Editorial
Vision to act By Karen Lau Karen Lau has been a Youth Action Network board member for three years. She is enrolled in the Environmental Studies program at York University. T our. They give the room a calming, mellow air. My neighbour’s deck is stained a deep, chestnut brown. Passers-by always HE WALLS IN MY LIVING ROOM ARE PAINTED A MINT GREEN COL
comment on how it is the perfect colour to compliment the bricks on her patio. I was walking today and I noticed that all the leaves on the trees have grown in. These leaves were so incredibly green. For the first time, I noticed that no synthetic mix of chemicals in paint or ink could ever compare to the colour of these leaves. When we think about beautiful things, we may not necessarily think about the wonderful rich, green colour that leaves possess. Everybody was so fascinated when different colours of paint were available, and when crayons came in 109 different shades. Everybody didn’t realize that all we had to do to see these colours was look at the world around us. Every possible colour that we can think of is existing in nature. The true excitement of this situation is not that humans can re-make the colours that occur in nature, but the fact that these spectacular colours occur naturally in our environment. Nature is beautiful. The reality of this may not be very clear to us because of the way that we try to shelter ourselves from it. When we think about environmental problems, our minds jump to issues such as air pollution, global climate change and deforestation. We don’t really notice that the biggest problem is our view of the environment. We are not able to identify with the world around us. The complex systems that exist in nature are by no means easy to understand, and we do not make it easier by altering them to suit our needs. When I look around at what we have vehicles to transport us anywhere we please, temperatureregulated environments everywhere we go it isn’t difficult to notice that we are constantly pushing ourselves further and further away from the web of rules that govern the natural world. We are not living with our environment; we are merely living in it, indifferent of the ancient cycles and systems that run within it. It’s a scary thought. We depend so much on the world around us, and yet, we are unaware of some of the most vital, and beautiful things about it. We take for granted what has always been there to support and sustain us, and now, we are faced with losing it. Is there any hope? Can we make the right changes in time? People often tell me that it’s too late, that too much damage as been done and not enough people care. I keep thinking about it, and 2
the more I think, the more I refuse to accept this. I remember something a friend told me when he was trying to help me with an assignment in high school. We were sitting in his office with a copy of a book called “Small is Beautiful” in front of us. He was explaining to me the reason behind writing the book, and I made a comment that it just sounded like common sense. He then proceeded to take me upstairs to where he kept his periodical collections. He opened a drawer and gestured towards numerous articles that had been clipped and filed. “There’s probably enough information in here to change to world, but you know, one person can’t do it all.” He then shrugged and closed the drawer. “That’s depressing,” I said. “No,” he told me. “It should make you want to get up and do it.” There is so much information out there, and yet when we say “My goal in life is to change the world,”we get laughed at. “It’ll never happen. It’s too hard.” Well, I’m thinking about it right now, about “saving the world” and changing the way people think and act and live, and maybe it sounds a little bit silly. In fact, it does. I am one person, sitting on one park bench, thinking of taking on the big bad world. But there are millions of benches out there, and there are millions of people out there and millions of minds that could potentially think up millions of brilliant plans that would entice millions of other people to take part in the one elaborate scheme to improve the world by a million- fold. This is exciting. Nature is exciting.
Kay Bialkowska Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
Forum notes Thanks for reading FORUM magazine. This page is reserved for notes about the projects and happenings involving Youth Action Network. If you would like to get involved, please contact us. Straight submissions can be sent directly to the office at
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Thanks Thank you to the following organizations for providing grants to the ECHO 2001 Conference:
Next Issue The special section topic for next issue will be on the relationship between police and the community, in particular, youth. If you would like more information, please contact us! Article and artwork submissions can be sent electronically, or by regular mail. What do you want to see in FORUM? Send us your ideas for our special section topic.
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Website The Youth Action Network website will be going down for construction. The all-new site will be revealed to the world on July 1, 2001. Be there. www.youthactionnetwork.org.
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
Subscriptions Contact us for a free subscription to FORUM. Youth Action Network is a charitible, non-profit organization. For back issues and bulk orders we ask that suscribers pay the postage costs. 3
FORUM
Y OUTH ACTION
Action Jeunesse
Editors Wei-jia Zhou, Tia Dafnos Editing Team Michael Chan, Clara Chow, Vanessa Fischer, David Lo, Andrea Tsang, Samantha Wu Design Tia Dafnos Distribution Clara Chow, Andrea Tsang, Samantha Wu
The walled city Summit of the Americas
Dave Marshall gives an his testimony of what went on outside the infamous chainlink fence. 23-28
Contributors Graeme Bacque, Jordan Bell, Kay Bialkowska, Leslie Bruce, Farrah Byckalo-Khan, Karen Lau, Dave Marshall,Sonia Murray, Durai Naimji, Vanessa Rodriguez, Stephanie Siu, Wei-jia Zhou Cover Tia Dafnos Special thanks Don & Mary Lucy McGregor (Delta Bingo) Youth Action Network Board of Directors Tia Dafnos, Karen Lau, Derik Tam, Sandra Udegbe, Wei-jia Zhou Submission guidelines Share your articles, artwork, photographs, poetry, and letters. All original art and photographs will be returned. Articles should be accompanied by art or photographs, as well as some very brief information about the author. Send your submissions to “FORUM Submissions” at YOUTH ACTION NETWORK. Youth Action Network 200-51 Woseley Street, Toronto Ontario, Canada M5T 1A4 telephone 416.368.2277 fax 416.368.8354 email general@youthactionnetwork.org charitable registration 136303195RR0002 ISSN 1188-6870
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Why vote?
Young voter apathy
Vanessa Rodriguez discusses why young people are choosing not to excercise their right to vote. 30-31
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
Eco-footprints:
Also:
A special section Caravan of change The climate change caravan rolls into town
The People’s Summit
By Leslie Bruce 7-8
The parallel summit in Quebec City
Pesticides: Everywhere
All you need to know about the dangers of pesticides
By Jordan Bell 7-8
29
By Sonia Murray
9-12
Napster
The issue: free music sharing
Echoes
By Durai Naimji
2001 ECHO environmental conference
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By Farrah Byckalo-Khan 14-15
By Wei-Jia Zhou
9-12
16
The United Nations World Conference Against Racism: How to get involved
Resolution for change
Borgholm Youth Conference on Environment and Sustainable development
33-34
17
Urban oasis
greenspace in the city
UN WCAR
18-20
Map: environment 35
By Karen Lau
18-20 YOUTH ACTION NETWORK is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing to youth the resources and information they need to take action on issues important to them. Views and opinions expressed in YOUTH ACTION FORUM are not necessarily those of its editors nor of the Board of Directors of YOUTH ACTION NETWORK. Every effort will be made to preserve the content and style of all submissions to FORUM. However, the editors reserve the right to edit articles for clarity or length. Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
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Eco-footprints
A FORUM special section
A 6
lthough our ecological footprint has been permanently stamped on the environment, there are steps being taken to minimize further damage and perhaps even to reverse our tracks.
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
ClimateChange Caravan and the Bet Spreading the word across Canada. . . on two wheels By Leslie Bruce
T
HE C LIMATE CHANGE CARAVAN IS a self-propelled movement, a bike trip, across Canada with an open invitation for people across the country to join us. We are wheeling the Bet across the nation. We, the citizens of Canada, are betting the government that we can do more to reduce greenhouse gas emissions than they have. What? You’re crazy, you say? It can’t be done? Well, we’re doing it, and you’re invited! We believe that climate change is a very urgent and scary issue, and the only action that is taking place is in scientific research, where the International Panel on Climate Change comes out with a more harshly worded report each time. The truth: human activity is causing climate change. People have a hard time relating or worrying about climate change because there are no thousandyear-old trees lying on the ground, only melting permafrost way up North and some sketchy weather patterns. We need you to help change this. The Climate Change Caravan began May 7, 2001 in Tofino, BC and will end in Halifax, Nova Scotia on September 20, 2001. We will be heading towards New Foundland as well. Right now, we are thirty-five people who have committed the entire summer to bike across the country. You will recognise us either by the long line of bikes of all different shapes and sizes, or by our big red bus, run on vegetable oil and fully equipped with a solar-powered office
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
”We are betting the government that the citizens of Canada can do more to reduce greenhouse gas emissions than they have. We are betting them that the citizens of Canada can achieve the commitment made by our government in Kyoto, a reduction of 6% below 1990 levels.” – www.thebet.ca 7
and kitchen. The Climate Change Caravan has been a work in progress. Originally, the idea was to bike on a frame of a donated gutted car across the country. Upon realising the logistics of physically biking a hunk of metal down (and up) the mountains of British Columbia, we knew we had to revamp the idea a bit. From there, it turned into a cycling trip across the country and with no support vehicle; we would carry all of our gear in bike trailers that we could make ourselves. People who join us throughout our trip could bike for any duration of time: a day through their hometowns, a week, or for the entire summer. From our open invitation idea, we thought it would be a great way to show solidarity in terms of climate change action, something that, unlike the pro-democracy protesting movement, is quite difficult to do. The idea of the Bet didn’t come until later. After three members of the caravan, Jason Dionne, Deirdre McGahern, and Jonathan Sheppard came back from attending the Sixth International Meeting on Climate Change (COP6) Hague, we realised how important it was to actually make the Climate Change Caravan happen. Seeing for themselves how the Canadian government was helping to fight climate change, they were very disappointed by Canada’s attempts to weasel themselves out of real solutions. Even before the Hague conference, many governments already tried to address the problem of climate change in Kyoto, Japan. Each government committed to reducing a certain amount of carbon dioxide emissions from 1990 levels. The Canadian government agreed to reduce 6% below 1990 greenhouse gas emission. However when entering negotiations of the COP6, our emissions had risen to approximately 23% above 1990 levels.
We cannot afford to wait for the government.
In addition to reduction of greenhouse gases, countries also get a certain amount of “carbon credits”, which means they are allowed to emit a certain level of greenhouse gases. Since over-developed countries emit substantially higher amounts of greenhouse gases than under-developed countries, the latter hold extra credits that they can sell to over-developed countries. This system does not reduce the total amount of emissions and simply allows the worst polluters to get away with changing nothing. Carbon sinks absorb carbon dioxide in the air. For example, during the process of photosynthesis, plants breathe in carbon dioxide and spit out oxygen. Forests, agricultural lands, and oceans are all considered carbon sinks. In a sneaky attempt to evade having to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, the Canadian government tried to justify their reasons for getting extra carbon credits because of the amount of Canadian land that is currently undeveloped or uninhabited.
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Since the Hague conference, we realised it was the Canadian government that were the bad guys, trying to get credit for carbon sinks and for selling nuclear energy to developing countries. These were not solutions; they were attempts to get through the loopholes in the process of trying to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The “credits” our government was trying to obtain, because of the amount of forest we have in Canada, allow us to lower the percentage of carbon dioxide emissions we pledged we would reduce. More and more people were signing up to be part of the entire trip, or a good portion of it, and we were realising that we could not pull it off without a support vehicle. At the same time, we were informed of the burning of vegetable oil in place of gas to fuel an engine, and Deirdre’s uncle had a school bus to sell at a reasonable price. After we bought the bus, Deirdre oversaw its conversion to an ‘RV’ and Jason worked on the vegetable oil technology. The Bet idea came from the Hague and we loved the concept of it. It seemed to be the missing link in the climate change caravan – the purpose. Through a series of steps, including such things as getting rid of your clothes dryer, driving less, flying less, and purchasing a solar panel to name a few, each Canadian can reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by individual actions alone. We cannot afford to wait for the government. Citizens of Canada, living in the second most polluting country in the world, have an obligation to reduce their personal emissions and tread more lightly on the earth. The Climate Change Caravan is about real solutions. We see climate change as an opportunity for people to reconnect with the natural world. It will take real changes in people’s lifestyles to stabilise the climate and these changes will lead to a better quality of life.
