The Concordian - February 2nd, 2016

Concordia University’s weekly, independent student newspaper

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VOLUME 33, ISSUE 18 | TUESDAY, FEB. 2, 2016

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Life p. 5

hat’s t d o o nt f a w s t nd Studen reen, lean a more g n protein rich i

also in this issue

news

Creating a new ASFA

arts

p. 3

music

sports

opinions

Otello shines as Gamers: eSports Men in dresses: Introduction to Verdi’s opera p. 9 Russian pop p. 11 athletes? p. 13 breaking norms p. 14

news

NEWS EDITORS /// news@theconcordian.com GREGORY TODARO ( @GCTodaro) & LAURA MARCHAND (

CITY

BY SAVANNA CRAIG NEWS ASSISTANT

Three reports of the Zika virus found in Quebec Three cases of the Zika virus have been reported in Quebec, with two of the reports being confirmed on Monday. The first case of the Zika virus was reported last Friday in Quebec by a woman who contracted the virus travelling in the Caribbean.

CBC News reported that Quebec public health officials want to combat concern for an epidemic.

Quebec’s director of public health Dr. Horacio Arruda has said that the chances of contracting the Zika virus are “practically zero.” The virus has been linked with a neurological birth defects when contracted by pregnant mothers, reported CBC News.

Speculated world’s oldest woman lives in Laval Cicilia Laurent is under speculation from Guinness World Record Officials as being the oldest womanstill living in the world. She celebrated her 120th birthday last Sunday at the Haitian Consulate in Downtown Montreal.

She moved to Laval after the earthquake in Haiti in 2010.

CBC News reported that her birthday wish is to ask Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to allow her two great-grandsons to visit from Haiti.

Parents camp outside school to reserve spots Parents were in line for more than 24 hours in hopes of obtaining a spot for their child at Royal Vale school in NDG. By Sunday evening, around 40 sets of parents were camped outside of the school which is set to open three kindergarten classes for Sept. 2016. However, many of the seats have been held for the younger siblings of students currently attending Royal Vale School.

This leaves 25 spots left for new applicants. CTV News has reported the parents camping outside the school believe waiting is worth “what they consider a top notch school.”

@Marchand_L)

TALK

The war on political cartoons

Drawing the tension between Palestine and Israel could further conflict

BY SAVANNA CRAIG NEWS ASSISTANT To some, media can create an essential sense of awareness.

Others view media as a negative and conflict creating outlet. Political cartoons are a form of media which have been the centre of controversy. Whether humorous or dramatic, the worry that arises with the publication of these drawings cause many to wonder—do political cartoons promote violence?

“There is a lot of effort taken to silence cartoons or cartoonists,” said Ilan Danjoux, affiliate assistant professor of the Azrieli Institute of Israel Studies at Concordia University at a talk at Concordia University on Jan. 27.

In rise of the current political climate between Palestine and Israel, Danjoux warned conflict can emerge as a result of the media’s influence. Danjoux studies the effects of political cartoons, tying it to the current strain in the Middle East.

“The number of cartoons is a good indicator of how conflictual an era is,” Danjoux said. He addressed this conflicts in his book, Political Cartoons and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. During his talk, Danjoux brought light to many examples of editorial car-

toons published by Israeli and Palestinian media in the weeks approaching the second Intifada—a period of intense Israeli-Palestinian violence which started in 2000.

The main focus of Danjoux’s talk was to ask if political cartoons provide expressive freedom or evoke violence. “Cartoons invite action—I think that’s the most interesting aspect of cartoons,” Danjoux said. “[With] the sense of chronicle violence, they actually monitor violence.”

Political cartoons have been prominent since the rise of Nazi Germany with the use of satirical cartoons of Hitler and the Nazi party, said Danjoux. These cartoons were distributed in Germany in an attempt to turn the population against Nazi leaders.

Many of the drawings depicted in cartoons have never happened which Danjoux explained are used to “insinuate motive and insinuate consequence and so they are openly offensive … I want to argue that the incompleteness of cartoons offers an insight into the undercurrent of conflict,” he added.

