McGill must stand by the Mohawk Mothers
PG. 5
From Alpha to Zeta: Investigating the dark side of Greek life
From blood donations to saving lives
PG. 12
PG. 4
Hiba Kamel, a third-year McGill PhD student, stood up poised and palpably angry at McGill’s asbestos town hall on Sept. 22. “Some
of us are traumatized. Some of us have actually interacted with the dust,” she said.
Kamel is a researcher in the Agricultural and Environmental Sciences department. She is also married and a mother of a young daughter. Now she is reckoning with the worry that she was exposed
The Gaylor and Swift-zerland Delegations of McGill University would like to warmly congratulate you on the success of The Eras Tour and the whole soon-to-be-billionaire thing. More importantly,
we would like to beg— ahem—invite you to perform for us. Yes, the Miss Americana persona is classic, but your neighbours to the North could use a little love to get us through the impending blizzards. And what better place than Montreal to perform “Forever Winter” for the first time
as one of the surprise songs?
Weather that feels like you’re going “back to December all the time” isn’t Montreal’s only draw, though. Travelling by private jet (as you so often do) will allow you to avoid our city’s famously endless construction.
PG. 14
to asbestos dust fibres in the winter of 2023 and may have brought it home on her clothes—potentially exposing her family.
The trauma voiced by Kamel along with other concerns from students and staff at the Macdonald campus town hall comes as the latest development in McGill University’s unfolding asbestos problems.
PG. 3
On Sept. 21, McGill’s Lower Field teemed with anticipation, excitement, and dozens of students nervously clutching heads of lettuce. At first glance, the circle of students could be mistaken for a colony of hungry rabbits; in actuality, it was just the Let-
tuce Club’s third annual lettuce-eating competition.
In the centre stood Eric Zhao, U2 Science, dressed to the nines in a full-sized lettuce costume—a lab coat bedecked with flowing green streamers. Zhao was last year’s winner and crowned Lettuce Head, making him the facilitator of this year’s competition. Students walked up to the table in
the centre of the field to check in and weigh their lettuce, which had to be a minimum of 600 grams. As the competition was about to start, some students shared their thoughts with The Tribune
“I woke up this morning super nervous, but I’m ready,” Maria Cooper, a Geography major at McGill on exchange, said.
“Some
Club draws in dozens of
students at its annual competition
We did the math: Here’s why you should bring the Eras Tour to Montreal(Mason Bramadat / The Tribune) PG. 8-9
Josie Hodgson Contributor
On Sept. 22, members of the McGill community gathered on the Lower West Field to celebrate First Nations, Inuit, and Métis cultures at the 22nd annual Pow Wow. The five-hour event, hosted by First Peoples’ House and the Office of Indigenous Initiatives, was started in 2001 and became the centre of McGill’s Indigenous Awareness Weeks after the weeks’ creation in 2011.
With a backdrop of blue skies and sunshine, the event began with the Grand Entry, which saw participants enter the tent while dancing to the beat of the RedTail Spirit Singers’ singing and drumming, followed by the pinning up of flags. A moment of silence took place after the introductory dancing for a member of the Kahnawà:ke
community who passed away last weekend. This was followed by Intertribal dances, including the male Warrior Dance and female Butterfly Dance, also to the RedTail Spirit Singers’ music. The event also saw throat singing, a hoop dance demonstration, and speeches on the resilience of Indigenous peoples against Canadian settler colonialism.
Education and the involvement of young people, including McGill students and youth from around Quebec, played a significant role throughout the day. Younger children and toddlers, particularly from the Rising Sun daycare— the only Indigenous daycare in Montreal—were encouraged to dance alongside the Indigenous peoples.
Speakers emphasized that the Pow Wow was about socializing and joy. In an interview with The Tribune , JJ McKenzie, a member
of the Métis Nation and one of the two dancers in the Orange Blossom Special dance, explained how the Pow Wow encourages a more positive and empowering representation of Indigenous peoples, in comparison to primarily-disheartening news coverage.
“A lot of the time in news and media, you only hear the sad bits about our communities, such as residential schools,” McKenzie said. “This is the fun part that we like to share [...] for all of the Indigenous people here. It builds up our community, and then for everyone else who’s not Indigenous, it showcases our fun and cool parts of our culture.”
Outside the main tent which hosted the scheduled events of the day, the Pow Wow also accommodated a number of Indigenous organizations and companies, many of which displayed their jewellery, beauty products, decorations, and artwork.
Matsheshu Créations, run by Raphaëlle Langevin of the Innu Nation from Mashteuiatsh, hosted a booth at the event, selling jewellery and clothing. In an interview with The Tribune , Langevin explained that it was her first time in Montreal.
“Not everyone wants to travel all the way to meet [my company], so it’s a way to come and meet people,” Langevin said. “I’m happy that people can leave with a part of our culture [...] we have a beautiful culture, a really rich history. We are still here, and we are still strong.”
JC Bear, Nêhiyaw (Cree) and owner of Tansi Maskwa, echoed this sentiment, describing how the Pow Wow allows for socializing with other Indigenous communities.
“It’s very personal [....] It’s a way of reconnecting with my community,” Bear said.
Leah Louttit-Bunker, U2 Arts and co-chair of the Indigenous Students Alliance (ISA), told The Tribune , that the Pow Wow was an enriching experience for all of the ISA, and commended the groups that hosted the event.
“It was heartwarming to see everyone gather together to celebrate Indigenous cultures. The annual [Pow Wow] is always the highlight of our year and we really appreciate the work that the First Peoples’ House and the Office of Indigenous Initiatives put into organizing it,” LouttitBunker said.
McKenzie suggested that people looking to become
more involved in honouring and learning about Indigenous communities should attend more local events outside of the university setting.
“See if there’s any events going on nearby that other people are invited to,” McKenzie said. “If you come and ask people
questions, they will be happy to answer them and showcase our culture.”
The next event affiliated with First Peoples’ House will be taking place on Oct. 16, where Alanis Obomsawin, an acclaimed Abenaki filmmaker, will deliver the 69th Beatty Lecture.
The Pow Wow returned to Lower West Field last year after two years of being held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Maïa Salhofer/ The Tribune) (Mason Bramadat/ The Tribune)Continued from page 1.
Earlier in the week, McGill released an internal report that revealed that leading up to the Winter 2023 Macdonald campus building closures, McGill breached asbestos protocols and Quebec regulators intervened three times between 2021 and 2023.
McGill Principal Deep Saini weighed in on the situation at the town hall and called it a “broad-scale process failure.”
Asbestos is a carcinogen that can cause deadly cancers like mesothelioma when inhaled. It was widely used as an insulator across Canada from the 1930s to the 1980s due to its heat-resistant properties. Many McGill buildings on the Downtown and Macdonald campuses contain asbestos. In the last year, McGill has faced asbestos exposure risks on both campuses, with building closures disrupting classes and research.
McGill organized the town hall, which was in-person with a subsequent virtual town hall also taking place in the afternoon, as an opportunity for the McGill community to discuss the report’s findings and recommendations with key management stakeholders—with an on-stage panel answering questions.
The panel consisted of the Executive Director of the report, Pascal Théoret, and members of the newly formed task force on asbestos—Deputy Provost (Student Life and Learning) Fabrice Labeau, Associate Dean of Graduate Education in the Faculty of Science Laura Nilson, and Director of Master Plan Logistics Anne-Marie Huynh. The panel also included the Interim Vice-Principal (Administration and Finance) Diana Dutton, Dean of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Anja Geitmann, and independent asbestos expert Paul Demers, who joined over Zoom. The three task force members are not part of the Macdonald community, nor do they specialize in asbestos research.
Members of McGill’s senior administration were also present in the front row, including Principal Saini and Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic) Christopher Manfredi, who both gave opening remarks.
After a presentation from the members
of the panel highlighting the report’s findings, the town hall went into a question-andanswer period open to the 40-something attendees. Students and staff raised concerns from personal health and stalls in research to demands about accountability and apprehension about the future.
One professor shared that with the building closures, many faculty members in the Plant Science Department have been moved to temporary offices with little clarity from the administration about what will come next.
“Some of us don’t have labs, [...] some of us have moved three or four times [....] What is the plan? When are we going to be back exactly?” the professor said, eliciting a round of applause from the attendees.
Another professor, who stated that they are in the Plant Science Department, said that their lab is still closed and that the space closures are continuing to impact their research—forcing them to delay a million-
dollar-plus project.
Graduate student Kamel told the panel that she was regularly at a one-metre distance from construction workers, as where she was doing her research was on the construction site. In an interview with The Tribune, Kamel said finding out about dangers of asbestos dust was traumatic and caused her to have a panic attack for which she had to go to the emergency room.
“I [had] never heard of asbestos, and I didn’t know what it meant or what it was and I never was told that there was any risk of that,” Kamel said. “I’m someone who’s really careful about safety and had I known that there was anything to do with asbestos on this campus, I would have probably reconsidered McGill altogether.”
“It’s nothing short of criminal to not even tell people that ‘hey, this building has asbestos,’” Kamel later added.
The Tribune has been unable to verify if McGill specifically warned students about the asbestos risks at the Raymond building. The internal report confirms that construction workers working with materials that contain asbestos shared the same space with students.
Frédérique Mazerolle, McGill media relations officer, commented on Kamel’s incident and said that McGill’s top priority will always be the safety of the community. Mazerolle also cited the response from Demers, the independent asbestos expert on the panel at the town hall, who said “From what we know, [health risks to short-term exposure to asbestos] should be very, very low.”
McGill provides information to the university community and workers about asbestos in each building through its Asbestos Web Database, which documents the presence and condition of asbestos in each room of every building. However, the panelists at the town hall said this database is mainly for workers. Members of the audience
highlighted how the database is now mostly out of date.
McGill professors and staff members also raised issues about the lack of risk management and clarity regarding construction projects, as highlighted by the report, with others at the town hall questioning the accuracy of the events detailed.
In one instance, when the panel was unsure of the answer to a concern about a lack of a risk management plan for a specific project, they looked at the senior administration members in the front row. Denis Mondou, Associate Vice-Principal of Facilities Management and Ancillary Services, did not know the answer.
In an interview with The Tribune, Professor Mark Lefsrud explained how the Macdonald campus asbestos problems have forced him to relocate several times, and that it was only last week that some of his colleagues were able to restart their research properly. He also reflected on the town hall and expressed how more needs to be done.
“I do like our Principal [....] I like the fact he is trying to solve a lot of these problems, but I still think there are a lot of problems,” Lefsrud said. “The report is pretty vague and it needs to be hammered out.”
At the end of the town hall, Principal Saini, noticing the frustration in the room, addressed the attendees with his reflections.
“I fully hear your comments about accountability,” Saini said. “I can assure you that I take that responsibility; that, should something like this happen in the future, once we put robust processes in place, [...] heads will fall.”
Saini emphasized that, as a scientist himself, he could relate to the concerns and stories of researchers and students in the room, and that while changes will be made, they will not happen overnight.
“Stories like that take away the pride I feel for McGill,” Saini said.
“Some of us are traumatized”: McGill student pleas20 per cent of the dust tests conducted in the Raymond building were positive for asbestos in January 2023. (mcssmcgill.ca)
Over 400 people congregated in front of the Roddick Gates on Sherbrooke on Sept. 20 to join the Protect our Trans Siblings counter-protest against the 1 Million March 4 Children. There was a heavy police presence on-site to separate the two sides, which later confronted each other in heated exchanges outside the offices of Quebec Premier François Legault, opposite the Roddick Gates. While scuffles did erupt on the outskirts of the protest where the two groups converged, confrontations remained verbal rather than physical, with the police stating that no arrests were made.
