The Campus – March 7, 2024

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March 7, 2024

Opinion: What my hair taught me about self love

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Robert J. Cottrol addresses American gun debate, reflects on armed resistance to racial violence

As Black History Month drew to a close, students, staff and community gathered in Centennial Theatre on Feb. 20 to hear Prof. Robert J. Cottrol’s Donald Lecture on the American gun debate from a racial violence perspective. Prof. Cottrol hails from the United States, where he works as a research professor of law and professor of history and sociology at the George Washington University. His expertise in law and history carved a walk through gun ownership in the colonies to present-day tensions between racial minorities and authorities. Throughout this journey, he traced both racial violence and armed resistance as a response.

The lecture began with an introduction to the right to bear arms, the Second Amendment. Prof. Cottrol explained that in the colonies, “the notion that the population should constitute a militia [rose] in part due to race control”. This gave white settlers

an advantage following a “persistent cycle of three-way violence” between the white settlers, Indigenous communities and Black slaves. Importantly, in some states like Maryland, slaves were given the right to bear arms, with their owner’s permission. This catalyzed arms as a mechanism of selfdefence among racial minorities, becoming “a mark of freedom and citizenship” among Black slaves, Cottrol explained.

Post-Civil War, the 14th Amendment established citizenship for Black Americans. However, in the south, “Many [retained] the view that Black people may be free, but not citizens’’.

Prof. Cottrol noted that as the Klu Klux Klan rose to prominence, the government abandoned protecting Black citizens, leading to the “restoration of white rule by private violence”. In the 1873 case United States v. Cruikshank, for example, 100 Black men were massacred for arming themselves at the polls, but the Supreme Court ruled in favour of the defendant. He explained how

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Bishop’s Safe Drive program “drives” closer than ever to launching

Bishop’s University’s Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is piloting a new Safe Drive program seeking to improve students’ safety against sexual violence and foster a better overall experience for students. In a conversation with The Campus, SRC President Sophia Stacey

described the purpose of the initiative as a preventative measure against sexual violence and a safety measure to reduce after-hour incidents related to alcohol consumption.

The SRC cannot confirm at this time when the program will be launched, but Stacey told The Campus that after two years of working on the program, they are “getting close to having something concrete to provide to students.”

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It’s always sunny in Philadelphia: BU club hockey secures national tournament berth

For the first time in their history, the BU club hockey team will attend the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) national tournament in Philadelphia, pursuing glory. Among the twenty teams invited to attend this year, Bishop’s ranked fifth, leaving them at the top of their respective group table for pool E. They will face off against teams from major American colleges: Liberty University, Clemson University and Vanderbilt University. The team will start their national tournament campaign in Philadelphia beginning on March 7, when the boys will load into a bus for the eight hour drive.

Liberty, a school located in Virginia, finished sixth overall in the rankings, directly behind Bishop’s. With a student population of 110,000 students, their student body is

approximately two-thirds of the population of Sherbrooke. They finished 13-5-0 on the year as a member of the Atlantic Coast Collegiate Hockey League.

Following them are the Clemson Tigers, a team from South Carolina. The Tigers finished eleventh on the national scale. Their school is known for their standout Division 1 football program which is one the best in the nation, producing players such as recent first overall pick Trevor Lawrence. The Tigers played in the College Hockey South division this year, ending the year with a record of 14-11-1 through twenty-six games.

The final team matching up against BU in the pool is from Vanderbilt, a major Division 1 baseball team producing MLB talent, located in Tennessee. They were the last team to make the pool, coming in at sixteenth for their final ranking. Through twenty-six games, they ended up finishing at 9-17-0 to end the year.

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Safe Drive

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According to the SRC, the Safe Drive program will provide safe transportation for Bishop’s students to different points in Lennoxville both on and off campus. The safe drivers will transport students wherever requested within a fourkilometre distance from the university’s campus. Drivers will undergo a training program before they are allowed to actively work. The training program will be carried out and sanctioned by Bishop’s University, mandatory for all hired candidates. The drivers will be further vetted by the university and will be

required to provide a valid criminal record check, a clean driving record and a valid Canadian driver’s license. While there is no minimum amount of driving year experience required, employees of the Safe Drive program are required to hold a “full license” issued by their province.

There are currently two potential job positions that Bishop’s students can apply for, the Safe Driver team leader position and the Safe Driver position. The SRC has accepted applications for the positions and will reopen applications when they are closer to piloting the program, as to allow students another opportunity to apply.

When asked his thoughts on the

Robert J. Cottrol

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this decision undermined Black Americans’ right to arms, further exposing them to racial violence.

The end of World War II saw increased armed resistance to racial violence. Arms deterred several lynchings by confronting racist mobs, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) “started registering Black voters when the federal government offered no protection, and local police were more likely to be part of a racist white group than to offer protection from it”.

When the Klan asserted its opposition, the NAACP registered itself as a National Rifle Association (NRA) gun club. Upon realizing their opponents were armed, the KKK withdrew. Prof. Cottrol expressed the significance of the “reinvigoration of Black voting power”, noting how

“armament may very well have made the civil rights movement possible”.

Despite the role of guns in African American history, Prof. Cottrol described how more recently, violence has shifted primarily “from racist groups to micro-cultures of hyper-violent groups in urban Black communities” as “a result of marginalization and exclusion”. This has resulted in “present-day estrangement between Black people and the police”, he described. Although it’s tempting to view the gun debate as exclusively American, he pointed out the wide reach of the issue, citing Toronto’s disproportionate rates of police homicides

program, Ryan McDonald, a third year sports studies major, said that he believes it is a good idea, citing an increase in students driving to the on-campus bar since the snow has melted. He went on to say that “programs like this one will help keep the roads safer for everyone.”

Third year business student Justin StDenis was also asked to comment on the program. He stated, “I think this is a good idea in theory, however, I don’t believe that our student safety fees should be raised until this is a program that we are actively benefiting from.”

On Feb. 21, the SRC announced that students had passed a referendum establishing a mandatory Student Safety

with Black victims: “These long-standing patterns of conflict with police and [a] lack of protection fuel desire for guns”.

Although it’s tempting to view the gun debate as exclusively American, he pointed out the wide reach of the issue, citing Toronto’s disproportionate rates of police homicides with Black victims:

Although the historical use of arms may recommend them as a tool to diffuse violence, the desire for handgun support inevitably reflects “a fear of stricter gun control on Black people’’, exacerbating disproportionate incarceration rates, Cottrol said. “It’s hard to put forward solutions to this problem, but we must realize that solutions start with a realization of the complexity and long-standing nature of the problem”, he concluded.

In response to audience questions about the effect of the Black Panther

Fee of $4.50 each semester. $2 of this fee would be allocated to Safe Drive. 600 students, or 22 per cent of the student body, voted in the referendum, with 78.5 per cent voting in favour.

Students looking to take advantage of the Safe Drive program are expected to carry their Bishop’s identification cards.

Champlain students and out of town guests are welcomed to use the program. However, they will need to be accompanied by a BU student with a valid ID. Each Bishop’s student will be entitled to a “plus one” when using the service.

The Campus will continue to monitor the progress of this initiative and will provide updates as they come.

movement and, more recently, the Black Lives Matter movement that returned with the 2020 murder of George Floyd, Prof. Cottrol explained that these movements are targeted at raising a profile for Black resistance to racial violence. However, “the people who made a real difference were those you never heard of… the most successful cases were those men who didn’t crow about the fact that they had beaten the Klan”, he said.

