADOT
6.RYAN REYNOLDS
8.BEN AFFLECK
9.MICHAEL FASSBENDER
This article is a response to the piece titled "Why TERFs are Wrong About Women's Oppression," which was published in On Dit, issue 92.3. For context and to better understand the arguments being addressed, please refer to that issue.
Trigger warning: Gender Dysphoria, eating disorders, mental health, sexual violence & harassment, misogyny & sexism, transgender issues and violence
Why You Actually Agree With “TERFs”
It is blatantly obvious that neither pro-transgender activists nor conservatives truly understand so-called “TERFs”, otherwise known as ‘Transgender Exclusionary Radical Feminists ’ I hope that by sharing my personal experience with gender dysphoria, through transgender ideology, and into radical feminism, I can shed some light on the core beliefs of radical feminism, including the gender-critical perspective and the definition of a “ woman ” that saved me.
According to transgender ideology, everyone has an internal and innate ‘gender identity’ that dictates if one is a woman, man, or something else, based on which gender roles and stereotypes one connects with the most. Consequently, transgender activists preach that anyone who ‘feels’ like a woman, is a woman
fell victim to this concept of ‘gender identity’ in my late teen years, the most challenging period of my life I was diagnosed with severe depression and was developing an eating disorder by the time I graduated. My relationship with my body had always been a difficult one, I’d found reasons to hate myself for as long as I could remember My disgust of my body shifted around this time: I found myself fixating on my breasts and hips the most. I couldn’t stand the thought that others would see me, and know I was female I was aware at this time that being female in our society meant you would not be treated well, that you would be seen as ‘less than’ I wished deeply that I could escape the body I was restricted to. My GP and psychologist agreed that I was experiencing ‘gender dysphoria’. At the same time, I was receiving treatment for my now-diagnosed eating disorder I often reflect on the difference in treatment between my eating disorder and my gender dysphoria.
My hatred of my femaleness and womanhood was regarded as objective truth; I must not be a woman if I hated being treated like a woman Contrastingly, my all-encompassing desire to be smaller, to lose weight, to the point where I was severely harming myself, was treated (rightfully so) as an irrational mental health condition What was so different about hating myself for being female, and hating myself for being fat? Why was I encouraged to seek hormone replacement therapy and to consider ‘affirming’ surgery for my gender dysphoria, but not encouraged to seek liposuction and plastic surgery to ‘treat’ my eating disorder? Why has it become controversial to suggest that the cure for self-hatred is not to change your appearance, but to change your self-perception?
Thankfully, I did not pursue medicalisation to ‘solve’ my gender dysphoria, and instead worked to improve my overall mental health. I slowly began to recover from both my depression and my eating disorder, and interestingly, my gender dysphoria lessened in the process. One crucial thing that aided me in this journey was finding the radical feminist critique of gender: everything I’d been told about how women should exist, what women should look like, was a lie Being female was the only determining factor of womanhood I didn’t owe the world a thing.
Radical feminism recognises that to truly eliminate women ’ s oppression, male supremacy must be addressed at its root Our male-centric society, known as a patriarchy, systemically empowers men to hold political, social, and economic advantages over women. Radical feminists argue that we cannot combat women ’ s oppression under patriarchy by simply adjusting the existing systems to be more palatable and less noticeable. Instead, patriarchy must be completely abandoned through a radical reordering of society
Radical feminists understand ‘gender’ as the oppressive roles, stereotypes, and expectations placed on both women and men under patriarchy. Gender is the manifestation of rigorous social conditioning through one ’ s family, class, school, peers, religion, and exposure to mass media Girls are taught to be ‘feminine’; encouraged to value their appearance over their abilities, to never take up too much space, physically or intellectually, and to be agreeable and nurturing Boys are instead taught to be ‘masculine’; strong and fierce, to pursue leadership roles and material success, to be self-sufficient and a provider, and to disregard the importance of emotional intelligence and accountability Radical feminists believe that this contrast between ‘submissive’ femininity and ‘dominating’ masculinity, this gender dichotomy, enforces patriarchy We cannot be free from patriarchy while femaleness and womanhood are equated to femininity, and maleness and manhood to masculinity
Transgender activists use the word “ woman ” to refer to anyone that self-identifies with the gender roles and stereotypes that our patriarchal society prescribes to women Radical feminists use the word ‘ woman ’ to denote the 50% of the adult human population that are female, as did everyone else until very recently Radical feminism rejects the validity of oppressive gender roles and stereotypes. Transgender ideology relies and thrives on it.
