Shelagh Rogers installed as Queen’s 16th Chancellor
‘I feel there’s a little wand that I can use during the time I’m here’
Aya Alhasany & Jonathan Reilly Assistant News Editors
This Monday, Shelagh Rogers, ArtSci ’77, was officially welcomed as Chancellor.
Rogers was installed as Queen’s 16th Chancellor in Grant Hall on Nov. 11, opening fall term convocations with School of Graduate Studies & Postdoctoral Affairs and Faculty of Health
Sciences graduates crossing the stage. The Queen’s alumna was announced as Chancellor on April 26 and officially began her three-year term on July 1. The Chancellor presides over convocations, confers degrees, and chairs the University Council’s annual meetings.
Rogers, the Chancellor of the University of Victoria from 2015 to 2021, is an award-winning broadcast journalist and a host for several CBC radio shows, including This Morning and The Next Chapter. She received the Order of Canada in 2011 for her work promoting Canadian
culture, advocacy in mental health, truth and reconciliation, and adult literacy, the CBC reports. Principal and Vice-Chancellor Patrick Deane opened the convocation and installation ceremony by addressing the graduates and inviting Duncan Hunter, vice chair of the University Senate, to formally present Rogers for installation as the 16th Chancellor. Following a declaration of fidelity and being adorned in the robes of the office, Rogers began her address with an acknowledgement and dedication to the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee land we
reside on.
“As someone who resides in Treaty One territory and the homeland of the Métis nation, where my father and my aunt’s people are from, I am grateful to be a visitor to these lands, and I thank the Haudenosaunee and the Anishinaabe Peoples for their welcome,” Rogers said in her speech.
Rogers described her installation as Chancellor as a profound honour, especially following the passing of the Honourable Murray Sinclair. She succeeds Chancellor Emeritus Sinclair, who stepped down in June. Sinclair, LLD ’19—Anishinaabe leader, former senator, and esteemed lawyer from Manitoba—passed away on Nov. 4 after a period of illness.
In an interview with The Journal, Rogers expanded on her experience at convocation and what it meant to her.
“I love convocation, I love it so much. It’s so positive, so optimistic, and right now, in this world of craziness, sadness, chaos, disappointment, and horror, when you can find a place that is full of positive feelings, love, support, celebration, and accomplishment, I feel really good,” Rogers said.
Rogers spoke about he ability to create change as Chancellor, even if not through direct actions. While she’s still determining her main priorities, she highlighted mental health as a key concern. Having personally dealt with depression, she emphasized the profound impact a supportive community can have on well-being.
“You don’t have a lot of power as Chancellor, but I think you have influence. I feel
there’s a little wand that I can use during the time I’m her and the time that I was at the University of Victoria to make some positive change,” Rogers said.
In ending her address, Rogers encouraged the graduates of the convocation to change today’s world through imagination.
“Graduates, I know as you turn this page in your life, you’re taking from my generation’s hands, a troubled world. To quote the poet Patrick Lane, our world is calling for an audacity of imagination, just as it calls on you.”
Convocation and honorary degrees continue throughout the week, with ceremonies taking place from Nov. 11 to 15.
The installation occurred at the first fall convocation on Nov. 11. PHOTO SUPPLIED BY QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY
DAN Fall Major demonstates power of ensemble
Graduation day marked a divide as students took to the streets for Palestinian labour rights
Meghrig Milkon & Aya Alhasany Journal Staff
As students prepared to graduate at Grant Hall, others advocated across the street for Palestinian labour rights.
In response to a two-day labour action by Scholar Strike Canada (SSC) titled “In Defence of Academic Freedom, Against AntiPalestinian Racism, Surveillance, Policing, and Militarization of our Campuses,” Labour 4 Palestine, in collaboration with SSC hosted a series of events, including teach-ins on Nov. 12 and an “all-workers walkout” on Nov. 13 to advocate for Palestinian labour rights.
“We have seen the importance and success of student protests, and pressure that has led to Canadian universities divesting from apartheid South Africa and, most recently, from fossil fuels. Yet, our university
Convocation ceremonies coincide with calls for Palestinian labour rights
institutions continue to remain silent as many of our students and faculty continue to be doxed,” Labour 4 Palestine said in their Instagram post.
The walkout gathered around 40 people from the Kingston community, including staff, faculty, and students, in front of Richardson Hall.
Participants held posters and signs calling for the University to “immediately divest all economic and academic stakes in Israeli Apartheid.”
“As we’re here today, we must speak up and stand in solidarity with the Palestinian Liberation movement, and continue however we can fight Queen’s simplicity of the genocide and settler colonial occupation of Palestine,” a protestor said.
In the middle of chants, protestors were approached by a passing student who felt disturbed by the noise being made outside Douglas Library. “I can’t tell you to leave—you have a right to protest. It’s a free country. I’m asking you, on a human level, to stop the noise so we can work,” the student said.
In response to these complaints, participants of the walkout
asserted the inconvenience could be fixed by wearing headphones and the cause of the protest was more significant than noise disturbances to students.
A member of CUPE 229, representing the janitorial and trades staff responsible for cleaning and maintaining campus buildings, voiced strong support for the people of Palestine during the ongoing Scholar Strike. Speaking to a crowd of faculty, staff, and students, the member emphasized the interconnectedness of all labour and the moral imperative to stand in solidarity with Palestinian workers, who face systemic violations of their basic rights to food, housing, and safety.
“I’m not a scholar, but I think all labour is connected,” the member said. “The work of me and my siblings makes other work possible on campus. We clean and we care for very old buildings. That labour helps make research possible on.”
The member from CUPE 229 also spoke to the broader implications of solidarity, drawing a line between the exploitation of workers on campus and the struggles faced by Palestinians. He challenged the idea that labour movements should
remain silent on global issues like the current events ongoing in Palestine, emphasizingthatworkers’ rights and human rights are inextricably linked.
“I do have something to do with Palestine. This University and country forces us to contribute to their profiting off genocide. I have more in common with Palestinians than any of these profiteers trying to shrink my sense of solidarity with other workers,” he said.
In closing, the CUPE 229 member made a statement about the power of collective resistance. He recognized the personal risks of speaking out, but framed it as an opportunity for solidarity.
“I’m not vulnerable in the way some people think,” he said Later, the walkout moved to the opposite side of the street towards Grant Hall, where convocation ceremonies were taking place, calling for recent graduates to hold their donations and not give any funds to the University. In response, Campus Security & Emergency Services were called and attempted to stop the protest which was met with more chants by protestors.
Community rallies for divestment and solidarity at campus event
Speakers call for alignment of financial practices with broader institutional commitments to justice
Meghrig Milkon Senior News Editor
Faculty, staff, and students united in advocating for divestment and solidarity.
Labour 4 Palestine hosted a “Case for Divestment” event on Nov. 7 at Mackintosh-Corry Hall, calling on staff, faculty, and students to present their submitted statements to the University’s divestment committee. The event aimed to educate the broader community about the case for divestment, according to Labour 4 Palestine.
Following a 12-day encampment on Queen’s campus in May, Principal and Vice-Chancellor Patrick Deane established a Review Committee as part of the University’s Responsible Investing Policy, to evaluate a special request submitted by a campus community group asking the University to divest its pooled endowment and divest funds from specific companies conducting business in or
with the State of Israel.
As part of a public consultation period, the comittee was requesting community members submit their perspectives to help inform the
about University investments, arguing that closed-door meetings prevent marginalized communities from being included.
One facilitator stated the
event was held on
comittees’s decision.
Labour 4 Palestine, a network of labour activists across Canada standing in solidarity with Palestinian workers and people, describes itself as part of a growing international movement guided by the demands of Palestinian labour, civil society, and political organizations.
“We consider ourselves as part of a growing international solidarity movement that is guided by the just and legitimate demands of Palestinian labour, civil society, and political organizations,” their website reads.
Organizers of the event emphasized the importance of transparency in discussions
gathering aimed “to give space for an opportunity for these letters to be heard,” highlighting the efforts by students and faculty to raise awareness on the matter.
Although the letters weren’t published or made publicly available, The Journal attended the event and gained insight into the content of several of the letters.
The first letter read referenced a 2009 article from The Guardian, which introduced the term “scholasticide” to describe the systemic destruction of educational institutions in Gaza by Israeli forces. The letter cited data from multiple sources,
Postdocs secure 39 Per cent salary increase
PSAC 901, Unit 2 achieves secondhighest minimum base salary for postdocs in Ontario
Meghrig Milkon Senior News Editor
Persistent activism and collective efforts paid off for postdoctoral scholars at Queen’s.
After a year of negotiations and a potential No Board Report that could have locked out postdoctoral scholars, the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) announced on Nov. 13 that PSAC 901, Unit 2, representing postdoctoral scholars at Queen’s, has voted to ratify a new tentative agreement, pending final approval. PSAC 901—the union of graduate teaching assistants, teaching fellows, and postdoctoral scholars at Queen’s—is a local branch under PSAC, where Unit 1 represents over 240,000 workers nationwide
including the United Nations and University of Cambridge, highlighting the severe impact on the Palestinian education system. The letter stated 12 universities in Gaza were destroyed, and over 40,000 Palestinians, including 10,627 children, were killed since the start of the most recent conflict.
