Volume 48, Issue 3 by The Medium

The Independent Student Newspaper of the University of Toronto Mississauga since 1974

Issue 3 Volume 48

September 20 2021

themedium.ca

Principal Alexandra Gillespie: How the past shapes the present As a book historian at heart, Gillespie reveals how her past experiences have prepared her to be principal of UTM. Elizabeth Provost and Elisa Nguyen Editor-in-Chief and Managing Editor

“W

e all, you know, nearly died,” shares Principal Alexandra Gillespie. Several years ago, the birth of her premature twins almost resulted in death for both mother and children. Gillespie recalls that it took nine hours to stabilize her daughter and countless days afterwards to run tests. “I was very unwell, and it was really, really tough. I just kept feeling like I couldn’t do it.” The words of an ICU nurse helped her push through. “Don’t ask yourself the question, ‘can I do it?’ Just do it.” Today, Gillespie still reflects on those words as she serves as principal of the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM), a task that she describes as a team effort. She discusses her role as principal with confidence despite the colossal weight of her responsibilities. Multiple months of strategizing safety protocols preceded UTM’s slow transition to in-person learning. “Is it hard to make decisions? No, because that’s literally what I’m paid to do,” asserts Gillespie. “That’s what a leader is.”

“Don’t ask yourself the question, ‘can I do it?’Just do it.” When morning arrives and light streams through the historic windows of Lislehurst, the first thing Gillespie does is check for recent news. “The other reason why it’s not hard [to make decisions] is because you don’t make those decisions on your own,” she continues. Part of her team’s process involves receiving information from public health officials and weighing the pros and cons of possible plans of action and their outcomes. “I feel really good about where we’ve ended up, but I can’t pretend it’s not hard because it’s changing a bit almost every day. In a situation like this, no direction will be perfect,” adds Gillespie. She knows that some opposition is inevitable, especially when it comes to public safety, but shares that she is ready to bear the consequences of her decisions. “There’s a point when you have to think, and then there’s a point at which you just have to do.” Gillespie continues, stating that “you have the capacity to say sorry when you get it wrong.” Gillespie started at UTM as an assistant professor specializing in manuscript studies, medieval literature, and the global history of book technologies. She describes herself as a historian at heart. “I think about the past, and I think about the way the past is based upon the present.” As a child, she dreamt of becoming a creative writer, but her longing to interact with people led her to pursue a less isolating career. NICK IWANYSHYN

>> PRINCIPAL continues on page 09

NEWS

Editor | May Alsaigh news@themedium.ca

New Strategic Framework reveals proposals for the future of the UTM community Drawing upon previous findings, UTM plans to host conversations this upcoming semester to enhance the first draft of their latest framework. Razia Saleh Associate News Editor

he University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) has released the first draft of its strategic framework, which outlines the university’s efforts to unify existing plans and to advise collective decisions. Representing a working draft, the purpose of this framework is to present an overview of the priorities that will guide long-term decisions and considerations. Developed between July 2020 and August 2021, the framework provides students and faculty with a chance to observe what plans the campus will prioritize in the future and what can be expected. As mentioned in their document, it also represents “some of the fundamental spirit of academic inquiry.” The Strategic Framework was developed in response to several documents and plans by the university that have been in long-term planning, including UTM’s Academic Plan of 2017, and U of T’s Presidential Discussion Paper of 2015. These papers examine the various conversations with faculty while also reflecting on UTM’s key priorities, including a focus on communication and community. They are fundamental as they are substantial precedents for mapping current and future priorities of UTM. With a call to optimize student life and longterm decisions, the university draws upon several

conversations to outline specific priorities and visions for the future. “We developed this draft with tremendous input from students, librarians, staff, faculty and community partners,” says Alexandra Gillespie, UTM’s vice-president and principal in an interview with UTM News. “Now published online, the draft sets out a series of priorities to unify our campus’s existing plans and inform our collective decisions.” The strategic framework consists of five priorities. The first priority, Centre Truth, Openness, and Reciprocity focuses on a call to deepen conversations with Indigenous communities. The second, Inspire Academic Creativity for Student Success, looks into giving students more creative freedom in their studies and cultivates more experiential education. Enable Impactful Discovery in Student and Faculty Research will commit to strengthen research networks with “world-leading faculty, graduates and students” and continue to grow the community’s creative outlets. Develop Inclusive Spaces and Sustainable Operations commits to creating a safe, inclusive environment for all, innovate more sustainable infrastructure, and combat racist stigmas. Finally, Embrace our Location for Connection, Wellbeing, and Care will commit to improve community health. In the future, UTM plans to host conversations and forums with Indigenous partners, student groups, governance bodies, administrative committees, academic departments, and external stakeholders to gather updates to the framework.

UTMSU informs students what to expect for the new school year President Mitra Yakubi announces new events and campaigns for students while also continuing ones from previous years.

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These conversations will operate to enhance the framework and ensure all priorities are being met and addressed. These forums will also address questions for relevant stakeholders such as the following: Has this draft framework represented priorities with which you identify; Do you see your contributions reflected in its commitments; Will its language help you articulate our distinct role in the community; Does its narrative describe a campus of which you feel proud? A schedule will be soon released informing

May Alsaigh News Editor

ollowing another year of the pandemic, the University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) presents new campaigns, reintroduces previous projects, and prepares students for the 2021-2022 academic terms. President Mitra Yakubi spoke with The Medium via email regarding what students can expect for the next year. This year’s appointed members consist of President Mitra Yakubi, VP Campus Life Tarwah Afrah, VP Equity Ryan Tomlinson, VP External Maëlis Barre, VP Internal Wei Lai, and VP University Affairs Merica Joy Carlos. With the upcoming snap federal and provincial election, the UTMSU plans to start a campaign in which students will receive information on how and where to vote. In addition, new services will be offered to students such as in-person peer support, a textbook exchange program, job readiness support, and a Health and Wellness program. Currently, the Peer Support Program is offered virtually to guide students through their first year in university. “The UTMSU is here to remind members that what they’re feeling is valid, and we are here to support them through these difficult times in any way we can. We will also continue to work with labour and sister unions across U of T to advocate for a

when these conversations will take place. As stated in the published draft of the framework, “UTM will deepen this trust with actions rooted in five priorities, which come together to form a campus narrative of collective flourishing: the flourishing of bodies and minds, of cultures and communities, of economies and ecosystems.” When the schedules for the forums are finalized, all UTM students and faculty are welcome to attend these meetings, share their feedback, and complete reflection forms to express their ideas about the draft.

safe return back to campus that prioritizes members’ wellbeing,” states Yakubi. Students can also look forward to a UTMSU Student Survival Guide where they will find information that will enable them to succeed during the academic year. This guide will be distributed to students before the winter term. More information is yet to come. “Another challenge students may face is Covid anxiety as we move to interacting with more and more people, students may feel anxious interacting with those around them.” To tackle this, the UTMSU is planning a variety of events in the winter term. These include Frost Week, Multicultural Week, eXpression Against Oppression, a Block Party, and for the first time, the Undergraduate Research Symposium.These events will give students the opportunity to meet one another through different activities. Yakubi notes that these events are subject to change due to Covid-19 protocols and guidelines. The UTMSU will continue to host Free Breakfast Wednesdays, Sauga Fest, Halloweek, Academic Advocacy week, and exam destressors this year. Members will also continue the Education for All campaign which advocates for reduced tuition fees, fairness for international students, increased awards and grants for Indigenous and Black Students, and more. >> UTMSU continues on page 03

03 >> UTMSU continued from page 02 This year specifically, the UTMSU will attempt to incorporate provincial and national awareness for these events. The UTMSU also recognizes that the ongoing pandemic continues to impact students and their families. Some students at UTM, as with all universities, come

from low-income families and like many others, the pandemic continues to heavily impact their education. The UTMSU considers that some have either lost their source of income or their familial source of income and will continue to push for free post-secondary education. “Now more than ever, post-secondary students need to be made a priority,” says Yakubi. In the meantime, bursaries and grants sponsored by the UTMSU will still be

made available to alleviate student financial burden. “As the UTMSU, we’d like our members to know that during these very difficult times, their students’ union will be alongside them whether it’s virtual, or in-person.” The UTMSU encourages students to contact the executive team through email addresses available on their website for any questions or inquiries.