The Protect Our Trans Siblings counterprotest, held at 8 a.m., was part of a national counter-protest movement. Despite the early start, the crowd was full of energy, waving placards and chanting slogans such as “protect trans kids” and “toute le monde déteste les fascistes.”
The 1 Million March 4 Children movement held national demonstrations to protest “gender ideology,” which they allege is being taught in schools across Canada. The movement has gained increased traction in Canadian politics with victories in New Brunswick and Saskatchewan, where Conservatives passed legislation in June of this year requiring students under 16 to get parental consent before their teachers can use their preferred first names.
Celeste Trianon—who led and helped organize the counter-protest—accused the antitrans group of having the backing of far-right extremists who had supported the Freedom
Convoy in Jan. 2022. Trianon also accused the movement of pushing hateful and exclusionary rhetoric which seeks to further silence and oppress 2SLGBTQIA+ people, especially those belonging to the trans community.
“[They are a movement] which seeks to eliminate education about trans and queer people within school settings,” Trianon said to reporters during the protest. “They are not protecting children; they are actually hurting groups of children and teenagers who are already beyond marginalized.”
Among the counter-protestors was Jamie*, a graduate student at McGill who explained why they felt the need to join the demonstration.
“Because of the rise of right-wing hate,” Jamie said to The Tribune. “I have so many trans and queer friends whose very existence is under threat right now and if we don’t take a stand, who’s next? They are the most marginalized and there is no room for hate.”
Queer McGill, the largest queer student support group at McGill, was instrumental in raising awareness about the counter-protest and providing support to counter-protestors during the event. Queer McGill Administrative Coordinator Abe Berglas, U3 Arts, told The Tribune why the group felt they had to mobilize for the counter-protest.
“Queer McGill was trying to rally the McGill community since it is taking place at the foot of our school,” Berglas said. “From our institutional background we have accumulated a fair following […] we have a thousand people subscribed to our list […] we have also been in contact with SSMU [the Students’ Society of McGill University], to get SSMU itself to
release a statement which they did last night […] and I have just been emailing Queer Concordia and a few other groups on campus to connect the far branches.”
When asked how McGill supported their efforts to organize and raise awareness of the counter-protest, Berglas’ answer was resoundingly blunt: “They haven’t.”
An email was sent from Provost and VicePrincipal (Academic) Christopher Manfredi 48 hours after the counter-protest had occurred, stating that McGill remains “deeply committed to equity and to supporting all the members of its community, including for 2SLGBTQ+ peoples
and communities.”
Trianon vowed to continue fighting to protect trans youth.
“We are fighting for the dignity and safety of trans and queer children, teens everywhere, and that is exactly why we are here protesting today,” Trianon said. “Because we want to send a message that everyone deserves to be safe going to school [….] We want to send a strong message that there is no space for hate across Canada.”
*Jamie’s name has been changed to preserve their confidentiality.
The second Students’ Society of McGill University (SSMU) Board of Directors (BoD) meeting of the fall semester was called to order on Sept. 20. The meeting’s public session included discussions of board members’ committee membership obligations and confirmation that the motion to hold a by-election to fill the currently-vacant vicepresident (VP) Finance position had been ratified.
The Board’s first order of business was to welcome Maya Marcus Sells, the new SSMU General Manager and the latest addition to the BoD. As General Manager, Marcus-Sells will sit as a member on the executive committee and as a non-voting member on the BoD.
Discussion then turned to a motion from
the Legislative Council calling for a by-election to fill the VP Finance position. Proposed during the last BoD meeting on Sept. 7, this byelection will fill the VP Finance position, which has been vacant since former VP Finance, Alice Fang, resigned on Aug. 18. SSMU Speaker and BoD Chair Jonathan Dong affirmed that a motion to ratify the previous motion to hold a by-election had been distributed via email after the Board’s last meeting and was unanimously approved on Sept. 12.
SSMU President Alexandre Ashkir subsequently delivered the Executive Committee’s Public Report. He stated that there was nothing for the committee to share, joking that the only notable update was the committee’s decision to continue holding their weekly meetings on Wednesday mornings. VP Student Life Nadia Dakdouki chimed in to clarify that the President’s statement was indeed a joke.
“We did do work, [...] there’s nothing worth reporting here, but there was a lot of work done,” Dakdoudi said.
While there were few updates from the committee to be shared during the public session, Dakdouki noted that the Executive Committee’s members had engaged in many lengthy discussions.
Ashkir then stood for questions on the report and reminded attendees that any
future questions about the report or about the Committee’s activities in general could be directed to him. As there were neither any questions raised nor opposition, the Executive Committee’s Public Report was quickly ratified.
With no other topics on the agenda, the Board moved on to a discussion item that Ashkir raised, reporting that he had received a request from an unnamed employee and leader of various SSMU committees to discuss the matter of board committee membership.
“Currently, the Board of Directors is understaffed,” Ashkir said. “For the time being, I would propose that we hold off on any board membership questions on committees unless [they’re] extremely urgent [...] so that none of our current board members are overwhelmed
with the sheer amount of board committees they would be expected to sit on.”
Ashkir added that holding off on appointing current board members to additional committees would allow for newly-elected members to fill these positions in the near future.
As no one raised questions or points of opposition, Dong declared the discussion items to be exhausted and concluded the public section of the meeting, which lasted a total of ten minutes.
“Unfortunately for our guests, we do have a confidential session this meeting, and, at this point, I will kindly ask you to leave, or else we will have to remove you or put you in the waiting room until we’re done [with] our confidential session,” Dong said.
After attendance had been taken, SSMU President Alexandre Ashkir proposed an addition to the agenda of a point of discussion regarding board committee membership. The motion was seconded by Lalia Katchelewa, VP University Affairs, and added to the agenda after facing no opposition.
“The [Executive Committee’s public] report mostly covers the motions [to call for a by-election for the position of VP Finance] that were approved, but a lot of the work that [the Executive Committee] does is in confidential discussions on a variety of topics for the day-to-day running of the society”
— Ashkir on why the Executive Committee had so few updates during the BoD’s public session.
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At the bottom of MountRoyal lies the Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH)––the site of an ongoing legal battle where McGill’s colonial past and the fight for truth and justice come to a head. On Sept. 12, McGill commenced drilling on the New Vic Project, aiming to “revitalize” the RVH in service of a new research facility, while purposefully neglecting the deeper implications of their project. According to the Kanien’kehá:ka Kahnistensera (Mohawk Mothers), the RVH site may contain human remains, specifically the remains of Indigenous children, from McGill’s violent involvement in the MK-Ultra experiments. The Mohawk Mothers appeared in the Superior Court of Quebec in April for a case management hearing regarding their settlement agreement with McGill, in which both parties agreed to search for potential unmarked Indigenous graves onsite. The settlement was the result of a years-long judicial struggle for justice that is nowhere near its end, as the Mothers will be returning to court on Oct. 27 to voice the multiple breaches
McGill made to their settlement agreement.
While McGill claims to “recognize and honour” Indigenous history, the university has repeatedly positioned itself against the Mohawk Mothers through settler colonial violence, using their power as an institution to ignore their demands. McGill has controlled the narrative around the legal battle, weaponized their privileged access to students and the McGill community by sending emails to students and staff that scarcely mention the discovery of human remains, and completely ignored both their multiple violations to the settlement agreement and the allegations of dishonesty made against them.
Time and time again, McGill has been unwilling to reconcile its atrocious history. The institution refuses to accept the crimes committed on unceded and stolen land, acknowledging bits and pieces on the surface, but never the whole truth. The New Vic project is striking proof of McGill’s greed and obsession with reputation over respect for the Haudenosaunee, Kanien’kehá:ka, and Anishinaabeg nations of this land.
McGill’s refusal to acknowledge the blood on its
Despite living in a city with an abundance of Indian immigrants, I hated not conforming to the same beauty standards that white girls epitomized.
Moving to Montreal marked a new era—I’d never lived in a city quite like it. Indians were in the minority, and to my chagrin, at the time I knew only one person in the entire city. Now, when I look back, I see the bright side: It was a fresh start.
hands, and active disinformation about the ongoing legal conflict with the Mohawk Mothers illustrates its bureaucratic approach to the matter. This procedure reveals the university’s willingness to further colonial pasts, as violent present and future.
McGill’s denialism of the truth only adds to the atrocious acts perpetrated against the Mohawk Mothers. Overrun with semantics, the Frequently Asked Questions section of the New Vic site undermines the lawsuit’s severity and the ongoing findings at the RVH site. However, this is not the only place where the McGill administration has spread disinformation. In an announcement on Aug. 3, Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic) Christopher Manfredi claimed that only nine anomalies containing “grave-type” features were located during their archaeological investigation. However, the Mohawk Mothers claim that several other anomalies with ‘unknown’ features went unreported.
The university continues to divert students’ attention away from the case and toward the bare minimum they have done to support McGill’s Indigenous
community. They must account for a 1.7 billion CAD debt to the Six Nations of the Grand River to respect their right to selfdetermination and the university must show humility in their future relationships with Indigenous peoples. The Mohawk Mothers have been clear in their assertion that the continuation of drilling may lead to the destruction of evidence. Time is running out and the time for community action is now.
The student body’s weak response to the case reflects how McGill’s misleading narratives produce ignorance and complicity in their case against the Mohawk Mothers. It cannot fall solely on the Indigenous members of the McGill community to fight against the administration. Student organizations must echo the demands of the Mohawk Mothers, flooding the courtrooms on Oct. 27 and working in solidarity to show support. Non-Indigenous members of the McGill community must resist McGill’s attempts to pacify resistance and rise up against a colonial administration that attempts to silence and erase Indigenous peoples. The New Vic project cannot continue, and it is the responsibility of the student body to prevent it.
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My name is Jasjot.
In Punjabi, Jasjot— pronounced “Jusjoth”—has a beautiful meaning: Light, radiance, fame, glory. In English, however, the name Jasjot—pronounced “Jazz-jot”— bears no significance.
Growing up, I hated hearing my name. It was a blaring symbol of my Indian identity that excluded me from the dominance of whiteness. From the school lunches perceived as “smelly” by my peers, to the hair on my arms, being Punjabi haunted me.
For the first time in my life, I felt truly different from my peers. I realized that being the loud, sassy, confident girl I had been was one thing—but all of that on top of being the only person of colour in a room was another thing entirely: In every way possible, I was set apart. In my head, this combination rendered my identity indigestible. I was deeply afraid that due to the differences in my surroundings, I would be rendered an insufferable, rambunctious person of colour.
So I tried to change everything about myself. My style, hair, personality, and taste in music, men, and even friends—I wanted to transform all the distinguishing aspects that had once made me unique. Most
importantly, I began to introduce myself as Jas—pronounced “Jazz.” Until this point, Jas was a name only spoken by my dad and brother. It made me feel like I was at home, and that I was safe and loved regardless of who I was. Now, it became a tool to fit into the confines others had created for me. Jas was a name that was far more digestible than Jasjot. Jas was a name that allowed me to take up as little space as possible.
I now realized how unbelievably misguided I was. The parts of my identity that I attempted to conceal—my loudness, my quick wit, my race—are the traits that make me, me. These traits not only define who I am, but who I want to be. So, after a spiral of identity crises, I decided enough was enough: I deserved to take space in others’ lives. Jas became a girl who didn’t want to fit into the box of whiteness, nor change the core characteristics that made up her identity. She wanted to remain true to her adolescent self. However, some habits are hard to break. Truth be told, I should be telling people that Jas is pronounced “Jus,” not Jazz. But growing up Punjabi
in Canadian society impeded my connection with my racial identity. I wasn’t nearly as “cultural” as some of my other second-generation immigrant friends, yet hints of my Punjabi identity leaked into every aspect of my life, from an inability to wholly articulate my thoughts in merely one language, to my years of competitive Bhangra. Not being Punjabi enough secluded me from my Indian friends, and being too Punjabi left me isolated from my non-Indian peers.
