Inside the SRC
By Halle Brindley - Opinions Editor
they too are students.
By Krystopher Isidore - Contributor
Ayiti, a land of towering mountains and breathtaking landscapes, is home to a history as rich as its soil. Surrounded by the shimmering blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, its beauty is undeniable. But beyond its natural wonders lies a story of defiance, resilience and an unshakable pursuit of freedom. This is why the former colony of Saint-Domingue was once called La Perle des Antilles—the Pearl of the Antilles—by the French. It was the crown jewel of their empire, a colony
that produced immense wealth, yet at an unbearable human cost.
Haitians—or rather, Ayisens—are known for their fierce pride, and with good reason. They are the descendants of warriors, revolutionaries and visionaries, men and women who shattered the chains of slavery and carved out the world’s first Black republic. Their victory sent shockwaves across the globe, proving that no force—no empire, no army—could suppress a people determined to be free.
continues on page 9
In response to Roser Rise’s decision to leave her position of vice president of student affairs under the SRC, I have conducted four interviews with former SRC Executive Members, Bryn Empey Roser Rise, Olivia Woods, and Christina Lépine to get a glimpse of what is going on in the SRC.
As a disclaimer, my goal with this is not to make the SRC look bad, but rather dive into what is going on, whatever that may be. The issues I will discuss are not unique to Bishop’s. “There is a national lack of support for student unions on various levels,” Woods reminds us. These former SRC employees want everyone to remember that
When asked if “it [working for the SRC] is worth it,” all respondents unanimously said “yes,” however, it’s not always sunny in the SRC. As Woods mentioned, “It was the best of times; it was the worst of times.”
The unofficial transition document When a student accepts to work in the SRC, the outgoing student who previously maintained the position provides the newcomer with a transition document. This document consists of what the previous position holder did, how they did it, and who to reach out to for specific needs. The interviewees gave the following advice: Lépine: “Learn how to say no, don’t over
continues on page 2
Photo courtesy of Damita Melchi
Jillian French, News Editor » thecampus.news@gmail.com
Bishop’s University launches Black History Month with opening ceremony
By Twahiba Kashe - Contributor
On Feb. 3, Bishop’s University launched Black History Month with a ceremony held in the Agora at the Library Learning Commons. This event was attended by faculty, staff and students alike, and it served as a reminder of the importance of celebrating Black History Month.
The ceremony featured speeches from various guests, including Danai Belanger, the Vice President of Student Affairs and Sebastien Lebel-Grenier, the principal of the university. They emphasized the importance of celebrating Black History Month, especially in the current political climate. Both speakers encouraged the Bishop’s community to support and engage in meaningful discussions and activities throughout the month.
A memorable part of the opening ceremony was the speech by two Bishop’s students, Damita Melchi and Krystopher Isidore, who also serve as co-leads for P.U.L.S.E (People United for the Love of African and Caribbean Societies Empowerment), a student-led association that aims to build a safe community for students belonging to African and Ca-
ribbean descent on campus. They discussed the meaning and history of the Pan-African flag, a powerful symbol of resilience, resistance and unity among Africans in the diaspora. Melchi and Isidore defined the flag’s three colours: red representing the bloodshed of those who fought for freedom, black symbolizing Black identity and pride and green representing the richness of the African continent. Following their speech, the two students raised the flag, which will remain in the Agora of the Library Learning Commons for the remainder of the month, as a visible reminder of the African and Caribbean presence and contributions.
Following the ceremony, Damita Melchi reflected on the significance of this moment, not only personally, but also for the Black community at Bishop’s.
“Finding the Black community on campus made me feel like I could be unapologetically myself even in a predominantly white space,” she expressed.
“Being one of the only Black people in the music department was tiresome for a while, especially as an international student - it felt like the odds were against
A wild and wintry week
celebrates its 14th
By Saskia Yacoubi-Sluis - Contributor
The Bishop’s community gathered this past weekend to celebrate Winterfest; an annual tradition and seasonal highlight organized by the Students Representative Council (SRC) and attracting an increasingly growing crowd since 2012.
This year’s festival ran from Feb. 6 to 8 and brought together a crowd just short of 1300 attendees! While the dedicated students at Bishop’s encompass much of this number, there are many guests who made their ways from all around Canada to celebrate this festival with their Bishop’s friends. The festival included an Après-Ski themed Gait night, a rail jam, a winter carnival and an outdoor concert to bring the weekend to a spirited end.
The Thursday Gait night provided a lively start to the weekend, kicking off Winterfest with a Pong Palooza tournament and a live performance by The Sunburns. My City DJs from Montreal kept the night going until it’s early hours. At 4 p.m. on Saturday the outdoor carnival began in the quad. With everyone decked
me, feeling ‘othered’, albeit unintentionally, every day can be exhausting. The Black community at Bishop’s soothes that anxious feeling that gnawed at me for quite a while.
Celebrating Blackness boldly on campus and ensuring there’s a VISIBLE place for us here is important to me because then future students won’t have to go through the stage of being alone.” She continues, “Although we still have ways to go, the raising of the Pan-African flag and celebrating Blackness boldly during Black History Month is an important step to being a visible part of the Bishop’s community that future students can look forward to.”
Krystopher Isidore also reflected on the importance of celebrating Black History Month on campus. “Being a black student here at Bishop’s, a predominantly White institution, Black History Month is one of the few moments in the year where I feel like I am really represented and celebrated.,” he said. “Black History Month is important, because it can serve as a reminder to Black students that they are seen on campus. It helps to give an outlet of celebration of all heritage that is Black, and to remind everybody on campus that we Black students are present and won’t be made small.”
The university faculty, the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion office, the history department and P.U.L.S.E will be headlining different activities and events throughout the campus all month long to celebrate and highlight the achievements and contributions of the Black community, educate the broader university population and foster a more inclusive campus environment. The events provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and reflection, encouraging students and staff to engage with Black history and culture in a profound and lasting way.
to remember: Bishop’s University
annual Winterfest
out in their brightest and most creative, weather-friendly outfits, the quad was exploding with vibrant colours! Preparations started two weeks prior to install a slope for the rail jam, which ensued on Saturday afternoon. Students showed off their most impressive tricks to win prizes - amongst these rewards was included the ultimate prize of a brand new pair of AirPod Pros!
For those who were not participating in the Rail Jam – unfortunately not everybody can be a pro skier or snowboarder – a new addition to the carnival this year was a mechanical snowboard. This was a fan favourite, and notably a highlight for Reagan Russell, Director of Events for the SRC and a primary organizer of Winterfest. “The Mechanical snowboard was definitely my favourite addition this year. I tried many times - and failed many times - but it was so much fun,” says Reagan.
Reagan moreover speaks on one of her favourite parts of the planning process: finding the headliners; a selection which is then approved by the grad formal committee. With the outdoor concert being
a key element of the festival for many students, this choice is a significant one to make. Different Font, a DJ duo originally from Boston, Massachusetts, headlined this year’s festival and kept the energy going as students danced and sang in the quad until closing hour.
A beaver tail truck kept students fueled throughout the night and as a pleasant and very on-theme wintery surprise, it even started snowing throughout the last two hours of the festival!