The truth: human activity is causing climate change.
Leslie Bruce is one of many organisers for the climate change caravan and a recent graduate from Mount Allison University.
The Bet (aka thebet.ca) will be launched in Victoria on May 11, 2001. Please check out the site www.thebet.ca <http:// www.thebet.ca/>, and for more information on the Climate Change Caravan, see www.mta.ca/climatechangecaravan <http://www.mta.ca/climatechangecaravan>. We look forward to biking with you!
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
Pesticides: here, there, everywhere Photography by Tia Dafnos
Pesticides have penetrated far beyond our lawns and crops. What are the consequences?
By Sonia Murray
W
HEN MOST CANADIANS THINK ABOUT PESTICIDES THEY HAVE A MILD CONCERN ABOUT WHETHER THEIR vegeta bles are clean and then proceed to wash them thoroughly. But pesticides are in many more places and have much further reaching affects than the waxy coating on your apple. If pesticides all happened to glow fluorescent green we would see them on our lawns, in our food, in the soil, in the water, in the air, in airplanes, libraries and hospitals, just about everywhere. But pesticides do not glow fluorescent green. In fact most pesticides are invisible. This means that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spend much time thinking about them, but we are still exposed to them. People in different sectors of society and in different countries are exposed to very different levels of pesticides. The toxicity of pesticides also varies greatly, from relatively benign natural pesticides found in plants to highly toxic chemical pesticides that are under restricted use. There is some information on how pesticides affect humans and the environment, but this information is often short term and
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incomplete, as new pesticides are constantly entering the world market. Is the solution to halt all use of pesticides until we have a more complete understanding of how they effect our local and global ecosystems? Probably not. The use of pesticides is deeply integrated into our society and has numerous benefits, including increased food production and protection from death and disease. Perhaps we are looking for a middle ground in the contradiction between how pesticides poison us and save our lives; between how they help to provide us with food from our environment and destroy that very environment on which we depend.
A Brief History
Perhaps we are looking for a middle ground in the contradiction between how pesticides poison us and save our lives
PESTICIDES ARE SUBSTANCES USED to control organisms that are defined as pests by humans, including insects, weeds, and fungi. There are four categories of pesticides; natural, biological, inorganic and synthetic. Natural pesticides are substances produced by plants to protect themselves. Biological pesticides, such as the commonly known Bt are micro-organisms that will attack or infect the pest. Inorganic pesticides are substances derived from minerals such as arsenic. Synthetic or chemical pesticides are manufactured combinations of chemicals and they are the type of pesticide most widely used by humans. Chemical pesticides were discovered in 1939 during the Second World War. Initially the use of pesticides provoked little controversy. Pesticides dramatically reduced crop losses and the use of DDT saved hundreds of thousands of lives. Some of the negative aspects of pesticide use were exposed in 1962 when Rachel Carson published a book entitled Silent Spring. Since then numerous negative effects of pesticide use have been documented, including human health effects such as cancer, neuropathy, developmental problems, and reduced fertility and numerous environmental effects such as the loss in biodiversity, loss in productivity and a reduction in ecosystem health and stability. During the 1960’s and 70’s pressure from various interest groups and NGO’s to implement guidelines and regulations on the use of chemical pesticides increased. In 1982 the Pesticides Action Network (PAN) International was established with the main goal of campaigning on pesticide issues. PAN played an active role in the implementation of the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization’s (FAO) Code of Conduct on the Distribution and Use of Pesticides. The purpose of this code was to regulate international trade and minimize human poisoning by pesticides but it was recognized from the beginning that the ulti10
mate responsibility for regulation rested with national governments. This has led to very different levels of pesticide regulation and use in different countries and very minimal regulation in some less industrialised countries. The FAO Code of Conduct also outlined guidelines for pesticide labelling. However in some countries these guidelines are either implemented only in part or ignored completely. Studies have shown numerous cases of pesticides being repackaged without labels, labels being ignored due to illiteracy and misrepresentative advertising, such as scantily clad models smiling and holding spraying equipment. Efforts are continuing to develop international pesticide guidelines as well as a means of implementing them. Benefits and Less than Benefits of Pesticides
PESTICIDES REDUCE CROP LOSSES and this is vital in producing food for an exponentially growing population. There are many exceptions to this assumption, but there are also many cases where it holds true. With the industrialisation of farming practices since the 1940’s, crop yields in most areas have increased and in some cases they have doubled and tripled. This is due in part to new plant varieties, fertilisers, irrigation and mechanisation, and also to the use of pesticides. According to one estimate, published in “Fearing Food: Risk Health and the Environment,” feeding the world with organically grown food (food grown without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers) would require that an additional 5 to 10 million square miles of land be converted to agricultural use. From the other side of the fence, many studies have shown that increasing pesticide use also leads to increased pest resistance to the pesticides themselves. This may mean that more pesticides are required just to maintain current levels of production, or that new pesticides must be developed and rushed onto the market to keep up with changing demands. Pesticides are also used to prevent pest transmitted diseases such as schistosomiasis, dengue fever, and filariasis. When faced with the direct consequences of these diseases in the forms of death and human suffering, it is difficult to question the use of effective chemical pesticides, even if they do pose a risk of long term cumulative negative health effects. In recent years however, increasing insect resistance has led many health organisations to begin to question even this use of chemical pesticides and search for alternatives such as biological control and pest habitat destruction. Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001 5
A Case Study: Pesticide Use and Potato Production in the Andes
Donald Cole and his research team are involved in an initiative to open farmer field schools and promote practices that emphasize pest and disease outbreak prevention through natural or cultural control methods. They have also been trying to educate farmers about pesticide exposure by actually making the pesticides glow green. Through the use of florescent tracers farmers can see how pesticides remain on their hands even after they have washed them and enter their homes and their food.
managed systems are usually already out of what some would call a natural balance
DONALD C. COLE SPOKE ABOUT CURrent research on pesticide use in highland Ecuador at the University of Toronto on February 8, 2001. Research has been sponsored both by national and international agencies to determine the effects of pesticide use on local communities and how the negative effects can be reduced and mitigated. Pesticides arrived in the area in the 1950’s and have since become an integrated part of food production. The farmers that the research team worked with used 56 different pesticides to grow potatoes. Some of the compounds that were most widely used, such as methamidophos and organophosphate, are restricted in the U.S. due to negative effects on human health and the environment. Often older chemical pesticides are more available in less industrialised countries because they are no longer under patent and can be produced within the country. Newer pesticides that may be less toxic are simply too expensive. Most of the farmers suffered high levels of exposure as they mixed the pesticides with their hands and a stick, used leaky backpack sprayers and wore no protective equipment besides rubber boots when applying pesticides. The research team conducted numerous tests to determine whether the high levels of pesticide exposure were affecting the farmers’ nervous systems and causing neurological damage. When the farmers were compared to acontrol group of nonfarming Ecuadorians they suffered approximately three times as many symptoms such as a “going to sleep” sensation, cramping pains, poor coordination and progressive weakness. Neurobehavioural function was generally worse for the farmers than for the control group and the farmers who used more pesticides had weaker neurobehavioural function. One study on a particular pesticide, carbofuran, showed that an increase in use resulted in an increase in crop production but the pesticide had such a negative effect on farmers’ ability to think and manage their farms, that overall crop production was reduced. This study shows the hidden cyclical effects pesticides can have on rural families and communities. If children are exposed to high levels of pesticides throughout their lives, they will likely suffer both nervous system and neurobehavioural damage. This will limit their ability to manage their farms in the future and potentially make changes to the current system. Once again, because the pesticides were hidden and didn’t glow green, and the effects were long term and cumulative compared to the obvious short term effects of pest reduction, there was little concern about pesticide use.
What is happening in Canada? HERE IN CANADA THERE HAS BEEN INCREASING CONCERN ABOUT pesticide exposure in urban communities. The National Academy of Sciences in the US has shown that homeowners apply 4-8 times as much pesticide per acre as farmers. It is likely that the situation is similar in Canada. Special attention has been given to the effects that pesticides have on young children. Often pesticide toxicity and regulation is based on the predicted adult responses. Children, with weaker immune systems and smaller bodies are not usually considered. There is also concern that the cumulative effects of being exposed to numerous different pesticides simultaneously are not known. A recent study by The House of Commons Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development entitled “Pesticides, Making the Right Choice for Humans and the Environment”, states that “the Committee firmly believes that a moratorium on pesticide use for esthetic purpose is necesStephanie Siu sary until science has proven that the pesticides involved do not constitute a health threat and some light has been shed on the consequences of their use in urban areas.” Health Canada regulates the use of most commercial pesticides under the Pest Control Products Act. The use of pesticides is also subject to regulation under provincial/territorial legislation. Right now numerous NGO’s are involved in a court case with two pesticide corporations, Chemlawn and Spraytech, to determine whether pesticide regulation is within municipal jurisdiction. Several municipalities have proposed pesticide by-laws. A pesticide by-law was passed in Halifax, Nova Scotia on August 15, 2000. Numerous community groups, health organizations and concerned citizens, supported this bylaw. It was opposed by members of the lawn care and pesticide industry. Industrial interests put up a strong fight be11
The use of pesticides is deeply integrated into our society
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cause this bylaw was the first of its kind to be passed in Canada and set a precedent for other municipalities. Under the bylaw a ban on the use of pesticides on all municipal property began in the year 2000; a ban on the use of pesticides on residential properties located within a 50 metre radius of any school, day care centre, park, playground, senior citizens residence, university, church or hospital will began on April 1, 2001; and a general ban on the use of pesticides on all properties in the Halifax Regional Municipality will begin on April 1, 2003. The bylaw also provides descriptions of which pesticides will be regulated and under what conditions exceptions can be made.
Cultural control is the oldest form of pest control and makes use of various agricultural practices that can limit pest habitat and increase plant resistance. Some examples of cultural control methods are soil tillage, mulching and manuring, the destruction of plant residues after harvest, rotating crops and increasing crop diversity. These methods are used extensively in organic agriculture, but they require longterm planning in systems that vary from year to year and are often more labour intensive than industrial agricultural methods. Another technique for controlling pests is the use of synthetically produced pheromones. Many insects use pheromones to communicate and synthetic pheromones are used to attract and trap insects or confuse them. The use and production of pheromones requires significant amounts of research and is a growing area. Numerous other methods for reducing pests have been and continue to be developed.