While Danjoux was studying cartoons during the conflict between Israel and Palestine in 2000, he found the largest publisher of Israeli cartoons was Yediot Ahronot, a newspaper

Ilan Danjoux discusses his studies of conflict in the Middle East with representation of cartoons. Photo by Kelsey Litwin.

based in Tel Aviv. On the other side, the greatest amount of Palestinian cartoons were found in Al Quds, based in Jerusalem.

An issue many people have with political cartoons are how certain figures are inaccurately represented. While written media must accurately portray current events and political figures, cartoons are not required to follow this exact format. These cartoons often “physically distort the outside to what’s on the inside,” Danjoux said. This can be seen in cartoons of former U.S. president George W. Bush: at the beginning of his first term, Bush’s head was

drawn at a regular size. However, as his presidency progressed, his head gradually decreased in size—showing that “Americans perceived him as less intelligent as time went by,” said Danjoux.

While conflict may arise in spite of political cartoons, for many readers who choose not to follow politics, political cartoons help develop a structure of what issues they should be concerned about. Cartoons also help to provide a visual approach to a world view, as well as give people who may not speak the language a sense of current issues in the media.

CAMPUS

PSSA accreditation widely supported

Week-long voting shows 96 per cent in favour of initiative

BY GREGORY TODARO CO-NEWS EDITOR After a week of polling, the preliminary results of the Political Science Student Association referendum for accreditation received overwhelming support. More than 96 per cent of voters supported the PSSA’s decision to gain legal standing to represent political science students at Concordia.

The votes were counted Monday under the supervision of Concordia Dean of Students Andrew Woodall. Of the 414 votes cast, 399 were in favour or accreditation, eight against, and seven abstentions and spoiled ballots—a total voter turnout of 28 per cent. The ballots along with voter registration lists and ballot counts were then sent to the Ministère de l’éducation de

l’enseignement supérieur et de la recherche, who will recount and review the process before officially accrediting the PSSA. PSSA president Jason Poirier Lavoie said he was “stoked” with the result and attributed the success of the campaign to the use of mobile voting stations.

“It made a radical difference, we got near 100 ballots through that strategy,” he said. “It was vital to our success.”

Volunteers and PSSA executives took the voting to the largest classes when they had enough staff to work the main polling station and the mobile voting station—two students at each—and could directly speak to students, answering questions to give the students enough information to make an informed decision.

Overall, Poirier Lavoie believes

the booths each required two people for nearly 40 hours that week “The amount of students who came forward out of a desire to help out … was amazing,” said Poirier Lavoie.

The province has until the end of April to render a decision on the accreditation process: they will review every ballot, the list of students and a report highlighting any discrepancies in the voting process. However, the PSSA used what Poirier Lavoie called a “triple-check system,” which involved checking a physical list of eligible voters at stations, an excel spreadsheet which was updated live and a ballot count.

During the counting process, there was only a one-vote discrepancy: one of the ballots wasn’t signed by both volun-

teers at a voting station. For an election this large, Poirier Lavoie was impressed with the overall thoroughness of the process.

“For this volume of votes, it’s incredibly precise,” he said. “Our triple-check system was a huge safety net.”

ASFA president Jenna Cocullo said she was “very pleased” to learn of the PSSA’s successful accreditation vote. “I support any member association who wants to go down that path [of accreditation],” she said.

Until the province officially confirms the accreditation, Poirier Lavoie said the PSSA still has a busy schedule ahead of it.

“We’re calling for our general assembly in the next few weeks to talk about about the accreditation, the future PSSA bylaws and to discuss what’s happening with ASFA,” he said.

FEBRUARY 2, 2016

CAMPUS

ASFA votes to draft restructured bylaws Executive says she “doesn’t know what ASFA stands for” anymore

BY LAURA MARCHAND CO-NEWS EDITOR

A

fter months of scandals ranging from sexual assault to misuse of funds, the Arts and Science Federation of Associations (ASFA) has decided to ask its lawyers to propose new bylaws for a new organization.

The motion was raised by President Jenna Cocullo, and passed with 10 votes for, three votes against, and five abstentions. ASFA’s lawyers will now draft two proposals for new bylaws, designed to shift ASFA into a funding and supportive body for Member Associations (MAs).