Taylor Patch-Mccoy, a first-year student at Bishop’s, reflects on this moment, describing how “the falling snow felt so magical with the lights, music and people all around”.
“We tried to have a more involved Winterfest planning committee this year, including more students from the student body, Gait managers and the BU snow committee”, explains Reagan on the SRC’s efforts to strengthen student inclusivity throughout the planning process. This sense of community emerged over the course of the festival as students from all around the country socialized throughout the night.
Milan Rice, a student from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, reflects on her weekend: “Winterfest was super fun! Everyone followed the theme and dressed up in such fun ski outfits. I’ve never been before but I would totally recommend it!”
Let this recommendation be your sign to attend once again, or for the first time, next year. See you all in February 2026!
Photo courtesy of Twahiba Kashe
Photo courtesy of Saskia Yacoubi-Sluis
Jillian French, News Editor » thecampus.news@gmail.com
Bishop’s students on international politics
By Josef Spence - Contributor
The last few weeks have seen some of the most interesting and surprising issues and actions arise in the international sphere. Many of these issues and actions have been attributed to or directly arise from the United States. However, it is not necessarily clear how students around campus feel and how they perceive the happenings in the international arena.
Seeking out the opinions of Bishop’s students, it became clear that, though issues concerning the U.S. were top of mind for many people, students all had a different way of viewing the events that have unfolded internationally recently. Some see these events as an opportunity, with various faces and facets, while others see them as a challenge to the world order.
One history student, Sarah, noted that she found the state of international affairs quite “discouraging”. This opinion seems to be quite common amongst Bishop’s students. She summarized this opinion quite eloquently saying “I find it sad and discouraging because you look at the news and everything is going wrong, everyone is at everybody’s throat, and so it’s just nothing positive so it’s very discouraging”. She highlighted the threats that Trump has made against Canada and other countries as a point of discomfort and uneasiness. However, she pointed out that we ought to be looking more at the different challenges that people around the world are facing so that we are better educated about global affairs. Interestingly, she observed that leaders and governments continuously fail at learning from history and are often ignorant of what they should be doing. Overall she noted that this is a challenging and very concerning time in international affairs.
Another student characterized the state of international politics as completely “crazy”. He highlighted that we need to be educated about what is going on around the world to understand the actions that are taken by those in the U.S., specifically Trump. Notably, he argued that compared with all the other conflicts in the world the threat of tariffs to Canada is relatively insignificant. He also submitted that the tariffs, though certainly a matter of concern for him, have the potential and in some cases are raising pride in the Canadian nation and forging a strong sense of Canadian identity. Specifically, he talked enthusiastically about the greater independence of identity and culture from the U.S. that the tariffs have fostered in Canada.
Another student, who wishes to remain anonymous, highlighted many ways that international politics is increasingly showing that it is rigged. Yet, he also noted
that he appreciated recent events in international affairs because he could make some money off of it. Nonetheless, he admits that if they did provide an opportunity to make money these recent events would “terrify” him.
Nick Homet, a first-year student, emphasized that he feels Canada has become quite self-focused. A great illustration of that focus is the fact that the “Breaking News” banner of CBC since the beginning of January had been about Trump leveling tariffs. He pointed out there has been much that has occurred around the world that does not have to do with the U.S. that has gone generally overlooked by Canadians due to an excessive focus on the tariffs.
Thus, Bishop’s students have varied opinions on the state and events of the international sphere. Some view it as full of a diversity of opportunities while others are greatly concerned by it.
Spring election period underway, BSR ratifies new VP of Academics
By Jillian French - News Editor
As the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) ramps up to the end of the year, nominations have opened for positions on the Board of Students’ Representatives (BSR) for the 2025-2026 academic year.
This marks the first SRC election since the board ratified the new BSR structure, which will dissolve the current roles in the executive team, instead featuring nine board directors. Senator positions have also opened across the academic divisions. Campaigns will kick off on Monday, Feb. 17, and come to a close after the voting period on Feb. 26 and 27.
As students look ahead to a structural and personnel change on the board, one major change has already been made: Chelsea Sheridan has been ratified as the new SRC Vice-President of Academic Affairs, filling the role for the remainder of the semester after Roser Rise, former VP, stepped down from the role in January. In the email notifying students, Rise cited “personal
Treasons” for her choice to resign.
Sheridan, a fourth-year Sociology major, was ratified on Monday, Jan. 27, and started her term a few days later. She described her “hectic start!”, a week of reading through documents and scheduling meetings to get her bearings, but added that Roser and the BSR team were “super helpful and understanding, I couldn’t have asked for better”.
On the agenda, Sheridan’s priorities are sorting out committee duties aand continuing ongoing projects from Rise’s time in office. She’s chairing the SRC teaching awards selection committee, which will culminate at the awards night held near the end of the semester. During her mandate, Rise worked with Dr. Matthew Peros, Dean of Social Sciences, on finding study spaces for social science students – Sheridan adds that while most divisions have some designated niche spaces (Johnson for science students, Molson for fine arts, Morris
for humanities), there aren’t any spots where social science students congregate. Sheridan said she’s hoping to find some space in the library to cultivate space for students in the division.
Sheridan will be in office for around three months until the end of the 202425 academic year. She described the challenge of stepping into an established team so late in the school year: “I was coming in uncertain of what people are expecting of me, what people know about me”.
Sheridan served as social science senator on the BSR and Senate last year and says that her previous experience has been instrumental to her success in adapting to the new role so quickly. “Sitting on the BSR, sitting on the senate, understanding what they do in general… I think I used these experiences to maneuver and get through a new kind of role”. “The strangest thing”, she adds, “would be that I was a senator and now I’m helping
manage the senators… and trying to help them achieve their goals”.
Sheridan is also co-running the 2025 Bishop’s Charity Fashion Show: “Managing 100 models and 20 committee members has prepared me for a leadership role… Obviously”, she adds, “I’m still learning as I go!”
he Campus acknowledges that the land on which we operate is stolen land, the traditional territory of the Abenaki people. We live, learn, work, and play on this land, home to Indigenous peoples still living. Canada was founded through colonization, a system rooted in oppression and the abuse of power over others, continuing to affect First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities today. As a student newspaper, The Campus has a responsibility to highlight truth. We are committed to prioritizing underrepresented voices in our community and proactively highlighting Indigenous peoples’ histories and ongoing realities, including their resilience and achievements. We recognize our work plays a role in shaping public perceptions, being able to call-out injustice but also call-in action. We emphasize that we must go beyond a land acknowledgement, which is only one step towards reconciliation. It is the stories in our paper – told with respect, accuracy, and integrity – and the respect and humility we show to the land and others that is more important than what is written in a land acknowledgement. Actionable steps to go beyond a land acknowledgement include educating ourselves and others, and supporting Indigenous traditions, movements, and businesses. —The Campus Team
Photo courtesy of Chelsea Sheridan
Halle Brindley, Opinions Editor » thecampus.opinions@gmail.com
BU life as an international student
By Perle Badohu - Contributor
Going to college is one of the most stressful and scary experiences a young adult can have, but going to college in another country is scarier. Like most new experiences, being an international student allows me to meet new people from different backgrounds and learn about different customs and traditions. Each interaction is an opportunity to grow, both personally and academically.