The letter condemned Queen’s for its financial involvement in companies contributing to what its authors described as the “total annihilation of education.”
A faculty member presenting their letter expressed their dismay at the University’s investments, arguing they contradict Queen’s commitment to equity, decolonization, and the promotion of a positive societal impact as outlined in its 2023 Strategic Framework.
The speaker challenged the audience to consider the meaning of statements about decolonization when investments are made in actions that destroy the transmission of cultural knowledge. They questioned how one can be horrified by Canada’s history of residential schools, which aimed to erase Indigenous Peoples, while simultaneously supporting the destruction of another groups’ teaching and learning institutions.
Story continued online at www.queensjournal.ca
The changes to the postdoc’s agreements address many of the postdocs’ demands. For example, the minimum base salary for postdocs will increase to $50,000, a rise from the current $35,958, representing a 39 per cent increase. This makes PSAC 901 only the second local union in Ontario to achieve this minimum, following the University of Toronto’s implementation of a $50,000 minimum salary starting in March 2024.
“The threat that Queen’s issued had what I imagine is being felt as a backlash effect. What we saw that threat do, which was an attempt to bully and scare postdocs galvanized the community in a huge way. We also saw solidarity from across the country come in, across Queen’s, across the Kingston community, across Ontario, and across the country,” PSAC 901 President, Jake Morrow said in an interview with The Journal.
Story continued online at www.queensjournal.ca
CORRECTIONS
Academic vision or conformity? FAS Faculty Board faces critical decision
A prior version of this article implied Professor Paul Grogan was present at the DSC meeting, which he wasn’t.
Incorrect information appeared in the Nov. 1 issue of The Queen’s Journal. The Journal regrets the error.
PHOTO BY NELSON CHEN
The
Nov. 7.
Associate Dean Jenn Stephenson addresses Modular Degree Framework
Proposed degree changes aim to address equity gaps, Stephenson says
Meghrig Milkon Senior News Editor
Associate Dean (Academic) Jenn Stephenson has addressed the widely debated impact of the proposed Modular Degree Framework.
A year-and-a-half-long motion to revise FAS degree requirements has ignited a campus-wide debate on the meaning of a Queen’s degree. The Faculty of Arts and Science (FAS) Board is set to vote on a motion to amend degree regulations on Nov. 22, paving the way for significant curriculum changes in the FAS. The proposed updates intend to reshape the academic structure of FAS to be more “equitable” and on par with the standards of neighbouring universities, according to Stephenson.
“I want to say that we’ve been really leaning into opportunities and thinking about this [Modular Degree Framework] as a really positive thing,” Stephenson said in an interview with The Journal.
Beginning in the summer of 2023, FAS began a review of its curriculum, assessing current practices and identifying areas
for potential change, Stephenson explained. As part of this process, FAS conducted an environmental scan, a process of gathering and analyzing factors from both inside and outside the organization that may impact the long-term viability of an institution. By considering what the other U6 comparator research-intensive universities in Ontario are doing. The review found discrepancies, particularly equity issues, in how degree regulations are structured at Queen’s compared to its peer institutions.
“What we realized is it’s an equity issue. It’s really important that our students get credit for the really hard work that they’re doing. You need to be on par with students at other universities when you graduate and when you show your diplomas and your resumes—they need to match,” Stephenson said.
Under the current framework, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) or BAH Majors require 60.0 units and Bachelor of Science (Honours) or BScH Majors require 72.0 units. Minors need 30.0 units, and specialization requires up to 105.0 units. The proposed changes, also known as the Modular Degree Framework, would reduce the requirements to a minimum of 48.0 units for BAH and 60.0 units for Bachelor of Computing (Honours) ,BCmp and BSc Majors, with an
additional 12.00 supporting units. Minors will require at least 24.0 units.
While some students remained skeptical of the consultation process, which involved over 500 hours of discussions with students, staff, and faculty across FAS, Stephenson noted she attended numerous meetings with the Arts and Science Undergraduate Society (ASUS), the student governing body of FAS, where she has met with ASUS leadership, including the president, vicepresidents, and academics commissioner, as well as participated in town halls to keep students informed.
“Things [feedback of students] have had an impact on developing the framework. So, student leaders have absolutely been involved from the beginning. So then within each department’ students are involved in their curriculum committees in department meetings and at department retreats,” Stephenson said.
Stephenson believes the proposed changes are a positive shift for Queen’s students, by enabling more flexible degree combinations such as allowing double majors across disciplines—like science and science or science and arts— options which were previously “not possible” under the current structure.
“An art plus science
Five influential figures receive honorary degrees at Fall Convocation
Esteemed recipients include advocates, artists, and educators
Lauren Nicol & Jonathan Reilly Assistant News Editors
Queen’s recognized leaders in art, advocacy, and education with five honorary degrees.
The honorary degrees were awarded during the Fall Convocation ceremonies held from Nov. 11 to 15 at Grant Hall. The University grants honorary degrees to individuals who have made significant contributions to society or the University at local, national, or international levels, with recipients selected by the Senate.
“We are excited to welcome our honorary degree recipients, whose stories and insights will inspire the next generation as they move into the next chapters of their lives,” Principal Patrick Deane told the Queen’s Gazette.
This year’s recipients include Kent Monkman, a Cree interdisciplinary visual artist,
Marie Benard, an advocate for social equity, inclusion, and sustainability, Rhonda Hopkins, a Teaching and Learning Professor at the Indigenous institute Kenjgewin Teg, Jennifer Jones, a former president of Rotary International, and Matthieu Aikins, a prizewinning Canadian-American journalist and author.
In his speech, Monkman shared his reasons for focusing on the “grimmer seeming” topics in his artwork.
“It’s a way for me to process and heal from my own personal journey, first, and then to validate and authorize it to the canon of art history, the experience of Indigenous Peoples across this continent who’ve been erased from this art history,” Monkman said during his speech.
The Journal interviewed two honorary degree recipients about their personal journeys, the significance of their recognition, and the impact of their work on their communities.
Benard is a passionate advocate for social equity, inclusion, and sustainability, with a strong foundation in the mental health field. She currently works as a rights advisor for individuals
double Major is one of the
affect them.
things that I’m super excited about because I think it’s absolutely who we are in FAS […] to be able to do an arts and science double Major is going to be pretty awesome,” Stephenson said. She believes the new framework showcases the University’s distinctiveness, noting Queen’s is one of only five large Faculties of Arts and Science in Canada and one of two in Ontario, alongside the University of Toronto. With the Modular Degree Framework, she added, there will be a greater emphasis on the distinctiveness of FAS.
When asked about concerns over the impact of the Modular Framework on class sizes, Stephenson emphasized the new framework would not directly
her life to Indigenous education and language revitalization. She’s currently a Teaching and Learning Professor at Kenjgewin Teg, an Indigenous institute where she developed an Early Learning Diploma Program.
impacted by the Mental Health Act in British Columbia. Prior to this, she worked as a peer support worker in a psychiatric facility in Vancouver, where a social worker in her facility nominated her to receive an honorary degree.
“I feel really honoured and blessed. I was really surprised that a university as prestigious as Queen’s would choose me,” Benard said in an interview with The Journal.
Benard grew up in foster care and earned her General Education Development at 15. She’s currently working while pursuing an online degree at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, B.C.
“I can’t speak for everybody, but just the people that I’ve personally gotten to know that you would never know how incredible they are because of the way they look or their diagnosis. They get written off for so many reasons and so many compounding reasons that leave them without the support they need,” Benard said.
Rhonda Hopkins, a fluent pan-dialectical speaker of Anishinaabemowin from Wikwemikong Unceded Territory, has dedicated over 40 years of
In an interview with The Journal, Hopkins outlined the importance of Indigenous education, emphasizing how bringing Indigenous perspectives to the table is key.
“Class size is determined by each department,” she explained. “Departments can still offer small classes as they wish, so it’s really unfortunate that idea is out there because it’s just not true.” While there’s more work ahead for many of the departments, Stephenson understands the hardships that come with changes and the amount of work that they require, but she notes the administration, and the faculty are ready to do the work.
Story continued online at www.queensjournal.ca
“It provides more opportunities for First Nations people because for so many years we went without proper education or exposure to our world view. We need to celebrate all that Indigenous people have to offer, and by celebrating that, we bring their lens to the forefront,” Hopkins said.
Continued online at www.queensjournal.ca
The FAS board will meet on Nov. 22. SUPPLIED BY QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY
Rolling in shame: Student stoners exist in solitude
‘Students feel that heavy drinkers are offered more freedom and leeway than those who are stoners’
To weed out the stress of everyday life, some students turn to cannabis to take the edge off. However, they often face harsh criticism and are sometimes held to a double standard compared to those who choose to indulge in alcohol.