Pandemic threatens financial livelihood of Toronto families Recent report reveals that the average salary of a family of four to thrive costs over $100K after tax. Shreya Joshi Contributor

report recently published by the Wellesley Institute reveals $103,032 to $136,426 to be the average cost after tax for a Toronto family of four to ‘thrive’ in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). These findings raise concerns for Toronto families especially amid the fourth wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. Maintaining living costs is an incredibly difficult task during the pandemic which has caused Ontario’s economy to suffer a record job loss of 355,000 jobs in the year 2020. The average middle-aged Toronto citizen earns nearly $27,788 per year before tax. A couple working minimum wage jobs would earn merely $55,575 per year before tax. The upkeep alone (i.e. rent, utilities, equipment, and insurance) for renting a 3-bedroom or 2-bedroom large condominium in Toronto is $26,403 per year and $23,583 per year respectively. These costs do not include the finances required for healthcare, transportation, food and nutrition, physical activity, savings, childcare, and more. Families with children must adapt quicker to

potential job loss and maintain a sense of livelihood during this economic recession. A concurrent report show 54 per cent of families with children suffer greater financial burden than 41 per cent of those who are childless. For instance, multiple middle and upper middle-class families avoided travel and recreation during the past year in favour of maintaining savings. In fact, more than 54 per cent of adults have reported that the economic crisis has taken a toll on their retirement savings and other investments. For Torontonians living in poverty, this is even more concerning. According to Matti Siemiatycki, associate geography professor at the University of Toronto St. George campus, “The pandemic has disproportionally affected lower income, racialized, and crowded communities—for example, in the inner suburbs in the northern part of the GTA. It has revealed more clearly our affordable housing crisis, as well as the damaging impacts of precarious employment.” As of 2019, 10.1 per cent of Canadians live below the poverty line. Due to the unemployment rates that have resulted from the pandemic, many of these low-income Canadians are struggling to find minimum wage full-time

employment. The jobs that are available are in high-risk frontline and service industries. Throughout 2020, parents in poverty struggled as various industries were unable to operate and several lower-income individuals, particularly those in the entertainment or public service industries, lost their jobs. However, local food banks have played a huge role in mitigating the impacts of the pandemic. Over the first four months of Covid-19, nearly 20 per cent of food banks in the province saw an increase in traffic of 54 per cent. As of November 2020, the number of employed adults that visit food banks increased by 8 per cent. Similarly, the HALO Trust, a British charity and American non-profit organization, has been directly working with public health departments, the United Nations, along with national and international NGOs to combat the effects of the pandemic. Over the course of the past year and a half, HALO has distributed food, PPE and medical supplies, improved medical services and emergency patient transport, and more. For students struggling with finances during the pandemic, UTM offers free food from the UTMSU Food Centre and Free Breakfast Wednesdays.

Ontario launches Covid-19 vaccine certificate system Individuals will now be required to display proof of vaccination in high-risk areas to help fight the spread. Anjalli Becharbhai Contributor

fter deliberation with public health authorities, Premier Doug Ford has announced Ontario will be implementing a vaccine passport system effective September 22. The system will require residents to show proof of vaccination by providing a Covid-19 vaccine receipt and a piece of governmentissued photo ID to enter restaurants, night clubs, gyms, sporting events, and other high-risk public spaces where face masks cannot constantly be worn. On October 22, the government will launch the digital vaccination

certificate that will be a unique QR code to validate vaccination status. Residents will be able to print or store the code on their cell phone where they will also keep their governmentissued photo ID. Businesses and facilities are currently working on applications to scan and validate the QR codes. The Ontario government is also in the process of creating a system for those individuals without an email, health card, or ID to prove vaccination status. Indigenous communities will also receive resources and support to effectively implement the certificate system. Officials have promptly urged that a negative Covid-19 test will not replace the vaccine certificates. This

means people attending funerals and weddings will only be able to provide a negative test as proof between September 22 and October 12. In circumstances where children under twelve or people with medical exemptions are unable to get immunized from the virus, their status will not prevent them from entering highrisk public spaces. Vaccination status will not prevent the public from accessing medical care, food from grocery stores, basic medical supplies or other essentials. Individuals who are unvaccinated will still be able to attend polls and cast their vote in the federal election. >> VACCINE continues on page 04 GLADYS LOU/THE MEDIUM

Rampant sexual assault allegations and vandalism as students attend large-scale gatherings amid fourth wave of Covid-19 Ontario universities issue statements with promises to take action against criminal acts taking place on campus grounds. Larry Lau Associate News Editor

s classes start in universities across Ontario, the gradual return to in-person education has stirred up excitement for students. Amid the fourth wave of Covid-19 in Canada, students from various universities are insistent on attending large-scale parties or social gatherings, with the total number of participants in each gathering far exceeding limits set by the provincial government. Stated in Ontario’s Roadmap to Reopen plan, current provincial guidelines and restrictions permit a maximum of 25 people for indoor gatherings and 100 people for outdoor gatherings. However, many of the parties held at universities these past weeks were in direct violation of provincial rules. Additionally, proper physical distancing was not practiced as gatherings amassed crowds with thousands of people. In some cases, greater than 3,000 participants. Individuals violating any of the Covid-19 bylaws may be fined a minimum of $750. This includes the failure to comply to quarantine orders and the mandatory mask bylaw, among many others. Individuals found hosting social gatherings non-compliant with the rules can be fined up to $10,000. The exact amount individuals are fined for violating rules will vary

depending on the severity of violations. These fines can be disputed and will result in a court hearing. In an attempt to prevent violations and large gatherings, the Region of Peel Government encourages individuals to report sighted non-compliance of Covid-19 rules and restrictions. There are several notable cases of mass gatherings across universities around the province. At the University of Guelph, an unofficial gathering that breached health and safety regulations resulted in numerous students being ticketed for their participation, along with damages to one of the school buildings. Wilfrid Laurier University reports revealed that students held a large-scale gathering at the Waterloo campus, which was eventually broken up by the Waterloo Regional Police Service. As an aftermath of the gathering, some city and university facilities were vandalized, with the exact cost of damages yet to be revealed. Laurier has since released a statement condemning all students who attended the illegal gathering—stating that students responsible for vandalism could face fines, suspension, expulsion, or even criminal charges. Another event took place at the University of Western Ontario, where many young women were victims of sexual assault. In addition to the explicit violation of gathering restrictions, there have been numerous allegations of sexual violence and mass drugging during the university’s orientation week at the

Medway-Sydenham Hall residence. The London Police Service is currently conducting a thorough investigation of this event. Four victims of sexual violence have already come forward with allegations. In response, President Alan Shepard of the University of Western Ontario, asserts that the university does not tolerate sexual violence and will be working closely with the police during the investigation. Shepard also encourages students with details about the events to share that information, while also promising to offer support for students requiring emotional assistance. In a short span of two weeks, the large number of violations on health safety restrictions are disturbing and should be cause for alarm. Universities across Ontario have asked students to act responsibly, doing their part in slowing the spread of Covid-19, declaring that violations of health safety regulations will not be tolerated.