Sometimes when you don’t really expect it, it is on the other side of the world that you find a semblance of family, an environment that reminds you of home.
This is the case of a small group of French people including first and second year students. They eat together, party together and share their experiences together. Today I ask some of them to share with us their feelings about Bishops and their lives on campus.
To keep anonymity, I will refer to the students as (B1, B2 for boy 1 or 2 and G1,G2 for girl 1 or 2).
Interviewer : What role do extracurricular activities play in your campus experience ?
G1 : Personally, I am on the dance team and it helps me meet new people and occupies a lot of my time, and it genuinely makes me happy.
Interviewer : What advice would you give to an incoming international student ?
B1 : Make sure you connect with at least one person from your home country, so you don’t feel completely homesick.
Interviewer : If you could create a time capsule about your experience here as an international student, what would you put it ?
B1 : A bottle of wine (laughing) and a snowball.
G1 : An O-week t-shirt, because it was the best week of the year.
B2 : Honestly, it’s fun. The fact that we see the same people all the time reinforces a sense of community, and makes us feel like we are part of something.
just feel at home.
Interviewer : What do you think of the first years in your group, do they share the same spirit that you had last year ?
B2 : Something from my residence and a rugby ball.
G2 : My dance team shirt.
Interviewer : What does having a French friend group bring you?
B1 : Makes me feel more comfortable, and sometimes at home in some kind of way.
G2 : Gives me the opportunity to connect with people who are going through the same things as me.
Interviewer : What do you think of life on campus in general ?
I see you, you see me
By Marie-Pierre GnassounouAkpah - Contributor
Growing up, I was often the only Black girl—or one of the few—in my class or on my sports team. Saying it never bothered me would be a lie, but for the most part, it wasn’t as bad as it might seem. This is the reality for many of us as visible minorities in predominantly
white communities.
As I got older and media representation grew, I began to see more Black people showcasing their achievements. This subtle shift changed my perspective on what success could look like for someone like me. I realized that there is a place for us in greatness.
You might think it’s not a big
G1 : I’ll say it’s comfortable with a lot of proximity, but sometimes this is what you need to not feel alone.
After asking general questions to all of them, I decided to focus on the second year students. Asking them about how they adapt and more.
Interviewer : Do you feel like this year is better than your first year ?
G2 : Definitely. Knowing everyone and knowing what is waiting for me, puts me in a better place, and the stress coming with the novelty of the first year doesn’t exist anymore. I
B1 : I feel closer to them than the international students from last year. Firstly, because we are from the same country, but also because I feel like a mentor to them. I feel like it’s my duty to help them feel at home even if we are so far from France.
After this short interview, I asked them a little bit more about themselves so that I could understand the relationships between them and something obvious came to my eyes: they care for each other. These students have each other’s backs and they see one another as a substitute family.
deal, but in reality, it is. Seeing other Black people succeed inspires us to strive for excellence.
Having role models who look like us can push us to be better every day. We aim to become those role models for future generations, so they don’t feel as out of place as we once did.
Representation allows young
people to dream of a future where their ideas, creations, and work are valued.
Representation creates a sense of belonging and validation.
Representation empowers the soul like nothing else.
Because I saw them, you can now see me.
Photo courtesy of Perle Badohu
OPINIONS
Halle Brindley, Opinions Editor » thecampus.opinions@gmail.com
Inside the SRC
continued from page 1
commit, and learn slowly, committing slowly.”
Woods: “Get involved in different areas on campus, no regrets for involvement. If you’re not 100%, then nothing else can be 100%.”
Empey: “Make sure your priorities are being met before any extra job or extracurriculars. If you can’t show up for yourself, then you can’t show up for other people.”
Rise: “Try as hard as [you] can to respect [your own] boundaries, don’t be afraid to say no, and I would maybe not recommend run[ning] for the VP role.”
Women in a Leadership Position It was brought to my attention by Woods that a student from another school, working for their student union, was “slut-shamed and targeted online because of what she looked like and what she wore.”
The treatment of these four female interviewees along with a handful of other unnamed individuals has not reached this level, but it falls within the dark grey area of treatment towards women. “Sometimes women in student government are... judged by how they act or what they wear,” Woods said. She continued: “There are times where women in student government are judged for their personal lives and things that are going on instead of professionally.”
On a personal level, Woods suggested that “sometimes different things I wanted to wear [I thought] I should maybe be more professional... It can be really tricky too because I’m still a student, I still do things, like go to The Gait or go to the Lion and people would be like ‘oh, Liv, you’re drinking at The Gait,’ like yes I am, I’m also a student as well.”
From her experience, Woods believes that the student perspective pigeonholes those in student government to act and behave a certain way. Woods recently received a comment telling her, ‘I thought you were really good.’ In the interview, Woods responded: “What does that mean? You think I’m not ‘good’ now that you’ve seen me in a non-professional setting?”
I then pose this question to you, the student body: if you wear a crop top, does that mean you care less about things? Does it make you less qualified to be the voice of students when you, also a student, wear what makes you most comfortable? A crop-top, let alone any top, doesn’t impact your work life. If you’re off the clock, wear whatever top you want. After describing this situation to Empey, the former director of events, she replied, “That’s just ridiculous, that’s terrible, I don’t like that.” Woods added further comment by saying, “everyone has this stereotypical idea of what professionalism means and apparently it means that it transforms your life too... you’re [supposed to be] a robot.”
All Work, Some Pay...
A frequent theme in answers was that the pay for SRC executives is not enough. I would go as far as to argue it does not acknowledge a realistic work week for SRC executives, but rather, a falsified idea. This is especially true if events are to run smoothly, especially during times like Winterfest, O-week, etc. “That 20-hour
We’re all in this, just not together In moments of high stress, when things are going wrong and you are the face of the SRC, criticism can affect the representatives strongly. “Criticism... hits you hard,” Lépine mentioned, “I remember hiding from my parents... mean messages [she was receiving].” Due to the female
tion,” Empey stated, “You were then expected to drop other things to make sure the event runs smoothly.” Empey underscores the importance of these extra hours in order to have a successful event. However, Empey mentioned that then these hours often come at the cost “of your academics dropping, you don’t spend as much time with your friends, ... As much as I would like to say it was a balanced ratio, I found that when events were taking place, that was my only focus. My grades and class attendance were definitely on the backburner for me.” Although not necessarily to an extreme, all four women noticed a decline in their grades during their time working for the SRC.
Empey was motivated to join the SRC, as she had the mindset that her role would be giving back in a fun way, yet it got to the point where she worked a 20-hour day. Although desired, and well deserved, Empey claimed that after such a hectic day, “you deserve a day off.” Empey loved her job, but in her experience, it took advantage of this passion, testing the limits of her volunteerism. For Woods, even after leaving the office, it was as if she were on the clock 24/7, “there was no distinction between when I was working and when I wasn’t,” she said. Rise stated that because there was so much to do, “it’s definitely a job that would require more than the initial [contracted] 3 hours.” Such strain resulted in her mental health declining. Some SRC workers sought out counseling solely because of their job under the SRC.
majority of SRC interviewees, the impact on men in leadership roles has notably not been investigated in terms of similarity in, unfortunately, backlash. It is worth noting that the treatment towards former female executives has been less than decent, ranging from in person to online comments, comments to one’s partner on the ‘bad character’ of their partner in the SRC, stalking, death threats, etc.