Radical feminism also accepts the truth of binary sex in humans (one has the potential to either produce ova or sperm) and understands that intersex people are not a third sex or proof of a sex ‘spectrum’, as no third type of sex cell exists in humans. Furthermore, radical feminists acknowledge that women have faced sex-based oppression for millennia due to our femaleness We understand that the ability to create life is seen as a resource, which like many other natural resources, men strive to own and exploit. While not all women intend to, or are able to reproduce, male control over female autonomy prevails beyond our wombs Worldwide, women face restrictions within family dynamics, in the workplace, in political representation, and through legislation Women cannot escape this oppression by denying their femaleness and their womanhood. Transgender activists often insist that by ignoring sex, by erasing what it means to be female or male, woman or man, we can solve women ’ s oppression.
Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Patriarchal oppression manifests similarly to other forms of societal oppression, that is, as a class hierarchy In the same way that white people are seen as ‘above’ non-white people under racist ideology, and heterosexual people are seen as ‘above’ homosexual people under homophobic ideology, male people are seen as inherently ‘above’ female people under patriarchal ideology. These forms of oppression are not solved by pretending that these differences do not exist, rather, they are solved by removing the cultural and social norms that allow these differences to divide us into a hierarchical system.
Human sex is real, it is immutable, and it’s not going anywhere. Gender is the meaningless cage society tries to force us all into Gender promotes the sex hierarchy This is why radical feminists advocate for completely abolishing the concept and practice of “gender”. If we remove gender roles, expectations, and stereotypes from our society, all we are left with is our humanity. This is how we can be united and truly freed from patriarchy.
Radical feminists do not believe that all men, trans-identifying or not, are inherently a threat to all women. However, we are also not naïve: we know that most women will experience some form of harassment or violence at the hands of a man in their lifetime Over 98% of rapists are male and 90% of rape victims are female : this fact cannot be ignored. All women are affected by the implications of male violence in our daily lives, and we all take precautions to protect ourselves. The existence of women ’ s single-sex spaces, such as bathrooms and shelters, is a crucial example of a systemic approach to promoting women ’ s safety
Providing women with private spaces, away from men, where they can be vulnerable sends a clear message: Women are entitled to safety, comfort, and dignity. Transgender activists often argue that transgender ‘ women ’ are also entitled to spaces away from other men for the same reasons They are correct that males who perform femininity may be at risk of harassment or assault from other men. However, the solution to male-on-male violence is not to allow transgender ‘ women ’ into women ’ s single-sex spaces: women are not human shields for vulnerable males.
A male can only ‘identify’ as a woman if he truly believes that being a woman is a ‘feeling’ akin to relating to misogynistic gender roles, such as femininity and submissiveness Selfidentifying as a woman based on this belief reduces women to solely an embodiment of these gender roles Furthermore, it perpetrates the patriarchal notion that women are sexual objects: that to be objectified is to be a woman This is proof enough that many, if not all, transgender ‘ women ’ are misogynistic.
Here’s what some transgender ‘ women ’ have to say about womanhood:
“Female is a ‘universal existential condition’ defined by submitting to someone else’s desires ” , “Getting f*cked makes you female because f*cked is what female is ” , “[ ] Distilling the femaleness to its barest essentials – an open mouth, an expectant a**hole, blank, blank eyes S*ssy porn did make me trans ” – Andrea Long Chu
“My sexuality was not gay, it was not straight, it was an attraction, is an attraction, always to misogyny ” , “[ ] Not feeling femme enough without being a victim of rape ” , “My gender was so influenced by a need to be used by men. ” – Hunter Schafer
“There is something about being treated like sh*t by men that feels like affirmation itself, like a cry of delight from the deepest cavern of my breast To be the victim of honest, undisguised sexism possesses an exhilarating vitality.” – Grace Lavery
Additionally, male pattern violence and criminality seem to survive the ‘transition’ from man to transgender ‘ woman ’ From the most recent official count of transgender prisoners from the UK Ministry of Justice, almost 60% of transgender ‘ women ’ in prison were sex offenders Compared to the 3 3% of women and the 16 8% of men (excluding those trans-identifying) who were sex offenders, this is an alarming statistic. However, this is not to say that all transgender ‘ women ’ are inherently predators or dangerous to women.