>> VACCINE continued from page 03

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To determine which regions should require proof of vaccination, officials have assessed data on the hot spots in Ontario. Non-essential businesses such as salons and barbershops are exempted from the certificate rule because data shows that the transmission risk is not as high in those settings due to strong infection control practices. Further, a certificate is not required for retail shopping, salons and barbershops, banks, places of worship, essential services, workplaces or patios and other outdoor spaces. However, if cases surge in these places of low transmission, Ontario’s Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore reassures the public in an interview with CP24 News that “if the risk increases in other venues, we can add and implement additional measures to protect Ontarians.” Officials have discussed the consequences for businesses, facilities, and individuals who refuse to comply with the system. The Reopening Ontario Act will grant authority to enforce strict measures towards these groups such as the issuing of fines. The Medium spoke with Arianne Joyce Padillo, a fourthyear student majoring in political science and French studies. Padillo comments on how the vaccine certificate system will positively impact her lifestyle as she will feel safer when going out in public. Padillo states, “visiting public spaces is difficult for me to do these days because I have to place a lot of trust in those around me—trusting that they’re doing their part to contribute to the public’s safety and well-being. A vaccine passport will comfort myself and my family when present in the spaces that require them, because we can trust that those people have done their part to keep their community safe.” Though there have been some protests regarding the passport system, the system will aid in a safer economy and community by fighting against the spread of the virus.

MASTHEAD EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Elizabeth Provost editor@themedium.ca Managing Editor Elisa Nguyen managing@themedium.ca

Opinion Aroni Sarkar opinion@themedium.ca

Editor | Aroni Sarkar opinion@themedium.ca

Editorial

Regardless of social, political, financial and health reasons, everyone should have access to worthwhile education.

Features Ricardo Jaroslav Valdes features@themedium.ca A&E Danica Teng arts@themedium.ca

The Medium

his March, Myanmar was in the middle of a coup. Hundreds of protestors were shot and killed, and there was a total communication blackout. Yet, a York University mathematics lecturer did not believe his student’s pleas or accommodate to their situation, threatening to fail him for the class. The lecturer has since been dismissed, and although the university claimed that the lecturer’s words do not reflect the university’s values, it raises the question of how international students are treated by educational institutions amidst the pandemic.

Sports Duaa Nasir sports@themedium.ca Photo Hayden Mak photos@themedium.ca Design Manjot Pabla design@themedium.ca Copy Juliana Stacey juliana@themedium.ca Miguel DaSilva miguel@themedium.ca

“We appreciate that 31 per cent of our students are international, and, while many are already here, some (e.g., those from Afghanistan or India) might not be able to make it to Canada for a few months,” states the University of Toronto Mississauga on the UTMTogether FAQ page. International students are often clumped together into a monolith. There is an immediate assumption that they are filthy rich and can hop on a $2000 dollar flight to Canada with no problem. But the reality is that within the international student body, there is a range of socio-political and financial situations. There are students who are in the middle of war zones, in Covid-19 red zones, and in dire financial situations. Not only are they expected to pay anywhere between $60,000 to $80,000

for a normal course load in a virtual setting, they also face unique adversities that are left unconsidered. Last academic year, one of the most common complaints amongst students—domestic and international—was the professors’ refusal to record lectures. Students abroad had to stay awake through the night just to get the 10 per cent attendance mark and the overpriced breakout room discussion. The failure to accommodate students abroad is an exclusion and denial of accessible education. We hope that this year, students won’t be scared to fail their classes simply because of their geographic location, and that instructors can implement a pedagogy of kindness. Is it worth paying three or four times the tuition for half the education?

El Salvador becomes the first country to officially adopt cryptocurrency

Social Belicia Chevolleau social@themedium.ca Videographer Nikolas Towsey video@themedium.ca

Bitcoin seemed like a potentially progressive idea for the country at first, but it was doomed to be problematic.

ASSOCIATES & APPOINTED ROLES Larry Lau, News Razia Saleh, News Kareena Kailass, Opinion Dalainey Gervais, Features Prisha Nuckchady, Features Gladys Lou, Photo Simrah Siddiqui, Photo Isik Vera Senel, UTMSU Correspondent Julia Skoczypiec, Theatre Erindale Correspondent Robert Bui, Campus Athletics Correspondent Erin Dalaney, Satirist Helen Yu, Comic Artist

TO CONTRIB UTE & CONNECT: themedium.ca/contact : ...also @themessageUTM & @humansofUTM_ on

OPINION

The neglect of international students

News May Alsaigh news@themedium.ca

@themediumUTM

Kareena Kailass Associate Opinion Editor

l Salvador became the first country in the world to adopt Bitcoin as an official currency, as of September 7, 2021. Bitcoin, a cryptocurrency founded in 2009, eliminates the need for banking services and allows holders to purchase goods and services anonymously. The coin allows international payments to occur with ease and cost less, since there are no national ties to the currency. Bitcoin offers holders the opportunity to trade and transfer the currency with others, and also mine for more bitcoins. The coin is stored in a “digital wallet”, typically in a cloud or on one’s computer. With El Salvador’s welcoming spirits for this new official tender, “the country had purchased 400 Bitcoins worth an estimated US$21 million and rolled out hundreds of Bitcoin ATMs.” This huge investment into a new era of money doomed the nation to face spiralling unrest with the roll out. Within hours of becoming a legal tender, the value of the world’s cryptocurrencies fell to a low of US$1.9 trillion, nearly 15 per cent less than its value just a day before—foreshadowing huge losses. Despite high expectations for this decision, the induction of the newly legal cryptocurrency presented a dire situation for Salvadorans. Polls suggested that most Salvadorans were in fact against the legalization, and consequently took to the streets in protest. Protests have persisted since September 8 to fight the adoption of the cryptocurrency, but also

President Nayib Bukele’s “attempt at harnessing power in the nation.” Thousands of protesters gathered together in San Salvador, the nation’s capital, on their 200 year anniversary of independence to bear signs saying “Bukele Dictator” and “Respect the Constitution.” A few protesters also smashed windows and lit a Bitcoin ATM on fire. Former Supreme Court Justice Sidney Blanco was also part of the protests and said “the time has come to defend democracy.” The President is being accused of using authoritarian means of being in power and risking “instability and inflation to the impoverished Latin American country.” However, President Bukele remains firm in his belief that the new induction will allow foreign-residing Salvadorans to easily send money back to El Salvador. He responded to the demonstrations by tweeting “they say the ‘vandalism’ was the work of ‘infiltrators’, but there has been vandalism in ALL their demonstrations.” Although annual global remittances exceed US$500 billion, the President seems to view emigrants as economic resources for El Salvador, thus hoping for economic repatriations to build the nation’s economy. Salvadorans don’t trust the President’s ‘well intentions’ as the new chaotic unravelling of the cryptocurrency has produced political and authoritative distrust, and uneasy feelings in the nation. Yet, President Bukele still has a 85.7 per cent approval rating, according to local newspapers. This unprecedented and unregulated decision poses huge risks to the nation’s economy, and to the safety and security of its people— concerns that are echoed by private citizens, former judiciary members, and other protestors.