Current developments pose new and often unknown or poorly understood risks
Alternatives and Emerging Issues THE NEXT QUESTION IS, WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? ONE solution that is becoming increasingly popular is integrated pest management, or IPM. IPM is a management technique that takes into account the ecology of the pest and the environment inwhich it is found. IPM also examines the long term consequences of various methods of control. Methods used in IPM include biological control, cultural control and the use of more selective and less toxic pesticides. Biological control techniques use the natural enemies of the pest including predators, parasitoids and pathogens to control pest populations. Bt or Bacillus thuringiensis is an insect pathogen that is a common method of biological control. Bt refers to a group of naturally occurring bacteria that release spores which infect specific insect groups, such as moths and butterflies. It has received attention lately because some crops have been genetically engineered to produce these spores. Questions have been raised about whether this practice has contributed to the decline of certain members of the insect groups affected, such as monarch butterflies and also whether it has led to an increase in insect resistance to Bt. Bt also has some positive aspects, especially when compared to chemical pesticides. It infects only certain types of insects and it does not affect humans and most other animals directly. Even in areas where Bt has not been sprayed or Bt crops are not grown people come in contact with Bt spores naturally while walking through the forest or digging in the garden. Bt also degrades rapidly in the environment and does not enter the food chain. With any form of biological control the ecosystem is changed and ecological relationships may be tipped out of balance. However managed systems are usually already out of what some would call a natural balance. Management usually has specific goals which may include minimizing environmental disturbance, but also likely includes other human centred benefits such as maximizing crop production.
Conclusion AS EACH METHOD OF PEST CONTROL IS PROPOSED QUESTIONS are raised about the affect it will have on human health and the environment, how much it will cost and how effective it will be. Finding the right method of pest control is not a simple process and humans have been searching for methods and experimenting for centuries. Current developments pose new and often unknown or poorly understood risks. More and more people are supporting pest control techniques that, while providing adequate protection to human interests, also have minimal affects on human health and the natural environment. In many cases this means a reduction in the use of traditional chemical pesticides and an emphasis on cultural and biological control. Finding the right methods will require not only more scientific discovery, but also social changes in our attitudes towards aesthetics, health, economics, and international cooperation and trade. It is important to stay informed about what is happening both locally and abroad. We can reduce pesticide use by looking for pesticides in our communities - on lawns, in schools, in our food - and by asking questions, of governmental regulatory agencies, of doctors and of chemical companies. Everything from talking to your neighbour about why they are spraying their lawn for dandelions or questioning Health Canada about how pesticides are regulated contributes to an increased awareness of pesticides. Right now chemical companies, farmers and members of industry who see the positive economic affects of pesticide use are making large contributions to the search for a â&#x20AC;&#x153;middle groundâ&#x20AC;? in pest control and pesticide use. It is up to us to make pesticides more visible and to contribute our views on how pesticides should be used.
Finding the right methods will require not only more scientific discovery, but also social changes in our attitudes towards aesthetics, health, economics, and international cooperation and trade. 12
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
Start the Greening Process in your School!
Want to start an Environment Club in your school? Here are a few simple steps to help you get started.
Step 1. Brainstorming and Discussion You can’t start a club all by yourself; you’re going to need some support. Ask your friends whether they would be interested in helping you get your environment club started. About 4-5 minds work best when it comes to productive brainstorming. Let your ideas flow. Get excited. Helping the environment is exciting! Think about why you want to start this club, and how it would benefit your school. Talk about the activities that you might want your club to take part in. Write everything down. It doesn’t have to be organized - brainstorming can be messy.
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Step 4. Spreading the word Now that you have ideas, friends, teachers and a set meeting date, it’s time to start spreading the word around your school. Everybody should be interested in the environment, because the environment affects us all. Unfortunately, not everybody is aware. You want to make them aware! You want to let your school know that there are many environmental issues that face us, but more importantly, that your school can make a difference. Being part of an environment club can make a difference, and this is the message that you want to send it your school. There are a few ways you can do this:
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One way you can do this, is through the announcements. Write a short paragraph inviting everyone interested to come out to your meetings, and have it announced for a week. Start with some interesting, and perhaps shocking facts of the environmental problems that face us. A catchy, attention-grabbing first sentence just may do the trick.
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You can also try using visuals. Get together with your friends and design posters to put up all over the school. Posters work well when there are only a few, big, bold words that stand out. An appropriate visual (maybe a picture of a globe, a recycling sign, a tree, or design your own logo!) can be used in your poster to illustrate an environmental issue. Remember to print the posters on scrap paper or newsprint!
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Simply telling other students is an excellent way of spreading the word. You can even practise your public speaking skills. Ask your teacher if you can have a few minutes in the morning to chat with your class. Talk for a couple of minutes about the club and encourage everyone interested to come out. Hearing about the club personally, from a fellow student may make the club seem more attractive.
Step 2. Planning and Scheduling Starting a club doesn’t have to be very difficult, but you need to be specific on certain things. What time do you want your club to meet? Where will your club meet? First, pick a day that is ideal for you. It can always be changed later if it doesn’t work out. You want as many people to join your club, but don’t get caught up in trying to fit your meeting times into everybody’s schedules. There’s bound to be conflict with other club meetings and sports activities, but don’t let that discourage you.
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Step 3. Staff Support Teachers can be great supporters, facilitators and friends. An environment group in your school should have a teacher advisor. Activities that your group may want to take part in almost always need approval from a staff member. Ask a teacher that you trust and feel comfortable being around and talking to. It’s a good idea to have a staff advisor who is interested in the environment too, and who has time to support your group. There are different ways that you can approach a teacher for support. If you feel really comfortable with the teacher, you may want to chat informally about the idea of him/her advising your environment club. On the other hand, you may want to formally submit a proposal, with your ideas and future plans for your project. It all depends on you, and the staff member that you are asking. Don’t forget that an environment club takes work and dedication from the student members, but also from the staff members, so look for a teacher who is willing to take on this challenge with you.
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Step 5. Have a blast!
Remember that starting a club and keeping it going takes lots of work, but can be lots of fun. Don’t get too caught up in the “business” side of the club and forget all about the excitement and fun. Get out there and have a good time! 13
ECHO 2001 An annual environment and community conference
O
By Farrah Byckalo-Khan VER A HUNDRED YOUTH FROM ONTARIO CAME
lationship with the natural world. Youth were together from April 5-8, 2001 for the able to get physical with hands on workshops 5th annual Environment and ranging from building structures, direct acCommunity Conference. This contion, learning to sew, living lightly and cookference is annually held by ing,. Not only could youth take part in ECHO (Environment and workshops they also were able to lead Community Help Organiworkshops and discussions. Participants zation) an youth environled workshops on youth oppression, mental/social justice group homelessness, and Canada World based in Southern Ontario that Youth. There was a participant creacts both as a resource and acated Trash to Treasure station in tion group for youth. The which you were able to trade items ECHO conference works to that you no longer use for cool l engage and empower youth on stuff you’ve always wanted. Other l ra o f , issues of environmentalism and activities included Latin you e. I’m fun k n social justice. This year the dance night hikes, guerilla tha renc take theatre,classes, , e u f Youth Action Network teamed and radical cheerleading. o n r. co ky a s e n r y a a up with ECHO to create a Participants led Action Groups to h t u, t o this ye for nex t i o a y space where youth could have discuss the ways in which they v Ri nk ut int ze l i e n h a fun, learn, share, and get crea- “Tha would like to continue working c p rg ffort help o !” - Ra tive. e with the other youth participants e h to n o d This goal was accom- t e and mobilize the youth within e p hin s pum d plished in lots of different ways. their communities after the conan Participants were able to attend ference. The learning process excare workshops and speakers on key tends well beyond the actual conenvironmental/social justice isference days. Through a variety sues that they cited of interof activities the ECHO conferest including: environmental ence reached its goal of inracism, Free Trade of the creasing the level of environAmericas, anti-oppression and mental awareness and active genetic engineering. The Instiparticipation among our tute for Earth Education Youth peers so that they can then Branch hosted three amazing initiate, participate in, earth education sessions where and implement their own youth were able to develop their recommunity programs.
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Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
Feedback:
“The first year I went to echo I didn’t really know what to expect. I went and I had an amazing time! So this year when echo came around I already had a certain expectation for it and I really did not think that it could be better then last year. Needless to say I had a great time! The speakers where awesome and I loved the fact that it was a bit longer this year so you got to see more things. One of my favorite parts of going to the conference is meeting so many different people who have the same loves and interests as I do. The staff of echo were very happy and willing to answer any questions you had. I always felt completely comfortable around them! From the two years I have been to echo I can see that it is improving year after year and I can’t wait for the next one!” - Lindsay
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
t, ll thought ou e w , d e iz n a “ Well org ally ids there I re k t a re g f o s lot’ e people who th to g in lk ta you enjoy rences. And fe n o c r u o y ce come to to have a pla d e it c x e e ’r ed can tell they er like mind th o h it w r e th g.” to come toge ery good thin v a s t’ a h T . people er - Cam Math “He llo! I you, am writ in a awes ome nd the r g this e m e conf supe eren st of ech ail to th r a expe m c o a ctati azing t e you pu for the nk im o any, but ns, well e. It su t on! I h if a so m r I uch I did it actually passed m d a wou again of gr ld h didn’t h y e t a h t av is help a p out. eople. M year, an e. I lear ve ne d A a and the nyways, ybe one met a to d rest yea n tha time of ECH nk you r I can O; I a .” had ll again, a - Kr isten great
“Thanks again for a conference that will increase the chances for developing critical thinking among young adults..” - Paul Baines
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Resolve to change Youth Action Network participated in the Borgholm Youth Conference on Environment and Sustainable development this May. The meeting is one of many youth conferences that will happen all over the world leading up to the World Summit on Sustainable Development to be held in September of 2002 in Johannesburg, South Africa. The outcome of the conference was the following Resolution for Change, which is a call to action for the world especially youth. For more information, go to http:// www.youth2002jeunesse.unac.org. We, 217 young representatives of organisations and networks in 104 different countries with diverse cultures and different perspectives, have come to the Borgholm Youth Conference on Environment and Sustainable Development. As the future of humanity, youth are responsible for ensuring sustainability on our planet. We, belonging to the young generation, are facing ecological injustice, environmental racism and climate change. As youth we see the oppressive role of privileged over-developed nations, the unequal playing field in international relations, the weakening of governments and the increasing influence of transnational corporations. Many of us live with poverty and AIDS, others in overdeveloped countries based on unsustainable consumption patterns. Gender relations also form an integral part of sustainable development and must be addressed as such. There is a moral obligation both on the North and the South to ensure sustainable development without further jeopardising the state of the environment, and to root out corrupt tendencies that suppress sustainable development. The time has come to redefine development on the basis of sustainability indices that recognise human activities as a subsystem of the eco-sphere. We, young representatives of organisations and networks throughout the world, call for: Global justice through… …equitable access for all to natural resources with respect for nature’s limited capacity, according to the principles of environmental space. …a strengthening of global environmental governance. There is an urgent need for international environmental decision-making with the power to enforce sustainability-oriented action on governments 16
and international actors. …the immediate cancellation of the external debt of the developing countries and the recognition of the ecological debt of the rich. ...an end to the neoliberal economic globalisation embodied in the policies and programmes of the World Trade Organisation, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, as well as full accountability and transparency of these institutions. ...the provision of economic incentives for sustainable living, by internalisation of social and environmental costs through ecotaxes and other appropriate measures. …a process of non-violence, peace building and strengthening of democracy and human rights all over the world. The empowerment of people by… ... putting sustainability at the core of education, including environmental education and bringing forth ideas about constructing a sustainable society and practicing a sustainable lifestyle. …through the dismantling of transnational corporations and the dispersal of their power back to local economies. …recognizing the rights of indigenous peoples to self-determination, customary territory and resources, and the protection of indigenous knowledge systems. All countries should adopt the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. ...promoting democracy in the decision-making processes of the United Nations and efficient enforcement of all UN conventions, protocols and agreements. …transforming the mass media into a tool for social consciousness and emancipation. … giving the youth perspective an equal role in decision-making processes at all levels.