Although Prof. Cottrol acknowledged the many complexities of the gun debate, his lecture settled on the necessity of arms for civil rights defence. “Today”, he noted, “people are still using guns to protect rights, to defend lives and communities’’. Recalling a conversation with a skeptic in France, he asked the audience to consider, “Should the state have a monopoly on force?” [America] is the one who asks that question. We may ask it imperfectly, but we ask it”.

16th annual Charity Fashion Show raises record funds for Dixville Foundation

Bishop’s University hosted its 16th annual Charity Fashion Show, “Embrace”, on Saturday, Feb. 24, drawing attention to an important cause while showcasing the latest fashion trends and styles. The highlight of the event was the record-breaking amount of funds raised: $28,000. The studentrun event, which has become a staple in Bishop’s calendar, is not just about fashion; it’s about making a difference in the community. This year, the chosen charity was the Dixville Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals living with intellectual disabilities and those on the autism spectrum.

Established in 1974, the Dixville Foundation has been a cornerstone of support for families across the Estrie region, offering vital services and opportunities that are overlooked by government assistance. From respite care to summer camps, zootherapy and assisting independent living, the foundation’s initiatives touch the lives of over 1,400 users and their families, providing essential support within the community.

This year’s fashion show theme, “Embrace”, emphasized the importance of acceptance and diversity, encouraging attendees to celebrate the beauty of embracing one another’s differences. With the participation of renowned brands like WLKN, Old Navy, Call it Spring and even a raffle offering Montreal Canadiens tickets, the event captivated audiences with its vibrant runway displays and exciting atmosphere.

This show was made possible through the efforts of the fashion show’s head coordinators, Fiona McMaster, Maille Baker and Catherine Lampron, the organizing committee, the participation of over 100 volunteers and the BU Dance team. Their efforts, along with the generosity of local businesses and sponsors, took the event to new levels of success, allowing the Dixville Foundation to further its mission.

Reflecting on her involvement, Sara Scafuro, one of the sponsorship directors, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to such a worthy cause. “It was an honor to be part of such a successful event,” she commented. “Dixville’s commitment to serving individuals with disabilities is truly inspiring, and I feel privileged to have played a role in

supporting their work.”

The charity fashion show is more than just an event; it’s a demonstration of Bishop’s giving back to the community. For over 16 years, the fashion show has been a symbol of unity and support, bringing together students, faculty and the surrounding community. It’s an opportunity for every student involved to give back to Sherbrooke.

As the curtains closed on the 16th annual charity fashion show, it left its mark in Bishop’s history. Fiona McMaster, one of the show’s head coordinators, highlights the event’s emphasis on collaboration, creativity and drive to promote change. In a statement, she says, “I am so grateful that a school and community of Bishop’s size was able to contribute so much and really make a difference.”

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Photo courtesy of BU Fashion Show photographers

Celebrating Black History Month at Bishop’s

The Students’ Representative Council’s (SRC) Black History Month planning committee organized events throughout February, culminating with a Block Party on Feb. 29 in the SUB. The event, presenting various cultures, had campus clubs filling the SUB lobby with engaging activities and dancing students just before the reading week.

For over a month now, students and members of the SRC’s Board of Representatives (BSR) have been meeting to plan activities and events for Black History Month. This year, planning was different due to the disbandment of the Caribbean African Student Association last semester. At the beginning of February, the SRC planning committee announced events scheduled throughout the month to celebrate Black culture and influential Black individuals.

Zarain Erasmus, a student present at the Block Party, highlighted the importance of showcasing different dimensions of Black culture at Bishop’s, saying, “I think it’s very important to shine light on Black students and people of colour especially in

a PWI [primarily white institution]. It really shows representation in the school, and it’s great to see people here in support.” She emphasized the importance of featuring Black communities’ rich heritage. Roser Riera-Serra, first year representative on the BSR, said the event was a success, highlighting the inclusion of books, information about different businesses, tea and snacks at various booths along the SUB lobby.

SRC Diversity Representative Irmah Alao told The Campus over a voice recording that “students have noted that is a good start, but for the future years, they see other things that could be integrated”. They referred to comments they heard about accentuating Black voices, representing staples of cultures and including more music, decorations, cuisine, etc., to truly celebrate and foster more aspects of the rich culture students would love to see on campus.

Politics student Ziyad Alsenani was of the opinion that there was a lack of wider university engagement on the topic, suggesting that it should be more involved in the creation and planning of these types of events rather than relying on student initiatives.

Bishop’s Equity Diversity and

Inclusion (EDI) Office announced a Black History Month treasure hunt involving finding informative panels placed around campus from the Black Histories in the Eastern Townships project. Prof. Sunita Nigam researched and curated this exhibit in 2022 in partnership with the Eastern Townships Resource Centre, with panels designed by Fabian Will.

The booths at the Block Party were diverse in activities and educational material. The Muslim Students Association showcased famous Black Muslims; Bishop’s International presented partner institutions; and Irmah Alao brewed different teas and offered plantain chips to attendees. Sophia Stacey, SRC president, and Olivia Woods, the SRC vice-president of student life, offered students the chance to be entered into a giveaway of books by Black authors.

Fiona Goambalet, SRC international students representative, advertised her hair braiding services with her company Fifi Braidz, as well as other Blackowned businesses in Sherbrooke. The Gender Equity Club showcased Black LGBTQIA2S+ trailblazers, and the EDI committee explained its role on campus for different student groups. Representatives promoted the Project Incubator event on

March 23-24 and the Black Professionals Networking Event taking place on March 20.

The evening ended with a Gait Night hosted by the Anti-Racism and Discrimination Committee (ARDC) who hired DJ BVIBE to celebrate Black History Month. Students rejoiced, with some saying it was the best Gait Night they attended this year, and that the music was amazing.

Irma Susset is the SRC equity representative.

The Campus acknowledges that 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

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Irmah Alao at the Block Party. Photo courtesy of Irma Susset

The model minority myth pits Asians against BIPOC

The model minority myth is used as a wedge to separate Asians from standing in solidarity with other minorities. We must remember this myth is a tool of oppression, and fighting against injustices requires viewing our past, present and histories as interconnected with Black, Indigenous and people of colour (BIPOC) communities.

The model minority myth is a narrative that certain races are more successful and hardworking than others. It claims all Asians are studious, tenacious and earn high-paying jobs. It agglomerates a diverse Asian community into a monolithic body that is then used as a cudgel against other people of colour and immigrants. We are supposed proof that if you try hard enough, you can succeed. The myth downplays colorism and the systematic barriers other minorities face in accessing equal health, education and socioeconomic outcomes, assigning blame on the individual for not working hard enough.

The myth downplays colorism and the systematic barriers other minorities face in accessing equal health, education and socioeconomic outcomes, assigning blame on the individual for not working

The myth whispers to us that we should not be politically abrasive; It encourages us to be a “non-threatening

kind of person of colour”, as author Viet Thanh Nguyen writes.

We share a history of systematic exclusion in North America that should compel us to view our BIPOC communities as interconnected, even if Asians do not face the same systematic discrimination today. In 1872, the government of B.C. passed an act prohibiting Chinese Canadians and Indigenous Peoples from voting in provincial elections. Up until 1948, not all Asian Canadians had the right to vote. After the Canadian Pacific Railway was completed, the 1885 Chinese head tax and what is known as the 1923 Chinese Exclusion Act targeted Chinese immigrants. In 1908, the federal government passed an immigration act targeting Indian and Japanese immigrants. During World War II, the federal government sent 90 per cent of the Japanese Canadian population into internment camps.