: You know the answer When you are faced with a life-altering diagnosis, it’s important to step back and reflect on what matters most. Elizabeth Provost Editor-in-Chief

Dear Liz, I recently found out that I have a genetic condition that has left me infertile. I am in a long term committed relationship and I don’t know how to tell my partner. We are still young, so is this a conversation we should be having now? What if he wants children that I can’t give him? If I wait until he brings up kids, I’m worried that he will feel like I’ve been lying to him? Barren & Confused Dear Barren & Confused,

i. I’m Liz. Nice to meet you. Thank you for trusting me with this part of you. I am so sorry about your diagnosis, Barren & Confused. I don’t have all the answers, or any answers. But I’ve been told I’m good at making a plan of action, so I’m going to try to do that for you. First—You’re hurting. I can feel it. But, in times like these, where our lives are turned upside down and the ground disappears from under our feet, we often forget to take care of ourselves. Take care of yourself. First, and always. Perhaps try writing a diary entry about how you feel. Be honest with yourself and maybe talk to your parents if you’re comfortable. If you feel you need it, seek medical and professional care. Fortunately (and unfortunately), you are not alone in what you are going through. There are communities you can join for support. Second—You should tell him. A healthy relationship is built on honesty and respect. You are young, but if this is the person you can envision yourself growing old with, they need to know. If having a child is important for you, there are always other options. This may be the first big test your relationship has to endure, and if you make it through, you will come out stronger than ever. And if he chooses to walk away, that’s his choice, and it is not your fault. Nothing here is your fault. With every question we ask, we often already know the answer. I know you do. And with every card we’re dealt with in life, there is often a reason. You might never find out the reason, or it might not make sense when you do. But you’ve lost a part of you to find another. You’ll be okay, I promise you. With lots and lots of TLC,

AOC’s attendance at the MET gala is not anti-socialist The criticisms surrounding her gown highlight misunderstandings of her politics. Aya Yafaoui Staff Writer

he MET Gala is a spectacular night, known for a guest list full of celebrities, over-the-top and lavish costumes, and renowned designers showing off their talents on the red carpet. The event is hosted every year in support of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute and is organized by Vogue. A ticket to this illustrious event will set you back around US$35,000, and even then, you’ll need to be approved by Anna Wintour herself. Of course, for most celebrities in attendance, tickets are gifted by designers who are seeking individuals to model their designs at the event. However, it’s not just A-list celebrities that get invited to the gala–even New York politicians grace the red steps. And so, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), one of the most popular politicians among Democrats, walked down that famed red carpet wearing Canadian designer Aurora James’ “Tax the Rich” dress. The dress captured the attention of the public and commentators on both sides of the political spectrum. People criticized AOC for attending one of the most ostentatious events in America, claiming that it was in diametrical opposition of her progressive ideals and work. Some even went as far as to accuse her of ethical misconduct regarding her position as a congresswoman. Others worried that wearing a dress with “Tax the Rich” splashed across the back of it took the edge and importance out of the message, reducing it to a slogan. AOC responded to the accusations by reminding people that New York elected officials are regularly in attendance of the gala to perform their responsibility of overseeing public cultural institutions. As for the other criticisms levied against her, I believe that the argument that she shouldn’t have attended is rooted in a misunderstanding of AOC’s political position. These arguments against AOC are similar to those surrounding leftist political commentator Hasan Piker, who purchased a US$2.7 million home—both of which demonstrate flawed argumentation. When it was leaked to the public that popular socialist twitch streamer Hasan Piker had bought an almost threemillion-dollar house in Los Angeles, many on social media accused him of selling out his ideals. Many asked, “how can a socialist buy such an expensive house without being a hypocrite?” A similar question dominated the AOC debate: “How can a woman who fights for working-class families attend and rub shoulders with some of the richest celebrities in the country, and still be seen as a champion for the poor?” These questions rest on a few misconceptions. The first is that those who fight for working-class issues must also be materially or socially exclusively working-class. This sentiment may seem logical, due to the amount of resistance or apathy the rich have towards such issues. But those in all social classes can champion the expansion and protection of economic equality. It is not solely a working-class or lowincome issue. The other problem with this line of thought is that it assumes those that are socialist must live in subpar living conditions or be unable to improve their quality of life, lest they participate in the capitalist systems they fight against. The second implication in such queries is that attending a rich event in some way takes away from the message and meaning that AOC was trying to embody in her dress and work. I disagree with this interpretation. While putting such a message on a luxury dress risks watering down the gravity of the policy prescription, the medium and the setting

through which that message was transmitted also reached new audiences and brought attention to the issue of economic inequality in a room, I might add, that often is not forced to think about such concerns. Many attendees at that party are part of ‘the rich’ she’s fighting against. In the end, while AOC’s appearance at the MET gala may not have been the best public relations move, there is no reason to believe that she has abandoned her political beliefs and positions. Nor is there a strong foundation to accuse socialists like her and Hasan Piker that their attending the MET gala or buying a house in one of the most inflated housing markets in the U.S. is an indication that their activism and beliefs are baseless or performative. To do so would subscribe to being an ideological purist, which frankly just makes you sound like a hell-bent super-woke social justice warrior with no capacity for nuance.

Ear to the ground:

Solving the UTM famine

They say variety is the spice of life, so don’t let your dining options stay bland. Aya Yafaoui Staff Writer

EHIMETALOR AKHERE UNUABONA/UNSPLASH

Western’s disturbing drug and sexual abuse culture Last week’s incident highlighted the urgent need to protect university students. Elizabeth Provost Editor-in-Chief

housands of students take to the streets of Western Ontario in the early afternoon of Friday, September 17. “Justice for survivors,” “We believe you,” “You deserve safety,” are among the inscriptions on the signs raised high in the sky. The orientation week hosted on Western’s campus over the weekend of September 11 resulted in over 3o students stepping forward with allegations of sexual assault and gender-based violence in on-campus housing. The institution has been described as breeding a “culture of misogyny.” According to a Student Voices survey conducted in 2019, 32 per cent of Western students reported that they’d been sexually assaulted in the previous 12 months, and 71 per cent reported being sexually harassed. In accordance with these statistics, and as compared to other post-secondary institutions, Western students have experienced the most sexual violence. This statistic remains persistent today. As students returned to the institution for in-person learning, male students played into the “rape culture” often associated with the university. Victims, and the thousands of students standing up for their justice, blame Western University’s administration for their failure to protect fe-

male students. Often, the university left sophs—mentors to first-year students—to deal with these horrific acts of sexual violence. Many reported seeing male students drugging and raping female students. Both the Ontario legal system and the lack of organization at the university have forced victims of sexual assault not to file reports. Court cases can take up to two years, and sophs, to whom these incidents are disclosed lack the training or capacity to serve as first-responders. A presentation on consent through a live-stream, and training modules for sophs, is not sufficient to prevent incidences of gender-based violence at an institution with a history of pervasive rape—a concept the administration of Western University can’t seem to grasp. So, what’s next? Will students continue to scurry down the halls, afraid of being cornered, or live in fear of being taken advantage of while trying to enjoy their weekends? “We have a lot of work to do. We have a culture problem that we need to address,” tweeted Western University on September 16. A shift in the narrative is inevitable for the safety of students. But what happens to those who have been raped? Those whose lives have changed with no return and who will forever struggle to feel safe? Western University is decades late to protecting victims of sexual assault and harassment. But so are many other institutions.