Byron*, Sci ’26, owns his love for cannabis, but ever since attending Queen’s, he’s become more reserved with his recreational use. As a first year in Victoria Hall, Byron was heckled by other students for smoking a joint, while those around him pounded back beers. Other students complained about the smell of weed coming from his dorm, but nobody seemed to bat an eye when common rooms and hallways smelled of booze and vomit.
“Anything you do in life has an impact on social pressure—however, people who are drunk are much more likely to push others to drink than those who are on cannabis because of the acceptance of drinking as a social activity,” Natasha Manuel, ArtSci ’25, said in an interview with The Journal With curtains closing on Homecoming, FOCO, and Halloweekend, many students are still finding themselves recovering days of binge drinking. Queen’s being Canada’s top “party drinking has become normalized for the booze craze, some students find themselves being judged for their cannabis use.
On Oct. 17, 2018, Canada was the second country in the world to legalize cannabis, implementing the Cannabis Act or Bill C-45. The legalization of cannabis has demonstrated a nation-wide, liberal shift away from drug-use stigmas, and students believe university culture should reflect this.
“We know Canadian youth are some of the heaviest cannabis users in the documented Western world. We know cannabis consumption and its availability is ubiquitous, it’s everywhere,” Dr. Oyedeji Ayonrinde, associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry and senior associate researcher at Providence Care said in an interview with The Journal
Since the legalization of cannabis in Canada, use of cannabis by youth has increased, with 51 per cent of youth aged 20 to 24 reporting to have used cannabis at least once within the past year. This contrasts statistics surrounding alcohol consumption, where Canadian youth on average begin drinking at age 13, and in 2019, 78 per cent of Canadians reported drinking alcohol in the past year.
Dr. Ayonrinde examines how substance abuse creates a “perfect storm” for many post-secondary students, whose neurodevelopmental vulnerability to addiction coincides with their age and easy access to addictive substances.
Many young adults develop mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, increasing their risk of relying on substances for
self-medication, reports Dr. Sarevenaz Esmaeelzadeh, psychiatry chief resident at the University of Saskatchewan, in a National Library of Medicine article. As students gain independence in today’s campus environment, unmonitored drug use often goes unnoticed and becomes normalized, Dr. Esmaeelzadeh finds.
The socialization aspect of engaging with alcohol and cannabis points out a long-established social etiquette associated with alcohol-intake, Dr. Ayonrinde noted.“Becauseof cannabis’s discreet consumption, this has an untrained etiquette of how to consume it. When cannabis is consumed secretly or in hidden ways, people aren’t observing and learning how to use cannabis properly—it’s a gradual process,” he added.
Working towards his goal of increasing awareness of cannabis use, Dr. Ayonrinde has designed various cannabis games including a board game called “Weed-Ed” and a hockey game coined “Pot Puck,” intended for family and educational play to encourage game-based learning and teaching about cannabis in entertaining and engaging fashion.
The Journal spoke with several students about their experiences as cannabis users, rolling up the academic disapproval they face from peers and parents, and examining the on-campus resources available to support them.
Academic disapproval
In their first year at Queen’s, Logan*, ArtSci ’26, remembers how isolated she felt encountering stigmas of laziness stemming from cannabis use, pressuring her towards drinking as an outlet to unwind. Logan’s initial impressions of student culture made her more hesitant to engage in cannabis use publicly. She recalls awkward instances were students would be hanging out at the pier drinking and she would feel outed for smoking, unless she had a large group of friends with her to diffuse the tension or judgment.
Logan isn’t the only student feeling isolated due to recreational cannabis use. Byron also finds himself with similar experiences, noticing that his former roommate stopped smoking because of the prejudices that exist within the Smith School of Business.
“I feel like smoking weed is associated with poor academic performance. At the Smith School of Business, people view smokers as less capable or less serious about academic concerns. Weed is less of a social thing in commerce and people don’t openly talk about it,” Hannah*, Comm ’26, said in an interview with The Journal
The negative connotation associated with recreational cannabis use floods Goodes Hall. He feels stigmas are deeply rooted in academic judgment. Meanwhile, the “commies” are encouraged to pound back drinks with professors, Byron said.
Byron suggests the differing attitudes toward drinking and cannabis may stem from their social effects. Drinking is often seen as a sociable activity that enhances
outgoing behaviour and fosters networking, while cannabis tends to encourage introspection and promote introverted tendencies.
“There’s a stigma that labels stoners on campus as outsiders— which is true due to the lack of normalization around cannabis consumption at Queen’s, it’s true because it isn’t the normal,” Byron said. “Most students drink at Queen’s more than [they] smoke.”
The lack of students outwardly promoting the normalized experiences of safe-recreational cannabis consumption are starting to cost students feelings of unwantedness in social settings.
“I used to bring my bong outside, and that was seen as very intense. Maybe if it were a joint, I would’ve gotten less weird looks,” Jessica*, ArtSci ’26, said in an interview with The Journal
Vaping and smoking is prohibited on all University properties which provides one causal reasoning for the odd looks and glances towards student stoners. However, Jessica finds it’s rare that the student body would attempt to reinforce campus policies surrounding alcohol consumption.
“[Queen’s] is very focused on student’s drinking habits which creates even more of a social divide between students when someone chooses to recreationally use cannabis,” Jessica said. “People do smoke at Queen’s, we’re university students, but there seems to be a lot more shame surrounding the act—when people smoke it’s a lot more private.”
For students like Byron, Jessica, and Logan, they prefer to use cannabis over alcohol due to their more introverted tendencies and a desire to slow down, rather than be amped up by situations that involve alcohol.
Both Byron and Jessica enjoy drinking but find it hard to be in the over stimulating environments caused by consuming alcohol. They would prefer to use cannabis and enjoy calmer spaces with friends.
their parents if they were “greening out”—the cannabis equivalent of being too drunk.
“Cannabis often can be lumped in with much more serious, dangerous, and addictive drugs,” Manuel said.
Cultural factors contribute to the variances in opinions surrounding cannabis as well. Byron discusses how his mother would likely supply alcohol if he asked, but being an Eastern European immigrant, she’s very unfamiliar with cannabis, and it’s much more taboo.
“I feel internal shame in overusing cannabis, and it stems from my parents lack of approval,” Jessica said.
Jessica labels her parents as more traditional, especially her father, stating they’re both very “anti-cannabis,” all because they’ve had no experience with cannabis due to their own ideas surrounding recreational use.
“The only time I feel judgment towards myself and think I shouldn’t be doing this is because my parents don’t want me to. But, at the same time, I’m the first generation here where weed has been legalized. I’m living a completely different life than my parents have lived,” Jessica said.
Dr. Ayonrinde highlights serious concerns about the stigma surrounding cannabis use, emphasizing that such stigma is harmful and can deter individuals from seeking help.
“I feel out of place not drinking alcohol when students going out to bars, because I find it much more difficult to match the energy of those around me, but alcohol makes me feel very ill,” Logan said. “Students feel that heavy drinkers are offered more freedom and leeway than those who are stoners.”
Parental disapproval
“If people grew up in a generation where cannabis was criminalized, they might carry beliefs that cannabis is bad without looking at the science behind it,” Manuel said.
Students feel that their own parents represent generational discrepancies in stigma surrounding recreational cannabis usage. Jessica, Logan, and Byron all similarly admit they’d be more likely to call their parents if they were drunk and needed help but would be a lot less likely to call
“One of the most harmful impacts of any substance-related stigma is that it affects people seeking help. The moment you stigmatize a practice, people become embarrassed, there’s a sense of shame, and people are less inclined to seek help,” Dr. Ayonrinde said. “There is an immense importance of interventions that reduce isolation, build resilience and promote solving when dealing with distress to reduce the urge to self-medicate with cannabis.”
Byron, Logan, and Jessica all find cannabis to be a helpful tool to escape from the stress and responsibility of life. Many students who use cannabis frequently work part-time jobs outside of school, maintain good grades, and exist outside of stoner stereotypes like “lazy” or “slow.”
Departing words of wisdom, Byron found the opportunity to speak on his own cannabis use as the first time he was able to audibly reflect on these thoughts and processes his lived experiences.
*Names changed due to safety concerns.
Eva Sheahan
Assistant Arts & Culture Editor
Students are still fighting the stigma of smoking cannabis. GRAPHIC BY NATALIE VIEBROCK
A merica’s war on women is just getting started
We’ve taken several steps back on women’s rights.
Donald Trump’s re-election as America’s 47th President of the United States has already caused a spike in hateful and violent rhetoric toward women in the digital sphere—a trend we fear has already spilled into the offline world.
An analysis from the Institute for Strategic Dialogue shows a continuous trend in misogynistic rhetoric on social media, with surging engagement leading up to this year’s election and following Trump’s victory. Particularly, the mass circulation of phrases, “Your body, my choice” and “Get back to the kitchen,” link back to platforms of extremist male misogyny that must be urgently addressed.
We’re seeing an unparalleled entitlement and, for lack of a better word, bravery over the Internet, where both extremist and casual social media users feel comfortable saying outrageous and hate-fueled things with zero accountability or repercussions. This rhetoric is even reaching young male audiences, signaling the disturbing rise of problematic role models.