We share a historical and present solidarity with BIPOC too. Asians used to be called “orientals”. It was university activists in California, Yuji Ichioka and Emma Gee, who coined the term “Asian American” to describe a multi-ethnic coalition in solidarity with other people of colour throughout the U.S. and the world. The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs issued a statement in 2021 condemning antiAsian hate crimes during the pandemic, “understanding the hurt and frustration that comes from being treated as perpetual outsiders”.

There are still anti-Black and antiIndigenous sentiments within our own families and communities we must address. We must also reckon with what it means to be immigrant-settlers on unceded land.

The most glaring example of how the model minority myth is used as a wedge is when the U.S. Supreme Court struck down affirmative action programs at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina. Affirmative action, or race-based admissions programs, are designed to increase access to education for historically marginalized groups. The plaintiffs in the case were a group named Students for Fair Admissions (SFFA), created by a conservative activist Edward Blum. SFFA claimed that Harvard’s racebased admissions suppressed the number of Asians admitted despite them scoring higher on academic and extracurricular ratings. Blum strategically recruited Asian students “in part because they could be depicted as especially sympathetic victims and model minorities cruelly

harmed by affirmative action,” wrote Prof. Julian Maxwell Hayter in The Conversation.

Blum’s and SFFA’s success fails to address the larger picture of inequitable admissions at Harvard and other universities. Family members of Harvard donors were seven times more likely to be admitted than other applicants. Legacy applicants were nearly six times more likely to be admitted. Nearly 70 per cent of this group is white. While affirmative action programs are neither perfect nor sufficient in addressing education inequalities, the model minority myth was employed by political figures to question diversity initiatives – and I doubt any of them truly cared about Asian issues at all. It was an elixir people could gulp down to say we shouldn’t see colour.

My favorite Donald Lecture: Dr. Robert J. Cottrol

The Donald Lecture by Prof. Robert J. Cottrol didn’t just tweak my views on gun control; it was a fresh lens on a camera stuck on narrow focus. As someone who’s typically leaned pretty far left on the gun debate, I expected to sit through another academic spiel reinforcing what I already believed. But, thankfully, I was wrong. Prof. Cottrol, with his deep dive into the historical context of guns in America, particularly in relation to African American rights, brought new and insightful arguments to the age-old debate.

As someone who’s typically leaned pretty far left on the gun debate, I expected to sit through another academic spiel reinforcing what I already believed.

My biases against the Second Amendment were quickly addressed, and the lecture featured an argument I have

never considered before; the Second Amendment aims to decentralize military power from the government. This aims to prevent an institution from having a monopoly over military might. This was a point he would later return to during the question and answer portion of the Donald Lecture. He stated that, regardless of individual stances, it was unusual that this question of military monopoly was absent in much of the world outside the United States.

The narrative about African American history and gun rights was particularly striking. It wasn’t just a recounting of facts; it was purposeful storytelling.

The narrative about African American history and gun rights was particularly striking. It wasn’t just a recounting of facts; it was purposeful storytelling. The parallels drawn between the eras when African Americans were armed for their defense and the dramatic shifts in

their civil rights journey painted a vivid picture of a complex battle. The story of the Deacons for Defense and Justice –an armed African-American self-defense group – stood out as a stark reminder of the power and peril of taking up arms for justice. Armaments were central in the acquisition and defense of civil rights for African Americans.

The shift from armed self-defense to political and economic strategies in the civil rights movement was critical. The narrative evolved from the use of guns in self-defense to a broader struggle for rights that eventually moved away from the battlefield.

The final, and least surprising, aspect of the talk concerned the current state of gun violence and its disproportionate impact on African American communities. Cottrol painted a stark picture of systemic issues

that plague these communities. The discussion around over-policing and the tragic consequences of law enforcement’s snap judgments showed their perception of African American neighborhoods and civilian areas as dangerous areas, rather than an urban neighborhood.

The discussion around over-policing and the tragic consequences of law enforcement’s snap judgments showed their perception of African American neighborhoods and civilian areas as dangerous areas, rather than an urban neighborhood.

Prof. Cottrol’s lecture wasn’t just informative; it was invigorating. It challenged me to see beyond my preconceptions and appreciate the nuanced history of gun control and rights in America. The realization that the Second Amendment has played a dual role in African American history, as both a tool for empowerment and a source of division, adds layers to the debate that are too important to ignore. This lecture has left me hungry for more perspectives on the debate to compliment Prof. Cottrol’s approaches in law and history.

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Graphic courtesy of Leea Rebeca Ruta

What my hair taught me about self-love

For a long time, I would cringe whenever I heard the term “selflove.” I did not understand what it meant. Understanding self-love was all the more difficult for me because I continued to have a difficult relationship with myself, exacerbated by my struggles with mental health. At my best, I tolerated myself. Recently, however, I have come to understand what different people meant when they had told me that I needed to love myself. This was achieved through my hair journey.

Ironically, this revelation has come in the midst of another mental health crisis. Strangely, being stuck on the island of mental illness has made me realize a deeply buried secret.

My understanding of self-love came to me some weeks ago as I sat on the hairdresser’s chair, waiting for my curls to dry from a wash-and-go routine. As I looked in the mirror in front of me, I noted how much healthier my hair looked. It was longer, more defined, and it seemed to

shine in the same way that a smile lights up a person’s face. It dawned on me then that for the first time in my life, I was proud of my Black hair.

It dawned on me then that for the first time in my life, I was proud of my Black hair.

I had always had a difficult relationship with my hair. In elementary school and high school, I had always been ashamed of my hair - it wasn’t straight or wavy like everyone else’s. So, I always kept it tied in a bun, or later on, I would try to chemically straighten it. By the time I was in CÉGEP and in early university, I had given up entirely and resorted to buzzing it.

Over time, however, I realized why I disliked my hair. First, our society teaches us to regard Black hair as ugly, unprofessional and overall, inferior to other peoples’ hairstyles. Growing up in an overwhelmingly white neighbourhood, I internalized that devaluation of Black hair,

of my hair. It took quite a bit of time and effort for me to find a community that was supportive and allowed me to unlearn these internalized biases. Second, I discovered that I felt overwhelmed by my hair because no one had ever taught me how to properly take care of it. This was another learning journey that I am still on today. I have my sister to thank for inspiring me and teaching me how to learn to better care for my hair and its own unique needs.

Today, I find myself showing my natural hair with pride. It doesn’t always look nice, and I definitely haven’t gotten the hang of it yet, but it’s my hair. It’s my ancestors’ hair. I am proud of it.

Why am I writing about my personal hair journey? My hair journey revealed to me that the process of unlearning internalized biases that I carried against myself and the journey of learning how to

When did we all decide olives were good?

Thanks for za slice! Let me just pick off all of the olives quickly.

Growing up, I was an olive hater. Now, as an adult, I keep olives stocked in my fridge. This is not just because I am a world-class host (I totally am), but it is also because I like those little green guys now. When did we all decide olives were good?

This whole olive conversation started when I asked my roommate if she liked olives. Her reaction made it seem like that was the most ridiculous question ever, because, of course she likes olives! Everyone does! Olives are a dinner party essential, a speakeasy delicacy.