A guarantee for human security through… …the establishment of global mechanisms for the eradication of HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases and for food security in Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and other parts of the world. …an end to the production of and trade in weapons and military experiments in all parts of the world, in order to eradicate war and environmental conflicts and to work towards world peace. The realisation of healthy ecosystems through… …the creation of a sustainable energy pathway by phasing out the use of nuclear power, fossil fuels and large-scale hydropower, and taking immediate action to stop climate change within a fixed time frame. It is time to shift to alternative sources of energy, such as solar power and wind. …the real implementation of serious policies for biodiversity and ecosystem processes conservation, which are fundamental for the support of life on this planet. ...an immediate end to the production, trial and sale of genetically engineered organisms and a reorientation of national policies towards sustainable agriculture. ...an end to the profit-driven biopiracy of genetic resources and the patenting of life. We will: … continue to speak out, protest, campaign, mobilize youth and struggle for sustainable development with our own personal commitment as the driving force, through continued unification of world youth. …bring this resolution for change and its calls to action to our local communities, national governments and international arenas. Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
ECHO 2001 The experience of one participant By Wei-Jia Zhou
M
Y FRIEND, SOPHIE, AND I BOARDED THE GO TRAIN DURING rush hour, on our way to Burlington station. We were on our way to the ECHO 2001 environmental conference at Sidrebene Lodge, near Milton Ontario. As many people feel when travelling to a conference, Sophie and I didn’t really know what to expect. It sounded cool on the brochure: vegan menu, political workshops, environmental workshops, and any other activist topic you can think of. We were in for a surprise when we got to the conference. Though some of my most memorable moments were huddling inside my sleeping bag with new friends while being attentive to speakers on sustainable living, or the logistics of a vegetarian diet, I’ll never forget the butt-aching hard, cold floors. This was my first encounter with a vegan menu, and I absolutely loved it! And eating on the floor with people gingerly stepping over your plate…well that didn’t turn out to be as bad as I initially thought. It’s amazing how one quickly adapts to the surrounding environment! The workshops I attended were extremely resourceful. For example, I was finally able to grasp the ideology behind the WTO incident in Seattle, as well as the Summit of the Americas in Quebec. Through mingling with both activists and those who just wanted to learn more, I could feel this strong positive energy throughout the workshops and seminars. Everyone came here with an open mind and a willingness to share some of their own knowledge, and I could feel a bond that connected all of us because of our personal concern with the state of our environment and globalization.
This energy or aura I sensed around me was further enhanced when on the second evening, everyone gathered around the common room and had a candle-lit “rhythm circle.” This was almost like a group meditation combined with the beats and vocals of each individual. We first started with a long, soft hmmm that miraculously became synchronized without requiring everyone to concentrate on a particular beat. We were able to acutely listen to both ourselves and those around us. Though everyone’s voice had a slightly different pitch or sound, they just somehow melted into each other to create a harmonious, continuous and relaxing hum. As the atmosphere relaxed around us, people became more comfortable and different pitches and songs were sprouting across the circle. We started to make beats with our hands and feet; we started to change our pitch according to the energy encircling us; we let our feelings, thoughts, and emotions guide our voices. And surprisingly, there was never a break in our song. It wasn’t a chant because it was continually changing to reflect each individual’s mood and energy. Never before have I experienced such relaxing harmony among a large group such as this (there was almost forty of us present). A lot was said that night that no “motivational speaker” could have put more clearly: that with the right mindset, human beings do have the power and ability to cooperate amongst each other in overcoming obstacles, oppression, and pessimism. As it turned out, the weekend became more of a strengthening experience rather than an educational trip (though I did learn a lot). This flow of positive energy empowered each participant to take this knowledge back to his or her communities and try bringing about positive change.
the weekend became more of a strengthening experience rather than an educational trip
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
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Greenurbanspace The importance of green spots in the concrete jungle of urbanity By Karen Lau
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HAT IS MOST OBVIOUS THING ABOUT A CITY LIKE TORONTO?
THE BUSY PEOPLE RUSHING AROUND? THE ROWS OF BRICK houses that make up a high-class residential area? The clusters of office buildings that stretch so high that you think, they’re touching the sky? Now think about something else. What makes a city like Toronto flourish? The busy people, living in the new brick houses who work nine to five in those office buildings in order to stabilize the economy? Maybe. But there is a side to the city that is often overlooked: the wild side. It is not always clear that greenspace plays an integral part in the functioning of a healthy city like Toronto. Some may even think that the preservation of greenspace in a big and busy city will inhibit its productivity. In reality, the importance of naturalized areas in the city becomes evident when the issues are looked at with a holistic eye.
Why is Urban Greenspace Important? ONE CAN GO INTO GREAT DEPTH ABOUT WHY HAVING greenspace is so important in a city like Toronto. Here are the facts in a nutshell: · Having true naturalized areas within a city will help to bring back a connection between people and the environment. There has been through time, an attempt by humans to separate ourselves from the environment, and in doing so, we have created a massive ecological footprint. · Increased biodiversity comes with increased greenspace, which adds to the intrinsic values of nature, as well as provide opportunities for education and research. · Plants are able to filter air contaminants because their roots and hairs are able to trap pollutants. They are also able to absorb carbon dioxide and decrease global warming. This all leads to improved air quality, which is important considering the amount of people and the amount of contaminants that are released in the air. · Wetlands within a city are able to act as a filtration system, removing pollutants and harmful chemicals in ground water, and thereby improving the quality of water. 18
· Soil from urban greenspace reduces the amount of storm water run-off in the sewage system. This means that less water that runs through pavement and picks up grease and other contaminants, ends up untreated in lakes and streams, thereby reducing the amount of chemicals needed to treat drinking water. · Naturalized greenspace can help to build a community. Naturalization projects undertaken by the whole community can help to develop a sense of ownership that is shared by everyone.
What Exactly is Greenspace? WHAT’S THE TEXTBOOK DEFINITION OF “GREENSPACE?” According to Rob Kanter, former MP in one of Toronto’s districts, greenspaces are any wetlands, river valleys or natural areas, as opposed to agricultural or urbanized (developed) land. What does all this mean? Well, anything that isn’t concrete or farmland is considered to be greenspace. This includes, formal gardens, parks, ravines, and other natural areas. The most popular stretch of greenspace in the Toronto area is probably the Don River Valley and the existing wetlands and naturalized space that surround the river. However, the types of urban greenspace that exist in Toronto are not all the same, and therefore, do not all have the same positive effects as listed above. Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
Manicured Lawns or Naturalized Areas? IN ORDER TO ILLUSTRATE THE IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE BETWEEN likely used because of their appearance. We want the prettiest different types of greenspace, we can use a comparison of two plants in our garden, right? But when non-native plants are growdrastically different areas in Toronto: The Harbour Front Mu- ing in foreign soil, under foreign weather conditions they resic Garden, and the revitalized Don Valley Brickworks. quire synthetic fertlizers and pesticides in order to survive. The When assessing the two areas, the first thing that comes plants will stay healthy, but will the people? A study done by to mind is the landscape. The music garden was obviously engi- Evergreen, a non-profit environmental organization in Toronto, neered to convey an aesthetically pleasing look. The trees and shows that only 4-20% of systematic pesticide is taken up by plants are either in neat rows, or planted within a circle of green- plants; the rest ends up in the environment - mixed in the air we ery surrounded by a wide, concrete pathway. Large stones are breathe and the water we drink. In the Don Valley Brickworks, placed around the greenery to enhance the look of sophistica- only native species were used to revitalize the area. Because tion and luxury. In contrast, the Don Valley Brickworks resem- native species have adapted to local conditions, they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rebles open wild land. Trees and plants are scattered, showing a quire chemicals in order to survive. They can be established in pattern of growth and re-growth. Trees of different ages are the community present - old and, over time, mature trees, can out-comand young pete weeds, saplings. This eliminating the mix of ages is need for pestiabsent from cides. The the former plants stay landscape. It healthy, and we is also imporstay healthy. tant to note Besides the minimal all the differamount of ences and efconcrete that fects that these is present in two types of the Brickgreenspaces works area. make to the enWa l k i n g vironment, and paths are few, to humans, and the ones Toronto Music Garden vs. Don Valley Brickworks Photos by Karen Lau there lies anthat do exist, other level when are narrow dirt roads. The plants that are present are also im- making this comparison. Intrinsic value was mentioned when portant to note. According to the Toronto Parks and Recrea- discussing the importance of urban greenspace. This means that tion Department, the plants in the Toronto Music Garden are a we should appreciate nature just because it is nature; because mixture of native and non-native species. The plants that exist we belong in it, and we are part of it. The open space in the in the Don Valley Brickworks natural site however, are predomi- Don Valley Brickworks is scattered with trees and plants. Trees nantly native species. are planted, not according to how pretty they will look, but how So what does all of this mean? Well, first of all, cement well they will grow. Because there are very few paths, visitors, sidewalks are expensive to maintain. They crack and degrade human or otherwise, are invited to be part of the space, not just with time and require upkeeping. Here are taxpayers dollars at occupy it. Because the cement pathways in the Toronto Music work. Also, the upkeeping of manicured lawns seen in the To- Garden are wide, and wind through the whole garden, people ronto Music Garden requires constant attention and mowing. walking through it are kept at a distance from the plants and While maintaining this space that is supposed to have positive soil. They are merely observing nature, not interacting with, or effects on the environment, pollution is created from the use of being part of it. This adds to the separation that ubanization has lawnmowers. The kinds of plants present in both types of urban created between humans and the environment, where humans greenspace mentioned above also require examination. When control nature. In order for us to live sustainably, we must live non-native species are used in landscape design, they are most with nature.
In order for us to live sustainably, we must live with nature. Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
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So what about Toronto? WHAT’ S T ORONTO’ S SITUATION? L OOKING AT A MAP FROM ROB KANTER’ S REPORT, IT CAN BE SEEN THAT NEARLY ALL OF THE former Metro Toronto Area is fully urbanized. Within the GTA, straight channels of greenspace exist, with only a few meandering spots. This shows that development has altered the nature of these greenspaces rather than being sensitive to their existence. What can we do? Conservation is a start. However, major changes must be made, including lifestyles, landscaping techniques and the way in which money is spent. There are many key players involved in the functioning of a city, and they each have their own values and beliefs.
Alternative Routes FOR THERE TO BE SUSTAINABILITY ACHIEVED IN AN URBAN CITY like Toronto, major changes must occur. We must learn to live with a balance of patterns between ecological processes and human activities. However, as mentioned before, huge changes don’t necessarily work well within an already developed city. The key is building upon what we have, and taking baby steps towards change. Here are some alternative routes that all major players can partake in: · Landscape with as few exotic plants as possible. As mentioned before, native plants will, in the long run, cost less, live longer and provide a better habitat that will host biodiversity. This applies to homeowners too. It is much better to have a naturalized front lawn, then one containing only a monoculture of neatly trimmed grass. · Creating habitat patches in an urban city can bring back a sense of connectivity in nature. Different patches of wild space can connect with each other to form a network throughout the city. How can we do that? Corridors can be created that will join naturalized patches to larger areas. This can be done through existing parks or open flat land that borders the city limits. · We can build upon what we have. The GTA connects to the Niagara Escarpment, The Moore Rivine, The Oakridges Moraine, and other major natural areas. They can be ecologically enhanced by natural buffers. These buffers are created by increasing the diversity of the natural areas surrounding them. By doing this, these sensitive areas are being protected, and the amount and quality of the greenspace around it is increased. · We can compromise a little. Not all formal gardens have to be replaced. Some can be kept, and some can be enhanced with naturalization in mind. In order for this to work in a city like Toronto, design tactics can be employed that won’t necessarily interfere with the functioning of urban centres. There is space bordering major highways, interspersed between residential areas and areas where large institutions exist. These spaces can be used to create habitat patches.