In fact, the lack of consequences for espousing such hate is linked to Trump’s authority—if a man with the same beliefs manages to be re-elected as the leader of the free world, it mobilizes harmful behaviour
Whether it’s a conversation at the dinner table or a debate between two ridiculously old men, political discussions tend to serve more as a venting method than a productive use of time.
Ever since I became interested in politics in 2020, I’ve been captivated by the concept of political debate. Two individuals, with differing viewpoints, justify their claims in good faith, in an attempt to shift each other’s, or the audience’s, ideological needle.
However, the more I learn about politics and debating, the more I realize how misguided my initial impression was.
I first noticed my error when I began branching out to different political spheres online, mostly watching YouTube videos of debates. No matter who I watched, regardless of their side of the political spectrum, I always noticed a common theme of people looking to “win” debates rather than engage in a real discussion.
One glaring example of this mentality is shown in the way people approach these conversations in general. I often noticed if one debater brought up an argument, the other debater would go on the offense and highlight a completely different
and invites ordinary citizens to act in ways they’re shown to be acceptable.
Yet, hate and violence against women isn’t simply fueled by leaders; there’s an entire community feeding into the rhetoric and insulating the walls of the far-right, extremist echo chamber, also known as the manosphere.
The Internet makes for the perfect place to breed hatred. Influencers will appeal to individuals seeking guidance and advice, molding them to follow extreme ideologies, often intersecting with conservatism and misogyny.
Popular media channels, such as podcasting, are dominated by hyper-masculine influencers, like Joe Rogan and Andrew Tate, who only engage with likeminded people. These figures will use macho masculinity, toxic masculinity , and hustle-culture to reel in impressionable young men to join their community, many of which look up to them.
This isn’t to say progressive, liberal men don’t exist. They’re just more passive and silent. It’s up to these healthier, diverse voices to enter toxic spaces and disrupt the echo chamber.
There’s no doubt times are changing, yet not everyone is panicking. Those claiming that our concerns over women’s issues are unfounded, even dramatic, and that the world will keep
point instead of responding to the initial argument. Rather than diving deep into why they disagree about a specific topic, the conversation devolves into a challenge of who can frame the other person’s view the worst.
This style of debate shattered my innocent, good faith perception of debating, which I naively thought everyone shared. Unfortunately, the more I interacted with politics, the more I noticed this.
Those on the left tend to emanate a sense of superiority by implying one is a bad person for disagreeing with their progressive viewpoints, pushing those who may have just been uninformed on a topic away from their side. Those on the right typically say their conservative perspective is “simply common sense,” as seen today by Canada’s Common Sense Conservatives, and consequently shut down alternative perspectives.
It made me wonder if politics could be any other way, and if productive conversations around politics were even possible. Slowly, I began to involve myself in debates, speaking with friends and family about my perspectives. I quickly learned when both people commit
spinning clearly aren’t the ones being impacted. It’s a privilege to believe nothing will change.
This year’s election shines a spotlight on reproductive rights, as laws surrounding abortions and pregnancies are subject to drastically different trajectories depending on the election outcome. Trump’s new policies threatens a future of precarity and health risks for women.
Anti-feminist rhetoric has dangerous potential, whether or not people comprehend the severity of what’s being said. Teenage boys, repeating what they see online, might not grasp the social nor historical implications of “Your body, my choice.” But the phrase has made its way into the real-world, which is the danger we should focus on.
We must push against the sexist, misogynistic jokes and the trivializing of women’s rights before they become further engrained in our daily cultures and begin reaping tangible effects. We must promote a healthier, more empathetic reality to younger generations and members of online communities who risk growing up in a world where devaluing women is the norm.
In the absence of a leader the people can look up to, we must vow to protect each other as best as we can, to show there’s no room for sexism and misogyny on- or offline.
—Journal Editorial Board
Political conversations are more than about ‘winning’ debates
themselves to a discussion in good faith, it’s possible to have a productive conversation.
Rather than feeling like I had to toe a partisan line and “win” an argument, I was open to the possibility of being wrong. This acceptance allowed me to form opinions I could actually justify and explain, not just surface level attacks of the opposing side.
While it would be nice, I unfortunately don’t have a plan to magically improve political discussions on a societal level, and if a 19-year-old student could provide one, it would’ve been done a long time ago. However, I feel there’s still personal value to all that can be taken away from my experience.
Everyone can unlock the capacity for open-mindedness. Making a conscious effort to expose yourself to new ideas and genuinely engage with people who hold different opinions, is more valuable than any amount of bickering between two people who just want to hear themselves talk.
Jonathan is a second-year Political Studies student and one of The Journal’s Assistant News Editors.
Jonathan Reilly Assistant News Editor
ILLUSTRATION BY ELLA THOMAS
PHOTO BY CAMERON CARTLIDGE
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS: STUDENT DOLLARS PAY FOR CENSORSHIP ON CAMPUS
On Nov. 14, we were informed the AMS intends to bring forward two motions at the Special General Meeting on Nov. 18, which pose a direct threat to The Journal’s editorial autonomy and the principles of free speech and academic freedom on campus.
Since 1873, The Journal has been providing Queen’s and the Kington community with independent, student-driven journalism. Our mandate is to inform, challenge, and amplify the voices of our campus—including the AMS itself. Editorial autonomy is at the foundation of any news organization’s mission, and any attempt to undermine this jeopardizes the integrity of The Journal and the trust we’ve built with our readers over the past 151 years.
One of the proposed motions seeks to place The Journal’s editorial policy under the control of AMS Assembly, citing Section 14.1.4 of the AMS Constitution. While the AMS Constitution does refer to The Journal’s obligation to not publish unlawful material, it doesn’t grant the AMS the authority to intervene in its editorial policies. The AMS is seeking to define what can and can't be published by deferring executive editorial decisions on behalf of The Journal to the Judicial Committee, an external AMS body which normally deals with AMS constitutional interpretation and certain Non-Academic Cases. This move removes the ability of the newspaper to make decisions about its own operations and undermines the executive authority of the independently elected Editor(s) in Chief of the paper. The Journal is already held accountable by two groups: the Journal Advisory Board, which includes our Editors in Chief, and key AMS figures; and the AMS Board of Directors. These groups make sure we follow financial rules and policies, but AMS by-laws also specifically protect our editorial independence, meaning the AMS can’t interfere with our editorial decisions.
The AMS highlights concerns about student privacy and safety, which are important, however, it’s crucial to note The Journal follows industry standards, as affirmed in a decision by the National NewsMedia Council (an independent oversight body with professionals who have expertise in journalism ethics) last year, where they found The Journal applied “appropriate
Queen’s is turning its back on the Faculty of Arts and Science
care and sensitivity while reporting on a story in the public interest.”
On top of this, standards, methods, and procedures already exist to ensure privacy and safety are paramount in The Journal’s operations. When concerns amongst members of the public exist, The Journal has a comprehensive set of rules and procedures which create the space for due process. While we welcome constructive criticism and take accountability for our actions, censorship is never the solution to potential concerns. Instead, we believe in collaboration, open dialogue, and being approached with a fair opportunity to address any concerns brought forth about The Journal’s practises.
Editorial autonomy isn’t a privilege, it’s a necessity for a free press. The AMS’s attempt to require Assembly’s approval of The Journal’s policy isn’t procedural—it’s a dangerous overreach. It allows for potential censorship and interference by a governing body with its own political and institutional interests. This isn’t about accountability, it’s about control.
While the current proposal involves the formation of an ad-hoc committee to review Journal policy, the current policies went through an extensive review during the 2023-24 school year and were updated on May 1 after months of work. The process included the voices of the former Editors in Chief, former AMS Vice-President (Operations), former Vice-Chair of the AMS Board of Directors, industry experts, Queen’s faculty, and students at-large. The proposed Special Assembly motions demonstrate how the AMS is embedding itself directly into editorial decision-making processes under the patronizing guise of “support.”
The AMS is an external body attempting to control The Journal’s internal practices, violating the very principle of journalistic independence enshrined in Section 1.04 of Journal Policy which according to AMS rules, states that it’s officially agreed that The Journal should operate independently, without interference from student government or outside groups, to protect its editorial integrity. Section 14.1.5 of the AMS Constitution supports this notion, stating the editorial autonomy of The Journal is guaranteed by the AMS Corporate Bylaws and Constitution, and
Budget cuts to Arts and Science programs leave students questioning their value amongst other faculties
Grace O’Marra Contributor
Queen’s University’s recent budget cuts to the Faculty of Arts and Science (FAS) has left the department in a precarious position. While the Smith-funded School of Business and Engineering faculty thrive, the University continues to handle the situation with a lack of honesty and transparency, leaving students frustrated.
Over the past year, the University has reduced funding, cut smaller courses, and increased class sizes within Arts and Science programs. The University claims the allocation was worked through collaboratively and in consultation with colleagues across the faculty, but this notion remains questionable considering the outrage of professors and students alike.