Initially, I thought olives were only liked by grown-ups because they just had to like them at a certain age. Someone must keep the olive industry in business, so I assumed it was just a universally accepted good deed to like them. At 18 you can vote in the United States, and by 30, you must be an olive eater. At least, that is what I thought.

Wait, I changed my mind!

Think about yourself at 16, and then think about yourself now. It feels like I am talking about two VERY different people, which makes sense because your brain changes with age. As you approach the age of 25, your prefrontal cortex gets closer to being fully matured, meaning that you make better decisions because you think more logically.

What if you did not have to wait until you turn 25 to think with reason?

Be open-minded. No, seriously – that is the trick. Practicing open-mindedness helps you think more rationally. Problems become simpler to solve, it is easier to have a good relationship with people and the list goes on and on. It is worth noting that being open-minded doesn’t make you a hypocrite, a poser or a faker. Changing your mind means you experience a shift in opinion, often a sign of personal growth. Opinions are ongoing, everchanging and therefore, fluid. Given that there are

so many influences around us, our opinions will inevitably change.

One of my personal influences is Emma Chamberlain. When she wore the Air Force Ones in 2019, I snagged a pair too, but people were bewildered. I wore shoes that primarily basketball players would wear. I know I am not the most athletically talented, but ouch! Fast forward, and I think every girl I know has a pair in her closet – I will give it to Nike; they are good shoes! I am glad you finally noticed.

I am not going to edit open-minded friends’ names in my phone to “their name (hypocrite)” because they changed their minds. But, I might modify their contact names to “their name (my open-minded Babygirl who I love sooooo much)”.

So, maybe we all just grew up and changed our opinion on olives. That does not make us undependable or inauthentic to our younger selves. It is a lesson in accepting our journey as personal growth participants (humans) and grownups too.

take care of a part of myself were acts of self-love.

This whole time, I had understood selflove to be a state, a noun that is unchanging. I realize now that I was wrong. As bell hooks writes, “for if love is a verb then self-love must also be a verb.” Self-love is an ongoing and never-ending process of unlearning the labels that society imposes on you, of rediscovering yourself and of learning how to take care of yourself.

My hair journey revealed to me that the process of unlearning internalized biases that I carried against myself and the journey of learning how to take care of a part of myself were acts of self-love.

To practice self-love is also exhausting, especially in a world that takes so much from us. For me, the key was to practice patience and self-compassion –admittedly not always successfully – through my hair journey. While acknowledging that it is not always easy, I encourage you to find one aspect of yourself to learn to care for, and hopefully, you will begin your own self-love praxis.

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BU club hockey

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Bishop’s sits atop the pool with a record of 7-7-1 to finish the season. They are headlined by seven team members who were recently named as conference all-stars in the New England Independent Hockey Conference (NEIHC). Goaltender Andrew Delage, defensemen Keyan Hogan, Joe Aubert and Jack McGowan, as well as forwards Ryan Massicotte, Fred Nicolas and Cody Morton, were selected to represent Bishop’s and the NEIHC in the

AAU all-star tournament. The tournament takes place from April 12-15 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. For Cody Morton, this will be a home game, as his family currently resides in Fort Lauderdale.

Schedules for the tournament as well as links to livestream the game for free will be released soon on the BU club hockey Instagram @buclubhockey, where fans can stay tuned in.

Owen Kitzan is a member of the BU club hockey team.

Bishop’s Motionball makes history at Marathon of Sport 2024, raising $20,000 for Special Olympics athletes

Bishop’s Motionball made history this year at the Marathon of Sport, raising $20,000, making Bishop’s the first university in Quebec to hit this number. The Marathon of Sport is a fundraising day highlighting inclusion in sports through partnerships between Bishop’s students and local Special Olympics athletes. All proceeds go directly back to the athletes, supporting them through their sport. Some students describe the Marathon of Sport as the best event of the year, enjoying the different activities, interactions and connections that the day provides.

Bishop’s saw a record number of teams sign up to participate this year, with 20 teams registered. In past years, the participating teams have often mostly been made up of varsity athletes. However, this year, a significant amount of nonvarsity teams entered the mix. These teams were joined by eight of Quebec’s Special Olympics athletes, that day’s local celebrities.

Teams were thrilled to have the chance to spend the day playing sports with Special Olympic athletes at the top of their respective fields. The Olympians and their

teammates formed quick bonds as they enjoyed the a filled with laughter, games and sports.

When third year elementary education student Sage McPhee was asked about her experience with the day, she shared that “before participating, I expected a typical sports day. What I was not expecting was the support our team would have for each other throughout the day. Our team was fortunate enough to be joined by Alex, one of the Special Olympics athletes. Because he had such a wonderful, energetic attitude, our team did too. The energy, team spirit and support that our team brought is the reason that I will be partaking in Motionball events for the years to come.”

On top of registration and participation in the event, teams are encouraged to fundraise for Motionball prior to the Marathon of Sport. One of this year’s top fundraisers, Tara Hanson-Wright, expressed that fundraising for this event

was important because sports and being active have always been a big part of her life. “I believe that every person should be given the opportunity to experience and be a part of sport, regardless of any challenges they may have. I am really proud to have been able to contribute to making sports more accessible for everyone.” Through registration fees and fundraising efforts, BU Motionball successfully raised $20,000.

Charley Wing, Bishop’s Motionball event director, expressed her appreciation for the Bishop’s community in not only aiding the committee in doubling participation but also for their fundraising total from the previous year. She shares that she’s “grateful that the Bishop’s community is always willing and excited to show up for a great cause.”

Co-lead Regan Simpson adds that she’s “been involved with Motionball at Bishop’s for three years now, and seeing

Women’s basketball playoff run:

how much the Bishop’s community has come together to support the event and the cause has been so amazing. I could not be prouder of this committee and this event, and I am so grateful to have been able to be a part of something which has such a huge impact on the Special Olympics community.”

Marathon of Sport is a growing tradition for the Bishop’s community. Many students such as second year Isaac Flanagan have shared that this event will become a BU tradition they will participate in year after year. Flanagan states that he remembers signing up for the Marathon of Sport last year. “I didn’t really know what it was, [but] after participating I quickly realized that I need to do it every year I’m at BU.”

Gaiters trump Stingers in semifinals, lose to Rouge et Or in championship

After an underwhelming first half for the Bishop’s women’s basketball team, the Gaiters were able to turn it around and have a fantastic finish to the regular season.

The Gaiters entered the RSEQ playoffs with a 9-7 record and sole possession of second place. The Gaiters hosted the thirdseeded Concordia Stingers in Mitchell Gym on Wednesday, Feb. 28.

Led by third year forward Victoria Guana (Mendoza, Argentina) and her season-high 24 points, the Gaiters would put an end to the Stingers’ season, winning 77-66. Guana is the RSEQ defensive player of the year as well as a RSEQ first team all-star. Other top contributors in the game were second team RSEQ all-star Kalina

Alexander-Renaud (Montreal, QC) who would see her season high of 18 points and nine rebounds. RSEQ rookie of the year, first team all-star and all-rookie team member Eve Atchampone (Trois-Rivieres, QC) was also dynamic, contributing 14 points, four assists and seven rebounds. Laurie Lafleur (Quebec City, QC) was also named to the RSEQ allrookie team for her efforts throughout the season. Wrapping up the conference awards, fourth year guard Jasmine Martel (SorelTracy, QC) became the RSEQ nominee for the 2024 Sylvia Sweeney award. This award is given annually to an athlete who excels on the court, in the classroom and in serving the community.