hether you’re a returning student or a newbie to the University of Toronto Mississauga campus, you must have noticed the notable changes to everyday university life, particularly, campus dining. With the exceptions of the Davis Food court, Colman Commons, The Blind Duck, Chatime, and Starbucks, everything is closed. This lack of variety in dining can be limiting to students on campus, so after extensive research— thank you WikiHow—let’s take inspiration from the natural environment surrounding UTM and look for a meal there. The first option is a creature that is plentiful on campus, darting through the trees and fields with a bushy tail and probably an acorn or two in its mouth. Squirrels are quite similar to rabbits, and if prepared properly can taste great grilled or in a stew. To catch a squirrel, similar to catching a predator, you’ll need a good pair of gloves, a blanket, and some bait—preferably nuts or berries. If you don’t eat meat, don’t worry! The Credit River is populated with trout and salmon you can catch by fishing (or spearfishing if you really want the hunter-gatherer experience). Vegetarians can also enjoy a natural meal by getting down on all fours and sniffing out the edible plants that populate the forest surrounding UTM, such as black currants, dandelions, acorns, and clover. Make sure to really hold onto the branch if you want to get that acorn before the squirrels. Of course, you could always go for the animals harder to hunt on campus, such as deer or birds. Both need good aim, preparation, equipment, and camouflage—and no, a camo hoodie and leggings aren’t enough. However, there is one animal that is very dangerous to hunt, unless you’re equipped with army gear and a tank: the Canadian goose. I hope these suggestions have inspired you to look more locally—I mean extremely locally—for your next meal. As long as you follow proper precautions and guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy truly authentic Canadian flavour in your food.

Bon Appetite! Aya Yafaoui

features

Editor | Ricardo Jaroslav Valdes features@themedium.ca

Understanding genocide with Professor Patrick Leduc How education can be used as a strategy to prevent genocide episodes. Prisha (Maneka) Nuckchady Associate Features Editor

very year on September 21, the world celebrates the International Day of Peace, a day that strengthens ideals of amity and encourages non-violence and cease-fire. First established in 1981 by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, this day is an opportunity to remember brave citizens who have worked hard to subside historical catastrophes around the world, including genocides. The UN Office on Genocide Prevention defines genocide as “a crime that can take place both in time of war as well as in time of peace.” Genocides destroy, kill, and cause serious harm to national, ethnic, racial, or religious groups. Professor Patrick Leduc, a PhD candidate in the sociology department, focuses his studies on the causes and consequences of genocide. His research explores how a return to peace and normalcy can be established after a genocide ends. In his research, Professor Leduc asks: “How do we remember genocides and how do we reconcile this break in stability after a genocide has ended? How do you learn to forgive and reconcile the ones who may have wronged you?” He views peace as a form of harmony, but

acknowledges that for many, peace means nonviolent stability. “Harmony is a far-reaching goal, but non-violence, social stability, tranquility are important criteria,” he explains. Genocides are not random acts of terror by deranged individuals. They require careful planning, resources, and the cooperation of thousands—even millions—of people to commit the crime. The largest genocide in history took place in World War II, between 1941 and 1945, where six million Jewish men, women, and children were murdered by the Nazis. Germany’s allies, such as Hungary, Slovakia, Croatia, and Bulgaria, willingly deported Jews to concentration camps for execution. The reason? They believed Jews posed a threat to Germany. “When people truly believe that a certain group is actively causing harm to livelihood and stability, it makes it easier to tolerate discrimination,” explains Professor Leduc. “It helps normalize the violence.” Of course, this is only one of the many causes of genocide. Raising awareness about genocide is paramount, according to Professor Leduc. Individuals living in countries or communities experiencing episodes of genocide are often forced to act a certain way, usually out of fear for their own lives and safety. Nonetheless, the actions of those actively participating in the destruction of people or a particular group cannot be justified. Genocides instills fear, hate, and trauma in

those involved. They forever change a country and its people’s history—leaving the nation a shell of what it used to be. In 1944, Polish-Jewish jurist Raphael Lemkin, who lost 49 relatives during the Holocaust, coined the word “genocide” in an attempt to prevent the horror from happening ever again. In his book Axis Rule in Occupied Europe, he defined genocide as “a coordinated plan of different actions aiming at the destruction of essential foundations of the life of national groups.” Lemkin’s goal was to make genocide a crime under international law. Four years later, his hard work paid off after the UN approved the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide. Professor Leduc notes that one of the ways in which we can prevent genocides and promote peace is through mass education. The UN made the attainability of education a priority in third-world countries. Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Irina Bokova, states that “the prevention of genocide starts on the benches of schools.” During the UN conference titled “Towards Inclusive Societies: Empowerment and Education as a strategy to prevent genocide,” Bokova adds: “Education can help prevent hate speech and undermine prejudice by weakening the grounds for ignorance, by promoting learning to live together, [and] by cultivating respect for all people.”

Some countries have the privilege of celebrating the International Day of Peace and enjoying the ceasefire that accompanies it, but in other nations and within other groups, peace doesn’t exist yet. For example, Rohingyas in Myanmar are still victims of ethnic cleansing because the state that fails to recognize them as part of their own society. Other genocide episodes still occur today, and do not get media attention in the West. These include the Darfur genocide and the Uyghur genocide. International Day of Peace should not only be a day of ceasefire and remembrance, but a day where individuals start collectively taking actions. Learning about genocide, attending protests, or donating to important causes can make a difference. Yet, according to Professor Leduc, people tend to believe that their voices don’t matter, but that simply is not true: “Evil prevails when good men do nothing. Standing up helps others break the trend of conformity,” he explains. As the UN’s Secretary General rings the Peace Bell on September 21, we must remember the words of Bokova: “History tells us humanity is capable of the worst and the best. This is why education is so essential—to transmit our collective history, to nurture respect for equality, human rights and dignity, to fight against every form of hatred and discrimination. This is a struggle for the best of humanity.”

On naming and framing: Perceptions of racial group labels Dr. Sonia Kang on the uncertainty around using correct and appropriate labels. DR.SONIA KANG

“I

dentity is how we make sense of who we are, as it relates to the social groups we are members of,” says Dr. Sonia Kang, associate professor of organizational behaviour and HR management, in her Lecture Me! talk. Dr. Kang is also a special advisor on anti-racism and equity at the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM), as well as a Canada research chair in identity, diversity, and inclusion within the department of management at UTM

Lydia Clarke Rehman Contributor

and at the Rotman School of Management. Lecture Me! is a series held in collaboration with the UTM Office of the Dean and the Experiential Education Unit and is hosted monthly by the Mississauga Library through Webex. In this series, UTM faculty give presentations to the Mississauga community about research being conducted at the campus. Dr. Kang is the first of six UTM faculty members to showcase

their research in this year’s Lecture Me! series. Her recent research projects, completed with her PhD student Grusha Agarwal, explore the challenges and opportunities of identity, diversity, and inclusion. In her presentation, Dr. Kang speaks on the preferences and perceptions of racial group labels, as well as whether racial group labels accurately describe individuals. >> LECTURE ME! continues on page 09