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· We can also get creative. A major problem with increasing the amount of greenspace in Toronto, is the lack of space in general. However, space exists, but in a different form. There are many high rise buildings and condominiums in Toronto, and while they take up space, they generate space as well. The rooftops of these buildings provide an excellent place to garden. A community can be involved in greening one rooftop, and this provides opportunity for education and social amelioration. A group in Toronto is beginning to organize projects for youth to become involved with greening a rooftop in their community. This is one way of spreading the knowledge of the importance of being environmentally conscious. Rooftop gardens can be even more beneficial in schools. Schools have larger, less narrow roofs, which increases the amount of space being naturalized. This is also an opportunity for a whole school - students, teachers and administration - to become involved in an activity that will promote education and awareness. Rooftop gardens have all the benefits of urban greenspace mentioned before. It is also beneficial to the building. The green rooftop creates insulation for the building, allowing them to use less electricity. Less electricity being used means less fossil fuels being burned and less toxic gases being released. Karen Lau is a YAN board member and is in the Environmental Studies program at York University. Check out these websites for more on urban greenspace: Evergreen - http://www.evergreen.ca Wild Ones - http://www.for-wild.org/ Urban Agriculture Notes - http://www.cityfarmer.org Agroecology - http://www.cityfarmer.org Virtual Toronto - Don Valley Brickworks http://www.ryerson.ca/vtoronto/wwwsite/themes/physical/html/ brickw~1.htm Task Force to Bring Back the Don http://www.city.toronto.on.ca/don/donnews_fall2000.htm Toronto Parks and Recreation - http://www.city.toronto.on.ca/ parks/
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
YOUR NEXT
Join the FORUM team!
One of YAN’s projects is Youth Action Forum, a totally youthproduced magazine featuring articles and artwork of young people. Through Forum, youth get a chance to (YAN) was established by a small group of raise their enthusiastic young people in 1989. It is a national, concerns charitable organization dedicated to informing and motivating youth about social to take action on social justice and environmental issues. a n d Some of YAN’s projects, often done in collaboration with other environmental issues that groups, include: a r e Youth Action Connection, important Forum magazine, t h e m . the Resource Action Centre, F o r u m represents Youth Action Village, youth voices and an annual Youth Week. that struggle to As a fully independent, youth-run organization, be heard in YAN acts as a catalyst by stimulating youth today’s world.
MOVE
Youth Action Netw or k Networ ork
to move from awareness to action.
Become a YAN Project Coordinator! Run a leadership camp, speaker series, conference, newsletter, campaign, YAN membership drive, fundraising event, or [your idea here]! Continue building Youth Week, Youth Action Village, Forum, or the Resource Action Centre! YOU CAN DO IT! YAN invites youth across Canada to initiate and lead social justice and environmental projects with YAN’s support! You (or you and some friends) will work with a modest budget toward YOUR goals. YAN’s staff and Board of Directors will support you in volunteer recruitment and additional fundraising. Just write YAN 3 pages maximum about your project’s motivation, goals, timeline, proposed operating budget, and progress report schedule (at least one every 2 months). Projects will be approved for one year (August to August). Coordinators are encouraged to apply to YAN’s national, youth Board of Directors after their term. If you want to do something, but aren’t sure what, talk to us!
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
Youth Action Network is looking for a core of dedicated volunteers for the Forum team. There are many positions to be filled with energetic spirits and committed minds! Examples: editing team, art team, translators (English/French), publicity, advertising, distribution, and writing.
COULD
CHANGE
THE WORLD [
Youth Action Network 200-51 Woseley St. Toronto, Ontario, CANADA M5T 1A4 web www.youthactionnetwork.org email general@youthactionnetwork.org phone 416-368-2277 fax 416-368-8354
]
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VOTRE
PROCHAINE
Un des projets de RAJ est le Forum d’action Jeunesse, un journal entierement produit par les jeunes , incluant des articles et des oeuvres réalises par les jeunes gens. A travers Forum, la jeunesse peut Réseau d’action jeunesse fut créé par un petit groupe de faire connaitre jeunes gens enthousiastes en 1989. C’est une organisation ses inqiétudes au sujet nationale, charitable dont le but est d’informer et de motiver la dethèmes jeunesse afin qu’elle agisse dans le domaine de la justice et de u s s i l’environnement. Quelques-uns des projets de RAJ sont menés en aimportants collaboration avec d’autres groupes incluant: que la Youth Action Connection, société et Forum magazine, l’environnement. F o r u m the Resource Action Centre, représente la Youth Action Village, voix de la and an annual Youth Week. jeunesse qui lutte pour se faire En tantqu’organisation de la jeunesse pleinement entendre dans le indépendante, RAJ agit comme un catalyseur monde actuel.
ACTION
DEVENEZ UN
Joignez-vous à l’équipe du FORUM!
COORDINATEUR DU PROJET RAJ!
Réseau d’action jeunesse
en stimulant la jeunesse à passer du stade de la conscience à celui de l’action. Réseau Action Jeunesse
Dirigez un camp, animez des discours, des conférences, un journal, une campagne ou une récolte de fonds ou (votre propre idée)!. Continuez à construire la semaine de la jeunesse, le village Action Jeunesse, Forum et le centre ressource action! VOUS EN ETES CAPABLE! RAJ invite la jennesse a travers le Canada à lancer et mener des projets de justice sociale et d’environnement avec le soutien de RAJ!. Vous (ou vous et vos amis ) travaillerez avec un budget modeste pour attendre vos buts. Le personnel de RAJ et ses dirigeants vous aideront en recrutant davantage de volontaires et de levées de fonds. Ecrivez simplement à RAJ au maximum 3 pages pour décrire la motivation de votre projet, vos buts, votre temps disponible, votre projet de budget et un rapport sur vos progrès (au moins 1 tous les 2 mois). Les projets sont approuvés pour 1 an (d’aout à aout). Les coordinateurs sont encouragés à offrir leurs services à RAJ ,ainsi qu’à sa direction a la fin de leur mandat. Si vous voulez faire quelque chose mais ne savez pas quoi, venez nous parler! 22
recherche des volontaires dévoués pour son équipe Forum. De nombreux postes sont à pourvoir par des esprits énergiques et engagés! Exemples: équipe de l ‘édition, du dessin, traducteurs (anglais/français), publicité, distribution et rédaction.
POURRAIT
CHANGER LE MONDE [
Youth Action Network 200-51 Woseley St. Toronto, Ontario, CANADA M5T 1A4 web www.youthactionnetwork.org email general@youthactionnetwork.org phone 416-368-2277 fax 416-368-8354 Youth Action Forum
]
Summer 2001
On the
perimeter One protestor’s experience behind the fence at the Summit of the Americas in Quebec City. Photos courtesy of Graeme Bacque
By Dave Marshall
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TORONTO AT NIGHTFALL, A BUS FULL OF ‘RISE UP!’ ANARCHISTS, and arrived at Laval University, just outside of Quebec City, at dawn. I may have slept an hour or two; I’m not sure. Clear skies and temperature near freezing, gentle mountains surrounding the city emerge from the darkness. Some other buses are arriving also. E LEFT
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Summer 2001
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We wait outside the university sport complex for a while, then inside for a while longer, as organizers kindly welcome us, and verse us on what has been provided and what to look for. Floor space inside the giant gymnasium is searched for to accommodate the additional arrivals of busloads. When enough spots are found we go quietly so as not to wake the 2000 or so already peacefully sleeping people. It is comfortable here; the floors are made of rubber. As hundreds of people arrive and mill about, it is amazing how quiet it is. I don’t think I’ll sleep, however. At the food tent, volunteers hand out peanut butter and jam sandwiches, muffins and orange juice for breakfast. Back inside the huge rubber floored gymnasium I chatted with floor neighbor Alain for a while. He lives in Montreal and believes in things spiritual. Hindu chants, meditative dancing, vegetarian food, and Gaa, are some of his guiding interests, passions, and teachings. He is eating fruit, gratefully, meditatively, and offers me some of his pear. Gaia is our planet alive, and in grave danger of being murdered by a group of violent ecological terrorists soon to be meeting behind a heavily fortified security zone. Awareness of this is bringing thousands to the city today to peacefully protest outside the fortress walls. WE BEGIN OUR WALK FROM LAVAL JUST AFTER ONE O’ CLOCK. Friday afternoon is sunny, cloudless, and warm as the day progresses. The numbers of people, of banners, signs, buttons, stickers, drum-beats, tambourines, whistles, chants, songs, and cheers would also increase as we neared the city, as would the enthusiasm of the peaceful people marching in solidarity, supported by local residents flashing thumbs-up and peace signs and joining us in our chants and songs of solidarity. I became an adopted affinity member with Henry, Peter, and Bernard, and helped them carry a 20ft. long ‘BEWARE, GENETIC ENGINEERING’ banner along Chemin Sainte Foy. The small mountains surrounding the city are frequently in plain view on this crystal clear day. Down to Boulevard Charest, our banner pulls tautly in the breeze. There are huge puppets 15 feet high and costumed people on stilts. There is street theater comedy and comical radical cheerleading, much noise and laughter as our parade ascends Rue de la Couronne towards Cote d’Abraham and up and around towards Av. Dufferin, and the notorious perimeter fence. We stand back a good way from the fence and a large crowd. This is a green-zone event where no conflicts are scheduled. The more active peaceful protesters had earlier taken a different parade route. They would be up the hill on boulevard Rene Levesque. We stand with our large banner enjoying the drumming, the chanting, the cheering, dancing, and laughing. I go to check out the perimeter fence as Henry relieves me of my end of the banner. The fence is chain-linked, galvanized steel, 7ft. high, bolted upon a 3 ft. high concrete barrier. When a group of peaceful citizens begin pulling on it, it doesn’t seem so strong. As a section of the fence begins swaying to and fro, the 24
riot police advance from their original position 30 yards behind the fence to less than 10 feet away. The first few canisters of tear gas send the peaceful citizens scrambling. A group of us go west, up Rue D’Aiguillion, to escape the first of the tear gas. The perimeter fence divides the street -- it runs uphill between old row houses up along our side of the fence and a brick wall twelve feet across the fence. About fifty yards up this street a hooded citizen calmly and peacefully begins cutting links in the fence with a large pair of wire cutters. Within a minute and a half the fence is cut from bottom to top and folded across until there is a wide-open ten foot gap in the security perimeter at this unguarded section of fence. A few people jump through the opening and run up the hill along side the fence. Another few minutes elapse before the huge police security force realizes that they have a mammoth breach in security. Eight riot police rush in to guard the opening. By now more tear gas bombs are being fired into the crowd. Most are picked up by gloved peaceful citizens and returned to where they had come from. Peaceful citizens close to the fence are shot point-blank in the face with high powered tear gas powder fired from guns. It is a terrible thing to witness. To stand bravely in front of a fence is now a crime, subject to vicious assault with harmful sickening chemicals fired from high powered weaponry. Tear gas is fired now further into the peaceful celebration. Medics are kept busy attending to the many tear gas casualties. Eyes and throats burn everywhere. The tear gas keeps coming despite any actual challenge to the security perimeter. Helicopters hover above. A few rocks and bottles are tossed across the fence. They have more room for garbage than our side. Our side is crowding up with tear gas and canisters.This continues for a few more hours. At one point an American flag gets burned. People cheer.