Some of the new initiatives addressing the $35.7 million operating budget deficit announced on July 1 haven’t been effectively communicated to students. Instead, when asked how this sensitive information has been shared with faculty, staff, and students, Queen’s answered, through “town hall meetings, information sessions, and group meetings” mostly held in April—a clearly difficult time to reach the majority of their student demographic with most students travelling home for the summer.
There was a reason to hide these initiatives. FAS was assigned 43 per cent of the University’s budget deficit, out of five total departments. When Queen’s students received a leaked online document last December, they organized themselves as Queen’s Students vs Cuts.
should be honoured by all Officers of the Society, the Corporation, and the University.
The AMS’s argument hinges on a flawed interpretation of its own constitution. Any significant changes to The Journal’s operations require the approval of the Journal Advisory Board—not AMS Assembly. The AMS has overstepped its bounds. Its role is to support student initiatives, not to micromanage them. The proposed motions would
The document contained proposed changes of the removal of the Queen’s Graduate Award (QGA), cuts to undergraduate classes with fewer than 10 students, cuts to graduate classes with fewer than five students, and the closure of admissions to Arts and Science Online degree options.
Unfortunately, these challenges have discouraged students from enrolling in important Arts and Science courses, jeopardizing some of the University's most prestigious and highly regarded degrees. These cuts are especially disheartening given the prestigious recognition other faculties have received from alumni.
For example, the Smith School of Engineering, recently receiving a hearty $100 million donation from Smith, intensifying the sense of subordinacy and frustration felt by Arts and Science students. Graduate students in Engineering continue to receive stipends starting at a minimum of $28,950 per year, while students in Arts and Science receive $23,000 per year, further highlighting the disparity.
FAS students feel as though their degrees are being treated as pointless by the University, creating a sense of alienation among current and future students. This growing sense of neglect threatens to harm the University’s reputation and push potential students to seek out education at other Canadian Universities.
With the ongoing stereotyping of humanities degrees, which undermines their true value and the careers they can lead to, this trend only adds to the frustration. This past year, Forbes Magazine announced a list of the 13 most common prelaw majors, with 12 being arts or science degrees. Despite years of claims that arts and science programs are dying, liberal arts education continues to be undervalued. This ideology is puzzling, especially given that some of the world’s highest earners come from arts degrees. Consider celebrities like
undermine The Journal’s ability to provide unbiased reporting, particularly when covering AMS decisions—an organization run on millions of dollars of student funds—and marginalized individuals on campus. This isn’t just about The Journal. It’s about the precedent these motions would set for independent student voices on campus. If passed, this move would open the door to further editorial
Steve Jobs with a liberal studies degree, George Soros with a philosophy degree, and even Oprah Winfrey who holds a degree in speech communication, and performing arts.
The decline of liberal arts is no recent phenomenon. The crisis surrounding the humanities has existed for decades, with Princeton University’s Wayne Bivens-Tatum publishing an account of the fall of humanities subjects. In his report, he references an interview with the President of Cornell University’s “call to defend the humanities,” stressing the global significance of neglecting personality and individual freedoms in vocational education. This ongoing disregard only deepens the stereotype that the value of a humanities degrees is diminished, offering little in the way of a promising future.
I believe some of the most undervalued degrees are in the FAS, with students in history and English Literature and Creative Writing being particularly outspoken about the challenges they face. In response to the recent budget cuts, AMS clubs and Arts and Science Undergraduate Society (ASUS) initiatives have gained popularity this year. To garner more support for FAS, it’s crucial students support these student-led organizations and help increase awareness of the importance of a humanities education.
One of the most prominent clubs this year is the Queen’s Undergraduate Conference on Literature, which is the only literature conference for undergraduate students at the University. The conference provides a supportive academic community outside the classroom, offering faculty-driven awards and recognition for the most creative and impactful English papers.
Story continued online at www.queensjournal.ca
interference in the future, eroding the trust and credibility
The Journal has built over its 151-year history.
We urge the student body and members of the AMS Assembly to reject these motions. Editorial autonomy is the bedrock of a free press, and once compromised, it’s nearly impossible to restore.
—Allie Moustakis & Skylar Soroka,
<BIZ-SCI-TECH>
Queen’s researchers win NSERC awards for environmental science
‘It really is all about digging deeply and doing things that benefit society’
Oluwamisimi
Oluwole Business, Science & Technology Editor
Queen’s is celebrating as two researchers place themselves at the forefront of environmental science.
The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) is honouring two Queen’s professors for their lifetime achievements in environmental science Dr. Kerry Rowe from the Department of Civil Engineering received the Gerhard Herzberg Canada Gold Medal for Science and Engineering, while Dr. John Smol from the Department of Biology was awarded the Donna Strickland Prize for Societal Impact of Natural Sciences and Engineering Research.
NSERC funds research and innovation across sectors, supporting Canadian scientists and engineers in achieving impactful breakthroughs. According to The Gazette, Queen’s has won 14 major NSERC prizes since 1990.
Rowe has focused his career on geoenvironmental engineering, specifically waste management. His work addresses critical questions about waste containment, landfill design, and the safe disposal of hazardous materials, which he believes are often overlooked but vital to public health.
Smol is a pioneer in paleolimnology, and his research reveals the historical
impacts of human activity on lakes and rivers through the study of sediment layers, which act like environmental time capsules.
Rowe and Smol are both appreciative of the group effort behind their successes.
“This isn’t just an award for me; it’s a recognition of the countless colleagues, students, and postdoctoral fellows who have contributed over the years. It is the first time in the last 30 years a civil engineer has won this award,” Rowe said in an interview with The Journal
“It’s very much a group award with me going up to get the plaque,” Smol said in an interview with The Journal.
Rowe noted the safe disposal of various types of waste, is crucial yet rarely celebrated.
“We don’t do work that grabs headlines because our goal is to prevent disasters, not respond to them,” Rowe added.
Smol describes his research akin to stepping into an environmental time machine.
“Lakes accumulate sediment over time, almost like pages in a history book. The sediment layers in lakes allow us to track changes dating back thousands of years, revealing crucial insights about how human activity and natural factors have impacted ecosystems,” he said.
By studying these sediment layers, Smol and his team analyze data stretching back to the 1800s and even farther, making it possible to map how ecosystems responded to various stressors, including climate change, pollution, and human interference.
Rowe hopes to expand his research to tackle “forever chemicals,” also known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These synthetic compounds, used in everything from non-stick cookware to firefighting foam, don’t degrade naturally and pose long-term risks to the environment. His work is extending to develop landfill liners called geomembranes that can safely contain such chemicals for longer, ensuring they don’t leak into the surrounding environment.
“Designing landfills capable of containing these persistent chemicals is a monumental task. We’re talking about materials that might last
thousands of years. The traditional landfill designs we’ve used aren’t enough anymore,” Rowe said.
In collaboration with Indigenous communities, Smol’s research is expanding to address the historical impact of industrial activities, such as mining, on traditional lands. This partnership, he says, blends Western scientific methods with Indigenous knowledge, enriching both perspectives.
“Indigenous groups often seek historical clarity on how their lands have been altered by industrialization. Many communities want to know what their lakes and rivers were like before mining or other disruptive activities began. Our research can answer those questions,” Smol said.
Rowe credits the University for fostering an environment that supports interdisciplinary research and collaboration. Story continued online at queensjournal.ca
Dr. K. Rowe and Dr. J. Smol contributions get recognized.
SUPPLIED BY QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY
SPORTS
How Queen’s supports its student-atHletes tHrougH injuries
‘The Journal’ sits down with Q Sports Medicine’s Head Athletic Therapist, Ryan Bennett
Aidan Michaelov Senior Sports Editor
While unfortunate, student-athletes do suffer injuries—sometimes serious ones—while competing under the Queen’s Gaels crest. Luckily, for both varsity athletes and members of the Kingston community, Q Sports Medicine is Queen’s reliable athletic therapy program run out of the Athletics & Recreation Centre.
Q Sports Medicine is comprised of both student and certified athletic therapists, massage therapists, and other specialists. They provide care for Queen’s athletes and students, as well as staff, faculty, ARC members, and other members of the Kingston community.
Head Athletic Therapist and Manager of Q Sports Medicine, Ryan Bennett, sat down with
The Journal to discuss the different and extensive ways in which his team diagnoses and rehabilitates injuries sustained by students and athletes at Queen’s or in Kingston.
Their approach varies on a case-by-case basis, and while injuries suffered mid-game are primarily assessed by either student trainers or supervising athletic therapists, it’s up to the athlete or student to seek further treatment at the Q Sports Medicine office after the game.
While Bennett and his team can’t force athletes to seek treatment, those who do visit the clinic with a lingering ailment is given what Bennett calls a “Home Program.”