Empey commented that these roles are “taxing, but if something political comes into the mix, your life is at stake as a student.” As students, they, although in a powerful role, do not necessarily have as much power as many assume. Harassment is not a way of respecting the people who act as a unified voice for our university, even if you disagree with the actions of the SRC. On the most basic level, SRC members are not being respected. Now, on the side of the SRC, a support protocol is to be thoroughly entertained as a starting point to allow for the protection of student leaders, both physically and mentally. Currently, a stable support system is lacking. How can these women in leadership roles be successful if their work life, past the paperwork and meetings, is so heavily interfering with their wellbeing? If they are not treated 100%, how can we, as students, expect them to be 100%?
During the 2023-2024 academic year, Lépine, Empey, and Woods worked collectively on the SRC, through extremely unforeseen, difficult periods of time. Woods
noted that she wouldn’t have been able to do it with any other team. The value of a team allows for wellbeing check-ins, a feeling of togetherness, and an effective work life. For Rise, the element of a team was missing. Although some members would ask if they could help, the confidentiality of documents limited the amount of support she was able to get. In total, she says she did not feel supported.
The SRC’s Statement:
“The realities you’ve highlighted—long hours, personal sacrifices, and challenges related to student leadership—are unfortunately true. Our team has recognized these systemic issues, which is why we are actively working toward a restructuring to better support SRC members and ensure a more sustainable, balanced, and effective organization. The work of the SRC is demanding, but it is also vital in advocating for and providing services to students.
[...] A lack of institutional and governmental support for student governance often leads to workloads that exceed what is reasonable for elected members, and in some cases, even exposes them to undue harassment and threats. No student leader should have to face these conditions, and we are committed to implementing changes that prioritize well-being and fairness.
Despite these obstacles, SRC members continue to work tirelessly for students— whether through academic advocacy, event planning, student services, or policy reform. Unfortunately, much of this hard work goes unnoticed or underappreciated. However, we remain dedicated to improving transparency, increasing support structures, and fostering a healthier work environment for future SRC teams.”
Closing this article, Opening an Alternative
Given all of this, it’s easier to focus on the negative, but it’s crucial to recognize all of the positive work the SRC has done, including advocating for fall break. Betcha didn’t know about that one.
To the students, be kind and take time to learn how the SRC works, after all, they are students just like you and me. And to the SRC, I’m curious to see how your new strategies model will address the existing flaws. Mental health and work recognition matters; the executives are employees, not part-time volunteers. All interviewees have suggested implementing aids who they are able to confide in with confidential documents, consider such suggestions, among the other gaping holes in the format of the SRC, to best address student and exec needs in the future.
Finally, to Bryn, Roser, Liv, and Christina, thank you for your time and honesty. You have made my time at Bishop’s particularly wonderful with everything I knew you did and everything I did not know.
Graphic courtesy of Payton Langevin
Bishop’s Women’s Basketball Stuns No. 2
By Twahiba KasheContributor
On Jan. 30, the women’s basketball team delivered a statement win against the Université de Laval women’s team - the second-ranked team in the country. This home game victory marked a major triumph for the Gaiters, proving they can go head-to-head with the nation’s best teams as the season approaches its end.
Having played Laval once already, a game that ended in a loss for the Gaiters, the team knew heading into this matchup that they would be facing a challenging opponent. Laval’s dominant reputation precedes them, but the Gaiters refused to be intimidated. “Heading into the game against Laval, our mindset was all about resilience and confidence,” said Sandra Mbekou,
a fifth-year guard. “We knew that they were the number-two team in the country, but we also believed in our preparation, our work ethic and our ability to compete at that level. The focus was on executing our game plan, playing with intensity and staying composed no matter what. We wanted to prove that we could go and win against the best.”
Mariama Diallo, a second-year guard, echoes Mbekou’s feelings as well. “Personally, my mindset was also to have fun and play tough defense. It was a good challenge because Laval has good guards. In the end, my ultimate goal was to have fun with teammates and follow the game plan.”
The Gaiters’ win against Université de Laval was a testament to their perfectly executed strategy. While they were down five points by half-time, they bounced back during the third quarter, scoring 27 points.
For the players, this victory was significant. “Personally, this win means a lot,” expressed Mbekou. “It’s a statement, not just to others, but to ourselves too that we can compete with the top teams in the country. It reinforces the hard work we’ve been putting in and gave us momentum moving forward. It’s a confidence booster, but at the same time, we know we
have to stay locked in and keep building on this performance.”
The women’s basketball team will face Laval once again on Feb. 20, right before the RSEQ playoffs, on their Senior Night. This is another opportunity to showcase their determination and continue strong toward the postseason. Make sure to come and support your Gaiters!
BU Outdoors powers Up Eco-Week with outdoor adventures
By Christina Lépine - Staff Writer
BU Outdoors geared up for this year’s Eco Week, offering one of the most event-filled weeks of the school year with four events in five days. This initiative brought a new interactive perspective to environmental awareness by providing at least two outdoor activities in collaboration with Eco Week for all students who wished to participate in this experience.
During the first week of February, Eco Week organizers planned a few initiatives on campus to increase students’ environmental awareness. These efforts included a “no cup day” during which students were encouraged to bring their reusable mugs or receive mugs when consuming beverages on campus. These initiatives are eye-opening every year for many who do not realize how many disposable dishes we use on a daily basis.
This year, BU Outdoors made many efforts to offer an interactive outdoor experience for students
because we truly understand the importance of environmental sustainability when surrounded by natural landscapes.
offer a local walk in Lennoxville on a section of the trail leading to North Hatley. On Thursday,
Photo courtesy of Emily Crunican
to their participant list informing them about the week’s activities. Students could sign up for any event and were then provided with further instructions to prepare for the different activities.
On Monday, Feb. 3, the club offered a rock-climbing trip at D- Vert in Magog. On Tuesday, Feb. 4, BU Outdoors and Eco Week organizers collaborated to
Feb. 6, a Mount Pinnacle Sunrise Hike was offered for Eco Week, and lastly, on Friday, Feb. 7, the club announced a Diable Vert Sunset Snowshoeing hike. On Friday, Jan. 31, the club’s coleads sent an informational email
As many did on Thursday, Feb. 6, I woke up very early and got ready for my first sunrise hike. All participants met on campus before rejoining at the bottom of Mount Pinnacle, close to Coaticook. After a 40-minute drive, we started ascending the mountain to catch the sunrise at the top. The weather was perfect, although one of the coldest days we have experienced this year, the winter landscapes were beautiful during the hike and breathtaking at the top of the mountain. The club’s co-leads offered spikes for all participants to facilitate the hike. Our group took a long break to admire the sunrise and capture the moment. Many shared, while descending Mount Pinnacle, that this type of outdoor activity kickstarted their day in the right way and they felt lucky to have the opportunity to experience nature in this way.