Peaceful citizens closest to the fence bravely stand their ground.
PEACEFUL CITIZENS CLOSEST TO THE FENCE BRAVELY stand their ground. Some stand holding peace signs, others tie peaceful signs to the fence. A group of brave young women dance up close to the fence. They dance beautifully peaceful and creative movements to the rhythmic drumming of an ancient beat. They dance
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
a soulful beat, a collective beat, a universal beat. Creative messages are colourfully chalked and crayoned onto the street where the peaceful citizens assemble. Further back from the perimeter a large circle forms, of people holding hands while songs of solidarity ring loud and clear. From down below to the east on Cote Sampson, a few hundred riot police, in columns of three march in semi-unison, puffing and sweating profusely up the steep hill past Peter, Bernard, and I. They turn up Rue des Glacis where they park themselves and where they appear to have about thirty harmless citizens boxed in close towards the perimeter. Bernard, in impassioned French, speaks to a riot police standing sentry along the guardrail overlooking the zone verte a l’iot-Fleuri. This is the green-zone space for artistic work, communal vegetarian food for everyone, incredibly colourful and creative highway overpass suspension walls, and great loud music. Bernard is our affinity group goodwill ambassador and translator. He feels inclined to speak and teach and reach out and bring out the goodness in everyone there in the streets of Quebec. His English, although limited, is articulate. I can only imagine how articulate he is in French. He speaks passionately about the perils of genetically engineered food, and he seems to have an effect on everyone he speaks to. Twenty minutes or so later we politely pry him away from conversation with the riot police sentry guard. We leave there sensing that arrests might soon begin.
Walking west from the Old Port we pass some large storefront windows being boarded up in anticipation of the large peaceful march planned for the next day. We have a good laugh with the plywood installers. We hail a cab to take us back to Laval where Peters car is parked. Our cab driver needs little educating about genetically engineered food. He is as animated as Bernard about the violent scientific and corporate takeover and genetic contamination of our food supply. Just outside the sports complex I meet and talk to Guy, an independent media photographer, who had taken 6 rolls of film up on boulevard Rene Levesque. The Plains of Abraham had been more active than our assembly had been. More fence had been pulled down. More arrests had been made. More vicious assaults had been arbitrarily inflicted against innocent citizens trying to express thier freedom of speech. Despite this, Guy assured me, peaceful protests would continue throughout the night. SATURDAY TURNED OUT TO BE WARMER THAN FRIDAY. AFTER a huge peaceful religious group, citizen group, and trade union march down through the lower town, a bunch of marchers break off to join up with and help their brothers and sisters up on the hill in several spots. They break off to join them and support them in brave peaceful protest against excessive violence being planned behind a tall fence guarded by heavily armed state funded terrorists with thick body armor and heavy shields. If the unions were there at all, they kept a low profile. The dancing continued all day in different locations. The tear gas came more frequently and more concentrated. Up on Cote d’Abraham turns were taken to peacefully challenge the perimeter. Scores of citizens were continually overcome by tear gas. Some were bleeding from direct canister hits. Others had been hit by plastic bullets. Access to a side street on the east side of Cote d’Abraham was now closed off by about 20 riot police. A steady volley of tear gas canisters were shot up high into the air, and into the crowds far back of the perimeter. Others were fired line-drive directly at groups of people, most of which were returned. The crowd cheered as another American flag was set ablaze. Colourful messages on the walls and the street were accumulating. Fires burned, drums beat, and people danced. Loud heavy music filled the street from an open second story window just down from where the violent state police continued their relentless assault on citizens rights to peaceful expression and peaceful assembly. The scene looked and felt like war, yet only one side had any real weapons. The other side had only courage, but a great amount was evident as they bravely stood in front of the fence. Some even began to climb the fence before being shot point-blank by a blast of tear gas or a plastic bullet. I saw several plastic wounds
It was a common message written on thousands of shirts, jackets, buttons, banners, signs, walls, sidewalks.
WE CONTINUE ON AND UP THROUGH THE OLD RAMPARTS, away from the crowds, the tear gas, and the noise. The cannons high up above the river are not being used. Bernard chats with a few nice old local ladies. They are concerned about excessive security force they have witnessed in their beautiful city. Down near the old town he talks up a guard standing behind the perimeter fence. Things are quiet, calm, and pretty much deserted down in the old town Friday night. We walk over towards the Old Port, find an small outdoor cafe and have a beer and some walnuts for dinner. Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
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during the day, terrible deep wide flesh wounds - evidence to the weight and the size; maybe 7/8 of an inch in diameter by three inches long, and the velocity and force of impact. I saw how dangerous plastic bullets could be, how capable of serious injury or death, if hit in the wrong place. Still, the brave, dedicated, peaceful youth kept responding. They were not out for a good time; they were there for good reason. They were there to change a rotten, corrupt, oppressive system that has traded in their right to participation, their future, and the future of billions of others much worse off than them. They were there to challenge agreements that are fundamentally designed to exploit nature as a resource for us to consume, and life as a commodity, worth only what thehighest bidder will pay. This is the message that came through all that day. It was a common message written on thousands of shirts, jackets, buttons, banners, signs, walls, sidewalks. It was written in French, English, and Spanish. It was sung and chanted and danced to. Dances of the earth. Dances of freedom. Dances of love danced to continuous beating of drums. This is what was shouted and chanted and sung in songs of solidarity - that our world is not for sale. Language was no barrier in the streets of Quebec. Such state manufactured divisions and confrontations were irrelevant here. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Solidarityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is the same in every language. It is something that nation states cannot accept because solidarity transcends the limits of Nation States. It is something that Nation States cannot understand, accept, or accommodate. Nation States are dependant upon competition, conflict, and self interest. To the Nation State, solidarity is a threat.
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What we brought was a collective message transcendent of Quebec, Canada, or of any nation. What we brought was transcendent of a new world order making dirty deals in favor of exploitation, destruction, and waste, behind chainlinked barricades and heavily armed walls of force. Despite youthful fervor there is little delusion at all. The message is carried out with deliberate conviction and purpose. No one came to have a party. They came to challenge force, challenge violence, and challenge a shameful societal apathy that lets all this happen. They were not out to hurt, and no one would be hurt by them. Many were prepared to risk injury though, and many were being wounded by the violent state. WE UNFURLED OUR LARGE BANNER THERE IN THE WAR ZONE for the leaders and the cameras to see. All at once, four tear gas bombs came our way. I got dosed pretty badly and had to retreat. Lucky for everyone there was always a volunteer medic nearby, even near the front lines. Always brave, they were always ready to assist the wounded and severely tear gassed with water and a special solution to rinse out the eyes. All along the narrow streets residents on front steps and from open windows would offer support. Some left hoses running so that people could refill water bottles, drink, and rinse out tear gas from their eyes. They seemed sympathetic to what we were doing. They disliked the fence also, and the inescapable tear gas pervading the city. A lady walking home from work was having trouble breathing and needed her eyes rinsed out. From a second story window some residents informed us that the summit meeting had to be moved to another building because of tear gas en-
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
tering the ventilation system. I hope they got a good dose. UP ON RENE LEVESQUE ANOTHER BATTLE RAGED. TWO BLOCKS west of the perimeter, drummers drummed entrancing rhythms in unison. A large group of dancers danced beside a row of riot police guarding the street running south off Rue Rene Levesque. On another side of the dancers was a Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. Some windows had been broken, and white paint splattered on the front entrance. A cardboard sign hanging over a broken window read, “I owe you for one broken window. It was signed, ‘ The Revolution.’ Tear gas continued to slither down the street from the direction of the assembly. On the Plains of Abraham, along the bank of a hill parallel to boulevard Rene Levesque, more riot police stood guard. Bernard and I unfurled our ‘Beware, Genetic Engineering’ sign right in front of the line of police. We were immediately told to move down the hill because we were blocking their view of the street. Our sign, with a backdrop of riot police was popular with photographers. Pictures were also taken of Bernard afterwards talking animatedly to a few of the riot police. The piece of rope he gripped in his hands had alarmed them at first, and when he held out his arm to shake hands they looked ready to take him down. He only wanted to talk, however. He only wanted to educate, humanize, and communicate that what we all share in common is greater than what divides us and leads us into conflict. It is the state that creates conflict, and is dependent on conflict to keep itself strong. The tear gas came heavy from the front lines up the road. Water cannons could be seen further ahead shooting water into a crowd down below to the north. The riot police were out on the street now, most likely to protect another breach. A rapid fire volley of tear gas dispersed a group of peaceful protesters not far in front of us, then quickly about 30 riot police rushed in from a southern flank position and took down about 15 peaceful protesters. I recognized two of the arrested from spending some time with them earlier that afternoon. They were nice people. They were friendly, thoughtful, concerned, and most of all they were peaceful. A new front line of police soon was formed across boulevard Rene Levesque, closer to us. A brief standoff with a few peaceful demonstrators ensued. A riot cop advanced and aimed, but did not fire. Other peaceful protesters were still being held down on the ground behind the new front line, and more reinforcements were moved in to refill the flank position.
We unfurled our ‘Beware, Genetic Engineering’ banner once more, and soon several more tear gas bombs were coming our way. They even fell to a distance behind where we stood. The height and the distance with which they travelled was impressive. I wondered about the thousands of people in their homes and apartments; victims also of this relentless assault of tear gas. AS DARKNESS CAME WE HEADED BACK. THE LOCAL YOUTH WERE noticeably out in full force now and the beer and alcohol seemed to be flowing freely. A helicopter hovered overhead, shining sharp beams of light on the peaceful crowd below. Back to Av. De Salaberry and down to another street we went east until we dead-ended at another wall of riot police. They blocked off the road at the bottom of a hill on our side of an intersection. A large portion of fence beside the old cemetery had been taken down. Drums beat, whistles blew, and people danced in front of the police. Bernard talked up a local resident in front of a closedup shop. This resident could not be swayed, however, even by Bernard, from his faith in the state, and that the future state of Quebec would solve all the problems of the present dysfunctional federal state. Likewise, earlier in front of the bank with the broken windows a lady would not be swayed from her conviction of the seriousness of damaged private property. Even if it happened to be a major player and symbol of blood sucking capitalism, private property was important to her. Despite Bernard’s efforts her opinion held firm. She would continue to maintain that it’s O.K. for big violent banks like the CIBC to steal and exploit, but it’s not O.K. to peacefully and symbolically shatter a few of the violent bank’s windows. He was better received a short while later by a couple of elderly ladies sitting beside a little park, where even here, nearly a kilometre away, you could not escape the tear gas. Running battles continued back at Cote d’Abraham. On the lookout platform above the park, smoke from a wood fire intermingled with more waves of tear gas wafting down from the perimeter area above. The front lines had advanced here also. The riot police were becoming more aggressively positioned to continue their assault upon the people. We went down to the area beneath the highway overpasses, into the zone verte a lilot-Fleuri. A steady, rhythmic, beating of hundreds of sticks and rocks against the metal guardrails and metal highway signs was impressive and inspiring. The cliff walls and the concrete walls and the spiraling concrete ceilings acoustically amplified the steady rhythmic guardrail drumming. I was handed a rock and offered space alongside the guardrail to join
The scene looked and felt like war
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Summer 2001
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going pretty good. Up the hill the conflicts continued but things there appeared less thick than before.