“Depending on the injury and the severity of what they can or can’t do—there’s obviously limits we would impose based on safety—we’d say, at home, could you do this set of exercises? It could be once a day, maybe it’s twice a day. We’d give them a list and we’d walk them through the clinic, sending them home with a series of exercises to perform on their own time,”
Throughout the recovery process, Bennett and his staff members communicate with coaching staff and professors through written reports. These reports outline the athlete’s mobility and physical limitations, offering recommendations for how coaching staff and academic advisors can accommodate the injured student-athlete. While these recommendations aren’t binding, they provide valuable guidance on how to support the athlete’s recovery, Bennett said. It’s important to note that for certain injuries, such as ligament tear, Q Sports Medicine can be used as a means to an end, not an end itself. As Bennett
pointed out, the clinic cannot perform surgeries, so cases requiring surgical intervention are referred to physicians.
“Depending on the severity, sometimes a physician is required, or they’re introduced into the case. If it’s severe enough, especially one that’s surgical, then they would need this physician’s clearance to go back to play,” he said.
For most injuries, like sprains, bumps, and bruises— frequent in both contact and non-contact sports—athletes can often be cleared by one of the athletic therapists, either in the clinic or immediately following assessment.
“It really is a team approach, if they want other opinions, they
can. We would support them if they wanted to go see a family doctor that they’re familiar with, or even a therapist at home or in town that they’re familiar with,” Bennett added.
While traditionally Q Sports Medicine really only gets athletes visiting them, Bennett and the rest of his team are willing, and eager, to help anyone who might be suffering from a musculoskeletal ailment. Ryan Bennett and his team of trained and passionate athletic therapists at Q Sports Medicine can be found on Lower Level 1 at the ARC. For more information, visit their website through rec.gogaelsgo.com.
Gaels win big at Cross Country U SPORTS National Championships
The Men’s and Women’s Cross Country teams each placed within the top five nationally
Aidan Michaelov Senior Sports Editor
The U SPORTS Cross Country Championships in Kelowna, B.C., brought together the top cross country teams from across the nation on Nov. 9. Among the nation’s top talent, the Men’s Cross Country team claimed first place overall, with the Women’s team finishing fifth overall.
Jude-Wheeler Dee, ConEd ’26, Roman Mironov, Comm ’25, and Miles Brackenbury, ConEd’25, sat down with reflect on what securing a National Championship for Queen’s meant to them, and how their individual efforts contributed to this success.
98th overall with a time of 0:25:11, shared his initial reaction to learning the Men’s team had clinched the title.
“For me, just as a veteran leaving this team, it’s great to see this team and this program, both the Men’s and Women’s teams, in such an amazing position. To see the progress that’s been made over the last four years, to win it with these guys, who are my best friends, there’s no better way to go out,” he added.
Wheeler-Dee and Mironov were the highest placed Gaels, both recording identical times
spoke a bit about their competitive relationship, which has brought their friendship closer while driving them to outdo each other both in the gym and on the track.
“I’d like to say we push each other to be better as a group, but when I get to the workout and this guy [Mironov] is standing right beside me and we got a 20-minute session, I’m trying to drop him as hard as I can. It’s a
competition thing, and I think we all just push each other and all have the same goal at the end of the day,” Wheeler-Dee said.
Living in a house with 12 cross country athletes, the team’s bond extends beyond competition.
“Once I get to the start line, it’s us over everything else. I think we function like a family, if one guy is doing something, I’m doing something, if someone’s going to lift weights, I want to go to weights now,”
pressure living with Wheeler-Dee, one of the nation’s top runners.
“When Jude’s pulling away from the group, the first thought in my mind is, ‘I’m not going to let him have this. I’m not going to hear about this when I get home.’”
Clearly, the close-knit group thrived on this competitive energy, with all Gaels’ finishing within the top 100 racers at Nationals.
On the Women’s side, the
one of those sports where you cross the line and don’t necessarily know you’ve won. There’s a certain waiting game involved, so you’re held in suspense. Then, when it’s real, all the emotions swell up,” Brackenbury said.
As the outdoor cross country with dropping temperatures, the track season where is expected to reign as one top runners.
Bennett said in an interview with The Journal
Gaels record low times, and high scores at Nationals
GRAPHIC BY NATALIE VIEBROCK
Athletes and students are in good hands at Queen’s.
PHOTO SUPPLIED BY ATHLETICS & RECREATION
Horoscopes: Financial wisdom straight from the stars
How
the stars (and dollar signs) are aligning for
the zodiacs
The Psychic Scholar Staff Writer
Let’s be real—managing money can feel like a cosmic mystery sometimes. Whether you’re avoiding your bank balance like it’s a bad ex or wondering if that daily coffee splurge is worth it, the signs could all use a little financial guidance. After all, who better to tell you how to adult than the cosmos?
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)
Libra, I get it—sometimes you just don’t want to make a scene, but that $20 you found on the ground? Finders’ keepers! Not picking it up might feel like the “right thing to do,” but let’s be real: it’s a lucky find, and a little extra cash never hurt anyone. Think of it as a small gift from the universe.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)
I hate to break it to you, Scorpio—but Flex dollars are real dollars. It’s time to rein in those CoGro splurges and start saving! Holiday shopping is just around the corner, and I’d hate to see you skimp on your usual thoughtful gifts. A little saving now can go a long way.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)
Good news, Sagittarius—a financial boost is headed your way! Your good karma and kindness have paid off, now it’s your turn to enjoy the rewards. Just remember, don’t spend it all at once. Staying smart with your money isn’t just a trend—it’s a lasting habit.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)
Afraid to check your bank balance, Capricorn? No need! You’ve been working hard, and it shows in your finances. Balancing a job with school is no small feat, so give yourself some credit. Every, late night, and early morning shift is setting you up for success. Keep up the momentum—future you will be grateful and proud of the foundation you’re building.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)
Aquarius, Black Friday’s here, and it’s time to go for that purchase you’ve been eyeing. While a bit of post-purchase guilt might sneak in, it’ll be long forgotten by the time the FedEx delivery person arrives at your door. Treat yourself—you deserve it!
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)
Pisces, it’s time to stop pretending finances are a mystery. Grab a book, dive in, and start learning! Understanding your money can open doors to freedom and confidence in ways you might not expect. You—and those around you—will be glad you did. Besides, knowledge is wealth, and there’s no better investment than in yourself.
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Reality check, Aries—your over-consumption’s catching up to you. Just because your favourite sweater dropped in a new colour doesn’t mean you need to buy it. A little sustainability goes a long way, and both the planet and your bank account will thank you. Plus, by curbing impulse buys, you’ll start appreciating what you already
own. Less can truly be more!
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Hey, Taurus, it’s not cool to skip the tip. Not only are you inviting bad karma, but you’re also leaving a sour impression on the hardworking employees who are serving you. Put yourself in their shoes—they’re doing their best to make your experience enjoyable. A little generosity goes a long way in
brightening someone’s day.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Gemini, that investment you made is about to pay off, big time! But don’t let the sudden spike in your balance go to your head. Take advice from your personal finance gurus. Staying grounded will help you make smart decisions and build on your success. Congratulations— your hard work and strategy are paying off!
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Cancer, your compassionate nature is your superpower, and it’s time to put it to good use. Donating to a cause close to your heart can make a world of difference—not just for others, but for you as well. Giving back not only helps those in need, but it also brings a sense of fulfillment money can’t buy.
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)
Leo, enough’s enough. Your
housemates have been chasing you for utilities payments, and your avoidance is making things worse. It’s time to step up and handle your share—it’ll bring peace to the house and show your responsibility. Plus, staying on top of these things will help keep your relationships strong and stress-free.
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)
It’s time to rethink your spending habits, Virgo. Sure, that daily sweet treat feels great at the moment, but those small purchases add up fast. Why not put that money toward buying groceries instead? With a bit of planning, you can stock up on more affordable options and still have a delicious coffee at home. satisfaction of a well-stocked fridge will feel even better than that extra shot of espresso.
ArtsinBrief:‘DaylightSavings Tour’toshineitslightatThe GradClubthisNovember
Fromlivemusic torowdydrama, there’ssomething foreveryone
M T & R L Journal Staff
Daylight Savings Tour set toburnbright
You don’t have to look too far fromcampustofindsomegreat musiciansfromoutoftown.
Whether you’re looking for folk, country, Americana
orblues,it’stimetoputonyour boots and make your waydowntoTheGradClubon Nov. 16. Ottawa band School House,Montreal’sClayHazey,and Toronto’s Jade Hilton are playing in Kingston for one night only, providing alittlesomethingforeveryone. Stopping by on their “Daylight Savings Tour,” this variedbillissuretomixupyour Saturday night, with tickets available both online andatthedoor.
KasadortoplayTheIsabelBader CentreforthePerformingArts
The Isabel Bader Centre for
the Performing Arts’ “Friday NightsintheRecitalHall”series is back with a long-awaited favourite. After the series’ success with other Kingston bands like Tiny Horse, belovedband Kasadorwill play on Nov. 22 in the Principal Emerita KarenHitchcockRecitalHall.
Wrapping up their most recent tour on Nov. 9 with a sold-out show in St. Catherines, Ont. and their song R.I.P. Me Down hitting 200,000 Spotify streams last week, theband’skeepingthemomentum going. Known for their tight, dynamic, and thoughtful
Sean Baker’s ‘Anora’: A dizzying, jaw droppingly good time
Areviewofthisyear’sPalmeD’Orwinner
performances, take the chance to see Kasador in an intimate settingbeforethecoldsetsin.