BU Outdoors succeeded in shedding a new light on Eco Week this year by offering a diversified set of physical activities in nature.
Photo courtesy of Alexander Carbonneau
Owen Kitzan, Sports Editor » thecampus.sports@gmail.com
Transforming communities: The vision and work of the AntiRacism and Discrimination Committee
By Beatrice Morrison - Contributor
In 2020, the world faced unprecedented challenges. While the COVID-19 pandemic isolated us, the murder of George Floyd brought the Black Lives Matter movement to the forefront.
During this time of isolation and urgent calls for change, the Bishop’s University basketball teams held a pivotal Zoom
Over the past four years, the ARDC has grown and evolved, but its core values of accountability, leadership, empowerment, reconciliation and advocacy have remained steadfast. The committee actively works to reduce racism, discrimination and prejudice through education, celebration, decolonization and collaboration. Originally an athleticsfocused group, the ARDC has expanded
meeting, united by their shared pain and anger. From this conversation, the AntiRacism and Discrimination Committee (ARDC) was born with a mission to unite student-athletes and establish a zero-tolerance policy for racism and discrimination within our community.
its scope to serve the entire Bishop’s community, ensuring that every Gaiter, regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation, feels proud to call Bishop’s University their home.
Recognizing that some individuals may be unaware of the daily racism and
discrimination faced by others, the ARDC is dedicated to combating this inequity. Through responsive, equity-based educational programming, we empower the Bishop’s community. In the 2023-24 academic year alone, the ARDC hosted seven educational events for students and faculty, totalling 366 attendees. These events included O’Week Trivia, LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Allyship Workshops, and our signature event, Anti-Racism Uncorked. Our initiatives have left a lasting impact, promoting anti-discriminatory and anti-racist growth at Bishop’s University.
The committee collaborates with mental health professionals to create safe spaces for honest and difficult conversations. As a student-led group, we demonstrate the power and impact that young people can have when they stand together for their beliefs against systemic silencing. Founded on the principles of combating social injustices such as racism, discrimination and sexism, the ARDC’s comprehensive platform affects every member of the community. Locally, we work closely with Bishop’s staff and students, influencing the university’s policies, including the revision of the Student Code of Conduct. Nationally, we collaborate with the Maple League of Universities to spread our message and explore student-led Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives at other institutions. The ARDC’s influence is also reflected in the high international and out-of-province student population at
Bishop’s. The 366 attendees of ARDC events carry our teachings back to their home communities worldwide. Through dedication and tireless efforts, the ARDC at Bishop’s University is making a profound difference locally, internationally and globally. Our work serves as a testament to the power of student-led initiatives in driving meaningful change.
Upcoming Event: Anti-Racism Uncorked Mark your calendars for February 25th, from 7-9 PM at the Gait, for this year’s AntiRacism Uncorked. The event promises free drink tickets, food, and no cost to attend!
Photo courtesy of Victoria Bouchard
Photo courtesy of Victoria Bouchard
Katlyn Stoneburner, Features Editor » thecampus.features@gmail.com
Amplifying youth voices: The importance of public engagement in sexual health
By Olivia Woods - Contributor
The Youth Public Engagement Champions (YPEC) is a cohort of six young leaders from across Canada, who are passionate about advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) for young people globally. YPEC is run through CARE Canada and is a part of the public engagement branch of the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Economic Empowerment Supporting Out of School Adolescent Girls’ Rights and Skills (SHE SOARS) project. SHE
SOARS is a seven-year project in Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia that aims to improve SRHR access, services and programming for out-of-school girls and boys. SHE SOARS aims to specifically work with out-of-school girls as
typically they can have less access to support and can be left out of sexual health programming.
To amplify youth voices within SHE SOARS, YPEC works to highlight the importance of global Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights and draws parallels with Canadian youth in hopes of destigmatizing sexual health and fostering global citizenship. But why is it important to bring awareness to Canadian youth?
Many young Canadians still face barriers and stigma around accessing sexual health education. By amplifying stories, lived experiences and educational resources, YPEC is encouraging all youth to be informed about their own health and tackle common issues that youth face around the world.
YPEC works to raise awareness through digital storytelling on platforms such as the SHE SOARS podcast, social media content, blog posts, educational campaigns and advocacy events! On this season of the SHE SOARS podcast, the team interviewed Shania Bhopa, an influential young women’s health advocate in the space. We’ve had youth conversations around mythbusting and the importance of youth leadership and highlighted conversations with youth from the SHE SOARS project.
I personally got involved because I had worked extensively at Bishop’s around sexual health and was interested in learning more and getting involved outside of the Bishop’s sphere.
Before getting involved I founded the Menstrual Equity
Project at Bishop’s and have been a member of the Sexual Culture Committee as well as their education sub-committee. From these experiences it really solidified my passion for sexual and reproductive health. I had many conversations throughout my various positions with students where I identified huge gaps in people’s sexual health education, things that people just hadn’t taught them.
It is fundamental for individuals to have a safe, reliable and accurate access to sexual health education. Through this experience, I have been able to further my understanding of SRHR, engage with youth internationally, work within a supportive and inspirational cohort of peers and contribute to
meaningful advocacy work. No matter what you are passionate about, there is always a space for you to make a difference. Youth voices are fundamental in our future!
If you’re interested in something, I say go for it! Make it happen- Bishop’s has endless resources to support you and make your passion a reality!
Currently, YPEC is running a campaign for SexPlus Week on Care Canada’s Instagram! This will be a week to challenge misinformation and create space for learning more about sexual health. Make sure to check it out to meet the YPEC team and learn about sexual health education.
Her Rights, Her Voice.
Special Extracurriculars: Guest Speakers on Campus
By Lauren Root – Staff Writer
The winter semester at Bishop’s brings the opportunity to hear from a variety of guest speakers, from diverse backgrounds and specialties. Guest speakers coming to campus are some of the most special memories a student can make, getting to hear different perspectives from experts in niche fields.
The Morris House Reading Series is just one of many programs inviting speakers onto campus, giving students insight into the lives of successful authors. In the latest edition of the Morris House Reading Series, Douglas Sanderson (Amo Binashi) and Andrew
Stobo Sniderman visited Bishop’s to speak about their lives and histories.
Sanderson is a Fulbright Scholar and also holds the Prichard Wilson Chair in Law and Public Policy at the University of Toronto, Faculty of Law. Sanderson has also served as a senior Advisor to the Ontario government, in the offices of the Attorney General and Aboriginal Affairs.
Sniderman is a scholar, lawyer, and author from Montreal whose writing has been featured in the Globe and Mail, New York Times and Maclean’s. Sniderman has also argued before the Supreme Court of Canada, as well as serving as the human rights policy advisor to the Canadian minister of foreign affairs.
This edition of the Morris House Reading Series was sponsored by the Indigenous Decolonization Circle, Academic Enrichment (the Dean’s Office), and the Ogden Glass Lecture Series.