This struggle is part of what compelled me to reinvent myself. I didn’t fit into any box, and on top of that, I felt that I had too big of a personality. While I still occasionally use the name Jasjot in professional arenas because it symbolizes the Punjabi girl that my parents created, Jasjot is someone I was never quite able to connect with. She is a melancholic memory of deep unhappiness and confusion.
Jas, however, is able to accept and embrace her flaws. She realizes that you can never entirely fit into the bounded ideals others create for you.
I am Jas, and I’m the most authentic version of myself that has existed.
On Sept. 12, JED Consulting, McGill Social Business Network (MSBN) Consulting, and the McGill Black Students’ Network (BSN) held their second annual “Being Black in Consulting” event. A four-person panel of Black consultants from some of the world’s top consult-
ing firms shared their journeys, tips, and challenges. This was followed by a two-hour networking session where Black students from various Montreal universities had the opportunity to connect with 25 Black consulting professionals. While looking around at the 75 students in attendance, all dressed up in their business attire and eagerly conversing with Black consultants, two things were very clear. It is rare to see so many Black business people in one space, and
Black role models are integral to furthering Black success. We need more of them, both in the business sphere and on campus.
Desautels, McGill’s Faculty of Management, has a history of abhorrent treatment toward its Black students. In 2020, in an open letter addressed to the faculty, writers detailed the ongoing issues at the faculty. The letter, which received hundreds of signatures, alleges that institutionalized racism at Desautels is entrenched in every level of the faculty. This sobering statement illustrates a systemic issue within the management faculty, and there are tangible steps and changes that must be taken to address these issues and give Black students at McGill the opportunities they deserve.
Dr. Yolande E. Chan, a Black woman and former Associate Vice Principal at Queen’s University, was appointed as Dean of Desautels in 2021—a step forward that still did not suffice to bridge the distinct racial gap in the staff. Most Black students are still likely to graduate without ever seeing a Black professor at the front of the room. This alienates Black students, sending them the message that they are not welcome.
Students who are unable to see people who look like them represented
Emanuel Curto ContributorSept. 16’s Global Progress Actions Summit in Montreal was one of the largest gatherings of progressive politicians in the last 15 years. Current and former heads of state Tony Blair, Jacinda Ardern, Jonas Gahr Støre, Sanna Marin, Magdalena Andersson, and Justin Trudeau shared their assessments of the state of the international progressive movement. However, much to the distaste of anyone hoping for international progressive policies, few observations were of note.
From Prime Minister Trudeau, one claim warranted consideration: He claimed that everyday people and “aspirational” politics are not compatible. Trudeau’s alternative to the aspirational, however, leaves a dangerous gap for a conservative populist movement to fill. The Liberals need new policies that will allow them to pedal the transformative rhetoric fundamental to the progressive movement while remaining in touch with the everyday concerns of citizens.
Ultimately, Trudeau is right. The electorate will not tolerate passive policies, packaged to appease donors
in their academic institutions struggle to identify with professions in the field and have a much harder time pursuing those paths. Providing Black students with Black role models helps to foster a sense of belonging that is necessary for them to thrive. Currently, there are two Black student groups in the Faculty of Management: The Desautels African Business Initiative (DABI), founded in 2014 with the aim of educating people about growing business opportunities in Africa, and the Black Students’ Financial Society (BSFS), that promotes Black businesses and financial literacy in Montreal. While the work these groups do is irreplaceable, students cannot bear the sole weight of providing Black students inspiring role models. The McGill administration and Desautels must do more.
Networking is often touted as one of the most important things students can do in university. But while it is important for most students, it is a necessity for Black students who often lack the intergenerational, nepotistic connections that white students might be able to leverage when looking for summer internships or job opportunities. A recent Harvard study found that nearly one-third of Americans will work at the same firm
such as those he has provided during his almost eight years in power. Consider Trudeau’s pusillanimity in approving the Trans Mountain pipeline extension and allowing himself to be pressured by his chums at McKinsey & Company. His aspiration to funnel a projected 500 million CAD/year in 2019, is now set to yield no cash for green investments––a complete and utter failure for bold futures for our climate. However, important to note, under immense media backlash, even successful progressive policies often fail in the eyes of voters. The United States’ Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the leading component of President Joe Biden’s environmentally-minded industrial strategy, funded by a progressive taxation scheme, is absent in the minds of Americans.
While this electoral apathy toward progressive policy is due in part to a lack of felt consequences of these policies, the loss of narrative on the economy to sly conservative messaging plays a significant role. Yesterday’s progressive promises are ineffective against today’s right-wing messaging, which is bolstered by economic uncertainty and conservatism’s flirtatious dance with right-wing, reactionary populism. If Trudeau’s dis-
taste for the aspirational persists, his policies will act as fodder for a populist Conservative groundswell.
At the end of his tenure, Trudeau knows his unfulfilled promises of a better, fairer Canada will not resonate with the electorate again. Therefore, he feels his bid to the country must propose piecemeal, un-aspirational policy as an electoral strategy. The logic of his claims are far from ubiq-
as a parent, earning almost 20 per cent more than they otherwise would. This puts Black students at a further disadvantage, as generations of discriminatory employment practices have destroyed Black futures—that which will allow them to build the same kind of generational wealth as white families. Facilitating Black advancement in industries such as consulting is crucial for breaking down the racial wealth gap. The management consulting industry in Canada was valued at 24.2 billion CAD in 2022, and has been growing at an average rate of 5.4 per cent annually since 2017.
To eliminate classist and racist barriers, organizations must provide Black students with mentors who can help identify obstacles and build collectivity in overcoming them. Through “Black in Consulting,” JED and MSBN Consulting may have taken an important first step in collaborating with BSN to hold an annual Black-focused networking event. But in order to make meaningful change in the field, other groups, and the faculty itself, must use their abundant resources to follow suit. In doing so, Desautels will not only be setting an important precedent for other faculties to follow, but it will be opening doors for generations of Black students to come.
uitous among commentators inside Canada, and are certainly not generalizable outside of it, which is why his positioning seems slightly misplaced at a summit of international leaders.
However, the problem is not so much that aspirational policies are not attractive to voters––they are.
The problem is that no Western progressive government has managed
post-pandemic to successfully turn progressive policies on immigration, climate, or industrial strategy into votes, as they might have been able to in previous election cycles. The air is crisp with a skittish, Western insecurity where politicians cannot communicate or reconcile the need for harsh but ambitious decisions in the short term to the benefits brought in the long term.
JED x MSBN Consulting’s joint ‘Being Black in Consulting’ event organized alongside BSN highlights the need for diversity among role models in the business world. (Eileen Hu)Continued from page 1.
“McGill lettuce club is one of the main reasons I chose this school for exchange.”
Zoe Mozola, U2 Science, shared her reasons for joining the competition, delving into her family’s deep roots with the vegetable.
“I have a long family tradition, we just
pass around a head of lettuce and eat it with our bare hands,” Mozola said.
For others such as U0 Arts student Eve Piget, lettuce is a part of everyday life.
“I just really love eating lettuce, I eat at least a head of lettuce every single day,” Piget told The Tribune
Many shared their passion for lettuce, with some even skipping class to attend the acclaimed competition.
Though there was a range of students at the competition—some, hardcore lettuce-
eating athletes and others, simply dragged along by their friends—the competition exuded a welcoming and fun atmosphere.
“I really like the vibe of the club. It felt really open and accepting, even though I accidentally bought a cabbage,” Arieh Rosenthal, U1 Education, said.
The field was packed by the competition’s kick-off. Everyone chanted the countdown. Ten… nine…. eight… The adrenaline was building. Seven… six… Hands began to shake and sweat. Five… four... Students took their last gulps of air. Three, two, one—and they were off!
Students came prepared with various strategies to chow down. The calmer of them sat cross-legged on the grass, peacefully ripping off leaves and munching as fast as they could. The most intense remained standing, leaning over and gnawinggrasping at the lettuce with their bare teeth. These participants filled the atmosphere with sounds of gagging, a mixture of drool and water splattered on t-shirts, and huddles of friends cheering them on loudly.
Everyone’s eyes whipped across the field to see who was making the most progress. In just over two minutes, a winner had prevailed: Jacob Lofaro, U2 Engineering, varsity rower, and now McGill’s proud 2023-24 Lettuce Head.
As of Oct. 31, Quebec will ban non-tobacco-flavoured vapes and set a new maximum nicotine concentration of 20 milligrams per millilitre for those that remain. Health Minister Christian Dubé, who first set out to amend vaping regulations in April, says this is meant to prevent the negative effects of vaping on minors, given that the number of high school students who vape has quintupled between 2013 and 2019. The amendment to the Tobacco Control Act brings with it many questions: Will our Halloween parties be ruined by nicotine addicts suffering from withdrawal? And what does this mean for the well-being and social life of McGill students?
It seems that most, whether they vape or not, do not know about the ban. Lashyn Ahmad, U1 Management, does not vape but was unaware of the new regulations until she was interviewed about it.
“I didn’t know about the bill, but I am in favour of it,” Ahmad said. “The flavours are something that made [vapes] much too marketable to adolescents.”
Oscar Johnson, U2 Arts, pointed out that the reason why so many minors vape as their introduction to nicotine is due to the appealing flavours, which can entice teens to think of vapes as a treat and mask how unhealthy it truly is.
“Flavoured vapes pander to minors
with most flavours being really sweet and fruity,” Johnson said. “There’s bubblegum, mango—they all sound like candy flavours.”
Ava McKenzie, U1 Arts, also hadn’t heard of the bill but is similarly in favour.
“Vapes only really exist to get a new generation hooked on nicotine, and it’s worked spectacularly,” McKenzie said. “I think it’s a good thing to decrease their availability because being addicted to something full of chemicals doesn’t positively affect anyone.”
Ahmad believes that the ban will impact student life at McGill because, in her words, “people are very deeply addicted to vaping.”
Johnson, on the other hand, feels that this will not affect McGill students because those who really want to continue vaping will find a way.
“Even if they are banned in Quebec, Ontario is only a two-hour drive away,” Johnson said. “People can just buy vapes there or order them online if they want them badly enough.”
The ban raises the question: If people are so addicted now, will there be pushback or protest? Ahmad doesn’t think so, arguing that those affected are mostly under the voting age. Johnson thinks that pushback would prove the government’s point—that vaping has become too much of a crutch for teens. However, Johnson predicts vape-selling business owners may react differently.
“[People will] either push back or find a loophole of some sort to stay in business,” Johnson said.
Another question to consider is if vapers will turn into cigarette smokers in order to satisfy their nicotine addiction.
“Going cold turkey is possible but nicotine is so hard to quit,” McKenzie said. “Cigarettes are also already prevalent in Quebec so it would be an easy transition.”
Ahmad, however, does not think so because of how the public views cigarettes after decades of anti-smoking campaigns.
“Cigarettes are still unappealing to the general population,” Ahmad told The Tribune
Despite the years of anti-cigarette
Lofaro was crowded by students, reporters, and Zhao himself, congratulating his successor and patting him on the back. Everyone wanted to know: How did he do it?
Luckily, The Tribune secured an interview with the star.
“I’m feeling full because I actually ate a massive lunch like 40 minutes ago,” Lofaro said between burps. “I made a nice vinaigrette, half balsamic vinegar, half olive oil,” he shared.
Lofaro had only heard about the competition 30 minutes before it began and came with his friends after his hearty lunch. It was simply a matter of pure skill that Lofaro had managed to stuff down a full head of lettuce in just about 120 seconds.
Zhao was congratulatory and spoke about Lofaro’s win after taking off the lettuce coat and putting it on Lofaro’s back.