in the primordial chorus of drumming. A guy was playing his acoustic guitar beside us for all it was worth, unconcerned that no one could hear him. He was entertaining himself as much as everyone else. I spotted a brick not far from my feet and banged it on the guardrail for more emphasis, more base, to help carry further into the night this cohesive primal communication. Down here the revolution was happening. Down here there was power from within. Down here the manifestation was sprouting. Down here there was controlled anarchy fluid, dynamic, and complete. A nearby fire beneath the overpass was steadily getting bigger. Highway signs were coming down. Further beneath the spiraling convergence of highway overpasses we walked to the food tent. There, we waited briefly in line and were handed a plate of rice and vegetables. They had fed thousands like this all week, free of charge, and continued to feed the brave youth well into the night. In a makeshift washstand of hanging water buckets that had to be manually hauled in to the site, we washed the plates and the utensils provided and returned them back to the food lineup. No one was using disposable plates and cutlery that I could see. Down here recycling was being practiced as part of the revolution. Incineration was also being practiced as a solution to waste. From 75 yards away we could feel the warmth of the fire growing steadily bigger. The guardrail drummers kept the beat steady and strong and revolutionary. Closer to the cliff wall below where riot police stood sentry, a strange, luminous, intense fire was ignited, sending an enormous cloud of smoke up above the overpass. Helicopters were quickly dispatched overhead to investigate. Bernard, Peter and I went over to the Old Port to get a beer at the same outdoor cafe as we’d been to the night before. They offered me a ride back to Laval but I was deciding I needed to stay. Heading west along Charest Est. there was a large crowd converging up near Rue de la Couronne. In the little park to the east a large wooden real estate billboard was coming down. The large wooden poles and the sign itself got the fire in the street
IT WAS MIDNIGHT AND THE PARTY WAS IN FULL SWING. IT WAS mostly local people singing, drinking, smoking, and smashing bottles on the ground. Plywood was pulled off the boarded shop windows to feed the fire growing there in the intersection. The images were as intense as the flames from the fire, as numerous and diverse as the thousands of signs, and as persistent as the tear gas. Huge banners were draped from the top of the precipice towards the Plains of Abraham. One of them proclaimed ‘Peoples Summit’. I counted four helicopters in the sky. It was after one a.m., when a large column of riot police began their advance down Rue de la Couronne, towards the peaceful celebration down in the streets. Without warning, and without provocation, tear gas bombs came pounding down into an innocent crowd below in the streets. It was concentrated tear gas with a devastating effect. It took a couple of city blocks of retreat before I began to recover. Down here with no wind, the tear gas would not go away. It followed us down the street as we retreated. I watched as the windows of a Subway Sandwich shop got smashed. Good for them, I thought. Even though I’d privately criticized that sort of thing just a short time earlier, I knew I had no good reason to criticize them now. After the extreme police violence I’d witnessed the past few days, a few broken windows didn’t merit a second thought. Walking home along the parade route from a day and a half before, the streets were quiet and the air was less toxic. I was trying to recall if I’d seen any violent protesters yet. I couldn’t. All I could recall were the many acts of courage, generosity, and solidarity in the face of unnecessary police violence. Nearly home now, the solidarity chant still plays in my head.
‘Solidarity’ is the same in every language.
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A light rain falls, but the revolution will not be doused. Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
The people’s summit By Jordan Bell DESPITE THE MEDIA’S PRESENTATION OF ALL PROTESTORS AS masked vandals, the over 50 000 that marched against the prevailing pattern of corporate globalisation were thoroughly peaceful in temperment and action. The site of the People’s Summit, held from Monday through to Thursday of the week previous was used as a marshalling site for the different groups that were to join in the March; from the Steelworkers and NDP through to the Sierra Club and Council of Canadians, civil society was well represented. To see the thousands of banners, flags, and placards waving in the air was a telling prelude of the march itself, and to be there was to see that those demonstrating against corporate globalisation are not faceless and violent dissidents, but regu lar people from the factory, hospital, and office. THE MARCH BEGAN NEAR NOON, AND SET OFF FROM THE HARbour, parallel to the Summit wall, with the Steelworkers in the lead, followed by the NDP, replete with the entire federal caucus, as well as provincial party leaders from Ontario, Alberta, and the Atlantic provinces. Approaching the Summit site, a drifting cloud of tear gas confronted the marchers, and many were forced to resort to wet rags, defending themselves from the police reaction to peaceful demonstration. The turning point came when
the road split two ways, one to the summit and the other to the planned rally point. Many urged storming the barricade, but the desire to avoid confrontation won out, and the march continued along the two hour walk to the organised rally. During this time, spirits were raised by the bag pipes of Bill Blakie, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg-Transcona. WHEN THE MARCH ENDED , PEOPLE WERE STILL LEAVING FROM the start point, a stretch of several kilometers and over 2 hours. With speeches, music, and dancing, this rally exemplified the positive variety of protest that can change attitudes and minds, and bring citizens onside of a just cause. Masked protestors scaling the barricades may make for better broadcasts, but real change does not come from the exploits of the few, but from the common action of the many. When the broader public sees the harmful effects of trade deals that place corporate profits above human need, then the walls will fall from collective will, not direct action. What we see now is the beginning of a movement that will change the world as we know it, a movement dedicated to improving the lot of the common citizen. Things have only just began.
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29
Why
? vote?
Young people are increasingly willing to not exercise the most basic form of political participation
ByVanessa Rodriguez
ep
ha
ni
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realize is that if political figures have not given us our due respect as eligible voters, it is because we have not been willing to demand it. It is time for young people to claim our rightful positions as the future of our country. We need to inform ourselves and take a stand on political issues. Other teenagers justify their refusal to vote by claiming that political leaders are also just plain boring. (And how important can politicians be if they’re not on MTV or Much Music?) If politicians stripped during their speeches, or rapped their debates, or even argued their views by punching each other out, would we then listen? Basnicki has another suggestion: “I really think politicians should come to universities and colleges where students are all virtually new voters.” If politicians came to universities, they could address issues that are of greater concern to the eighteen to twenty-five-year-old crowd. Students would then have more initiative to vote, or at least vote with a better understanding of who they are electing and why. Yet the question still remains: why would any political candidate “waste” valuable time promoting himself/herself to an audience that has a reputation for not voting? Overall, teenagers seem to be primarily interested in the “more important” things in life, such as making money and having fun. By not voting, teens are sending this message to Canada’s leaders: just keep us entertained and we’ll let you get away with whatever you want. Meanwhile, politicians and multi-billion dollar businesses are laughing themselves sick. It’s just too easy. What has our society come to? For our parents’ generation, the people in power had to invest their time and efforts in manipulating the public in order for St
T
HE ABSENCE OF YOUNG PEOPLE (between the ages of 18 and 25) at the voting polls is growing significantly. The Toronto Star reported that “young people could change the outcome of an election, but they are notoriously bad at making it to the polling station.” It seems painful to observe that the same vote that previous generations fought so hard to gain is being swept under the rug and shunned by today’s youth. Why is this happening? The majority of teens simply don’t care. While we realize that the current issues being debated will have tremendous effects on our future, it is easier to become engrossed with our own schedules and shortsighted views of the way the world works. Walking to the nearest voting poll can seem tedious, so most teenagers will not even bother. Those who do vote often feel that they are not adequately informed and just vote for the most familiar name. Erica Basnicki, a student at Ryerson Polytechnical University, can sympathize. “I remember I wanted to vote for Mike Harris . . . he seemed to be the most popular politician. So I thought, ‘If all these people are rooting for him, he must have a pretty good platform.’ Then he completely screwed up my last two years of high school by involking all the teacher strikes.” Teenagers also whine about the fact that most political candidates do not seem interested in talking to them, or do not cover issues that are pertinent to them. Many youths feel that political figures are not targeting their audience. Consequently, teens conclude that if political parties do not show any interest in them, why should they be interested in these political figures themselves? And many teenagers will use this sad fact as an excuse for not voting. What we have failed to
Many youths feel that political figures are not targeting their audience.
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Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
everyone to believe that their votes really mattered; that they actually had power. Democracy doesn’t work if only a fraction of the population votes. We as teenagers of the next generation, have been so distracted by the media that we are doing multi-billion dollar businesses a favour. We no longer need to be convinced that our votes count - We don’t care, we don’t vote anyway. Heather Gibson, aged 24, has come to a similar conclusion regarding democracy and our right to vote. “I believe that democracy only works to the people’s advantage if they’re involved and participating. ‘Democracy’ can’t exist if there is no participation and as it is, our democracy is very imperfect. Not voting just makes is worse. Apathetic people are disempowered people. That’s why they’re apathetic to begin with, and not voting just keeps them disempowered and apathetic. It’s a vicious circle. The result is that people with less power continue to be denied power. Powerless people are excluded by the status quo (who voted) because democracy runs on the principle that everyone has to look out for themselves because if you don’t, who will? Because the powerless are excluded, they feel apathetic about voting, like it doesn’t make a difference in their lives. So they don’t bother. But ultimately, non-voters are choosing not to use the tiny bit of power the government gives each citizen, and they are also refusing to accept the rights and responsibilities associated with that power. Gibson’s point of view echoes that of linguistic professor Noam Chomsky, who was referred to as “arguably one of the greatest intellectuals.” Chomsky believes that “the most effective way to restrict democracy is to transfer decision-making from the public arena to unaccountable institutions: kings, princes, priestly castes, military juntas, party dictatorships, or modern corporations.” He then goes on to say that “any dictator would admire the uniformity and obedience of the media.” Aliza Libman from Ulpanat Orot High School agrees: “People have the right to democracy; it’s a privilege that comes with the responsibility to vote.” Unfortunately, people like Aliza are in the minority. Yet regardless of the reasons for which teenagers have refused to vote, more individuals and organizations are rising up to meet the challenge of this issue. The International Idea Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance has embraced this task in their publication titled, “Youth Voter Participation.” The mission of this organization is “to promote sustainable democracy worldwide.” Their publication on youth voters not only offer reasons why youth should vote, but also suggests strategies for action. Some of their suggestions include educating vot-
Action not complaints will change our current voting situation.
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Summer 2001
ers, supporting mock elections, making first time voting a special rite of passage, introducing mandatory voting, and lowering the voting age. Lowering the voting age has also been the primary goal for Youth Speak, an international organization that publishes monthly newsletters on the struggle for youth rights around the world. In their publications, they often promote and announce information on protests aimed at lowering the voting age. The Canadian Youth Rights Association also wishes to change the fact that “people under eighteen are the only Canadian citizens, other than prisoners serving terms of over two years, still not allowed to vote in federal elections.” Another venue by which this problem has been approached is via the media. Commercials and advertisements promoting political awareness and participation among youth have become increasingly more common. This was the case during our last federal election (November 2000), when Muchmusic aired the election coverage between music videos and constantly encouraged youth to vote via music celebrities and other teens. Personally, I believe that the answer to the youth voting problem lies in our political education. Youth should be taught about the importance of voting and the issues that surround current elections in school. They should be assigned tasks that involve gathering information about various parties and political awareness should be encouraged much earlier than our eighteenth birthdays. Nevertheless, the problem cannot be solved solely on the efforts of external influences around us. We as teenagers need to smarten up and realize that by refusing to vote, we are denying ourselves of democracy. Voting is not only a right but a responsibility that we as citizens should embrace. Action and not complaints will change our current voting situation. Erica Basnicki has caught on to this idea. After realizing she voted for Mike Harris because of her political ignorance, she has been slowly gathering ideas and information to launch her own website. With this website, she hopes to provide relevant information for young voters by giving a clear breakdown on the pledges voiced by different parties, and the effects they will have on youth. While advances such as these are encouraging, many young people still need to mature and rise up to face our responsibilities as eligible voters. Only then can we declare with certainty, as Gibson has, that “voting is a right and a responsibility and I choose to exercise it for my own good and the country’s.”