The Gaiters’ win against Concordia would give them a chance to compete for the RSEQ championship and a chance to punch their ticket to the national tournament. On Saturday, March 2, the Bishop’s Gaiters

travelled to Quebec City to face a top-five ranked team in the country, the undefeated Laval Rouge et Or. After a slow first quarter, the Gaiters would battle back and enter halftime trailing Laval by eight points. The Gaiters attempted a comeback in the second half but unfortunately fell short. Kalina Alexander-Renaud led the team, dropping in 11 points, the team-high that game, and added three rebounds. Victoria Guana would grab 10 rebounds, also the team high.

This is Dianna Ros’s second year leading the Gaiters as head coach. With her 9-7 record this season, her record has improved to 23-9 over her time as the Gaiters’ bench boss. Ros seems to be quite the hire by the Bishop’s athletic department. The Gaiters are set for a full recharge this offseason and are sure to be back in contention next season.

THE CAMPUS MARCH 7TH, 2024 6 SPORTS
Mikayla Geraghty is the Motionball student engagement lead at Bishop’s. Photo courtesy of BU club hockey Photos courtesy of Bishop’s Motionball committee Photo courtesy of Damien Chu

Women’s hockey on mission at RSEQ semi-finals, Gaiters fall short during game three OT

Athletes still shine in season awards

On Thursday, Feb. 22, the Université de Montréal Carabins visited your Bishop’s Gaiters for the best of three RSEQ semi-finals series. Puck drop was set for 7:30 p.m. A sea of purple filled the Jane and Eric Molson arena, as the first 500 people received a rally towel to show their support. Before the games kicked off though, there was a different type of atmosphere coming off of the ice. Both teams rallied back out of their locker rooms to receive regular season awards.

Assistant captain Neleh VigneauSargeant continued her excellence in purple as she once again joined an allstar selection. The junior accounted for 29 points on the year which earned her a second team all-star nod.

The Gaiters boasted three more allstar candidates who were each amongst the RSEQ first team. Defenceman and captain Marie-Camille Théorêt earned a first team all-star selection for her second year in a row. Théorêt’s impact on the team throughout her career has been tremendous both on and off the ice.

Fellow senior Maude Pépin was also a part of the RSEQ first team. Her 20 goals on the year was the highest the conference has seen since the 2013-14 season. She led both the RSEQ and the country in goals. Her explosive offensive strides elevated her to an all-star for the first time in her Bishop’s career.

The last all-star was a special one: the freshman phenom, sensational Santerre. Gabrielle Santerre led the country in points as she tallied in 45 points through 25 games. Her rookie campaign was incredible. She won the RSEQ rookie of the year award, RSEQ MVP and was selected for both the RSEQ all rookie team and first team all-star. She is a contender for national recognition as a nominee for USports player of the year. Santerre helped the Gaiters make history earlier on in the season as they ranked nationally for the first time. This time, Santerre’s individual accolades now made history. As a better way of phrasing it, Gabrielle Santerre made her-story.

The awards concluded, and both teams were set to get the series started. Montreal started their fifth year veteran

Aube Racine in between the pipes. Aube is known as one of the best goalies in the RSEQ. However, Bishop’s had proven throughout regular season play their ability to find some success at the back of the net. For the Gaiters, freshman Ericka Gagnon took the net.

Game one was action packed. The Carabins came out of the first period with 16 shots on goal while the Gaiters shot three. Gagnon kept the team in the game and tallied a tremendous 30-save shutout.

The game stood at a standstill 0-0 through the first two periods. When the third period came around, Bishop’s found themselves with a golden opportunity. Angélique Pagé came up from the goal line and sent a beautiful pass across the ice to Théorêt. The defenceman, showcasing her poise, took her time before distributing the puck back to the high slot for Pagé. Pagé shot the puck bar down over Racine’s shoulder. That goal remained the only goal of the game.

Bishop’s would head down to Montreal for a 2 p.m. puck drop that Saturday with a 1-0 lead in the series. Game two did not start off as Bishop’s would have liked, as the Carabins scored 17 seconds into the game. Bishop’s would come back to tie the game up later in the first period but struggled to find any type of offensive productivity. Getting outshot 34-21, Bishop’s dropped the second game of the series and would head back home for game three the following day.

Win or go home. On Sunday, Feb. 25 at 4 p.m., Lennoxville’s Jane and Eric Molson arena was yet again alive. The winner of the game would not only move on to play Concordia, but they would also clinch a spot at nationals. It was do or die, and both teams knew it. Montreal brought a great number of fans to try to stand strong against the Gaiters’ home ice advantage.

From the puck drop, the intensity was indeniable. Gagnon and Racine took their spots in the nets for their third games in a row. Montreal was first to score as their captain Jessika Boulanger capitalized off of a turnover and beat Gagnon high blocker side.

The Gaiters’ response to the goal was amazing. They switched into a different gear and took over for the rest of the period. Halfway through the first, the puck came up to the half wall. Both teams battled for

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possession as the puck was pried loose by the game-one hero Angélique Pagé. She distributed the puck to Justine Turcotte who buried her first goal of the series.

The rest of the game was all goaltending. Both goalies went back and forth making highlight reel save after highlight reel save. Bishop’s found themselves shorthanded nine times in the game. The home crowd was not pleased with the officiating, as they perceived it to favour one side. At the end of regulation, the game was still tied 1-1.

Overtime came along, and Gagnon remained steady, stopping two breakaways and a penalty shot – forcing a second overtime period. The game broke records as it was the longest game in RSEQ history. This period is where it would all come to an end. The players, visibly tired, battled through countless hacks and wacks from the Carabins. No calls for Montreal.

An opportunity arose for the Carabins as Bishop’s was yet again found shorthanded in overtime. Montreal maneuvered the puck around, seeking an open lane to shoot in. The puck came up to the blueline and down to the boards

near the fans. On the other side of the rink, two Carabins players jumped onto the ice. Montreal, having five players at this point, quickly realized they had too many. Both players turned around in hopes that the referees did not see them, and to their benefit, they went unnoticed. Carabin Amélie Poiré-Lehoux took possession of the puck, finishing shortside over Gagnon’s shoulder to win the game for the Carabins. The missed call by the referees enraged not only the Bishop’s bench but the home crowd as well.

Despite the unfortunate ending for the Gaiters, the tremendous season featured milestones for the women’s hockey team. A huge congratulation goes out to the award winners and the graduating players. If the country did not already know about a small purple school in Lennoxville, they will now. As Coach Valerie Bois’ first season as head coach concludes, this season’s ending is sure to drive future missions.

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Art, spirituality and mindfulness at BU: A mosaic of traditions and expressions

“What I noticed, as [people] scratched away with a charcoal pencil, was that… artistic differences [became] a bridge rather than a barrier, as they discussed their hopes and dreams, professional aspirations and spiritual disciplines,” said Bishop’s chaplain Jesse Dymond as he reflected on the university’s recent Spirituality and Mindfulness Art Hive. The key aim of the event was to use art as a bridge between diverse individuals and groups on Saturday, Feb. 17, when Bishops’ students and staff — along with members of the Lennoxville community — gathered together from their

different walks of life for an afternoon of artmaking and conversation focused on themes of spirituality. This event was a collaboration between the Foreman Art Gallery’s ArtLab; the Christian Students Association; the Muslim Students Association; and the Mindfulness, Meditation and Yoga Club.