“It feels like passing the mantle, I had a great year of being lettuce head at McGill and [am] happy to see someone else take the crown, but I’m ready to come back next year—do not worry,” Zhao told The Tribune
Overall, the competition had a great turnout, and everyone left with a smile (and a little piece of lettuce) on their face.
campaigns, however, smoking is back in fashion amongst youth due to the increasing amount of cigarette use in the media, particularly by “it girls” such as Lily-Rose Depp. Depp exemplifies the aesthetic that so many young girls want to emulate—cool, European, and nonchalantly beautiful. Studies have concluded that young people exposed to smoking cigarettes via entertainment, such as Depp’s performance as Jocelyn in HBO’s The Idol , are three times more likely to take it up. So will teens give up nicotine altogether after the new regulations come into effect? Or will cigarettes become the new, cooler vape? Only time will tell.
Many students were hunched over their lettuce in a focused stance. (Mason Bramadat / The Tribune)
Content Warning: Mentions of suicide, sexual assault, eating disorders, racism, antisemitism, homophobia, and xenophobia.
MMcGill boasts a reputation as an independent university, where no one holds students’ hands. Imagine if you were in a collaborative community with similar values, missions, and visions for the future of the campus and the world. Is that community Greek life?
Since the creation of McGill’s first fraternity in 1883 and the first sorority in 1886, Greek life has become a prominent aspect of student life at the university. From vibrant house parties to cancer research fundraisers, Greek life organizations offer a wide range of activities to cater to their members and the broader student body.
Greek life at McGill comprises seven fraternities and five sororities, totalling some 500 members—or 2 per cent of the undergraduate student population. McGill’s sororities are governed by the Panhellenic Council (Panhel), though the fraternities do not have an equivalent governing body. These fraternities and sororities are united by the Inter-Greek Letter Council (IGLC), which aims to “[bring] together students of leadership, friendship, and scholarship, who are continuously active on campus and in the greater Montreal community.”
Unlike the IGLC, the McGill administration has no relationship with Greek life. By contrast, other universities, like the University of British Columbia, have documents outlining the relationship between the university and Greek organizations on campus.
In recent years, students and activists alike have criticized Greek life for its discriminatory recruitment, hazing, and sexual violence. This has led to the Abolish Greek Life Movement, which argues that Greek life must be discontinued due to its roots in an outdated system of racism and misogyny.
To investigate the current state of Greek life at McGill and the effects of the Abolish Greek Life Movement on the community, The Tribune conducted interviews with current and former members. During this investigation, The Tribune verified that source allegations were known to other members through internal communication, and
also interviewed policy stakeholders.
The Tribune can reveal that Greek life still provides many with a sense of community and feelings of acceptance. However, others have reported negative experiences, including racist comments and difficulties speaking out over sexual violence.
Issues with Greek Life at McGill Sam* joined a sorority in their first year. What began through the pursuit of friendship and community left them with memories of bullying and a mental health crisis.
“Being in [the organization] was affecting my mental health to the point where I was experiencing extreme suicidal ideations,” Sam said in an interview with The Tribune. “I had no choice but to leave.”
During their time, Sam said that they were the survivor of a sexual assault at a fraternity party, perpetrated by another McGill student who was not a Greek life member. Sam was extremely disappointed in IGLC’s lack of action following the incident.
Sam asked that IGLC blacklist the student who assaulted them so that they would be banned from all future Greek life events. However, an IGLC member informed Sam that they were unable to blacklist him without further testimonies, confirmed by messages between Sam and an IGLC executive seen by The Tribune. As a result, Sam had to reach out to every Greek organization on campus to ask them to blacklist the perpetrator, with most choosing to do so.
When Sam mentioned the sexual assault to members of their Greek organization in a group chat, instead of supporting them after the assault, the sisters were upset that Sam had not included a trigger warning prior to mentioning the incident. The messages about content warnings amassed numerous likes from sisters, while Sam’s message received none.
The IGLC did not respond to The Tribune’s request for comment before the publication deadline.
When Sam was in the Greek life community, they also attended numerous parties and fundraiser events that they felt created an uncomfortable environment. One event auctioned off members of their organization
under the guise of philanthropy—a practice rooted in Trans-Atlantic slavery.
“[My organization] decided that it would be a great idea to have a website where sisters are bidded on to go on dates that match [the first letter of] their name,” Sam said. “Anyone could bid and you would have to go on the date.”
Sam is a person of colour. They said they experienced racist comments during their time in the organization, which led them to feel excluded from the rest of the largely white Greek community.
As a result, Sam ultimately left their organization in their second year.
Alex*, a former member of a McGill fraternity, had a largely positive experience in Greek life. However, they saw first-hand some of its downsides, such as instances of sexual violence occurring at Greek events.
“I had to deal with sexual violence and harassment within my fraternity. Luckily, I was also in SACOMSS [The Sexual Assault Centre of the McGill Students’ Society] for a while and was able to apply that training, which ended up being life-saving,” Alex said.
Alex joined Greek life as a first-year McGill student hoping to expand their social network. During their time in the Greek community, Alex served in a management position in their fraternity.
Alex points out that due to McGill fraternities’ lack of a governing body, there is no McGill-specific policy for dealing with sexual assault and harassment. Instead, the school’s fraternities follow an international headquarters’ policies.
“We are attached to a headquarters in the U.S. that puts a lot of stringencies on us,” Alex said in an interview with The Tribune
All of McGill’s Greek organizations are governed by an international headquarters, primarily based out of the U.S.
These headquarters are responsible for determining the organizations’ internal policies, such as their code of conduct and policies regarding issues such as sexual violence.
Even when such policies are outlined, instances of reported violence occur in fraternity rituals, such as hazing.
“There’s hazing in fraternities. [...] We really tried to cut it down. Where my fraternity is now, I wouldn’t call our rituals hazing,” Alex said.
Sam also believes that many initiation rituals, particularly in fraternities, border on hazing and create an uncomfortable environment for prospective members.
During their time in Greek life, Alex felt that the contracts eager first-year students were asked to sign were overly
coercive, and they later observed how these documents made these students feel trapped in the organization.
Potential members sign Greek life contracts following the recruitment process, where students get to know members of different Greek organizations. Then, through a process of mutual selection, members are assigned to an organization and sign their contracts, which keep them financially obligated to their organization for four years.
“The thing you don’t realize when you’re 18 and you’re just coming in, is it’s a financial commitment and it’s a legal commitment,” Alex said. “You’ve signed contracts and you’re locked in for those four years and it can be a real mess [to get out of them].”
Despite the issues surrounding Greek life, many students continue to rush in the hopes of meeting friends and making a positive impact on their communities.
Jenna Dube, BA ’23, was in Greek life from 2020-2023. In their time, Dube served as VP of Community Relations and Panhellenic Delegate. Dube initially joined a sorority to find a sense of belonging during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“During that first COVID summer, I was feeling pretty isolated and I became interested in doing something I had never considered doing before,” Dube explained in an interview with The Tribune
For Dube, partaking in Greek life was a great way to form social connections with other McGill students at a time when classes were largely online.
“My closest friends are from my sorority and I made connections with people I never would have met otherwise,” they said. “I feel like I made an impact on the greater McGill and Montreal community through being in a sorority.”
Similarly, Robin*, a current McGill student, joined a fraternity in 2021 to expand their social network and create positive change in the community.
“Being in a fraternity really added to my life,” Robin said in an interview with The Tribune. “I got to plan really fun events, I raised a bunch of money for [a native women’s shelter and a wildlife conservation club], and I met some really important people in my life.”
However, Robin recognizes that joining Greek life is not possible for everyone given financial and time restrictions, as well as institutionalized racism.
“Systematically, there are quite a few barriers to Greek life,” Robin explained. “You have to have a decent amount of disposable income [and time] to participate fully. There are also
historical issues with marginalized communities; the population of [Greek] organizations are not wholly representative of McGill.”
Part of this comes from the gendered divide and the assumptions of normative femininity and masculinity these groups can foment. As a queer and non-binary person, Dube was initially unsure about fitting into Greek life at McGill but was met with open arms by their sorority.
“My sorority was nothing but accepting and supportive of me and never asked me to be something I wasn’t,” Dube said.
The Start of a New Chapter Dube believes that their sorority is doing significant work to address issues of discrimination and harassment through regular workshops.
“My sorority has always been on top of [diversity, equity, and inclusion],” Dube said. “We always had workshops about [combatting] racism and antisemitism, but also eating disorders and sexual violence.”
However, Dube does not feel that their sorority’s sense of accountability is present in all McGill fraternities, largely due to their lack of a governing body.
“I think the [fraternities] could make more steps to unify under one organization like Panhel and that would hopefully [increase accountability] and prevent DEI and sexual violence issues,” they suggested.
For Robin, changing the protective nature of Greek organizations is key to preventing sexual violence.
“Once you’re in [a Greek organization], it’s a right, not a privilege to be in there,” they explained. “A lot of people try to defend the behaviour of their friends and [they] can use internal organizations’ policies to protect people. If anyone is making anyone in the community feel bad, [...] we don’t need to have this person in [the organization].”
Sophia Garofalo, U2 Arts, is a current member of a McGill sorority and an Arts Senator for the Students’ Society of McGill University (SSMU). In her role as an Arts Senator, she is working on creating policies and procedures to govern the rela- tionship
between SSMU and Greek life organizations on campus—a relationship that is not currently outlined by any official documentation.
“Right now, I’m working with the heads of IGLC to create an independent agreement where they can access some resources from SSMU to better themselves, their understanding, and their preventative abilities [for sexual violence],” Garofalo explained.
The new agreement between the IGLC and SSMU, which is currently being finalized, will allow the IGLC’s equity committee to reach out to SSMU for help with investigations. It will also include stricter requirements on sexual violence and harm reduction training for McGill’s Greek organizations, including a mandate that all McGill fraternities have at least 50 per cent of their members, including new members, the VP Social, VP Risk, VP External, and President attend a 2-hour active bystander sexual violence prevention workshop every semester. Should a fraternity not comply, the IGLC will prevent its members from participating in social events. However, such an agreement would not include the university itself, which has traditionally taken a hands-off approach with Greek organizations.
“McGill does not have an agreement with any Greek-letter organization and is not in any discussions for such an agreement or a three-way agreement with SSMU [...] because they are entirely independent [of] McGill,” McGill Media Relations Officer Frédérique Mazerolle wrote in an email to The Tribune
Despite previous instances of sexual harassment and assault in McGill’s Greek community, Garofalo is optimistic that with proper education and policies in place, these issues will no longer occur on our campus.
“There’s a bit more of a proactive attitude from IGLC, [and] the frats have been very receptive to that, which is really nice to see going forward,” she said.
Alex echoes Garofalo’s hopeful sentiments but believes more work needs to be done to recuperate the needs for community on campus, without the roots of Greek life.
“I think Greek life has the potential to be a really beautiful and positive experience for university students,” Alex said. “[We] need to burn it down to the ground and start again.”
* Sam, Robin, and Alex’s names have been changed to preserve their confidentiality.
Though it’s been 40 years since Quebec nearly passed a law that would have allowed guests to bring their own bottles into any restaurant, many places in Montreal still allow you to have a delicious meal while sipping your favourite wine.
Eating at a bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) or “apportez votre vin” (AVV) restaurant is a great way to enjoy a night out without having to break the bank on drinks. Keep in mind, though, that many BYOBs might have more expensive menu items than their non-BYOB counterparts, so the extent of your savings could depend on how much you intend to drink. Luckily, most BYOBs in Montreal do not charge corkage fees, saving you from having to pay to bring your own bottles; but it is always worth double-checking so as to not be surprised when the bill comes.
Finding BYOBs can be tough. One trick is to make a list where you can jot them down when you come across the signs on your daily commutes. If that seems like too much work, fear not—The Tribune has compiled a list of some BYOB spots near McGill.