Regardless, the question boils down to this: do the feelings of a small minority of the population (trans ‘ women’) trump women ’ s well-deserved right to safety, comfort, privacy, and dignity in single-sex spaces? Radical feminists believe the answer is: of course not.
Radical feminists are not the enemy of transgender people: we whole-heartedly support and advocate for true gender non-conformity in the fight towards a less patriarchal humanity One of the most powerful things you can do as a person, is abandon and reject the gender roles and stereotypes that society prescribes to you based on your sex However, radical feminists agree that rejecting gender, is not the same as rejecting sex.
Being a woman means being female, not being feminine. Being a man means being male, not being masculine Everyone should be free to express themselves however they feel most comfortable; there is no ‘correct’ way to be female or male, woman or man. The truest rejection of patriarchy is accepting yourself as you are This is also a powerful rebellion against capitalism. Neither womanhood nor manhood can be attained via the purchase of cosmetics, hormones, or surgery Neither womanhood nor manhood is defined by regressive and oppressive gender roles, stereotypes, and expectations. Once we all truly understand this stance on sex and gender, we can finally begin to free ourselves from patriarchy
If you want to join Feminist Women’s Association Adelaide, or access the extended version of this article, please do not hesitate to contact feministwomensaadelaide@gmail.com.
Written by Charlie Nole
Founder and Director of Feminist Women’s Association Adelaide Student at the University of Adelaide Radical Feminist Woman
References:
RAINN 2020, Victims of sexual violence: Statistics, RAINN, & North Coast Rape Crisis Team 2020, Supporting Survivors, Cal Poly Humboldt. Dhejne, C, Lichtenstein, P, Boman, M, Johansson, ALV, Långström, N & Landén, M 2011, ‘Long-Term Follow-Up of Transsexual Persons Undergoing Sex Reassignment Surgery: Cohort Study in Sweden’, in J Scott (ed.), PLoS ONE, vol. 6, no. 2, p. e16885. & Fair Play for Women 2020, Transgender women criminality shows male pattern, FPFW.
BY ASHTON HILTON MILLE
O N E R A I N Y N I G H T
If you would look out your window on this rainy night—yes, you, humour me for a moment, and please, don’t interrupt. You'll want to see this.
You may just lay eyes upon a certain young couple as they prance along a slippery cobbled path glistening under the gradual procession of rain oh! did you catch that? They stumbled for a second there Not to worry, the boy is quite heavy-set, he won’t be carried down that easily.
T h e c o u p l e f a i l t o n o t i c e a s t h e i r l i p s m o i s t e n
a n d t h e i r h a i r d e w s , n o r t h e i r f e e t a s t h e y
u n c o n s c i o u s l y s e e k o u t t h e d r i e s t s t o n e s a c r o s s
t h e c o b b l e s t o n e p a t h l i t b y t h e g e n t l e s i l v e r
m o o n l i g h t a m i d n i g h t r e n d e z v o u s w i t h a f i r s t
l o v e m a k e s m u c h o f l i f e f a d e t o t h e
b a c k g r o u n d , d o e s n ’ t i t ? L i s t e n c l o s e , n o w , h e ’ s
t e l l i n g h e r a b o u t t h e n o v e l h e ’ s j u s t s t a r t e d
A s o n e o f t h e b o y ' s a r m s i s e l b o w d e e p i n h i s
b a g , t h e o t h e r e m p h a t i c a l l y f l a y i n g a b o u t i n
e x c i t e m e n t , h e d r o n e s o n w i t h a l e n g t h y
a n e c d o t e : “ — a n d I c o u l d f e e l i t i n t h a t
b o o k s t o r e a s s o o n a s I e n t e r e d , I s w e a r ” . H e
b r o u g h t i t h o m e t h a t d a y , b o o k m a r k i n g p a g e
o n e , s k i p p i n g r i g h t p a s t t h e v e r b o s e , j a r g o n -
l a d e n i n t r o d u c t i o n , w i t h i t s p e d a n t i c r o m a n
n u m e r a l s .