Complete with music touching on faith and nature themes, tea and good company — even participants who only intended to drop in for a few minutes found themselves caught up in a friendly atmosphere of curiosity and story-sharing. Dymond said, “I was encouraged to see such a large and diverse group for our first event. I don’t think any two participants chose the same artistic

medium, which shouldn’t have surprised me, given the breadth of personalities and experience present.” Participants had access to the ArtLab’s wide collection of materials — primarily sourced from donations — and chose to create anything from drawings and paintings, to collages and jewelry. Part of the concept of an Art Hive is welcoming and recognizing everyone as an artist in their own right; the broad scope of creative expression at such events highlights this. Being able to recognize and celebrate our differences on a small scale, such as preferred artistic mediums, can open a door to discussing and celebrating what can often be more divisive differences, such as spiritual beliefs.

Community members gather for MMIWG2S+ vigil

At Bishop’s, the Indigenous Student Support Centre (ISSC) has been holding an annual vigil for the last few years, every Feb. 14, to remember missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit individuals (MMIWG2S+). For this year’s vigil, many members of the community gathered at the LLC gazebo in solidarity of the cause.

In Canada, Indigenous women are 12 times more likely to be murdered or go missing than any other women. They are also more likely to experience physical and sexual assault than their non-Indigenous peers. And yet, while they make up for only four per cent of the Canadian female population, they account for 16 per cent of female homicides and 11 per cent of missing women.

These disproportionate rates of violence affect First Nations, Métis and Inuit women, girls and gender-diverse people across Canada and are the root of the MMIWG2S+ movement. According to a 2014 report by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, more than 1200 Indigenous women and girls were murdered or went missing between 1980 and 2012, a number that Indigenous women groups’ research says is in fact over 4000 women and girls. Since then, many of these women have still yet to be found, and the national crisis continues. Throughout Canada, numerous

organizations, such as the Native Women’s Association of Canada, have engaged in different initiatives aiming at raising awareness and addressing the tragedy. Over the last decade, marches, annual vigils and other campaigns of the sorts have been held, bringing people together to commemorate and honour the lives of the missing and murdered.

At the gazebo, Vicky Boldo, the associate director of Indigenous initiatives at Bishop’s, shared a few words about what the event meant to her and the crisis’ impact on Indigenous communities. Boldo also highlighted the trauma in which these tragedies are rooted, as well as the ones that they bring forth, especially for the families of the victims. One of the night’s guest speakers also pointed out that although the crisis recently rose to the public’s attention, the pattern goes way back to the age of “discovery”. They mentioned that when European colonizers came to what is present-day Canada, as they took the land, they also forcibly took Indigenous women. The evening featured heartfelt messages shared by community members, prayers and concluded with the “Wildflower Song.

In the days leading to the vigil, many red dresses could be seen hanging at various locations on campus, a project organized by the ISSC. The red dress is a symbol raising awareness of MMIWG2S+. It became emblematic through Métis artist Jaime Black’s REDress Project, an installation art project created to

Correction

In the article “Community-supported agriculture carries on at Bishop’s, building a new food culture” published on Feb. 19, the author Melodie Anderson was incorrectly described as a student intern with the Sustainable Development Office. Melodie Anderson is a graduate intern with the office.

Under the subsection “Eating seasonally”, the term “green housing” was described as a way farmers grow food. The correct term is “greenhouse growing”. The Campus regrets these errors.

Events such as this one can give students of different walks of faith a space to be seen and included on campus. Members of the ArtLab team, including myself, look forward to the possibility of hosting another Spirituality and Mindfulness Art Hive later in the semester, to provide us all with a way to acknowledge and embrace diverse spirituality on campus and in our community.

The ArtLab has regular, drop-in Art Hive hours (not focused on a theme) open to the public every Wednesday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and every Saturday from 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. The spirituality-centred SRC clubs who collaborated for this event also hold many meetings and events throughout the semester.

Ann Oxford is a member of the ArtLab team and one of the co-leads of the Christian Students Association.

raise awareness about the violence that Indigenous women experience. On her website, Black writes that she wanted to “evoke a presence through the marking of absence.”

The Women’s Memorial March is held

every year on Feb. 14 to remember and honour missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people. Red Dress Day, which is observed every year on May 5, is the national day of awareness for the crisis.

THE CAMPUS MARCH 7TH, 2024 8 FEATURES
Graphic courtesy of Leea Rebeca Ruta Photos courtesy of Jesse Dymond

FEATURES

Total solar eclipse returns at Bishop’s, 92 years later

The last time that a total solar eclipse was visible at Bishop’s dates back to 1932. On April 8, 2024, almost 92 years later, Bishop’s will once again be the prime location to witness this oncein-a-lifetime phenomenon. The path of our solar system’s star and our natural satellite will directly intertwine, offering Sherbrooke three and a half minutes of darkness in the middle of the day – more than triple the duration of the visible eclipse in Montreal.

Some may wonder how can our little moon – the place where Neil Armstrong took his leap for mankind – can totally block the sun, our source of light and sunburns, which is over 100 times larger than the Earth. Disciplines such as mathematics, physics and astronomy explain a big part of this phenomenon. Mathematically, the moon is 400 times smaller than the sun, and the sun is 400 times farther from Earth

than the moon, making it possible for the moon to completely block the sun – a perfect equation for a once-in-a-lifetime event.

The Eastern Townships are expecting up to a million visitors on that day. With its telescope, professors with expertise on the matter and free eclipse-viewing glasses, Bishop’s will be one of the premier locations to see the day turn into night. The university has been preparing for the eclipse since last year, and will be welcoming several thousand visitors for the event.

Élodie Lescure, a graduate student in physics and astronomy at Bishop’s, says that she is excited for the community to experience how amazing her area of research is. “A total solar eclipse is an incredible event for everyone, not just scientists and people who know about the phenomenon,” she says. “It offers an observational experience and a unique opportunity to observe the Sun’s corona (the outer layer of the Sun). As an astronomer, this event is particularly

exciting as it provides the perfect opportunity for outreach and to talk about astronomy to the general public, generating interest in a subject that I work on every day. I have always been in awe of the universe, and this natural spectacle will surely deepen my appreciation of its wonders,” adds Lescure.

On eclipse day, volunteers will be key in coordinating the influx of visitors and the Bishop’s community. Besides being part of such a unique event, volunteers will also receive an ENGAGE credit for their participation. ENGAGE credits on a student’s co-curricular record help demonstrate valuable skills acquired while volunteering, which can then help students stand out in graduate school or job applications. Roles will vary from on-field help showing visitors around campus, to operating scientific pin-hole cameras, to spreading the word of our amazing viewing opportunity among the Bishop’s community, the local population and the potential million visitors. To get involved, students are invited to get in

touch with the Experiential Learning team at EL@ubishops.ca or visit the Instagram page @experibu to learn more about the opportunities.

In light of the eclipse, multiple activities are set to occur in the leading days. On April 4, Bishop’s Donald Lecture series will welcome Prof. Jean-Louis Heudier, an internationally respected astronomer, to talk about eclipses. More activities will be announced soon, but for now, make sure to mark your calendars, tell your friends about it and get involved!