On Wednesday, Feb. 19, Laurent Duvernay-Tardif will be speaking on campus from 7-9pm in Centennial Theatre. Duvernay-Tardif has been called “the most interesting player in the NFL,” since after a Super Bowl win on the Kansas City Chiefs and a nine-year-long NFL career, he retired and enrolled in medical school. At the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Duvernay-Tardif left his football career behind and joined the medical front lines. Laurent Duvernay-Tardif
is now the only NFL player to also earn a medical degree.
During his Bishop’s talk, Laurent Duvernay-Tardif will discuss the incredible highs of being an NFL player and winning a Super Bowl, to the difficult transition of being a burnt-out orderly. Duvernay-Tardif offers insight into career changes and demonstrates that a person is not limited to a single path.
The many different speakers giving talks at Bishop’s provide students with abundant opportunities to learn more about their community and inspiring figures from Quebec and across Canada. These talks offer a chance to learn, connect, and be inspired. Don’t miss out!
Graphic courtesy of Olivia Woods
Graphic courtesy of Olivia Woods
Katlyn Stoneburner, Features Editor » thecampus.features@gmail.com
Ayiti (Haiti): The land that defied empires
continuesd from page 1
Journey with me as we explore the story of Ayiti, a nation that stood against the strongest power of its time and emerged victorious.
From Ayiti to Saint-Domingue: A land claimed by empires
The island of Ayiti, meaning “The Land of Mountains” in the Taíno language, was home to the indigenous Taíno people long before European ships reached its shores. However, with the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492, everything changed. The Spanish renamed the island Hispaniola and, over the years, subjected the native population to forced labor and brutal repression. War, enslavement and European diseases wiped out a vast portion of the Taíno people.
By the 17th century, the western portion of Hispaniola had fallen under French control, becoming the colony of Saint-Domingue. What followed was a brutal economic system fueled by the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Enslaved Africans, torn from their homelands, were brought to Saint-Domingue to work under inhumane conditions on sugar, coffee and tobacco plantations. By the late 18th century, Saint-Domingue had become the most profitable colony in the world, providing nearly 40 per cent of Europe’s sugar and 60 per cent of its coffee. But this wealth was built upon the suffering of nearly half a million enslaved Africans, who outnumbered their European enslavers by a staggering margin.
The French never accounted for one thing: the unbreakable will of the enslaved to reclaim their freedom.
The sparks of revolution: Bois Caïman and the rise of Toussaint Louverture
The fight for freedom did not begin overnight. For decades, enslaved Africans resisted their oppressors through secret gatherings, poisonings, work slowdowns and escape. But the first
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Irma Susset thecampus.editor@gmail.com
SENIOR COPY EDITOR
Olivia Norby thecampus.copyeditor@gmail.com
JUNIOR COPY EDITOR
Eryn Costello
major spark of revolution ignited on the night of Aug. 14, 1791, during a sacred Vodou ceremony known as Bois Caïman.
This gathering, led by Dutty Boukman, a powerful Vodou priest and enslaved leader, was not merely a religious ritual—it was a declaration of war. Boukman, alongside the priestess Cécile Fatiman, called upon the spirits of their African ancestors to guide them in battle. Enslaved men and women, long denied their humanity, made a collective vow: they would no longer live in chains.
Within days, plantations burned. Fields that had once fueled the wealth of France became battlegrounds. The revolution had begun.
As the rebellion grew, one leader emerged who would come to define the revolution itself—Toussaint Louverture. Born into slavery, Louverture was an intelligent and strategic thinker. Unlike many enslaved individuals, he had been allowed to learn how to read and write, and his knowledge of European military tactics made him a formidable force. He quickly rose to prominence, leading thousands of troops against French forces, Spanish armies, and even British invaders who sought to seize the colony.
His ability to outmaneuver his enemies earned him the name L’ouverture, meaning “The Opening,” for his talent in finding pathways to victory. However, his diplomatic skills were just as sharp as his military strategies—he negotiated with rival powers, manipulated colonial politics and positioned himself as the de facto ruler of Saint-Domingue. But Toussaint’s vision extended beyond mere rebellion; he sought to maintain order, rebuild the colony’s economy and secure lasting freedom for his people. His growing power, however, made him a threat in the eyes of Napoleon Bonaparte.
In 1802, the French tricked Toussaint
into surrendering under false promises of peace. He was captured, deported to France, and imprisoned in the cold, isolated fortress of Fort-de-Joux. There, in a freezing cell, the great general died of pneumonia in April 1803.
Yet, though his body perished, his revolution lived on.
Dessalines and the Final Blow to French Rule
With Toussaint gone, the revolution needed a new leader—someone ruthless, relentless and willing to finish the fight. That man was Jean-Jacques Dessalines.
Born into slavery, Dessalines was raised by Tante Toya, a fierce warrior from the Dahomey kingdom (modern-day Benin). She instilled in him the art of combat, survival and resistance. Unlike Toussaint, who believed in diplomacy, Dessalines believed in total war. His hatred for the French ran deep and his strategy was simple: no mercy.
When Napoleon sent his forces to Saint-Domingue to reimpose slavery, Dessalines led his troops into a brutal, scorched-earth campaign. He burned down cities, slaughtered enemy forces, and struck fear into the hearts of the French military. His crowning achievement came at the Battle of Vertières on Nov. 18, 1803, when his army crushed the last remnants of Napoleon’s forces.
On Jan. 1, 1804, standing victorious, Dessalines declared the birth of a new nation: Haiti, reclaiming its original indigenous name. The first Black republic was born and for the first time in history, an enslaved people had overthrown their oppressors and established a free state.
To ensure that Haiti would never be enslaved again, Dessalines ordered the execution of remaining French settlers, an act that remains controversial but underscored his belief that true freedom required complete separation from the oppressor.
The legacy of Haiti’s revolution
THE CAMPUS STAFF 2024-2025
LAYOUT EDITOR
Melanie Toppa thecampus.layout@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
PHOTOGRAPHER
NEWS EDITOR
Jillian French thecampus.news@gmail.com
OPINIONS EDITOR
Haiti’s victory was unprecedented. The Haitian Revolution was the most successful slave rebellion in history, and its impact rippled across the world. It inspired enslaved and colonized peoples in the Americas, terrified European empires and reshaped the geopolitical landscape.
Yet, the world did not celebrate Haiti’s freedom. The newly independent nation faced economic isolation, crippling debts imposed by France, and military threats from global powers that feared the spread of Black liberation. Still, despite these hardships, Haiti remained unbowed.
The story of Ayiti is not just one of struggle but of triumph. From the flames of oppression, a nation was forged—a nation that proved that freedom is not given; it is taken. This is why Haitians, to this day, hold their heads high. They are the children of warriors, the heirs of a revolution that shook the world. Through this history, one can understand the profound pride of the Haitian people—a pride rooted in the blood of liberators coursing through their veins. We are Ayiti. We are free.