09 >> LECTURE ME! continued from page 10 “Diversity is about creating spaces where there is good representation of people from all types of identities,” explains Dr. Kang on the topic of race and how people can feel uncomfortable when—for example—they are asked to report racial identity through workplace surveys and national censuses. “Racial group labels are used in informal and formal contexts,” she continues. Some of the racial group labels that are widespread and used are those pertaining to racialized, equity-seeking, and underrepresented minorities. Dr. Kang states that “although these labels are used widely, there is growing support for movements like Black Lives Matter and other movements that aim to dismantle systemic racism, especially anti-black and anti-Indigenous racism.” However, she adds that “there is no consensus on the correct or appropriate labels to use for racial minority groups.” This is a complex issue that factors into the decisions of how people feel and use labels. The current literature that exists within this research does not yield a unified collective terminology lexicon to refer to racial minority groups. The terms that we use in Canada

>> PRINCIPAL continued from page 01 She describes her current day-to-day workflow as “supreme multitasking,” which keeps her “excited and happy.” Despite being occupied by meetings, mentoring graduate students in her lab, and communicating with the community, she still manages to research, revise articles, and even write new books. Her methodology to academic leadership stems from her literary degree and work as director of U of T’s Old Books New Sciences lab, which has taught her to apply close-reading and openness to understanding: “I don’t believe that some forms of knowledge are better or more important than others,” Gillespie states. She further reflects, “I do think that some might be more useful in different circumstances, but I’m really interested in the different ways that knowledge is produced, especially in an academic environment.” As an example, Gillespie considers vaccine hesitancy in the community—a debate that has caused division across the nation. She advises that openness requires thinking for oneself, but also being unafraid of considering what others think. “Why is this person asking this question, where are they coming from, what language are they using, what is motivating them, how can I connect with them?” Gillespie summarizes with a simple statement. “Empathy and openness have to have their limit, but it is still a really good starting place.” Social distancing and mandatory vaccines are one of the ways UTM hopes to reduce transmission, especially in an environment where thousands of people interact. “Delta is giving us a fourth wave,” stresses Gillespie. “I’m hoping that the measures we put in place are such that when we say you can be in-person, you can keep being in-person even in a fourth wave. That’s what we hope, but in a way, what we hope and what the virus does are two different things.” In addition to the issues surrounding public health and safety, Gillespie’s work as a book historian has also influenced her role as principal through the critical analysis of historical narratives. “We have a responsibility and have to recognize that our institution was raised in the context of genocidal colonialism whose structures is our duty to dismantle,” explains Gillespie. “We have to get the stories about the past right if we’re going to understand the present. And getting things right is hard work. You have to keep at it.”

widely differ from the terminology used in the United States. Likewise, different situations and workplaces will also use different terminology when referring to racial minority groups. According to Dr. Kang, “terms used are very fluid and change from context to context. Individuals themselves can also be very fluid in the racial labels they apply to themselves and other people.” Dr. Kang started her research by posing the question “What is your race?” She shares that people answer this question in many ways, and that we often think about race as a social construct. Race is not based on biological or physical differences, she observes. Rather, it is “based upon how we as a society ascribe different categories.” Dr. Kang’s study was broken down into four parts. First, Kang’s colleagues showed participants labels that are commonly used in census questions. They were then asked to selfidentify with terms that might not be included in the current census. Additionally, participants were asked about their feelings and perceptions, the appropriateness and inclusivity of the terms that were used in various contexts, and how they perceived the negative stereotypes. They also generated their own racial group labels—ones which they felt the most com-

Also concerned about how UTM contributes to the local community, she discusses the social determinants of well-being, increasing poverty rates in Mississauga, and urban development. “As we contribute to our local community, how can we therefore contribute to the world? Because I think that’s how you do things, you start locally in order to model what global change can look like.”

“We have to get the stories about the past right if we’re going to understand the present. And getting things right is hard work. You have to keep at it.” When we asked Gillespie what she hopes to accomplish before her term as principal ends in December 2025, she reveals that her team is drafting a strategic framework focusing on truth, reciprocity, and openness—the first of its kind for UTM.

fortable with. Lastly, the respondents were asked about their confidence in using terms and labels for themselves and other races. Throughout the presentation, Dr. Kang emphasizes the importance of understanding why racial groups matter. She explains that labels influence our perceptions of ourselves and other people. Racial labels are socially constructed and might not match how an individual identifies—instead, they are complex and vary across people and groups. “This is a complicated problem. There needs to be a lot more work done to figure out the appropriate and inclusive labels to use and how we meet the needs of individuals, groups, and organizations, [as well as] what to do about the currently used labels that are negative stereotypes.” Students, staff, and faculty interested in learning more about Dr. Sonia Kang’s Research can visit her website. The next Lecture Me! series, on October 4, 2021, will feature UTM anthropology professor Dr. Sarah Hillewaert, who will discuss the introduction and development of yoga and mindfulness in Eastern Africa.

“Planning what’s going to happen next week, or even what’s going on in two years, is extremely difficult and possibly a fool’s game. So rather than planning, how do we orient ourselves? How do we frame what we do? How do we guide ourselves by values and principles that we know will hold no matter what happens?” Echoing the responsibilities under the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada to Indigenous Peoples, the university plans to build an Indigenous house, which will be a space for Indigenous faculty and staff, as well as a place for public learning. Gillespie also discusses the university’s hopes to innovate student success, to build new partnerships with researchers, hospitals, social justice groups, and to be “good stewards and good community members.” She shares that her work as principal and the projects she works on are founded upon the vision and hard work of many principals before her. This is something she reflects on as she writes her book on academic sector leadership, embedded with personal memoirs about her experiences—both positive and negative—that have

shaped her journey. Her advice to students seeking to make the most of their academic experience is to come to campus and make use of resources, even if their classes are held online. “Connect with other human beings and the world around you,” Gillespie says. She adds that while a happy ending is not guaranteed, and that “there’s no narrative closure on this pandemic,” that we can still “take care of one another, be kind, and be patient.”

“Connect with other human beings and the world around you,” Principal Gillespie’s world has become a locus of questions offering an abundance of answers, like the timeless manuscripts she studies. Her study of texts has trained her to be open to new narratives as new challenges arise. And as she writes her own leadership memoir and reflects on U of T’s history, Gillespie remains curious and connected, constantly aiming to “square that circle.”

HAYDEN MAK/THE MEDIUM

Arts

Editor | Danica Teng arts@themedium.ca

The rise of Instagram-worthy experiences Picture-perfect installations give Torontonians more excuses than ever to strike a pose. Meghna Parhar Contributor

ere today and gone tomorrow, the rise of pop-up events in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) takes Toronto by storm. Famed for their limited-time-only availability, pop-up events use exclusivity, novelty, and fun to create experiences that are both shareable and memorable. In the era of social media, pop-ups act as prime photo opportunities, creating buzz and curiosity among everyday Instagram feeds. But these popular spots are not solely for social media enthusiasts, as they cater to a number of demographics—from children, to teenagers, to young adults. Many of the pop-up events located in the