Olivier Pontbriand is a student volunteer for the total solar eclipse event at Bishop’s

Intimacy workshop teaches importance of consent, even in acting

On Feb. 27, students from the drama and English department met Jen Viens, an intimacy director. Intimacy professionals like Viens collaborate with live-action and film productions to help plan out and execute intimate scenes while advocating for actors’ wellbeing. For two hours and a half, Viens taught the micro-class about what an actor is allowed to do; what would be a bad working environment regarding consent; and the reasons why their job exists.

In the field of acting, whether it is on a live stage or on a film set, intimacy directors and coordinators advocate that consent should be everywhere. From the actors’ audition to the table reading to the production of the scenes themselves, there must be consent from all parties from A to B. Ever since the #MeToo movement, the role of intimacy professionals has become more prominent on set and has helped ensure that actors are safe and at ease with their work.

Like in intimate relationships, communication is essential for a team to do the dream work. Producers, writers and directors must take care to listen to what actors have to say regarding the intimate scenes they have to act. They may ask actors questions such as: “tell me what you feel about this.” Viens also explained that context is crucial. If there is simply another way to do the scene, then that should be done.

Consent is the backbone of intimacy in acting, and there are boundaries that must be respected, Viens taught. Consent is non-negotiable for actors, and the word “no” is a full sentence. During the workshop, students had to walk

between tables and greet the person they crossed. They then had to ask to shake the other person’s hand and respect their consent. The exercise elicited many more nos than yeses, as this was the main objective. Such physical boundary practices highlight the importance of consent, not only in acting but in everyday life.

Intimate scenes are almost never improvised. Each hand on each body part, each kiss or any movement is thoughtfully planned and choreographed with the intimacy director or coordinator. Intimate scenes can be over-the-top, like in a comedy, or grounded, such as in a drama. When filming the scene, the production also needs to have a beginning and a closing ritual, explained Viens; this can be a dance, a high five or any other cooperative movement that separates that moment from real life.

Consent is a universal requirement, whether it is in a relationship, in a job or even during artistic creation. Through communication, attentiveness to context, minimalist choreography and closing rituals, consensual intimacy scenes can work out on a live-action or film set.

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Teatime travels: Students transported to Austen era in experiential learning event

Two weeks ago on Wednesday, Feb. 28, around 50 Jane Austen enthusiasts filled Cleghorn hall, gathering for a themed tea party organized by Prof. Shoshannah Bryn Jones Square for her Jane Austen and film course in the English department. The event included all the strappings essential for an Austeninspired party: tea, pastries, music, poetry readings and parlor inspired games, just to name a few. Certain students enrolled in the course even arrived in costume, making for an immersive event. The 200-level class offers a survey of Jane Austen literature alongside a film component to accompany the works explored in the course.

Perhaps the most popular attraction of the event was the card table. Students gathered around to play Vingt-et-un (twenty-one), an early version of Blackjack popular during the Regency era. They also played Old Maid during the event, a game popularized in the mid 1800s. Throughout the tea party, certain guests also took the opportunity to stand up and recite poetry. Some were self-written; others were readings from some of Austen’s personal favourite poets. Students shared favourite moments or quotes from Austen novels,

notable mentions coming from perhaps her most popular work, Pride and Prejudice. Students were thrilled with the opportunity to bring learning outside of the classroom for a change, enjoying the chance to learn and grow in a social, stressfree environment.

Third-year student Colin Ahern

echoed the sentiments of those present: “The tea party was a hit! From card games to poetry, Cleghorn was alive with the buzz of students. Dr. Jones Square did a great job of fostering an environment for students to engage meaningfully with course material outside of the classroom.”

Party organizer and English

An Observation in a Dimly Lit Parking Lot

The evening sky was a wadded pair of old jeans. The dark-navy fabric had inconsistencies, pale streaks between deep-blue wrinkles. Cloudy residue from His washing dotted the twilight vista only to return to splotchy pockets. The dusky mountains served as dust-stained cuffs. Slashes of thinness revealed lighter and lighter shades, giving me glimpses of exposed flesh.

department professor Jones Square reflected on the importance of including events like these in her pedagogy. “Events like the Austen Tea Party are wonderful opportunities for students to collaborate and make meaningful connections with one another and to actively engage with what they are learning in the classroom. Because more than one sense is involved during experiential learning activities such as these, the information becomes easier to process, understand, integrate and retain”, she noted. An Austen inspired tea party is only one example of the ways in which experiential learning can be used to enhance a classroom experience. Prof. Jones Square took the opportunity to thank Bassam Chiblak, the experiential learning coordinator in arts at Bishop’s, for his help and guidance.

The tea party, which ran over the usual allotted time of a typical class, filled the room with laughter and warmth. Prof. Jones Square noted that fun must occupy a place in all classrooms. “Happiness is associated with increased attention and motivation, so simply having fun makes learning easier!”

Caitlyn Gerrish is an English literature honours student enrolled in ENG295-Jane Austen and Film

Comic

THE CAMPUS MARCH 7TH, 2024 10 ARTS & CULTURE
Photos courtesy of Shoshannah Bryn Jones Square Graphic courtesy of Leea Rebeca Ruta

Grooving down the catwalk: BU dancers celebrate huge success at annual fashion show

Since October, some of BU’s most talented dancers have been working hard in preparation for the 2024 Charity Fashion Show, Embrace.

In the spirit of this year’s theme, every single dancer that auditioned was given a spot in at least one dance number. This meant that for the opening number, a whopping 27 dancers danced their hearts out together to a mix of “Let’s Have a Kiki”, “Telephone” and “Don’t Stop the Party”.

The sheer number of dancers was not the only ambitious part of this year’s production. This year’s show included a total of nine dances, providing significant production value to the fashion show stage. Many of the dances in the show were new interpretations of crowd favourites, like the Barbie dance heels number, featuring Call It Spring high heels, and the partner dance, featuring some of the models dancing to a

Pitbull mashup.

Some dancers participated in one or two numbers, while others danced in six or seven, rehearsing for over six hours every Saturday. Among these dancers was Kilah MacCoul, who danced, choreographed and was an assistant coordinator for the show. “Fashion Show dance rehearsal is a great time!” said MacCoul. “We really put blood, sweat and tears into these dances to ensure that we put on the best performance possible”.

Another dancer, Sonoma Brawley, spoke to the positive environment created in those long rehearsal days: “Rehearsing every week since October builds community between the dancers and by the time we perform we’re dancing with our closest friends.”

For dance director Maggie Morrison, this was her final Fashion Show. She looked back on her time as a dancer in the charity fashion shows: “Being a part of fashion show dance has stood out as one of my favourite experiences as a BU

Gothic literature crossword

student. Each year a talented group of dancers are able to showcase our best work, all for a meaningful cause. Being a part of Fashion Show dance creates unforgettable memories for long after the show ends, and I would recommend to everyone who has the opportunity to get involved to do so!”.

Interested in dancing or modeling

Down

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1. Setting for Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” a mysterious and eerie region.

2. Common supernatural elements in gothic literature.

4. Author of “Frankenstein,” a pioneer in science fiction and gothic literature.

5. Edgar Allan Poe’s short story about a family haunted by a dark ancestral mansion.

7. Daphne du Maurier’s gothic novel with a haunting tale of love and jealousy.

8. Term used to describe horror fiction inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft. “____ horror” 10. Master of macabre tales, known for “The Tell-Tale Heart” and “The Raven.”