With limited space, and ticketssellingquick,it’soneyou can’tmiss.
Queen’sPlayers:Fall2024shows havearrived
AfterthesuccessoftheirNov.14 show in collaboration with Vogue Charity Fashion Show (VCFS), Queen’s Players are set to present their Fall 2024 Show from Nov. 13 to 16, and Nov.20to23atTheMansion.
The oldest running club at Queen’s, all proceeds from Queen’s Players’ shows are going to charity. In 2023, the club donated approximately $20,000 to charities like the Indian Residential School Survivor Society, AMS Food Bank, Martha’s Table, and manyothers.
If you’re looking for a fun night out with friends filled with raunchy humour, impressive vocals and comedy gold, Queen’s Playersisrightupyouralley.
ArtShowforcharitysetforthe Tett
Christmas is in the air, and so are giftsanddonations. Queen’s Project on International Development is set to host their charity art show Nov. 16 at The Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning. Withticketsavailableforpurchase atthedoors,it’sanopportunity to enjoy refreshments, view art from local artists, and support a localcharityinKingston.
For only $5 per ticket, and $3 with valid student ID, it’s a steal. With pieces on display created by Queen’s artists, all proceeds from the event go to Partners in Mission Food Bank as an initiative to build awareness in local and global developmentissues.
It’ssuretobeaneveningofart, fun,andsupportforall.
Poetryby
VivianHughes
V H
Contributor
NoticeUs
Tobeunderestimated Istoimplybeing considered, Oreven Noticed.
Herfirebuildsglassceilings Ofwhichsheis forbidden tobreak. Noonecanshatter Withoutfirstshowingcracks.
Acacophonyofoppressionandcruelty Simplified toemotions. Sympathycranestobeheard SothatItmayrest.
Sheisnottheneckthatturns. Sheisthevoicewhichspeaks, Thevoicethatbegs to beNoticed.
*** Observer
IfindIamrarelysafe. Seeinginfourdimensionsmakes Objectstalkand Conversationsstale.
Wheneaseovertakesme,Iassume Thefourwillfade Intodreamsandpeace. Butthelast dimensionisrigid Itdoesn’tletmerest. Itgrowsmymindbypryingmyeyesopen. Thefourthdimensionresemblesthethree, Butittorturesme,andIdon’tknowityet.
Interestedinsubmittingpoetry to TheJournal?Emailyourworkto journal_ac@ams.queensu.ca
S M Contributor
As a simple cinephile, armed withboth an XandLetterboxd account, my feed has been blowing up for the past few months about one of the mostlaudedpicturesoftheyear: SeanBaker’sAnora(2024).
During film festival season, Anora received the Palme D’Or prize at the Cannes film festival,oneofthehighesthonours afilmcanreceive,andwentonto get a runner-up prize for the People’s Choice award at the Toronto International Film Festival. The last film to havethislegacywasnoneother than Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite Ho’s film went on to sweep at the2020Oscars,takinghomethree huge awards, including Best Picture. Anora is a front-runner for some more big wins this year, playing in Kingston theatresrightnow.
Set in New York City, Anora follows Anora, or “Ani,” played by Mikey Madison, a Russian-American sex worker whomeets—andinstantaneously marries—Vanya, or Ivan, the son of a Russian oligarch. The film then spirals out of control when Vanya’s parents get wind of the union and setouttohaveitannulled.
Popular indie filmmaker Sean Baker often deals with the exploration of sex-work in his films, such as Red Rocket (2021) and Tangerine (2015). Anora throws you rightintothenitty-grittyofthe adultclubscenewhilesteeringclear ofmakinggrandiosecommentary orjudgementsaboutsuchwork.
Allthebuzzaroundafilmthat delves into such a taboo topic seems like a step forward in
Needless to say, I was excited.However,uponitsinitial theatrical release on Oct. 25, my socials became flooded with negative ratings—two star, even one star reviews. I grewnervous.Yet,afterseeingit thispastweekendIcanproudly say, the movie is worth the hype—toanextent.
cinema,especiallywhenpastfilms withsimilarthemes—like Hustlers (2019)—were completely shut out of the conversation during awards season. While garnering somenominationsduringthebig award circuit—with Jennifer Lopez’s supporting performance receivingaCriticsChoiceAward and lots of Oscar buzz—the film ultimately failed to get any sort of larger recognition with the Academy, snubbing Lopez’sperformanceentirely,and ignoringitscostumedesignand makeup,oneofthemostrecognized andpraisedaspectsofthefilm.
Anora is smartly shot and edited, balancing a boisterous, hedonistic,colour-filledbeginning withthequickpacededitingof a whirlwind. It spirals out of controlfaster,andfaster,untilit shattersintoaslowsnowyend. There’salso an absolutely killer soundtrack, specifically featuring oneofmyfavouritesongsofalltime, t.A.T.u’s“AllTheThingsSheSaid.”
Continuedonlineat www.queensjournal.ca
November has much in store for Kingston arts.
PHOTOBYNELSONCHEN
UnionGallery’s, ‘thelandsrefusal,’cherishes thelandaroundus
NewexhibitionservesasatributetoIndigenousharmony withtheland
E S
Assistant Arts & Culture Editor
Union Gallery is celebrating the profound connection between the land and its intrinsic connection to Indigenous identity, jointly weaving artwork ofresilienceandbelonging.
Composedofartworkcreated byJuliaRoseSutherlandandKiona Callihoo Ligtvoet, the lands refusal is on display at the Union Gallery from Oct. 29 to Dec. 7. The exhibition buildsuponthewordsofL.H. Stalling “the land’s refusal to be separated from the flesh” and uses paintings, handmade paper, and various other art forms to embody Indigenouspeoples’deepand lastingconnectiontotheland.
Julia Rose Sutherland is an interdisciplinary artist, academic, and educator at Ontario College of Art & Design University in Toronto, of Mi’kmaq and settler descent. In an artiststatementfortheUnion Gallery,Sutherlandreflectedon her intentions behind the exhibition, stating the work examines Indigenous and Black bodies and their connectiontotheland.
Using handmade paper to reflect history and ancestral connections, Sutherland createdpowerfulsignstohang fromthegallerywall.Halfof the paper was part of her art piece, “Wetqapalatl “Immerse in water,” which reflected messages,suchas“THELAND REMEMBERS” and “THERE’S MEDICINE ALL AROUND ME.” The other half ofthewallconsistedofherart
piece, “Nestuita’sit Remember, becoming aware,” which was created using handmade paper and pencil drawings of symbols likebraids.
The evocative and creative art pieces worked to capture the eternal nature of the land and many Indigenous Peoples’ desire to return to and honour the land that was stolen from them. The messages call explicit awareness to the everlasting presenceoftheland.
Multi-disciplinary artist, KionaCallihooLigtvoet,isofCree, Métis, and mixed European descent andgrewup in the hamlet of Calahoo, outside of Alberta. On the gallery website, Ligtvoet explains her artwork for the lands refusal seeks to become a tribute to her childhood memories, growing up on the quarter section of land across from where her moshom (grandfather) was born, and where her and her mother were raised. Her artwork for the exhibit is meant to cherish the mundane and beautiful moments incitedby theland andsharedthroughlovedones.
A painting that was particularly striking was Ligtvoet’s acrylic painting, passed between your hands and mine. It depicts two hands passing berries between each other, with bright red notes throughout the painting beckoning for the audience’s attention instantly. The land is at theheart of this painting as it depicts two people sharing, learning, and
enjoying the gift of berriesthattheplantsandland offers.Ligtvoet’spaintingsoffer viewers a poignant reflection ofaging,wisdom,andlearning done alongside andwith the land. Her work strikes a universal note of nostalgia for home and land that was cherished and loved through childhood andcarriedwithone’ssoulinto oldage.
Both artists reflect on their connection to the land, but in different ways. Sutherland reflects on the Indigenous communities’ connection to the land and the shared memories andtraditionsthatarepassed through ancestors and theland.Ligtvoetexploresthe everyday valuable memories she built with the land ofherchildhood.
“Thelandhasseengoodfarm dogs,tworapidlygrowingcities inthedistance,coldWinters,dry Summers, and berry blooms through Spring, Summer, and Fall.Despitegrowingchanges, landloss,grief,anddisruptions, medicinescontinuetogrow,seed, andcomeback;horsebackridesup hills have becomenamesakes, and stories have been kept,” Ligtvoetsaidinherartiststatement.
The artwork of the lands refusal is an artistic acknowledgement of the beauty, history, and reciprocity of the land where we stand. Ultimately, the exhibition encourages audiences to give back to the land and consider their relationships to the land around them, while simultaneously honouring Indigenous Peoples lasting connection to the thelandwe’reon.
intheword“accommodations”
Remarkable performances outweigh muddledmaterial
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Postscript Editor
Though difficult to follow at times, The Other Shore is vindicated byitshighproductionqualityand magneticperformances.