GTA are strategically located in the heart of the city, set up in easy-to-reach, high-volume areas, such as Beyond Monet, located at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre; Marvel Avengers Station, located in Yorkdale Shopping Centre; Immersive Van Gogh, located at the Toronto Star Building; and Sugar Rush, located at Square One Shopping Centre. The magic of pop-ups provides a unique, unforgettable experience that patrons have likely never been through before. People can now stroll through a life-sized Candyland at Sugar Rush or even strike a battle pose in between Black Widow and the mighty Thor at Marvel Avengers Station. Pop-up events are sought-after in the way that patrons will likely go out of their way to find and attend them. Pop-ups are fleeting experiences by their very nature. They are transitory, and as a result, are both exciting and compelling. They create a

sense of urgency strong enough that those who pass by have to stop and take notice. Sometimes, pop-ups are so intriguing that people disrupt their daily routines to take part in new experiences and purchase commemorative memorabilia. There is no doubt that pop-ups offer a captivating way to connect with consumers in an ever-changing and competitive market for mind, space, and attention. Their ephemeral natures strongly appeal to the FOMO—the fear of missing out—in the best of us, and when properly executed, leave a lasting impression. Similarly, the success of such events can also be attributed to the element of surprise, creating an air of excitement and overall bubbling anticipation. In a time where people continuously crave novel experiences, exaggerated props and eyepopping visuals create Instagram-worthy spaces of lavish decor, interactive installations, and

whimsical themes. There truly is something for everyone. In the midst of the pandemic, pop-up event organizers require that patrons purchase their tickets for specific time-slots in advance to limit venue capacity as per city-wide Covid-19 regulations. The use of face masks is mandatory within the premises, as well as 6-feet-apart social distancing between each individual family or group. Numerous pop-up events, such as the Immersive Van Gogh and Immersive Monet, have also employed the option of a drive-in experience for those who prefer to stay inside the safety of their vehicles and within the company of their family and friends. It is always a good idea to keep an eye out for pop-up events. You might find something you like. Or, at the very least, you’ll get a great picture for Instagram.

Homes: A Refugee Story carries the weight of war Dalainey Gervais Associate Features Editor

ritten and published in 2018 by emerging author Winnie Yeung, Homes: A Refugee Story became successful after winning Alberta Book Publisher Non-Fiction Book of the Year one year later. In recent weeks, the novel finds relevance once more with its connection to stories of war refugees at the forefront of Canadian news as Canada welcomes Afghans fleeing Taliban rule. The novel tells the story of Abu Bakr al Rabeeah, who dictated his life to Yeung, and his family as they fled their home country of Iran in 2010 only to find themselves in Syria months before the beginning of the Syrian civil war. Later, al Rabeeah and his family left Syria to find safety as war refugees in Canada. When the al Rabeeah family arrived in Edmonton, where they still live, al Rabeeah was in his early teens and struggled to adapt in a new world free of violence, carrying the guilt he felt in leaving his country behind. This inner conflict, described through the eyes of al Rabeeah as a child, is a prominent theme through the book that allows readers to reflect on the soulful

connections a person has to their homeland. The most striking aspect of the story is the eye-opening desensitization of violence described through al Rebeeah’s childhood. One of the novel’s first scenes depict al Rebeeah with other children of his Syrian neighbourhood as they wash the street of blood following a car bombing at the local Mosque. Other stories within the novel continue along the same lines of a terrifying reality. A particularly difficult scene to read was when the al Rabeeah family hid quietly in their Syrian home as they waited for the sound of rifles to cease, and after, al Rabeeah and his cousins picked up the bullet casings as a game. Growing up, the children in Syria only knew violence and didn’t think much of it; shortly after al Rabeeah’s thirteenth birthday, he found a man’s jaw in his family’s garden after another bombing, buried it behind a tree, then continued with his day. The juxtaposition of gruesome violence and children as they play in the street reminds readers of the innocence that is at stake in reckless wars. First-hand accounts told by war refugees are important pieces of literature as they demonstrate the experiences and needs of people who leave their homes in hopes of finding another. Homes: A Refugee Story is a beautifully written book and is worth picking up to better understand the circumstances and struggles of the refugees claiming asylum in Canada and the stories they bring with them.

ABU BAKR AL RABEEAH, WINNIE YEUNG/GOODREADS

Through childhood memories clouded by violence, Abu Bakr al Rabeeah’s perspective shares one reality that refugees face.

Måneskin: glam rock revival MANESKINOFFICIAL/TWITTER

Kiara Senanayake Contributor

n the first images that appeared on major news sites following the Eurovision 2021 finale—the European music competition—Måneskin celebrated their win on stage behind bursts of golden confetti and sprays of champagne. It was an emotional time for the crowd, and especially for the band, as Måneskin had won at the last minute when the audience vote catapulted them to the top of the list ahead of judges’ favourites. Hailing from Rome, Italy, Måneskin is a rock band whose name means “moonlight”—a contribution from the band’s half Dutch bass guitarist, Victoria De Angelis. Other members include lead singer Damiano David, drummer Ethan Torchio, and guitarist Thomas Raggi. The band’s raw and energetic classic rock performance stood out among a sea of talented performers. The winning song “Zitti E Buoni,” roughly translated to “keep quiet and be good,” has since garnered over 70 million views on YouTube and over 200 million streams on Spotify. Before their big Eurovision win, Måneskin was not well known outside of Italy. The band formed in 2015 and had its beginnings in street performances. They moved on to national

Eurovision 2021 winner paves a path beyond Europe, taking on the world with their eye-catching style. competitions, including the Italian version of the X factor and the Sanremo Music Festival, which determined the Italian representative for Eurovision. While it is rare for young artists to carve a niche corner in a popular genre like rock, Måneskin managed to find fame because of their unique goth-glam-rock music and style with their on-stage personas. Måneskin’s style–a carefree mix of decadent and vintage-inspired lace, glitter, leather, and heavy eyeliner–mirrors that of music legends like Mick Jagger, Iggy Pop (who recently featured on a version of Måneskin’s “I Wanna Be Your Slave”), and Harry Styles. Following Måneskin’s win, the artists retreated to a quiet home studio and worked on their new music. They were able to maintain their Eurovision momentum through the release of their sophomore album Teatro d’ira Vol. I. Several of the album’s songs promptly reached international charts and global Spotify lists. As of September 18, two of their most popular songs “Beggin” (a cover of “Beggin” by the Four Seasons) and “I Wanna Be Your Slave” hold positions on the Billboard Global 200 charts—the former holds the twenty-second spot, and the latter follows in at fifty-first. Subverting expectations is the central dynamic and message of the band, which especially shows in their representation of gender—their casual androgyny (and David’s penchant for

wearing staggeringly high heels on stage) feel fresh in an industry that often sells women’s sexuality above men’s. Måneskin’s unique sense of style even caught the eye of famous fashion houses, including Gucci and its creative director Alessandro Michele. They appeared in the Aria collection campaign for Gucci’s centenary year in their signature extravagance. Following the release of Teatro d’ira: Vol. I, Måneskin embarked on a Europe-wide tour, including stops in Russia, Poland, and Austria— which they have been documenting on their Instagram. In an interview with Clash, a media group that covers the latest music trends, Torchio expressed that “[they] hope, with everything that has happened with the charts and Spotify and everything, [they] have the chance to play in every country in the world and see everyone.” As Måneskin continues to captivate audiences outside Europe, a chance to play world-