11. Cheap, sensational fiction popular in the 19th century, often with gothic and horror themes. “Penny ___”

14. Matthew Lewis’s scandalous and controversial gothic novel from 1796.

15. Often used as a setting in gothic literature, representing decay and the passage of time. “Monastary ___”

17. Horace Walpole’s 1764 novel, considered the first gothic novel.

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next year? Follow @bufashionshow to stay up to date about when auditions take place.

Kate Vandermeulen is the communications director for The Campus and was a choreographer for the BU charity fashion show.

Across

3. Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s short story highlighting mental illness in a gothic context. “Yellow ___”

6. Creator of the creature in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein,” a modern Prometheus.

8. Sheridan Le Fanu’s vampire novella predating Bram Stoker’s “Dracula.”

9. Latin phrase meaning “remember that you will die,” often explored in gothic themes.

12. Oscar Wilde’s character who remains youthful while his portrait ages, exploring the consequences

13. Author of “Wuthering Heights,” a tale of passion, revenge, and the supernatural.

16. Irish author best known for his gothic novel “Dracula.”

18. Common setting in gothic literature, often filled with secret passages and ghostly apparitions.

19. Oscar Wilde’s novel exploring the consequences of a life of excess and vanity.

Answer key

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Down 1. Transylvania 2. Curses 4. Shelley 5. HouseOfUsher 7. Rebecca 8. Cosmic 10. Poe 11. Dreadful 14. TheMonk 15. Ruins 17. Otranto Across 3. Wallpaper 6. Frankenstein 8. Carmilla 9. MementoMori 12. DorianGray 13. Bronte 16. Stoker 18. HauntedCastle 19. DorianGray
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ECONOMICS & BUSINESS Understanding investment vehicles

From the Bishop’s University Investment Club

BU Invests is committed to promoting financial literacy among the students of Bishop’s University by providing fact-based and unbiased information on financial tools and markets.

In this article, we explore the fundamentals of three popular investment tools: exchange-traded funds (ETFs), bonds and active management, with the goal of providing an informative introductory description of each tool.

Exchange-traded funds

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are one kind of financial investment tool. Created in 1990, they are an exchange-tradable product that pools an underlying amount of securities and sells partial ownership of that pool to an investor. They operate much like an individual stock. These securities can be bonds, stocks, gold, debt, futures, commodities and cryptocurrencies. ETFs can be specific to a type of asset class, industry or economy.

This tool can offer investors opportunities for trading flexibility, portfolio diversification and risk management. ETFs usually demand significantly lower fees than actively managed funds, making them

an interesting option for people who aren’t investing large sums of money. There are drawbacks to ETFs, namely, giving up specific choices of stock possession and tax exposure.

This tool can offer investors opportunities for trading flexibility, portfolio diversification and risk management

There are two main types of ETFs. First, there are passive ETFs that aim to replicate the performance of a broader index such as the S&P 500. Actively managed ETFs have a portfolio manager that actively decides what securities to add to the ETF asset pool.

Bonds

Like ETFs, a bond is a form of investment. A bond represents money that an investor has loaned to a business. Imagine you have a friend who wants to start a carwash business for Bishop’s students but needs money to buy supplies. Instead of going to the bank for a loan, your friend asks you and others to invest in their business. Let’s say you loan $100 (the principal) to your friend, and they promise to pay you a little money every month (the interest).

They also promise to pay back the $100 when their business grows (the term). When a company raises money by issuing bonds, it promises to pay interest periodically (annually or at some other interval), also known as a coupon, which is a percentage of the bond’s face value or principal.

Before buying a bond, it’s important to consider the term length or maturity period, which can range from a few months to several decades, and the rate of interest. In the case of your friend’s car wash business, you might agree to terms where they’ll pay back your initial investment in six months at a set rate of interest. When the term is finished, the bond matures. The company is expected to pay back the money they borrowed from you when you bought the bond, plus interest, thus closing the loan.

Active management

Active management is an investment tool that involves giving funds directly to a fund manager or management company, which they then invest at their discretion or follow a set plan. Fund managers’ portfolios should be tailored to their clients’ risk tolerance and asset preferences. Actively managed funds aim to provide higher returns while also mitigating risk by relying on their professional expertise and level of supervision. However, by no means are managed funds always successful or the right choice for an investor. Expertise

can come at a significant cost because of management fees drawn from investment returns or capital. Many high-earning individuals make investments through active management; they are essentially paying a professional to make and summarize investment decisions based on the investor’s risk tolerance.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be personal financial advice. BU Invests members are not certified, authorized or trained in regard to managing funds, giving investment advice or providing commentary on the financial markets. Readers must do their own research before making investment decisions and seek professional guidance as needed.

Community Cupboard’s thrift store promotes sustainable fashion

In recent years, the conversations surrounding fast fashion and its impact on the environment and society have gained significant traction, with documentaries, sustainable fashion campaigns and research on the rise. As consumers become more conscious of the consequences of their shopping habits, initiatives like the Community Cupboard’s X Thrift Store at Bishop’s University join the campus as an innovative solution.

Located in Norton 100 with the Community Cupboard, the thrift store serves a dual purpose: providing students with access to affordable clothing options while simultaneously combating the negative effects of fast fashion. The revenue from the thrift store supports the Community Cupboard, a free service offering groceries and toiletries to students facing food insecurity.

Fast fashion, characterized by its rapid turnover of trendy clothing items at low prices, has been criticized for its detrimental environmental and social impacts. From excessive water usage and pollution to exploitative labour practices, the fast fashion industry contributes to climate change and worker exploitation.

Fourth-year environmental science student Diane Drak Alsibai was asked to comment on her thoughts about the Community Thrift Store and its benefits. She replied, “The thrift store has helped

me a lot, from a financial perspective, considering that as a student, I can buy clothes at a more affordable price. As someone who deeply cares about the environment, I can recycle clothes and not contribute to fast fashion. Additionally, because most of the clothes are donated by students, I can find in-style clothes and sometimes popular name brands, which would otherwise be extremely expensive.”

For her, the thrift store represents not only a practical solution to financial constraints but also a meaningful contribution to environmental sustainability.

In an interview, Shawna ChattertonJerome, Indigenous student support coordinator at Bishop’s University, emphasized that the thrift store “is a great idea because it helps students, specifically international students, and provides affordable and accessible clothing options on campus. Repurposing clothes instead of just buying clothes based on trends contributes towards reducing clothing waste.” Chatterton-Jerome emphasizes how

access to affordable clothing options on campus serves a diverse range of students, including international students who may face additional financial challenges.

The thrift store offers an alternative shopping experience. Students can find a diverse array of clothing items – including tops, bottoms, dresses, coats and shoes – at a fraction of the cost of buying new pieces. By purchasing second-hand clothing, students not only save money but also reduce their carbon footprint by extending the life cycle of garments that might otherwise end up in landfills.

The Community Cupboard X Thrift Store exemplifies the possible intersection of sustainability and affordability in the realm of fashion. By providing economically viable alternatives to fast fashion, the store can equip students to make responsible choices while fostering a sense of community and environmental awareness on campus. Slight changes in

consumer behavior can lead to a meaningful collective impact. Statements from Alsibai and Chatterton-Jerome underscore the multifaceted benefits of the thrift store.

The thrift store is open Monday to Friday during the mid-day, with updated hours posted on the Norton 100’s door. Opening hours vary between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m depending on the day. The thrift store is cash-only.

THE CAMPUS MARCH 7TH, 2024 12
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Antonia Driscoll is a volunteer with the Community Cupboard. Photos courtesy of Gabrielle Liu

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