Amber Nearest intersection: Rue Rachel and Ave Henri-Julien
After the tragic dissappearance of cam-
pus samosas, Amber is there to scratch the itch. It offers a variety of Indian and Pakistani dishes, from butter chicken to bhindi masala. Amber’s extensive menu, complete with a wide range of vegetarian and gluten-free options, can make it convenient for groups of any size.
Khyber Pass
Nearest intersection: Ave Duluth and Rue Berri
The restaurant that played host to Justin Trudeau and Sophie Grégoire Trudeau’s first date is also the perfect place to pair delicious Afghan dishes with your own bottle (or bottles) of wine. Though they have an à la carte selection, their table d’hôte (which includes a soup or salad, main course, dessert, and coffee) starts at a reasonable $35, especially considering the money that’ll be saved on drinks.
KUI
Nearest intersection: Rue Wellington and Rue Hickson
What’s better than all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ? How about all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ with all-you-can-drink wine (provided you bring enough bottles)? Located on the supposed “coolest street in the world,” this restaurant is worth the trek on the Green Line.
La Prunelle
Nearest intersection: Ave Duluth and Rue
Drolet
While the weather may have dipped too much to enjoy their terrasse, there’s still plenty to enjoy at this BYOB. Though on the pricier side, La Prunelle will wow you with its presentation, offering up Instagram-worthy plates in a lovely setting filled with natural light. Just remember to save room for dessert, as their cheesecake might just be the highlight of the meal (and would go lovely with that Riesling you just picked up at the SAQ).
La Rose des Sables
Nearest intersection: Rue Beaubien and Ave Papineau
Looking for a couscous or tajine that’ll justify an excursion to the East End? If so, La Rose des Sables is a must. From the expressive decor to the colourful dishware, the cozy atmosphere will make for the perfect fall dinner, especially after a midterm that didn’t go too well. For an ideal pairing, look for a syrah that would complement the richly spiced dishes on the menu.
Luna
Nearest intersection: Rue Rachel and Rue St Andre
Even if it weren’t a BYOB, it would be tough to not recommend Luna. Their bibimbap is worth a visit by itself but paired with your favourite bottle, it’s an instant classic.
Luna is on the smaller side, and considering
Katherine
Contributor
WeaverIn the workforce, employers often frame LinkedIn as an essential social media platform for those looking to enter the job market. For university students, LinkedIn’s most prominent features are its networking, job search, and job recruitment features, so most only join once they begin looking for internships or post-graduation employment. However, how necessary is it really for university students, many of whom aren’t actively looking to start their careers just yet? Is LinkedIn just a place to boast club and extra-curricular involvement? The Tribune investigated the benefits of LinkedIn for students and explains how to create a profile that will stand out to potential employers.
What is LinkedIn?
LinkedIn allows users to build a network, search and recruit for jobs, and share career news and ideas. A typical profile includes a professional headshot, a personalized headline, past and current education and job experiences, and a short summary of the user’s professional identity, including their goals and specific skills. Users can connect with and explore industries, companies, and specific individuals they are interested in. Through these connections, they can grow a professional network and explore job opportunities.
What if I’m not looking for a job/
internship right now?
While job-seekers often use LinkedIn to search for openings, businesses also use the platform to recruit future employees. Even if you aren’t on the search for a new job or internship, putting your professional self out there with a strong profile and summary can help to open yourself up to potential opportunities to build a network or to be recruited.
What if I don’t know what type of job I may want?
For others, who aren’t entirely sure of what path they may want to take after school, simply building a LinkedIn profile can serve as invaluable practice at developing
a “personal brand” by linking together your past experiences and your skills. Creating your LinkedIn profile is a brainstorming exercise that can help make it clear what your strengths and interests are.
Further, the platform has an excellent search feature that can help students explore potential industries and career paths. Using the “People” search option, you can type in keywords that correspond to your interests. For example, if you are interested in fashion and want to find McGill Alumni who use that keyword, you can type in “‘McGill’ AND ‘fashion.’” Researching how real people have turned their interests and achievements into careers can be a very enlightening way to explore the numerous
its popularity, it may be best to make a reservation beforehand.
Uchi
Nearest intersection: Rue Atateken and Rue Ontario E
This unpretentious sushi joint near the Village checks off many boxes. BYOB, check. Affordable, check. Delicious and fresh, check. Sort of near campus, check. Pick up a pinot grigio or sake from the SAQ and gather a few friends for a lovely evening.
The number of BYOB permits in Quebec has been slowly decreasing over the last few years, so plan a visit before it’s too late. (Lily Cason / The Tribune)
career paths you could pursue.
Keep it professional, people. Using a professional profile photo and background is a great first step when setting up your LinkedIn. A quick Google search will yield many articles detailing the nittygritty of how to craft a stand-out summary or what specific past experiences and skills to include. The overwhelming consensus of these articles is that being concise is crucial. Your LinkedIn should not be the same as your CV—rather, it’s best used as a personalizing supplement to your CV.
If you’re interested in more specific help, the McGill Career Planning Service has resources online, as well as advising opportunities to help you not only create but get the most out of the site and what it offers.
Making a LinkedIn profile shouldn’t be difficult or stressful. That being said, it is your professional online presence and likely the first social media platform that potential employers will see. Once you create one, diligence in maintaining, monitoring, and using proper etiquette will be key.
Most of us fall somewhere along the spectrum of “no clue what I’m doing after school” to “I am so ready to start my career!” Regardless of where you’re at, LinkedIn can prove to be an invaluable tool for any student with the time and intention to build and maintain it.
Atticus O’Rourke Rusin Contributor
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in January 2022, when thousands of people were getting sick every day, healthcare professionals were worked to the bone. One particularly difficult task in preventing the spread of COVID-19 was contact tracing. In other words, finding out who was sick and how they got sick.
The challenge in detecting COVID-19, as well as other pathogens, lies in their size. Rapid COVID-19 tests are finicky partly because they require a large quantity of the viral spike protein to detect a positive case. Often, this viral protein may not show up in a large enough quantity until days into an infection. And, of course, we cannot spot viruses with the naked eye due to their incredibly small size—COVID-19 is approximately 100 nanometres in diameter or 0.00014 millimetres.
However, a new study from McGill’s Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences details new technology that allows for the tracking of airborne viruses, in effect enabling us to ‘see’ viruses. The technology, known as Nano-Digital In-Line Holographic Microscopy (Nano-DIHM),
uses artificial intelligence in conjunction with a laser to visualize small particles in real time.
Although the exact method and machinery underlying Nano-DIHM is under wraps, as the research team waits on patents, Parisa Ariya, professor in McGill’s Department of Chemistry and Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, shared some information in an email to The Tribune
“Using several optics operations, we broke the diffraction barrier, allowing us not to need to use expensive lasers or do particle trapping,” Ariya wrote.
The diffraction barrier refers to a microscope’s limit in resolution, or the size at which images begin to blur. By breaking
their diffraction barrier, the research team could view smaller particles with greater resolution.
This improved the performance of the microscope, but still did not allow them to get accurate observations on the scale of an individual COVID-19 particle. For this, the team had to upgrade their software as well, prompting them to incorporate machine learning into their method.
“We developed additional AI codes to enable us to go below 100 [nanometres],” Ariya wrote.
Since 100 nanometres is the approximate size of a COVID-19 particle, this enhanced resolution allows the visualization of these particles. However, these are not
just any photos. According to Ariya, each particle can be observed in four dimensions.
“We see viruses four-dimensionally, i.e., follow the 3-dimensional (length, width, height) virus changes as a function of time (i.e., 4-dimensionality),” Ariya wrote in an email to The Tribune
With polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, there is a turnaround time of multiple days. Rapid COVID-19 tests take only 15 minutes, but their efficacy is questionable. In contrast, this technology can identify and track dangerous pathogens, including COVID-19, in a matter of seconds. Although not yet in use, healthcare facilities and other high-risk areas could inexpensively implement a small, cameralike application of this technology to detect infected individuals.
While still in the early stages of development, the team’s techniques have potential for diseases beyond COVID-19. They could track a number of different viruses, bacteria, and other forms of microorganisms, which according to Ariya will be of critical need in the near future.
“The World Health Organization has warned that other pandemics will come, regrettably. This technology can serve rapid detection and forecasting to save lives.”
Although the Omicron COVID19 variant emerged in November 2021, scientists are just beginning to trace how the massive surge of infections unfolded by testing blood samples from throughout the pandemic. This is because antibodies against COVID-19 can be detected in blood for months after an infection.
The analysis was led by Bruce Mazer, professor in McGill’s Department of Pediatrics, and David Buckeridge, professor in McGill’s School of Population and Global Health. They explored the evolution of COVID-19 seroprevalence—the number of people with antibodies left over after an infection—between May 2020 and March 2023, using blood samples from a variety of sources, including the Canadian Blood Services and Hema Quebec.
Their main finding was striking. In late 2021, before Omicron was widespread, less than ten per cent of Canadians had been infected with COVID-19.
“[But in December 2021,] it went crazy,” Mazer said in an interview with The Tribune . “There was this steady increase upwards from the winter of 2021 [...] until it peaked around late summer 2022, hitting around 70 per cent.”
As of March 2023, the most recent month analyzed, this number was 75 per cent.
Differences between age groups were
another major trend in their research. Over 80 per cent of people in the 17-to-25 age group, the youngest one included, had been infected, above the national average. For each subsequent age group, infection rates decreased, with the oldest age group, 65 years and older, lingering around 60 per cent.
“We really have a population age breakdown,” Mazer said.
The study also established that provinces displayed distinct infection patterns.
“We covered the geographical areas of Canada, showing that [cases in] the Atlantic provinces were […] the lowest among all provinces,” Mazer said. “And then they caught up quickly during Omicron.”
Many of these findings will not be a surprise to anyone who kept track of Canadian case counts during the early years of the pandemic. In fact, one of the most surprising conclusions for Mazer was that preliminary case estimates were relatively accurate.
“When we started serosurveillance [the testing itself of blood samples], one of the predictions was that there was going to be a lot of under the radar infections […] [but] in the first two years of the pandemic, there was no hidden tip of the iceberg,” Mazer said.
However, seroprevalence offers additional information that positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests alone cannot provide. Since antibodies remain in the blood for months after infection, they can be used
to estimate the total number of infections over time. Relying on test data also became impossible later in the pandemic.
“[Around the time of the Omicron wave], we lost the ability to do PCR […] once provinces decided to stop funding [it].” Mazer said, “Broadly, there was no way to track the numbers at all.”
This study is therefore the first to accurately measure Canadian infections during the later part of the pandemic.
Despite its advantages, studying seroprevalence still has its challenges. Developing a reliable test for antibodies was the biggest obstacle, as it required researchers to find differences between antibodies against COVID-19, and those from colds and other minor respiratory illnesses caused by other coronaviruses. Constant monitoring is also necessary to ensure the tests can detect antibodies against new variants.
However, the technique still provides a powerful understanding of infection patterns. In addition to evidence of prior infections, the antibody testing also showed that elderly people in longterm care lost their antibodies rapidly after vaccination.
“We brought that data to the government,” Mazer said. “We said, if you’re going to roll out boosters, you [need to] roll them out really quickly in long-term care because they’ve already lost their protection […] And the government listened.”
Despite the many applications for the data, the huge number of people who were infected with COVID-19 remains the most significant fact for Mazer.
“[In the past 100 years,] there’s never been an infection that’s infected 80 per cent of a population in a year,” Mazer said. “This is unprecedented. [...] Everybody would say to each other, oh, everybody’s got COVID. Well, we really have the data to prove it.”