Shang-Chi and the Legend of Ten Rings— dethroning the superhero stereotype Hometown hero becomes the latest star to join the fight for film diversity. Louis Lam Contributor

othing can describe the feeling of seeing a familiar face on the movie screen, especially one that embodies what it means to be an Asian-Canadian and a Chinese immigrant who ended up in Mississauga, Canada. Simu Liu once broke the internet with his bold move of tagging Marvel in a Twitter post, then he did it again with his performance as the Asian Marvel hero, Shang-Chi. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings felt nothing like a regular Marvel movie. With recurring themes of family, unconditional love between parents and children, and the Asian experience of living in a Western world while still tethered to our Asian roots, the movie felt more genuine and realistic compared to the likes of Kim’s Convenience, which starred Liu as Jung. Liu finally got the chance to show the world proper Asian representation as Shang-Chi and The Legend of Ten Rings depicts the story of our hero, who struggles with problems of both fantasy and reality. Jesse Navarathinam, a fourth-year communication, culture, information, and technology (CCIT) student, grew up watching Kung Fu films. He watched Bruce Lee and his wild adventures, Jackie Chan and his insane stunts, and even Donnie Yen in the more recent Ip Man series. However, after discovering the era of Marvel superheroes, the faces he was once familiar with were replaced by heroes who were predominantly white. “At some point I began to learn that heroes all wear the same face—blonde hair, blue eyes, and fair skin. And when Halloween [came] around, I watched as the white kids dress[ed] up as their favourite superhero while I wore my Spiderman costume with my face covered.” Shang-Chi captured all the martial arts glory of older Kung-Fu films and more. The added computer-generated imagery (CGI) mixed with the realism of stunts and choreography balanced perfectly in the movie. There was not so much CGI that the martial arts looked fake, but enough that it felt magical. “I’m not a big fan of superheroes. But the moment I saw Simu

IMDb.com

Liu’s face on the screen and him busting out his moves in his red dragon scaled costume, I started screaming. I never felt this way,” said Catherine Lam, a second-year criminology student, when asked about how she felt the first time she watched Shang-Chi. She has always been proud of her Chinese heritage and was excited to finally see someone representing her as a hero alongside the likes of Captain America and Iron Man. “Seeing a local [from] Mississauga, [a] GTA-born (Greater Toronto Area) and raised actor, going from being a stock picture model, to a local sensation in Kim’s Convenience, [to] the face of the Asian Marvel superhero makes you feel like anything is pos-

sible. It feels like I grew up with him, knew him, and was there when he started. It’s like I was there for his whole journey,” Lam continued. “He lives here in Mississauga. Can you believe it?” However, Liu’s road to becoming an Asian hero was not a smooth ride. As Kim’s Convenience announced its final season earlier this year, Liu took to Facebook to reveal how disappointed he was with the management and how “white-washed” the decisions were for the show. The now-deleted post also revealed how he felt held back and was frustrated that they could not represent the Asian-Canadian experience as accurately as they could have. He also discussed how he was paid less even when their ratings were higher, in comparison to his white co-stars. Liu is outspoken about the importance of representation and what it means to him. He has a “hunger [and] aggressiveness [for] succeeding,” said Ambrose Wong, a Toronto-based filmmaker in the Assistant Director Department for Kim’s Convenience, in an interview with The Medium. “I have worked with Simu on numerous occasions, from his start within the industry as a background performer, [to] meeting again on Kim’s Convenience, and then [on] a personal project of ours, Meeting Mommy.” After seeing Liu’s climb to Marvel hero, Wong noted “you can’t reach that kind of growth within such a short period of time without hard work and dedication to succeed.” As a first-generation immigrant, Wong was both happy and anxious about this representation. While he was happy to finally see Asian stereotypes broken, the anxiety came from recent events with the rise in Asian hate crimes as Wong said, “carrying on the movement in this time is very crucial but delicate.” He went on to note other Asian stars such as Paul Lee, Steven Yeun, John Cho, Andrew Phung, Andrea Bang, and many more, wishing that “their hard work and efforts do not go to waste [and that] Simu will take this opportunity to take part in this movement in a positive manner.” Navarathinam shared similar sentiments as “[he] can’t wait to see Gemma Chan, Kumail Nanjiani, and Don Lee stepping into the Marvel scene with Eternals as Asian heroes.” Don’t miss the chance to see Shang-Chi and the Legends of the Ten Rings in theatres as it continues the fight for film diversity.

sports & health

Editor | Duaa Nasir sports@themedium.ca

Intramural sports, trivia, and game nights at the RAWC to get involved Students can unleash their sporty side through participation in UTM intramurals. Dellannia Segreti Contributor

he Recreation Athletics and Wellness Centre (RAWC) is beginning to offer intramurals, sports played between UTM students, both virtually and in-person. UTM RAWC leagues, tournaments, special events, and virtual sport offerings are conducted in accordance with provincial and public health requirements, while still offering students a social and active university experience. “We will have some returning sports that students participated in [during] previous years such as our 5v5 Open Basketball League, 6v6 Coed Volleyball League and 6v6 Outdoor Ultimate leagues,” says the RAWC staff. “In addition, our staff designed new sport offerings for UTM students to engage and have fun participating in sports that are non-traditional such as 2v2 Open Cornhole, 2v2 Open KanJam, 1v1 Open Badminton League and 2v2 Open Soccer-Tennis Leagues.” Excitedly, the Open Virtual Trivia League will be returning, along with the Jigsaw Puzzle Mania League. “UTM students also have the opportunity to register for our Virtual Game Nights which are games such as Jeopardy, Any & Everything Trivia and more,”

says the RAWC staff. Students can do this on the RAWC’s website. All U of T students who are registered and have paid their incidental athletic fees are able to join intramural events. Those attending in-person activities on campus must complete a UCheck self-assessment and receive a green risk status. Registration begins early September for the Fall semester, late November for the Winter semester, and early May for the Summer terms. For one-day events and tournaments that occur throughout the semester, registration closes two days prior. To join a team, one must submit a Team Entry Form, visit IMLeague and register, pay the Sport Performance Bond, attend a virtual rules and protocols meeting, and then attend the scheduled game. Individuals looking to join intramural events, but who don’t have a team, can register as a free agent and be paired with others. Participating in sports is a way to discover who you are and what you enjoy doing, all while establishing relationships with peers outside of an academic setting. All events, schedules, and drop-in times for virtual and in-person events are on the RAWC website. “It is a great way to come together with friends, have fun and really build a community while benefiting of being active through sports,” says the RAWC staff.

WEEKLY EXERCISE SERIES: Kickboxing Kickboxing offers a fun way to improve fitness, lower stress levels, and improve mental health. Dellannia Segreti Contributor

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ickboxing, usually associated with individuals knocking each other out, is an amazing, all-encompassing method of exercise, even if you don’t want to fight anyone. With such a fun way to burn body fat and build strength in your body and mind, kickboxing can be done anywhere and modified to meet your level of fitness. “Once people try it, they get excited,” Taylor Merritt, a trainer for Title Boxing, a boxing gym with 155 locations in the U.S., tells Women’s Health Magazine. Endurance, speed, and power training play a role in kickboxing, so it isn’t just one type of training. “This is a great combo of cardio and strength, which makes you tone up quick, too,” says Merritt. For students, an added benefit to kickboxing is that it can be a major stress reliever. It can be empowering to fight against the punching bag, while metaphorically fighting

against the burdens in one’s life. “There’s a physical element of fighting back against things that weigh you down in life,” says Brooke Budke, the vice president of marketing for Title Boxing. A study from 2014 found that after five weeks of kickboxing training, one’s upperbody and aerobic power improves, as well as anaerobic fitness, flexibility, speed, and agility. It also improves posture and coordination. The lower body can also experience benefits. “A lot of people might think, ‘oh I’m just using my upper body’, but if you’re doing it correctly, power comes from your lower body and core,” says Merritt. A bonus is that kickboxing is a great way to learn self-defence as it can teach you basic skills and techniques. It all makes sense why so many celebrities—such as Halle Berry— have been practicing kickboxing for some time now and boast about its effectiveness. While UTM does not offer kickboxing on its own, there is the option of martial arts classes, which you can check out on the RAWC’s website.