a m a n a f t e r m y o w n h e a r t , h e i s . W h o r e a d s
t h e i n t r o d u c t i o n a n y w a y ?
H a v i n g a b o o k s h o v e d i n h e r f a c e , q u i t e
e v i d e n t l y f i l l e d w i t h d i s i n t e r e s t , t h e g i r l
i m p r e s s i v e l y m u s t e r s u p s o m e d e g r e e o f
a d m i r a t i o n u p o n h e r s t o i c c o u n t e n a n c e , w h i c h
h e e a g e r l y l a p s u p . B e f o r e h e c a n l a u n c h i n t o a
g a r r u l o u s m o n o l o g u e o f t h e a u t h o r s o e u v r e , h e
n o t i c e s t h e p a g e s b e g i n t o d a r k e n u n d e r t h e
s p a r s e s t r e e t l i g h t s , e a c h r a i n d r o p c o r r u p t i n g
t h e s o f t b r o w n o f t h e s e c o n d - h a n d c l a s s i c . T h e y
l o o k u p t o g e t h e r , n o t i c i n g t h e g e n t l e r a i n u p o n
t h e i r s k i n f o r t h e f i r s t t i m e a l l n i g h t .
h e r e , y o u ’ l l n e e d t o f o l l o w m e o u t n o w . Y e s , t h a t ’ s
r i g h t , o u t y o u r w i n d o w w e l l , h o w e l s e a r e y o u g o i n g t o
f o l l o w t h e m ?
T h e c o u p l e b e g i n a n a w k w a r d r u n a l o n g t h e p a t h a s h e
f u m b l e s a b o u t t r y i n g t o g e t t h e b o o k b a c k i n t o t h e b a g
a n d o u t o f t h e r a i n I d o w i s h h e w o u l d t a k e m o r e c a r e
w i t h h i s s t e p s , d o n ’ t y o u ? H i s c a r e l e s s b o o t s , s l o p p i n g
i n t o t h e w a t e r e d c r e a s e s o f t h e s t o n e s n o w a s h e p i c k s
u p t h e p a c e , m a k e s u c h i n c o n s i d e r a t e s p l a s h e s a g a i n s t
h i s p a r t n e r ' s l e g s H e r n e w d r e s s l e f t u n c o m p l i m e n t e d
t h e w h o l e n i g h t , m i n d y o u p r o v i d e d h e r s h i n s n o
p r o t e c t i o n f r o m h i s m a l i c i o u s i g n o r a n c e A v o i d i n g t h e
c o n f r o n t a t i o n , s h e b e g i n s t o s l o w b e h i n d h i m t o m o v e o u t o f h a r m ’ s w a y , c r e a t i n g d i s t a n c e b e t w e e n t h e t w o
i n s e p a r a b l e n i g h t o w l s O n e p a c e , t w o p a c e s , t h r e e
p a c e s b e t w e e n t h e t w o l o v e r s , t h e y b e g i n t o l o s e t h e i r
c o n n e c t i o n H e c r o s s e s t h e s t r e e t
T h e t w o s t a r e a c r o s s t o e a c h o t h e r T h e i r g a z e m e e t s i s
l o s t t h e n m e e t s a g a i n , t h e c a r s f l y i n g p a s t b e t w e e n
t h e m
T h e s t r e e t i n f r o n t o f h e r s t r e t c h e d a c r o s s h e r v i e w
L a n e s o f t r a f f i c s h e s a w a s l a y e r s o f s e p a r a t i o n , b a r r i e r s
t h a t m u s t b e o v e r c o m e t o r e i g n i t e w h a t o n c e w a s S h e
w o u l d h a v e t o m a k e t h e m o v e s h e r s e l f . S h e w o u l d h a v e t o
p u t t h e e f f o r t i n t o r e p a i r t h e d i s t a n c e .