Many undergraduate students desire to delve into research at McGill in labs led by primary investigators and professors. Undergraduates themselves, however, have equally promising initiatives to lead exciting investigations. One of these student groups, McGill iGEM, is an undergraduate synthetic biology research team that has made impressive progress in recent years.
In an interview with The Tribune , Jonas Lehar, U2 Science and lead of iGEM’s wet lab— the group that performs hands-on lab procedures—discussed the club’s projects and gave insights into the club’s mission.
“The way I like to describe [iGEM] to people is [that] it’s a science fair for big kids,” Lehar shared. “We come up with a project over the course of the school year, and we spend the summer doing the research in the lab. Then we present our research at the International iGEM conference in November [in Paris].”
This year, the team will be presenting its cancer therapeutics project. As Lehar explained, many existing cancer drugs target mutated proteins that cause the cancer to grow and spread. Such a treatment, however, also targets healthy
cells, which causes the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
“We decided to try a [different] approach to cancer: Instead of trying to target the mutated proteins, we could target the DNA directly,” Lehar explained. “What fundamentally [causes] cancer are mutations in the DNA, so instead of targeting the proteins we could target cancer at the genomic level directly. This way would avoid targeting any healthy tissue.”
The team targeted messenger RNA (mRNA)—a complementary copy of DNA that is used to synthesize proteins. The team introduced several new elements into their test cells: Cas7-11 protein, guide RNA, CSX29 protease, and a fusion protein. This is an application of the new generation genomeediting technology known as CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats).
Cas7-11 protein works in tandem with guide RNA—a type of RNA sequence that recognizes cancer-causing mutations in the mRNA. Once guide RNA finds one of these mutations, Cas7-11 activates CSX29 protease. The protease cuts and thereby activates the fusion protein, which creates pores in the cell membrane and causes cytoplasm leakage. Not only does this kill cancerous cells, but it also stimulates the immune system.
While this is an impressive result, it is important to note that the team’s research is all in vitro —in the tube— and has not been tested in vivo —in animals.
“We’re not testing [this system] on cancerous mice models because we don’t have funding for it—lab mice are very expensive. It’s also not possible within the year timeframe of the project,” Lehar explained. “However, team members from the previous years often do decide to continue the project that they worked on, so [testing our model in vivo ] is definitely something we’re looking at in the future.”
The McGill iGEM will be recruiting new members in Winter 2024 for SynBio collective, STEMcast and InVitro Conference. They are looking for students from a variety of science programs, including Microbiology and Immunology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Neuroscience, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, and Computer Science. This is part of their attempt to expand iGEM into a broader community of students and future researchers.
“In the past, iGEM was a small group of passionate students who wanted to do research. But [now] we’re trying to turn iGEM into something larger, something where we can get more students involved than just the competitive team,” Lehar said.
Last school year, iGEM also organized synthetic biology workshops to teach students lab techniques and provide them with experience similar to that of a formal McGill lab course. They also ran a workshop for the Shad summer program in Montreal for high school students.
“The idea of iGEM is that we want to make an opportunity for students to get in [a lab], to take a project and work on it from start all the way until the end. It’s really hard to get that first lab experience that you need to get started somewhere,” Lehar said. “A lot of profs want people who already have prior experience. We want to [be] a stepping stone for people to spark their curiosity in synthetic biology, and also encourage their scientific careers as they go on.”
Every 80 seconds, someone in Quebec needs blood. Héma-Québec, which marks its 25th anniversary this month, has been the unwavering supplier of blood products, human tissues, and other crucial donations to Quebec’s healthcare system. Their relentless efforts have long been amplified through partnerships with local communities. One such collaboration was the recent mobile blood drive on campus, open from Sept. 18 to 21, organized between Héma-Québec and the McGill Students’ Blood Donation Association (MSBDA).
“Our club’s goal has been to increase awareness about blood, plasma, and stem cells [in] McGill’s community. We have coordinated a lot with Héma-Québec, since they perform blood and plasma donations in the province, while remaining an independent club accredited by SUS (Science Undergraduate Society) and MSS (Medical Students’ Society),” Oban Lopez-Bassols, U3 Arts, Co-President of the MSBDA, wrote to The Tribune
“We aim for around four blood drives which we organize in coordination with other school clubs,” Lopez-Bassols wrote. “We’ve found collaboration with faculties and clubs to be an incredibly useful way to get input on good times and places for blood drives, as well as effective promotion of the drives.”
Indeed, awareness of shortages and the
urgent need for donations is crucial to sustaining Quebec’s healthcare system. While HémaQuébec is currently capable of fulfilling 100 per cent of the blood donation needs within the province, more has to be done concerning plasma.
“Extreme burn patients, for example, need a lot of plasma, often for weeks on end. So that’s a huge need there,” Lopez-Bassols wrote. “Quebec’s plasma self-sufficiency is around 30 per cent, which leaves our province having to purchase expensive plasma—usually from the United States. We incentivize everyone to donate whatever they feel more comfortable with, but when open, [to try giving] plasma.”
However, the barriers Quebec’s blood donation service faces do not stop at the plasma shortage. Especially for patients who need frequent blood transfusions, such as those receiving treatment for sickle cell disease or thalassemia, close blood type matches are needed to alleviate potential complications. These matches are best found in donors with similar racial or ethnic backgrounds—thus marking the need for diversity in blood donations.
Upon further discussion on ethnicity and compatibility, Lopez-Bassols shared an article presented by Canadian Blood Services, underscoring that, “Right now, Canadian Blood Services Stem Cell Registry is not as diverse as Canada’s population. Though there are over 400,000 people registered with Canadian Blood Services Stem Cell Registry, only 33
per cent of potential donors come from Indigenous, Asian, South Asian, Hispanic, mixedrace[,] and diverse Black communities.”
He continued, “It’s especially crucial for stem cells since compatibility in it can be very hard to find. […] For Black History Month, we have [had] heavy promotion of this inequality but we’re still working on messaging and increasing diversity of the registry.”
Yet Héma-Québec and Canadian Blood Services, along with other blood donation organizations worldwide, have not always been a welcoming place. Discriminatory policies, especially those against members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community due to prejudiced fears around HIV/AIDS, have left a lasting impact, and awareness is critical to eradicating such stigma and unfounded regulations.
“The blood ban was very controversial and exclusionary, so it was very hard for us to still promote blood drives while pressuring Héma-Québec to have more open access to donating,” Lopez-Bassols wrote.
In recent years, Quebec and Canada as a whole have taken strides in dismantling
discriminatory bans that previously prevented men who have sex with men from donating blood. Since Dec. 4, 2022, Héma-Québec has transitioned into gender-neutral questionnaires, assessing blood donation eligibility on what it calls ‘[an] individual basis in line with personal behaviours,’ rather than sexual orientation and gender identity.
And as Héma-Québec celebrates its quarter-of-a-century anniversary, the spotlight is on paving the way towards a more equitable healthcare system here within the province. With each donation of blood, McGill students could save up to three lives—taking part promptly and directly in public health endeavours.
Incidence rate of cancers in Canada was 348 cases per 100,000 in 2020. (Mia Helfrich/ The Tribune)
In recent years, the term artificial intelligence (AI) has become part of our everyday vocabulary. The emergence of ChatGPT in the fall of 2022 sparked both curiosity and concern for AI’s future across industries. Just four months later, Spotify introduced its AI-powered DJ robot which uses generative OpenAI technology to customize song queues for users. Spotify’s DJ marks a milestone for the tech world: AI’s entry into the arts. As technological innovation and musical creativity continue to rapidly evolve, we find ourselves at a critical juncture for AI and the music industry.
In a recently uploaded video, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. confirmed that the AI-generated song “Heart on My Sleeve” would be ineligible for a Grammy award. Earlier this year, the track gained significant viral attention for its AI-generated vocals mimicking Drake and The Weeknd. Streaming platforms later removed the song following legal action by Universal Music Group, the record label representing the artists. Despite this setback, anonymous artist Ghostwriter submitted “Heart on My Sleeve” for consideration in two categories at the 2024 Grammy Awards. Although technically written by a human creator, the music used illegally-obtained vocals that prevented it from having legitimate commercial availability, thus rendering it unsuitable for submission.
Regardless of recognition from award ceremonies like the Grammys, “Heart on My Sleeve” proves the musical success that creators can achieve using AI technology. But does this song hold the same validity and authenticity of a song sung and written solely by human artists? That answer continues to be up for debate.
One of the most exciting aspects of incorporating AI in music and the arts is its potential to enhance the overall creativity and practicality of the landscape. Incorporating AI in music production allows established artists like Paul McCartney to explore new creative frontiers, such as using AI software to re-record an unreleased Beatles song, and applying modern music production technology to the voices of deceased members Lennon and Harrison.
Additionally, as AI becomes more accessible as a music production tool, it can help aspiring musicians break into the industry. For instance, Canadian musician and former McGill student Grimes launched ElfTech in April 2023, an online AI-employing software that enables music creators to incorporate her voice into their compositions for a royalty fee. AI-powered software tools like ElfTech hold the potential for an infinite number of new songs and scores, inspiring artists to push boundaries that cultivate a diverse and exciting artistic landscape.
AI’s ability to create aesthetically pleasing melodies is undeniable. However, whether it can truly capture the heartfelt emotions that
human artists infuse in their work remains controversial. Music carries extreme personal significance, offering comfort by expressing our innermost feelings when we struggle to articulate them ourselves. It serves as a means for connection—hence why many view sharing songs as a love language. Yet, what transpires when algorithms gradually assume this role? AI will never be fully able to replicate the passion and raw emotion that artists put into their music. Apart from the emotional dimension, there are also questions of authorship. Who should be recognized as the creator of AI-generated art? Should credit be given to The Weeknd and Drake, or to Ghostwriter? Another aspect that proves polarizing is the
issue of appropriation and bias. What happens when AI begins profiting off songs that depict the struggles that others experience?
In the evolving realm of artificial intelligence, the debate surrounding “Heart on My Sleeve” raises crucial questions about creativity’s essence. AI has the potential to revolutionize creativity by reviving legends and empowering newcomers but falls short of providing the emotional depth and human connection that is so valued in art. As AI’s presence grows, navigating authorship, appropriation, and bias becomes increasingly complex. While the future holds endless possibilities for AI in music, the extent to which it should be present remains up for debate.
AI art generators like OpenArt have made it possible to create paintings, illustrations, photographs, and more in seconds (Web3Cafe)
The Massimadi Afro LGBTQ+ Arts and Film Festival celebrates its 15th anniversary with an explosion of light, music, and vibrant hues.
Since its inception in 2009 within the classrooms of Université du Québec à Montréal (UQÀM), the Massimadi Foundation has been orchestrating a series of events throughout September. These gatherings encompass parties, panel discussions, captivating photography exhibitions, and compelling film screenings, all aimed at promoting the work of Black queer artists.
On Sept. 15, the organizers kickstarted this year’s festival with a party at the Ausgang Plaza, hosted by drag queen Barbada. At the event, members from the whole Massimadi Foundation, Momentum Project (an initiative for young Afroqueer screenwriters), and from all corners of Montréal, danced, chatted, and celebrated another year of honouring Afroqueer culture.
“This is so important for the Massimadi Foundation because it is the emotion, the future of the Black LGBT community. But it’s not just for the Black queer community, it’s for everybody,” Wanderson Santos, Project Manager for Massimadi, said in an interview with The Tribune
The Massimadi Festival is one of the few festivals in Quebec dedicated to Black queer culture. Among this year’s events is Identities, skins, and faces—a
photographic exploration of Afroq-Queer Identities, showcased at Daisy Peterson Park. With showings on Sept. 14-17, 22, and 29, the exhibition highlights portraits from Black queer photographers. There are also screenings of Manscaping (2022), a documentary directed by Broderick Fox that chronicles three queer men as they transform the barbershop experience to be more inclusive and accessible. Among those featured in the documentary is Devan Shimoyama, a Black queer artist whose collection Mighty Mighty: The Barbershop Project partnered with the nonprofit organization CulturalDC to build a reflective and social space where one could view his collection while getting a fresh haircut. The documentary’s next showing will be outdoors on Sept. 29 in The Village.