OnNov.14,theDANSchool ofDramaandMusicdebutedits Fall Major, The Other Shore, directed by Craig Walker. Performed at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts, the productionrunsfromNov.14to 24.Theshowfeaturesadynamic castof18talentedactors,each bringing a vibrant energy to breathelifeintoGaoXingjian’s The Other Shore Particular stand-outs include seasoned performer Jake Henderson,ArtSci.po‘25.
The play isn’t a leisure viewing—itsnon-linear,episodic structure requires focus and patience, but those willing to delve into its symbolic and layered storytelling are rewarded with a unique theatricalexperiencethatleaves alastingimpact.
The production opens on a blank stage, decorated with vines and greenery, with a crowd of actors clad in simple, nondescript clothing.Atthetopoftheshow, the “Rope Leader,” played by Quinn Carter, ArtSci ’27, introduces the crowd to a basket of ropes, which become tools for connection, manipulation, and eventualentanglement.
Each vignette that follows brings out a new aspect of human connection—sometimes joyous, other times deeply troubling—ascharactersstruggle between the desire for connection and fear oflosingthemselves.
The true heartbeat of The Other Shore is the ensemble. In the role of “Crowd,” these actors work in perfect harmonytocarrythenarrative forward—even in its most abstractmoments.Thechemistry
among them brings fluidity and a sense of unity, acting as a grounding presencefortheaudience.The ensemble’s performance is an emotional tether, even as theplaydriftsintosometimes surrealterritory.
As a viewer, this cohesion was key, as the ensemble’s interactions with each other embody the play’s underlying themes—they bring life to scenes that mightotherwisefeeldetachedor overlyconceptual.
Henderson captivates audiences with a stellar performance as the character “Man,” demonstrating remarkable depth and range. His emotional versatility, especially during a powerful monologue directed toward the “Crowd,” showcases his command of theroleandhighlightswhyhe waschosenforsuchachallenging part. His presence on stage becameatruefocalpointof theproduction.
Thesetandlightingdesign also deserve special mention. Theycreatedistinctatmospheres that adapt to the varied emotional tones of each vignette. The lighting,inparticular,underscores the intense shifts in mood, guidingbothsereneandunsettling moments. These technical elementshelptovisuallyinterpret Xingjian’s poetic language, addingalayerofaccessibilityto theabstractthemes.
Though it may not appeal to audiences seeking a straightforward narrative, The Other Shore is a bold, memorable work that reminds me of theatre’s capacity to provoke, challenge, and resonate on a personallevel.
Xingjian’s vision, brought tolifebyatalentedcastunder the thoughtful direction of Walkeroffersarareopportunityto examine the boundaries of individuality and collectivity in a world that often demandsconformity.
This is theatre at its most daring, and for those open to the journey, The Other Shore isan unforgettableexperience.
The DAN School Fall Major opened on Nov. 14.
PHOTOSUPPLIEDBYHEIDENJACOBI
The exhibition runs at Union Gallery from Oct. 29 to Dec. 7.
PHOTOBYEVASHEAHAN
Studying for the LSAT made me a better thinker
An ode to conditional reasoning and reading comprehension
Sarah Adams Features Editor
The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) world is one I thought I’d leave after taking my test this past September—but as November has now begun, I’m wondering if I’ll ever truly escape its grasp.
I love being right. I’ve always loved being right. I hate being proven wrong and try to avoid it at all costs—being right is so much more fulfilling.
So, it was no surprise when I told my parents in Grade 12 that I wanted to go to law school.
Naturally, the arrogant aura that surrounds an individual wanting to go law school, comes with the unsupported belief that “I’ll do well on the LSAT because I’m always right.”
However, the Law School Admissions Council has a few other conditions they desire to test besides being right for the sake of being right.
“Little did I know, these textbooks would change me as a human being
I began my four-month study journey in May to prepare for the September LSAT by purchasing a couple logical reasoning and reading comprehension bibles online from PowerScore. Little did I know, these textbooks would change me as a human being.
Before I dove headfirst into the LSAT world, I was a blissfully unaware individual, casually strutting through life with an indifference toward the finer points of reasoning. My arguments were often fueled by passion rather than logic—relying on gut feelings and sweeping generalizations rather
than structured thought— and my approach was less about deconstructing ideas and more about stirring up spirited discussions.
In discussions, I thrived on spontaneity, often losing myself in my own enthusiasm. However, that same passion sometimes meant my points were as flimsy as a paper umbrella in a rainstorm. I had a knack for weaving together passionate rhetoric, but when pressed for reasons, I often resorted to vague assertions.
My understanding of argumentation was more of an art form—beautiful but unanchored—rather than a precise strategy. I wore my opinions like badges of honour, celebrating my rightness without realizing how little I was truly engaging with the complexities of each debate.
Beyond this, I hated reading comprehension. In high school English classes, I remember being given a thick test booklet and an accompanying answer booklet and being told “to just do it.”
I had no grounds of what it meant to “read adequately” as outlined by the high school curriculum. I would simply just read and then select an answer that seemed right, never fully sure in the answers I was choosing.
Reading is one of the first things we’re taught, starting with learning the alphabet and how to write letters. While we’re taught the mechanics of reading, I’ve come to realize that we’re rarely taught how to read well.
Reading for leisure is one thing.
But coming to university and having to read 50-pages of dry academic journals and works of philosophy— while being expected to summarize
the main argument, key supporting evidence, and suggest ways the work could be strengthened—is something that was definitely left out in kindergarten.
My PowerScore LSAT bibles taught me how to dissect a reading into separate categories. I learned to identify the main argument not as a vague impression but as a distinct claim, typically nestled within subtle linguistic cues. Words like “thus,” “therefore,” and “consequently” became my signposts, guiding me to the author’s core thesis.
“Being right has never felt more satisfying
I also honed my eye for supporting evidence. Instead of viewing examples and data as mere details, I began to see them as critical building blocks that bolstered the author’s argument.
I learned to ask myself: “What role does each piece of evidence play? How does it relate back to the main point?” By categorizing arguments in this way, I was also primed to spot gaps and weaknesses, actively crafting objections that a less trained eye might overlook. This structured approach to dissecting readings turned my engagement with texts from passive consumption into an enticing activity.
Now, the skills I learned from studying for the LSAT are something I use daily as I complete readings for all my classes.
Beyond this, I now strive to fulfil my rightness by being structured by necessary and sufficient questions. Being right has never felt more satisfying.
Conditional reasoning has become my religion, my muse, my anthem, my addiction: if A is
a necessary condition for B, then B cannot happen unless A is true. However, A being true doesn’t guarantee that B will happen. Contrastingly, if A is a sufficient condition for B, then whenever A happens, B will definitely happen as well. However, B could still happen without A occurring.
This is easier understood when viewing shapes: all squares have four sides, but not all four-sided shapes are squares—geometry’s way of gatekeeping
This logical dance between necessity and sufficiency feels like the secret code to understanding the world—just as shapes play by their own rules, philosophers reveal their truths through these admirable “if-then” structures. When I’m doing my readings in philosophy, and I see an author using “If […] then” an uncontrollable excitement overflows me. Philosophers just get it.
In pursuing a Joint Honours, I thought I was lucky to get to sideline required courses in both of my degrees—I celebrated not having to take the dreaded PHIL 260, Introduction to Logic and instead got to take the not-somuch more celebrated POLS 285, Introduction to Statistics. So, I guess I would have discovered my love for logic a bit sooner had I needed to take this course, but now, I will never turn my head away from logic again.
Even though I’m knee-deep in logical reasoning, I still find myself daydreaming about the simple joys of life—like arguing with my family just to prove I’m right, or passionately defending my favourite movie, Frozen 2 (2019), of course, against any and all criticism.
This journey has sharpened me, carved me into a better version of
myself—someone who no longer settles for the shallow satisfaction of “being right.” Now, my rightness is deliberate, a stance held only after every opposing opinion has been counter-argued, and every assumption inspected. It’s like my mind went from fuzzy to focused, all thanks to endless hours of untangling if-then knots.
“I’m more than a person with strong opinions; I’m someone who holds each of their arguments pieced together like Lego
I’m more than a person with strong opinions; I’m someone who holds each of their arguments pieced together like Lego.
Beyond academic growth, this journey has spilled into my everyday life. I find myself savouring the thrill of taking apart the intricate puzzle of a philosophy text. I’m better for it, not only because I’m now grounded in logic, but because I have a newfound patience for argumentation—a reverence for reasoning I once glossed over while exploding with emotions.
I’m not an LSAT wizard and will be taking the test again. However, the skills and knowledge I’ve gained from studying for this test are ones I will forever be grateful for.
Even if you don’t plan on writing the LSAT or want to go to law school, I strongly encourage you not to dismiss the value of logic as much as I once did.
Want to write a postscript? Email journal_postscript@ams.queensu.ca for more details.
Sarah reflects on how writing the LSAT fundamentally changed how she thinks.
PHOTO BY NELSON CHEN