Koupé tèt boul Kay
Krystopher Isidore is a Co-Lead of P.U.L.S.E
ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS EDITOR
thecampus.businesseditor@gmail.com
STAFF WRITERS thecampus.juniorcopyeditor@gmail.com
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Kai Luginbuhl thecampus.business@gmail.com
Kate Vandermeulen
Emily Crunican thecampus.photographers@gmail.com
GRAPHICS EDITOR
Payton Langevin & Damita Melchi
Angus Whyte thecampus.associateeditor@gmail.com graphicseditor.thecampus@gmail.com
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Halle Brindley
thecampus.opinions@gmail.com
FEATURES EDITOR
Katlyn Stoneburner
thecampus.features@gmail.com
SPORTS EDITOR
Owen Kitzan
thecampus.sports@gmail.com
ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR
Abby Epstein
thecampus.artsculture@gmail.com
Christina Lépine & Lauren Root
THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS:
Twahiba Kashe
Ndihokubwayo
Josef Spence
Joseph Aubert @thebishopscampus Instagram
Saskia Yacoubi-Sluis
Perle Badohu Priso
Marie-Pierre Gnassounou
Akpah
Beatrice Morrison
Olivia Woods
Gia Clarke
Krystopher Isidore
Tallulah Russell
Carlaine Faith Mboula
Graphic courtesy of PULSE
ARTS & CULTURE
Abby Epstein, Arts & Culture Editor » thecampus.artsculture@gmail.com
A “WORLLD2” of activism through art: An interview with Gia Clarke
By Abby Epstein - Arts & Culture Editor
Gia Clarke describes herself as an “athlete, artist, singer, songwriter, activist and Black queer woman,” originally from Brampton, Ontario. At Bishop’s, she studies biology and premedicine, alongside French and Spanish. As well as pursuing a career in STEM, she hopes to pursue music, her “first passion”, in a cocreative project, entitled “WORLLLD2”.
The heart of “WORLLD2” is composed of seven original songs: “Warzone,” “Oneself,” “Origin Story,” “Lies,” “Little do they Know,” “Dreams” and “2 Me”. The title also encompasses Clarke’s desire for the project to have global resonance, tackling universal themes. “Women are not positively
represented in society,” says Clarke. “I want to showcase intersectionality through this platform of storytelling.”
Clarke intends for the project to be undertaken by the community, empowering artists to transform their lyrics through diverse mediums. “Generativity” is a key term for her, wanting to allow students an opportunity to make a difference. Sparked by the campfire at the 2023 Leadership Retreat and kindled with the help of Katie Bibbs and Project Incubator, “WORLLD2” speaks strongly to student initiative.
Clarke has already begun engaging with a variety of outlets at Bishop’s - drama, art, the Writing Center, chapel choir and students in residence, to name a few - to invite student participation. She stresses the importance of
allies too, who “often need to be there to tell the story”. Clarke doesn’t want to limit what people do with the project; she looks forward to being inspired by the experiences of others to enhance its impact. “Just maintain the lyrics and let the project take a life of its own,” she says.
“WORLLD2” is meant to encourage connection between its participants, and audiences. After the project reaches its natural conclusion, Clarke hopes to showcase the piece at the BU Film Festival, BU Arts Festival and Research Week, in addition to social media platforms. A glimpse into the first part of Clarke’s “WORLLD2”, “Warzone”, can be found in this issue of The Campus. For more information, Clarke can be contacted at gclarke21@ubishops.ca.
TheatreActiv? I thought we were just supposed to watch!
By Tallula Russell - Contributor
Turner Studio exploded with activity the first weekend of February this year, with the TheatreActiv theatre festival.
From the Bishop’s drama department, the annual student-run festival ran from Jan. 30 to Feb. 2. MJ Blackmore and Sage Offer managed this year’s festival, which featured four plays, one musical revue and performances from the Bishop’s Improv Troupe.
Night A’s roster included Porcelain and Pink, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, 4 a.m., written by Johnathan Dorf and select songs from Come from Away, written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein. Porcelain and Pink, a short play about a woman (played by Lily Roque) in a bathtub bothering her sister (Samira Bergeron), was directed by Shaney Harvey. The bathtub set piece, a delightful over-the-top yellow washbasin, was built specifically for this play. The performances in this play were fantastic, especially Tom Lajeunesse’s ridiculous Parisian accent.
4 a.m. is a dark and funny exploration
of the people awake in the world at 4 a.m.. With only a cast of six people for a show that could easily have ten, every performance, scene transition and quick change counted. Fortunately, under the tutelage of director Leia Shea Ranger-Drouin and stage manager Rocky Fettu-Manningham, everything came together for an engrossing show with excellent timing. No shout-outs can be made because every single performance stood out.
The selected songs and scenes from Come from Away were astonishing. One truly felt like you were in a Broadway theatre watching the professionals do it exactly like they do every night. When asked about the most fun part of the production, Musical Theatre minor Shannon Gaskarth said: “The most fun part was the community. The entire musical theatre concentration was on stage tonight. This was born out of the idea of getting all the musical theatre students together for a shared experience. Getting to support each other and be together doing what we love, which is musical theatre.”
X BU Arts festival paint and sip
By Carlaine Faith MboudaContributor
Through a collaboration with Residence Life and the BU Arts Festival, PULSE facilitated a successful Paint and Sip night, celebrating Black History Month.
Throughout the month, each week highlights an aspect of Black culture. For the week of Black Creativity, the Paint and Sip included Bissap, a West African drink made from dried hibiscus petals, ginger and pineapple. According to the positionality, the recipe of the Bissap may differ from one country to another. The inclusion of Bissap introduced the participants to the culinary experience while painting.
Students reacted in various ways: “I imagine myself drinking this one on the beach shore next to palm trees,” one said. Another student said they never tried this before but were willing to test it out.
“This drink is very refreshing like a cold tea,” was another reaction. Members
of PULSE were impressed by the openmindedness of the students towards the discovery of a traditional drink that is a part of the Afro-Caribbean culture.
In addition, the event was an openminded activity because PULSE wanted to respect everyone without imposing any specific topics of conversation. The prompt was about Black art through time. What are the elements that you think relate to the culture, the music, the colours, the fashion and so forth?
As the first-week theme was Black creativity, PULSE wanted to inform the participants that Afro-Caribbean people have indirectly impacted the art culture as it is known today. For instance, famous dance movements that are seen on social media, colourful textile patterns and even the lyrics of songs may share AfroCaribbean stories.
While I was passing around the table, to touch base, I observed that students were sharing the reasoning behind their art which reflected a part of their identity. As a result, the event was a learning opportunity
Night B offered stellar performances of The Raven by Edgar Allen Poe, Trifles, written by Susan Glaspell and a showing from Bishop’s Improv Troupe, BIT. The Raven, a poem about a man and a crow that will not leave him alone, was adapted and directed by Tomas Peck. This production was completely enthralling. With the simple and effective set design, immaculate blocking of characters and set pieces and gorgeous, moody, and inventive lighting, Kasimir MacDougall becomes Poe and Shannon Gaskarth the raven. Trifles, directed by Chris Brydon, is a pseudo-detective mystery in which two 1910 housewives figure out what happened behind the murder of their acquaintances’ husband. Presented with immersive and period-accurate set design and costumes, the audience is transported into the lives of Mrs. Hale, played by Eva Rachert and Mrs. Peters, played by Rachel Matthews. When asked for comment, Matthews said “It was a good play, and it was fun to find the play with your cast. There’s lots of double meanings in this [story] and it was fun to
where students had the opportunity to discuss many common interests, which were mainly centered around art, and the sharing of knowledge to construct a better understanding of the Afro-Caribbean culture as well as enjoying the presence of the Black community present on campus.