Besides the festivals, the Massimadi Foundation also offers programmes that provide professional opportunities to Montréal’s Black queer artists. This year, Massimadi initiated Momentum, a program to champion and mentor Afroqueer screenwriters, helping them succeed in the broader Canadian filmmaking industry. Over the next six months, eight Black queer screenwriters will participate in classes, workshops, and conferences to build their skills in screenwriting and filmmaking. On Sept. 19, they launched the program with a conference at Studio L’Inis, an event for the selected eight to pitch their ideas to film industry professionals and network with the mentors who will guide them throughout the program. After the success of this year’s cohort, Massimadi intends to implement the program annually.
“Momentum is very important for the writers. They are queer and Black— sometimes inside their communities they don’t feel like they can project themselves. Here, they can do that,” Santos said.
By screening films, showcasing photography, and supporting Black queer artists, Massimadi strives to give Afroqueer people a voice and to show the world that their stories matter.
“We aimed to inspire other individuals from Black communities to assert themselves by showcasing diverse people and characters that reflected their identities and questions,” Laurent Lafontant, President of the Massimadi Foundation, wrote in a message on the Massimadi website.
On Sept. 30, Massimadi will end its festival with a pride parade at the Place du Village—a final flourish after a month of festivities.
The Massimadi Foundation and Festival demonstrates how promoting art from the Afroqueer community helps communicate Black queer artists’ feelings and reality. It encourages people to reflect about these vital perspectives, which challenge homophobia, transphobia, and racism in Montreal.
“We have to be strong,” Santos said. “We have to be proud. Not because we are different, but because we can be the identity we need to be. Everyone has a place, they just need to take it. We can make a change.”
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You can get the poutine without the potholes, the sesame bagels without the sidewalk closings, and the joie de vivre/ without a jackhammer in sight. Furthermore, we can offer a wide array of potential concert locations. McGill’s Tomlinson Fieldhouse has excellent acoustics, as evidenced by the reverberating sound of Faculty of Science students sobbing through their finals. Molson Stadium could provide a fantastic pseudo-American vibe with its 110-yard football field (yes, it’s different from American football, don’t ask). And, if push comes to shove, there is always Moyse Hall in the Arts Building, which is allegedly asbestos-free. Moyse would also be the most economical choice for your tour since much of the theatre tech is carried out by ENGL 368 and ENGL 372 students. They aren’t just free labour—they’re actually paying to be there!
If you thought those were the only perks, think again. You and McGill have so much in common! For example, performativity is your bread and butter: McGill gives a tensecond land acknowledgement before meetings, and you changed one lyric to one song one time. And although many other lyric changes may
have better suited the snarky, bitter tone of “Better Than Revenge”—my suggestion is “craved fifteen minutes of fame in the camera flashes”— the Gaylor population greatly appreciates the Evermoreification of Speak Now
Now, we must move on to the elephant in the room. We know this can be a touchy subject, but we would be remiss if we ignored this simple fact: you have never dated a
Canadian. “A grey sky” and “drinking in the afternoon” are not exclusive to London boys, after all. And let’s be honest, even a Desautels student would probably be less problematic than Matty Healy. Probably. Plus, our campus would make a fantastic setting for a wedding—or, at the very least, a wedding-themed music video. Cloudberry could be the ring bearer. The other squirrels could be
bridesmaids. We could even get the Hot Dog Guy to cater. A few thousand hot dogs couldn’t cost much more than an RVC salad, so it’s a nobrainer.
If the points mentioned above haven’t convinced you, that’s ok! Just remember that McGill is a numbers game (we know you love those!). There were 39,513 total students in the fall semester of 2022. 39,000 is 13, your lucky number, multiplied by 3000. The Jonas Brothers released “Year 3000” in 2006, the same year as your debut album, Taylor Swift. Your album sold 5,800,000 copies. Divide that number by 1821, the year of McGill’s founding, and you get roughly 3,185. Divide that by 2, the number of brain cells I have left after doing all these calculations, and you get about 1592. Add another lucky 13, plus another 2 just for fun, and you get 1607, which is the approximate price of a resale ticket to “Eras.” See? Simple math! We promise your fans will go crazy for it.
We greatly appreciate your consideration. Please say hi to the cats for us.
Sincerely,
The Gaylor and Swiftzerland Delegations of McGill University P.S. You know it’s serious when Swift-zerland gets involved.
Trivia Night at Gerts
A general trivia night presented by P[h]assion with a secret prize for the winning team of five. RSVP and buy tickets online.
An intimate evening of alternative + fusion R&B, Soul, and Folk music featuring Nigerian-American singersongwriter Annahstasia and Toronto-based musician, M.I.Blue.
Tuesday Nov. 30, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Gerts Bar (3480 Rue McTavish) $10 per person
Rialto Hall (2nd Floor of Rialto Theatre), 5723 Ave. du Parc
Sept. 29, Doors at 9:30 PM, Show 10:00 PM12:00 AM
Admission pricing: $22.69 in advance /$27 at the door
The BEING BLACK IN MONTREAL / OTTAWA Series presents films from the Fabienne Colas Foundation’s Being Black in Canada program. Cinéma du Parc, 3575 ave du Parc
Date/Time of event: Sept. 28, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Admission pricing: $11.78
Indigenous Humour is Knowledge!
Comedy Night
Presented as part of McGill’s Indigenous Awareness Weeks, the evening includes sets by CJ Monias, Lena Recollet, Janelle Niles, and more!
Salle Tanna Schulich, 527 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
Sept. 26, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Admission pricing: Free, Registration required.
McGill Theatre Frosh
Calling all (future) theatre kids! Join McGill’s theatre clubs for a night of fun and learn what the theatre community has to offer.
Players’ Theatre, SSMU Building (3480 Rue McTavish)
Sept. 26, 7:00 PM - 12:30 AM
Admission pricing: $7.00
Annabella Lawlor Contributor
On Saturday, Sept. 16, Black Country, New Road donned their denim shorts, jackets, and shirts, and played their first ever Montreal show in full Canadian tuxedo. This set of North American shows is the first following the release of their latest record, Live at Bush Hall, which features songs written and sung by individual members of the band—a departure from their previous albums. Each stylistic contribution shines through in the diversity of their voices, challenging traditional ideas of what it means to be a musical outfit. The band has further proven themselves impressive musicians by building complementary soundscapes through atonal improvisations and avante-garde song structures.
The line to enter Le National wrapped around the venue’s side, anticipation adorning the formation. Once inside, the venue swelled with excitement as the opener, Daneshevskaya, took the stage. Previously the solo project of New York City-based musician Anna Beckerman, she played alongside six others—who toured with her in anticipation of a new album featuring some of their contributions, Long Is The Tunnel. Drummer Joey Mains stated to The Tribune after the show that they had only been playing together since July. Still, the chemistry of their playing was a testament to their skill as a band. The echoing vocal lines and harmonics of the piano and violin moulded perfectly to create an ethereal and multidimensional sound.
Loud cheers erupted through the venue as Black Country, New Road strutted on stage to Van Halen’s “Jump.” Anticipatory silence soon plagued the crowd, then glazed saxophone notes resonated in the air as Tyler Hyde entered, crooning, “Look at what we did together…” When the band’s piano, violin, drums,
Following the departure of their lead singer, the band has reinvented themselves into something truly astonishing (Kevin McGann / fulltimeaesthetic.com)
and guitar entered, energy aggressively dispersed and a chorus of joyful fans chanted their lyrics back at them. There was something unadulterated and about the band’s passion for their musical output that created a chamber of vitality and authenticity in the crowd. The set’s most powerful moment occurred during the intimate track “Turbines/Pigs.” It began with pianist May Kershaw wistfully singing to the venue’s sky, feeling nothing but the music beneath her fingertips. The band sat in a circle on the opposite side of the stage, giving space to the sentiments of her musical story, only approaching their instruments as the song’s journey emerged into its climax. The juxtaposition of the performance’s slow, balladlike commencement against the powerful entrance of building sound only reinforced the emotional repetition of Kershaw’s final lyrics, “Don’t waste your pearls on me, I’m only a pig.” The band highlighted each other’s skills through their playing: Every tonal
choice they made uplifted the musical intentions of another. The lyrics’ sincerity and personality tore down any facade of an artistic spectacle.
“The performance felt very focused on their abilities and playing rather than focusing too much on showmanship. You get a real appreciation for the music and the musicians,” concertgoer Ethan Holm stated in an interview with The Tribune. “It was the same kind of vibe you get when you see a local show or a really small band. Even though this was a fairly popular band’s show, I felt very comfortable.”
With the concert swiftly finished at 22:30, my friend and I found ourselves sitting on the venue’s curb, watching the bands load up their vans and engaging in casual conversations with passersby. About an hour later, still unwilling to cope with the show’s end, we stumbled into a conversation with Black Country, New Road’s saxophonist, Lewis Evans. In our fragile emotional states, we asked the first question that came to mind: “What’s your favourite ice cream flavour?” Cautioning us with the risk of sounding pretentious, Evans answered “Pistachio,” later adding chocolate to his answer. As the last few members approached their van, we repeated our question from across the street. “Pistachio!” they both yelled. We responded, restating Evans’ similar answer from before, to which Hyde remarked back, “That’s not true, it’s chocolate.”
Black Country, New Road perfectly taps into the intimacy they have as friends to produce something so personal and authentic to their musical background. It’s incredibly special for a band, high on the pedestal of a stage, to perforate the emotional depths of the crowd below them.
Black Country, New Road’s music can be found on all music platforms.
Six shows in Toronto and none here? Our tears ricochet. (Chetna Misra / The Tribune)The story of how Redbirds baseball’s Jonas Press landed at McGill is all too relatable for many high school athletes who graduated in 2020 or 2021: COVID-19 derailed his dreams of heading down south to play Division I baseball. However, this unexpected twist has still resulted in a rewarding experience for Press.
“The friends that I’ve met through the baseball team are my best friends here and I love them from the bottom of my heart,” Press said in an interview with The Tribune. “I think we could all agree as a class, as a whole, that we’ve made lifelong friends.”
With his dad, uncle, brother, and cousin all playing the sport, baseball was inevitable for Press.
“I’m the oldest son [...] so you could say I started it and then everyone kind of followed,” Press joked. “I started when I was five. My dad loved it and then I grew to love it too.”
Growing up in Toronto, Press began his baseball career with the North York Blues, then moving to the Brampton Royals where he won the Baseball Canada 13U and 15U national tournaments. At 16, Press moved to the Ontario Blue Jays––a team that plays in the Canada Premier Baseball League, Ontario youth baseball’s highest level.
“My goals as a kid were like; I want to be in the MLB, I want to go play for the Blue Jays,” Press confessed. “I was always pretty good so I thought I had a chance and maybe not to make it to the pros, but [...] to at least go Division I down in the States. My goal was never to stay in Canada.”
However, as Press entered his final year of high school in the fall of 2020, COVID-19 prevented him from taking part in his team’s fall trip––a vital aspect of the National Collegiate Athletics Association’s (NCAA) recruiting process. As the team planned to visit a collection of southern-U.S. NCAA schools as their few COVID-19 restrictions allowed them to continue playing throughout the pandemic, Press decided that the risk of exposure while travelling would be too great. So, he elected to stay in Canada and attend McGill after graduation.