H e s a w t h e s t r e e t a s i t w a s a s t r e e t . P a v e m e n t
i n t e r s p e r s e d w i t h p a i n t e d w h i t e l i n e s , a m e d i a n l i n e , a
c u r b . A f e w c a r s c r o s s i n g , b u t t h e r e w e r e g a p s i n t h e
t r a f f i c H e j u s t h a d t o w a i t f o r h e r t o c a t c h u p
b u t i t w a s n ' t a b o u t t h e s t r e e t , w a s i t ? C a n y o u s e e i t
n o w , m y f r i e n d ? I t ’ s a b o u t w h a t i t m e a n t . Y o u c a r r i e d
o n , p r a n c i n g a c r o s s t h e s t r e e t , a n d d i d y o u l o o k b a c k
o n c e ? I f o n l y y o u l o o k e d b a c k . M a y b e y o u c o u l d ’ v e
n o t i c e d , y o u c o u l d ’ v e c a u g h t y o u r s e l f b e f o r e y o u w e n t
t o o f a r B u t y o u d i d n ' t Y o u s t e p p e d u p o n t o t h e c u r b ,
a n d i t w a s t o o l a t e t h e n . O n e s t e p t o o f a r . T h e t w o o f y o u h a d b e c o m e t w o p e o p l e a g a i n , t h e c a r s b e t w e e n y o u
c e m e n t i n g t h e l o s s o f a c o n n e c t i o n y o u h a d t a k e n f o r
g r a n t e d
TO OUR READERS,
We, The On Dit Editors, stand by our decision to publish the aforementioned article because we uphold the long-standing journalistic integrity of On Dit, which aims to “truly represent and record student opinion, activity and social life” Historically, On Dit has tackled issues of student governance and representation, politics, world affairs, religion, and cultural movements Nowhere in our publication do we suggest that the student voices showcased reflect our own opinions, nor do we endorse the articles we publish as factual pieces. Rather, we encourage students to exercise their own critical thinking skills to discern where they stand on such issues Student contributions to On Dit are purely student contributions and are to be treated as such.
On Dit published “Why TERFs Are Wrong About Women’s Oppression” in Edition 92.3, authored by Sage Tasman Jupe, to showcase a student perspective on the contentious “TERF” movement. Jupe’s article expressed criticism of the motivations of Trans Exclusionary Radical Feminists (TERFs) Another student, Charlie Nole, came across the article in 92 3 and requested to write a stand-alone response piece to provide her personal perspective on the TERF movement As a self-identified “Radical Feminist”, we respect Charlie’s “right of reply”, which can be defined as “the right to defend oneself against public criticism in the same venue where it was published”.
We extend this right to any student who feels that their actions and/or intentions are misrepresented by an article in our publication We condemn the alleged defacing and dumping of our magazines en masse due to the presence of a dissenting student perspective We take these allegations made against select members of the Pride Club seriously. Is the best option really to silence the debate? We think not! To deny the wider student body an opportunity to engage with a contribution from a fellow student is disappointing for everyone. Despite these intimidation tactics, we will not back down on our stance on journalistic integrity and freedom of expression That is the purpose of why our University exists, to “explore ideas collaboratively and to uphold freedom of speech and thought”.
These alleged actions are a blatant violation of the University’s values. Silencing any student voice by covert means (such as preventing the dissemination of physical copies of On Dit) is dishonest and unfair. Censoring any student voice does not uphold the dignity of the individual and their right to voice their opinions on an issue which is of great importance to them. Instead, On Dit wants to create a space where all student voices are welcome, including those that are bold and controversial To reiterate, we will not succumb to intimidation tactics from any particular individual and/or group pressuring us to silence any student voice The Editors affirm that On Dit does not serve to be a mouthpiece for one particular school of thought, but rather, exists for the purpose of showcasing a variety of student perspectives. This approach facilitates a diverse readership base and is conducive to an environment where all students are able to feel heard and represented.