... our democracy is very imperfect. Not voting just makes is worse.
Vanessa Rodriguez is a 19 year old aspiring journalist living in the Greater Toronto Area. She has previously been published with Young People’s Press, the Toronto Star, and Faze Teen Magazine. It is Vanessa’s hope to attract more teenagers to the voting polls by promoting political awareness through the media. 31
Sharebeware? By Durai Naimji Through the storm we reach the shore You give it all but I want more And I’m waiting for you With or without you With or without you I can’t live With or without you, Napster that is.
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OR AS MUCH AS WE ALL LOVE Napster, we must understand that many of the artists on Napster were simply robbed of their right to grant permission for such distribution of their music. A mechanic might fix cars, and the mechanic gets paid. A teacher teaches, and the teacher gets paid. A secretary does his/her duties, and gets paid. With these occupations, there is simply no way of “stealing” the final product. This however, isn’t the case for musicians. Since the file on a CD can be converted to data in the form of MP3, it can be distributed freely via the Internet. Because the product of the musician is in that data, it can be distributed without the consent of the musician. Yes, it is very true that some musicians do support and encourage the use of Napster, but what of those who don’t? Though Lars Ulrich of Metallica may be old and washed up, he is NOT incorrect in defending his music from being freely distributed over Napster. The same goes for Scott Stapp of Creed, Elton John, and Art Alexakis of Everclear, as they have all voiced their objection to it. True, Napster might help to grant exposure to upcoming bands that can’t afford a huge advertising campaign, but this is beside the point that permission wasn’t granted by anyone to allow Napster to distribute music freely. On the flipside, it is clear why Napster is so popular. Napster has re-energised the world’s thirst for music. It has allowed for people to explore new
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bands, new types of music, and a new way to get that music. I have personally discovered at least 10 new bands in the last year alone that I simply love, and I’m not afraid to say that Napster was a catalyst in my discovery of them. Downloading the files themselves does not cost a cent – in fact, the entire thing is free. As long as one has an Internet connection, one has a connection to hundreds of thousands of other Napster users, who might individually have from zero to in excess of 1,000 MP3 files. With the price being so modest, one can’t expect too many people to complain. With Napster being the most populous MP3 file-swapping program out there, the range of music one can find on Napster is simply staggering. The program itself is also wonderfully simple to use, which is another bonus. Many musicians have gained in popularity as their music has the potential to reach millions of people, eliminating the ridiculous cost of advertising. It is safe to say that Napster has also encouraged people to buy new albums. Because Napster has uncovered this whole new world of music, many are discovering new music and are buying more. Whether or not this number outweighs the number of people who just download and don’t buy is still up in the air, however. What might be a surprise to many is that in 1999, the same year that MP3’s were widely available, CD sales went up 8 percent. In addition, sales during the first quarter of 2000 were much higher than sales in the first quarter of 1999. This raises a very interesting point: record corporations. Isn’t $17.99 a tad expensive for a CD? Haven’t CD’s been that expensive for fifteen years now? Why would anyone want to pay that much
money for a CD that may only have one or two desired songs? So why not just download and customise it? Isn’t music all about the fans, and spreading music, and culture? This is very interesting as initially, the record corporations had absolutely no power in the plague-like spread of Napster. For a very significant period of time, there wasn’t anything Universal Studios or Warner Bros. could do about the free distribution of songs by bands that might be on their label. Napster might be the creation that we have all been waiting for to break free of the strangling grip of record corporations. When you boil everything down, Napster IS in the wrong. For as much as we love it, for as much happiness that Napster has brought us in the form of music, for as much money as we have saved on those CD’s that only had one song we liked, Napster has provided the world with the work of musicians without their consent. Some artists don’t mind – namely Dexter Holland of Offspring and Chuck D and Fred Durst of Limp Bizkit – and that’s fine for them. However, there are also many artists who do, and they should not be ignored. Why has Napster been so embraced? It all comes down to finance because CD’s are expensive, and Napster isn’t. If CD’s were say, six dollars, and the musician got a larger percentage from the record corporations, Napster wouldn’t be as popular as it is now. The five huge record corporations play the part of a huge middleman, who has created this imbalance in our love for music and our unwillingness to pay ridiculous sums for it. Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
What is the Un-WCAR?
• • •
I
Organized by the United Nations (UN), the World Conference Against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia, and Related Intolerance (WCAR) is planned for August 31 to September 7, 2001 in South Africa. It marks both the International Year and Third Decade for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and is similar in style to past World Conferences, such as the 1995 Beijing Conference on Women. With an overall emphasis on eliminating racism, the WCAR is the UN’s attempt at combating racism on an international level. Each member country will develop a national agenda to fight racism, and bring their recommendations to the week-long World Conference. Help make change towards ending racism in Canada! Make sure Canada takes your voice, opinions, and ideas about racism to the UN! Most importantly, find out what’s going on!
How can you get involved in the World Conference AGAINST Racism in South Africa in August 2001
f you are a young person between the ages of 14 and 30, francophone or anglophone, bilingual, a person of color, lesbian or gay, trans-gendered, transsexual, 2-sprited and/or queer, of a racial minority, aboriginal, and/or living with disabilities, we encourage you to participate in the World Conference on Racism by: · Logging onto the United Nation web site www.unhchr.ch/html/racism/index.htm · Logging onto the Canadian Heritage web site www.pch.gc.ca/world-conference-mondiale/main_e.shtml · Participate in the online Chat Discussions on le Groupe Jeunesse’s web site: www.mounas.com · Logging onto the Youth Action Network Web Site www.YouthActionNetwork.org · Logging onto the international NGO web site www.hri.ca/racism/ · Logging onto www.unwcar.freeservers.com/ · Add yourself to the listserve by logging on to www.egroups.com/mygroups · Share your experiences in relation to racism and discrimination · Tell us your story · Send us your comments, ideas, recommendations for community activism and suggestions · Organize activities in your school, neighbouhood or organization · Inform your peers and your community · Let us know what you are up to so we can put it up on our web sites · Let us know how we can help or support your ideas and projects
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COYAR member organizations a group of young people organizing towards the United Nations World Conference Against Racism (UN-WCAR)
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
Groupe Jeuness Francophone de Toronto Leonie Tchatat 22, rue College, bureau 207 Toronto, ON M5G 1K3 (416) 934-0589 x 23 info@mounas.com www.mounas.com 33
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C’est quoi la Un-WCAR?
a Conférence mondiale contre le racisme, la discrimination raciale, la xénophobie et l’intolérance,qui aura lieu en Afrique du Sud, du 31 août au 7 septembre 2001, est organisée par les Nations Unis. Cette conférence souligne l’année internationale et la Troisième décennie pour l’élimination de la discrimination raciale. Elle se présente sous la même forme que la fameuse Conférence Mondiale des femmes à Beijing en 1995. L’emphase étant d’éliminer le racisme, la Conférence mondiale contre le racisme, la discrimination raciale, la xénophobie et l’intolérance permet aux Nations Unis d’essayer de combattre le racisme à un niveau international. Chaque pays membre développera un plan d’action national pour combattre le racisme. Toutes les recommandations de chaque pays seront ensuite présentées durant la Conférence mondiale. • Aide à amener des changements concrets pour éliminer le racisme au Canada! • Assure toi que le Canada porte ta voix, tes opinions, et tes idées sur le racisme aux Nations Unis! • Le plus important, c’est que tu sois au courrant de ce qui ce passe!
Comment t’imp li quer p our la C onféren ce M ond iale c ontre le t’impli liq pour Co nférence Mo ndiale co racisme qui aura lieu en Afrique du Sud en Août 2001
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i tu es une jeune femme ou un jeune homme entre 14 et 30 ans, francophone ou anglophone, bilingue, de minorité raciale, lesbienne ou gai, autochtone, vivant avec un handicap, bisexuel, transexué ou travesti, nous t’encourageons à participer à la Conférence Mondiale contre le racisme de la façon suivante :
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Va visiter le site web des Nations Unies www.unhchr.ch/html/racism/index.htmwww.egroups.com/ mygroups Va visiter le site du Patrimoine Canadien www.pch.gc.ca/world-conference-mondiale/main_e.shtml Participe aux discussions virtuelles sur le Chat Room du site web du Groupe Jeunesse: www.mounas.com Va visiter le site web du Réseau d’action jeunesse www.YouthActionNetwork.org Va visiter le site du NGO www.hri.ca/racism/ Va visiter www.unwcar.freeservers.com/ Partage tes expériences sur le racisme et la discrimination Raconte ton histoire Envoies tes commentaires, tes idées, tes suggestions Organise des activités dans ton école, ton quartier ou ton organization Partage l’information avec tes amis et ta communauté Laisse-nous savoir ce que tu fais pour qu’on puisse l’ajouter à nos sites web Laisse-nous savoir comment on peut te soutenir dans tes idées ou projets
Ontario Young People’s Alliance Youth Action Network/ Reseau d’action jeunesse njeri-damali campbell zohra moosa 200-51 Woseley Street Toronto, ON M5T 1A4 (416) 703-8807 x 2 1-800-884-6229 oypa@web.ca 34
200-51 Woseley Street Toronto, ON M5T 1A4 (416) 368-2277 / 1-800-718-LINK general@youthactionnetwork.org www.YouthActionNetwork.org
Urban Alliance on Race Relations Darashani Joachim 302 Spadina Avenue, Suite 505 Toronto, ON M5T 2E7 (416) 516-9546 darashani@blackplanet.com www.interlog.com/~uarr Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
Environment Wei-Jia Zhou
Location: Ottawa, Canada Ottawa unveiled plans to spend almost $110 million to combat urban smog. The government is planning to encourage Canadians to use electric vehicles, fund new technology to improve traffic management and to reduce the number of idling cars.
Location: Quebec, Canada The Quebec government has introduced a $660 million program aimed at protecting the provinceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drinking water. If this proposal passes, 4500 water treatment systems will have three months to increase their standards to the new provincial standards. The program will also monitor 77 different substances, an increase from monitoring 46 substances found in the water.
Location: Gothenburg, Sweden The Bush administration and its European counterparts met in a clash over global warming. Europe has affirmed their commitment to the 1997 Kyoto Protocol aimed at reducing carbon dioxide emissions. However, President Bush wants the accord to be abandoned, believing that it will harm American and foreign economies.
Location: USA In response to Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy crisis, Washington has unveiled a new energy plan to boost production, mainly with nuclear power generation, and reviving the coal industry. Bush is also planning to drill in the Alaskan Arctic tundra. Location: Mexico City Judges reversed a previous ruling to shut down a seaside tourist facility in La Paz where seven dolphins are currently being held captive in negligent conditions. The dolphins are used as a tourist attraction where people pay to swim with them. However, the decision is not final and the court has 22 months to review the case.
Youth Action Forum
Summer 2001
Location: Quito, Ecuador At least 48 civilians have been killed in a disastrous landslide in the Andes during the torrential rains. Rescue missions are currently underway to search for 31 missing bodies.
Location: Yakutsk, Siberia At least 30000 residents are currently being evacuated as floodwaters continue to surge downstream. The flood was released when bombers blasted apart a huge ice floe near Lensky.
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