A few months before he arrived, McGill’s Athletics department announced that the 2021-22 baseball season would be cancelled entirely. At this point, Press considered taking a gap year to evaluate his options, but ultimately, he decided to come straight to McGill.
Despite the lack of support from the university, Casey Auerbach, the team’s coach at the time, was able to organize games for the team against CÉGEPs and other universities without being affiliated with McGill.
As the 2022-23 baseball season got underway, Press explained that the
schedule wasn’t exactly what he had expected.
“If you look at schedules preCOVID [...] they had 40 games, they had trainers with them, they got to play against [Ontario University Athletics] teams, they had at least six or seven games in the U.S.,” Press explained. “That just hasn’t happened for us.”
Despite the disappointment and the desire to play more games against better competition, Press believes that the team’s addition to the Réseau du Sport Étudiant du Québec (RSEQ) will aid the long-term development and stability of the team moving forward.
“We’ve realized it’s gonna be really tough to have change for when
we’re here, so we’re working for the guys in the future to make sure this team is still running and doesn’t get shut down,” Press said.
Like his teammates, Press has worked incredibly hard for McGill’s baseball program and has plenty to show for it: He leads the Redbirds in runs-batted-in and boasts a .408 batting average. This success may be due in part to his pre-game routine, which involves listening to a lot of Kendrick Lamar and putting on his gear in the same order every time.
For the remainder of the season, Press hopes the Redbirds will continue to compete at a high level and, hopefully, win the RSEQ championship.
Following Redbirds lacrosse’s first home game last weekend, an exciting 9-8 win over the Carleton Ravens (3–1), McGill (2–2) took the field against the daunting Trent Excalibur (4–1) on Sept. 23.
Midfielder Dylan James explained how the Redbirds’ and Excalibur’s history against one another factors into their pregame approach.
“We took [Trent] very seriously,” James told The Tribune. “We’re focused and dialled in, and very mindful of the fact that they’re a good team.”
The Redbirds started the game off strong with midfielder Samuel MacDonald winning the
opening faceoff and James giving McGill a 1-0 lead in the first minute of play with an assist from attacker and team captain Isaiah Cree. However, this advantage was short-lived as Trent tied the game six minutes in and scored again just two minutes later. The Excalibur continued to apply pressure, scoring yet another goal for a 3-1 lead. In the last minute of the first quarter, James scored his second of the game, bringing McGill back within one goal.
With nine minutes left in the second quarter, Trent netted another goal, but two minutes later midfielder Joshua Jewell scored with an assist from James. Midfielder Alexander Erbstein carried on the momentum, scoring another goal for McGill with five minutes left in the quarter,
before Trent scored two more goals in the last minute of play, bringing the score up to 6-4 at the half.
James scored once again at the top of the third quarter, closing the teams’ two-goal gap and bringing the score to 6-5. However, Trent quickly shut down McGill’s attempt at a comeback, scoring again to close out the third quarter 7-5.
Cree explained that the biggest challenge they had was matching Trent’s speed.
“They’re a fast team,” Cree remarked after the game. “I feel like once we match feet a little bit more and just play our game, we’ll be fine.”
In the fourth quarter James had yet another assist on a goal by midfielder Rowan Birrell that upped the score to 7-6. With Trent scoring another goal, James fought hard to come back, receiving an assist from Birrell in the last few seconds of the eighth minute. Trent went on to score two more goals before midfielder John Miraglia secured the final goal for the Redbirds. Trent ultimately won 10-8.
Moving forward, James believes that the key to success rests in being more disciplined and making fewer mental errors.
“We have it in us and we know we have it in us,” said James. “Going into the game we knew that we could push more. It was just a lack of execution from that regard.”
Despite the difficult loss, head coach Nicolas Soubry was proud of the team’s offensive performance.
“I thought our offence played the best they’ve played all year,” Soubry told The Tribune . “It was one of those days where
you’re just like, they could do whatever they want on defence, we’re going to score goals, so we just had to work better at getting them those opportunities.”
The Redbirds will play next against the Queen’s University’s Gaels (2–1) on Sept. 30, for the Legacy Game
Despite being down by three, Miraglia stayed motivated, scoring the final goal of the game with just under two minutes remaining to make the final 10-8 and give the Redbirds momentum heading into their next matchup.
“We have grit, we aren’t going to give up. We went down for a few getting close to the end and we still put one [goal] in ready to close with two minutes left so it shows that we will fight to the end no matter what. I feel like that’s what’s most important. We’re not going to turn over and let this game get out of hand. We will always fight.”
– Attacker, Isaiah Cree
STAT CORNER
Before hitting, Press always puts his gear on the same way: Leg guard, batting gloves, thumb guard, elbow guard, sliding mit, then helmet. (Matt Garies / McGill Athletics) Midfielder Dylan James had a six point game, including four goals. (Abby Zhu / The Tribune) Midfielder and faceoff specialist Samuel MacDonald won every single faceoff of the game.
In one of the most remarkable upsets in the promotion’s history, Sean Strickland, a controversial figure in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), shocked the world on Sept. 9 by beating Israel Adesanya, arguably the face of the promotion, to capture the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweight title. The looks of astonishment from Adesanya, UFC CEO Dana White, and even Strickland himself were a reminder to fans of the life-changing implications of winning a UFC belt.
During Strickland’s post-fight press conference, there was a stark change in the fighter’s speech—he had never seemed so present, comfortable, and introspective as he did with the belt in his possession. Despite this, Strickland’s frequent offensive remarks directed toward Adesanya and previous UFC opponents cannot be ignored. Winning the belt neither redeems his racist past nor romanticizes his neo-Nazi youth. The belt’s significance lies in how it bestows responsibility on the fighter.
This fascinating change in Strickland’s demeanor following his victory exemplifies the mystique of the UFC belt. In his post-fight interview, it became clear that the impacts of this accomplishment are far beyond the belt and the sport itself: The value lies in what it teaches someone about themself.
Strickland is certainly not the only example of the phenomenon. Throughout the promotion’s 20-year history, UFC fans have seen time and time again how winning the belt can have a transformative impact on a fighter’s mindset, behaviour, and fighting skills.
On Aug. 20, 2022, UFC welterweight Leon Edwards snatched victory from the jaws of defeat when he knocked out champion and consensus best fighter in the world, Kamaru Usman. After being dominated for four rounds, Edwards executed a picture-perfect head kick to stun Usman and the world.
Due to Usman’s dominant title reign of six straight championship wins and impressive performance prior to the knockout, the UFC immediately booked the rematch. Many fans counted Edwards out once again because Usman had outclassed him for the majority of the first fight. However, the rematch was a stark contrast from their previous bout; Edwards looked like a different fighter and was in control from the first bell. Ultimately, he won by majority decision. He fought the same opponent as he did six months prior, with the only difference being that he was now entering the fight as a UFC champion.
A similar revelation occurred with former UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling, who captured gold due to his opponent Petr Yan’s disqualification. Sterling appeared to many fans as an illegitimate champion, as he appeared en route to a lopsided defeat until the controversial
disqualification. Few gave Sterling a chance in the rematch with Yan, and yet, he emerged victorious. Sterling then continued to defeat the division’s top contenders, as his initially questionable title reign transformed into one of dominance, once again displaying the belt’s transformative impact.
The belt carries a supernatural property that elevates a fighter’s game. By taking a closer look, the triumph of winning the belt seems to spur a considerable psychological shift in a fighter’s mind. MMA is a sport that always focuses on a fighter’s next challenge. Even after an impressive win, there’s always the question of whether they can beat the next opponent. The
On Sept. 18, the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) held its first-ever draft in Toronto. Following 15 rounds and 90 players selected, The Tribune breaks down how the leagues’ original six fared.
Montréal
After a successful bout during the free-agency period where they signed Marie-Philip Poulin, Laura Stacey, and goalkeeper Ann-Renée Desbiens, Montreal capitalized on their opportunity to build out an even stronger roster during the draft. Selecting sixth overall in round one, Montreal took national team defender Erin Ambrose (6) as their first pick.
Ambrose, who is from Ontario, represented Canada in multiple renditions of the IIHF world championships, and was also rostered in Canada’s gold-medal performance at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, where she played nine games and recorded four goals and five assists.
Other notable picks for Montreal were McGill hockey alumnus Ann-Sophie Bettez (79),
who recorded 46 goals and 44 assists over five seasons with the Martlets before going on to play for the CWHL’s Montreal Stars and then the Canadiennes. With their final pick of the draft, Montreal selected Lina Ljungblom (90) who scored eight goals––the most of any Swede in a single tournament––at the 2023 women’s world championship.
Winning the lottery, Minnesota had the privilege of the historic first overall pick. The first pick was devoted to 23-year-old Minnesotan centre Taylor Heise (1), previously playing for the U.S. national team. With their second round pick, they drafted WC gold winner goaltender Nicole Hensley (12).
As part of their inaugural squad, Minnesota also selected two-time Isobel Cup champion Amanda Leveille (61) alongside one of the latest Isobel Cup champions Michela Cava (72).
Toronto
After signing Olympic-gold winner Sarah Nurse to their team during free agency, Toronto took defender Jocelyne Larocque (2), a 35 year old shut down defender with their first pick. With Olympic winner Renata Fast, who the team
signed during free agency, as her likely defensive partner, Toronto will have one of the best defensive pairings in the league. Toronto also drafted forward Emma Maltais (11), who played on the Canada national team alongside two-time Olympic gold-medalist Natalie Spooner (23) who the team took in the fourth round.
Other notable picks for Toronto were Jesse Compher (26) who won a silver medal with the U.S. Olympic Team at the 2022 Olympics and Brittany Howard (47) who led the PHF’s Toronto Six in scoring last season.
Boston
After capturing future hall of famer Hilary Knight and two-time Olympic gold-medalist Megan Keller in free agency, Boston looked to build on an already strong roster. With the third overall pick, Boston added phenom centre Alina Müller who was a top 10 finalist for the Patty Kazmaier Award all five seasons with Northwestern and became the youngest ice hockey player to win an Olympic medal, scoring the winning goal in the bronze medal game for Switzerland in the 2014 Winter Olympics.
Boston also selected Sophie Jaques (10), one of the best
pressure and expectations on fighters are relentless, until one wins the belt.
This is what makes winning the UFC belt one of the most unique and transformative achievements in modern American sport. The belt is the stamp of approval, giving a fighter a sense of self-assurance that permeates throughout their entire aura. This accomplishment allows a fighter to shed the perpetual question of “am I good enough?”, which prompts them to sit back, take a breath, and reflect in an unparalleled way. The cathartic experience of becoming a champion is a life-changing juncture. No matter the result of future fights, that moment will forever be embedded in one’s essence. Once a champ, always a champ.
offensive defenders in the game and Loren Gabel (22) who has one of the most deceptive shots in women’s hockey.
With their first-round pick, New York selected former Clarkson University captain Ella Shelton (4). Martlet alumni Jade Downie-Landry (52), who previously played for the PHF’s Montreal Force was drafted in the ninth round.
New York built up the rest of their roster with strong picks including Cornell alumnus and national team member Jaime Bourbonnais (9). They also selected two goaltenders with ties to Boston: Corinne Schroeder (33), formerly
of the Boston Pride, and Boston College alumnus Abbey Levy (64).
Ottawa
With the signing of forwards Brianne Jenner and Emily Clark in free-agency, Ottawa looked to fill out their defence drafting one of the best two-way defenders Savannah Harmon (5). Their second round pick was devoted to Olympic gold-winner Ashton Bell (8).
With their remaining picks, Ottawa also selected two-time World Champion Hayley Scamurra (29), alongside recent Isobel Cup champion Daryl Watts (32) and Olympic silver-medalist Jincy Dunne-Roese (17) to strengthen their defence.
The Martlets were well represented, with several alumni drafted. (Matt Garies / McGill Athletics)