Ultimately, students were welcomed into a safe environment where they could express themselves creatively, as well as learn about other people’s perspectives through meaningful conversations. Several students expressed their gratitude for all the activities that are yet to come. One student said, “It’s heartwarming to see students from Bishop’s University, Université de Sherbrooke, and Champlain College come together” to celebrate Black History Month. “There should be more events like this on campus throughout the year.”
Some of the artwork prepared at the Paint and Sip will be revealed at the BU Arts Festival, which will be taking place at the end of March. More events held by PULSE will take place throughout the rest
find them.”
The Bishop’s Improv Troupe closed out the night with classic improv games like Four Square, Freeze and Worst Ever. The chemistry and wit of these performers could not be overstated. TheatreActiv is one of the many productions the Bishop’s drama department puts on every year, like the New Plays Festival. Populated by new plays written by bishops’ students, New Plays in TheatreActiv’s fall semester twin. Coming up soon this year will be Le Petit Prince, running Mar. 12-16 and a Musical Theatre Revue running in early June.
of February.
Carlaine Faith Mbouda is a Co-Lead of P.U.L.S.E
PULSE
Graphic courtesy of Payton Langevin
Photo courtesy of Carlaine Faith Mbouda
Photo courtesy of Tallula Russell
ARTS & CULTURE
Abby Epstein, Arts & Culture Editor »
Warzone
By Gia Clarke
Verse 1
Back and forth I go Decisions I don’t know Pushing forward, getting pulled backwards, rations running low I don’t like hostility Aggression is not for me Where’s my military?
I just need to find inner peace
Pre - Chorus
I was betrayed, delayed, stopped from an advancement
I was shut down, beat down, broken to pieces
Am I going to win, is this my, beginning or end
Am I going to win, is this my, beginning or end
Chorus
Warzone on my own Will I make it home
Battlefield is all I see Will I be triumphant or flea?
I won’t make it quick
You won’t see me quit
I can’t go like this
I can’t be dismissed
Graphic courtesy of Payton Langevin
Graphic courtesy of Damita Melchi
ECONOMICS & BUSINESS
Joseph Aubert, Economics & Business Editor » thecampus.businesseditor@gmail.com
Understanding the bond market: A beginner’s guide
By Kai Luginbuhl - Director of Finance
The bond market is one of the largest financial markets in the world, larger than the stock market (Morningstar). However, despite its size, the bond market does not get attention like crypto or equities, so today, we’ll provide some basic information on it.
A stock is buying a piece of a company and technically owning it. However, a bond is simply lending money in exchange for interest payments. There are many different types of bonds, but let’s use a very common example of a one-year bond that pays a “coupon.” If Ford Motor Company needed extra cash to fund a project, they could offer standard $100 face value bonds to the public. Therefore, if you bought one, you’d be lending $100 to Ford for a year. Throughout the year, Ford
would pay you interest payments (to thank you for lending them money), and then, after 365 days, Ford would give you $100 back. This has many variations, but the essential concept is similar across the bond industry. Bonds are considered safer than stocks because you know your future payments and that you’ll get your cash back, unlike a stock where you could buy $100 of it one day and have $30 the next. However, there are varying degrees of risk. Let’s go back to our Ford example; if you lend $100 to Ford in exchange for a $3 (three per cent) interest payment, and suddenly a scandal comes out where Ford goes bankrupt, you may not get your $100 back (if they don’t have $100 to give). Before lending your money, you will want to know how trustworthy they are. I’ll explain the letter notation system here, but I promise it’s not anything complicated. Companies
get rated from “AAA” to “D” (S&P) based on their trustworthiness with your money. “AAA” is reserved for governments and companies considered the safest of safe investments. As you go down the rating levels, the chance of losing your money gets higher (theoretically).
Generally, the more risk you’re willing to take, the more a company will pay you for lending them money. You’re welcome to look up bond offerings online and see that a non-trustworthy company will pay you handsomely for taking a risk on them, whereas a government or bank will give you much less. Imagine this concept as if your friend with a good job asked to borrow $100; you’d probably give it to them with their promise of paying you back and buying you a coffee for your troubles. Now, imagine someone you aren’t very close with, who
doesn’t have a job, asking for $100; the mere payment of a coffee is not worth never getting your money back. So, they would have to offer you something more substantial to attract you. This relationship of risk to reward is what drives the bond market.
There are many variations and caveats in the bond industry, and it goes much, much more indepth than what’s explained above. However, this is meant to shed some light on the bond market and inspire students to do their own research. The bond market offers some of the safest investments you can find; just be careful who you lend your money to because you may not get it back. Kai is the president of the BU Investment Club. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as financial advice.
Black History Month: Federal government extends Black entrepreneurship program
By Joseph Aubert - Business Editor
As Black History Month unfolds, the Canadian federal government commits to supporting Black business owners by extending the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP). The announcement, made by
Minister of Small Business
Rechie Valdez, signals the Parliament’s efforts to address barriers to capital, mentorship and networking opportunities faced by Black entrepreneurs across the country.
The BEP was initially launched
in 2020 with the aim to provide loans, training and ecosystem support to Black-owned businesses across Canada. With this latest extension, the government is looking to strengthen its collaboration with financial institutions and community organizations to ensure sustained funding and resources for Black entrepreneurs. According to Statistics Canada, Black business owners account for about 2.1 per cent of all business owners in the country.
“Black entrepreneurs drive innovation, create jobs and make our communities stronger. That’s why our government launched Canada’s first-ever Black Entrepreneurship Program—to level the playing field [...]” Valdez stated in a press release. “With a further $189 million investment, we’re reaffirming our intention to support Black-led businesses for years to come.”
The program operates through three main pillars: the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub and the Black Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Fund. These components collectively
address financial barriers, provide critical research insights and foster networks that help businesses scale.
The Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund provides financial support to Black business owners and entrepreneurs, offering loans between $25,000 and $250,000. This fund is designed to bridge the gap in access to capital, a challenge historically faced by Black entrepreneurs. It operates in partnership with financial institutions and Blackled community organizations, ensuring that eligible businesses receive the necessary funding to sustain their operations in the long run.
For university students pursuing a career in entrepreneurship, the announcement underscores the importance of inclusive economic policies. Many students may see the BEP as a model for addressing systemic inequalities within Canada’s financial landscape.
While the Black Entrepreneurship Program’s extension has been widely welcomed, some critics argue that more transparency is needed regarding its long-term funding
and effectiveness. Past reports have highlighted bureaucratic challenges in distributing funds efficiently. Still, many advocacy groups view the program as a necessary step toward leveling the playing field for Black business owners in Canada.
As Black History Month serves as a time for reflection and celebration, initiatives like the BEP highlight the intersection of economic policy and social equity. The program’s extension serves as a reminder that fostering diversity in business is not just about rhetoric but about providing tangible opportunities for growth and success.
Photo courtesy of Carlaine Faith Mbouda
Photo courtesy of Carlaine Faith Mbouda