The report justified the restructuring by citing a revolving door of resigning executives, misuse of ASFA funds for personal gain, and events running thousands of dollars over budget. The ASFA launch week this academic year reportedly cost over $80,000 to serve only 3.2 per cent of ASFA’s constituency.

Under the new proposed ASFA, the executive would consist of solely three executives: an internal coordinator, who would assist MAs administratively and offer policy review; a financial coordinator, tasked with maintaining financial order and surveying budgets for all MAs; and an advocacy coordinator, who would deal with all matters pertaining to student advocacy, such as undermining rape culture on campus.

ASFA would also act as an MA to students enrolled at Concordia who do not have their own student association.

In the proposal, ASFA wrote

that they “feel that this new ex- cil to vote on, instead of goecutive structure will satisfy ing through weeks and weeks the MAs who are calling for MA of a policy committee and then autonomy,” and that “it will be nothing happening for ASFA,” much easier to maintain a func- added Cocullo. tional organization if we rely on “Something has to change three executives rather than a within ASFA,” said the repfull executive … who have been resentative for First Peoples prone to resigning.”

Studies Member Association Tensions rose during the (FPSTMA), Stephen Karchut. meeting, with the representa- “ASFA is a toxic environment, tive for Concordia’s Undergrad- you read it in the news, you feel uate Psychology Association it in the room—it’s very politi(CUPA) immediately moving to cal when it doesn’t have to be. postpone the motion indefi- It doesn’t have to be this strung nitely, effectively defeating the out. It doesn’t have to be this proposal. Elizabeth Duong, the hard to make changes at a stucouncillor of CUPA, claimed dent body level.” that the proposal should have “I think the fact that we have gone through a ‘postpone inpolicy committee definitely’ before “ASFA is a toxic and that the budwe even have a environment, get had not eardiscussion is the you read it in marked money very reason we the news, you for the proposed need to restrucreferendum in the ture ASFA,” said feel it in the budget.

Katie Nelson, reproom—it’s very “A similar reresenting the Stupolitical when structure motion dents of Philosit doesn’t have was sent to counophy Association to be. It doesn’t cil at the Sep(SoPhiA). “We’re have to be this tember meeting, not even looking strung out.” and that was sent at [the proposals] to policy [comyet … we should STEPHEN KARCHUT, mittee] and that not be going back FPSTMA was never really to committee to REPRESENTITIVE looked into at all,” be lost in bureausaid Duong. She cratic mess.” Nelcontinued to say that “one per- son also alluded to SoPhiA leavson was overriding the pow- ing ASFA if nothing changed, er of two committees, and two saying that if no bylaws were mandates of council.” passed, her association would Cocullo responded, say- have to discuss their future with ing that since it was a pro- the organization. posal and not a bylaw Jason Poirier Lavoie, the change, the motion did not president of the Political Scihave to go through commit- ence Student Association tee, which she alleges would (PSSA), echoed the sentiment, have been a timely process. calling committees “the place “We thought this would be policy proposals go to die.” better to bring to all of counAfter the motion to postpone

Jenna Cocullo, ASFA president, introduced a proposal which would drastically restructure the federation. Photo by Gregory Todaro.

indefinitely was defeated, the debate on the motion itself continued with Cocullo calling the current state of the organization “shitty ASFA” and Karchut claiming that ASFA needs to “cut some of this bullshit red tape.”

Independent councillor Etienne de Blois claimed that what ASFA needed was not a change of structure, but a change of culture. “It’s true that ASFA has had an oppressive and sexist culture,” de Blois said. “We don’t need to basically throw ASFA’s structure completely under the bus to change it.”

Poirier Lavoie asked those opposed to the motion to ask themselves where their motivations lay. “When you see such a systemic problem over such a long period and say ‘No, that’s alright, we don’t need to change the rules, everything’s fine’—you have to ask yourself: why are you saying that?” asked Poirier Lavoie. “Why are you motivating to keep a status quo the way it is? I would like to see that logic.”

VP for external affairs and sustainability, Lana Galbraith, refuted the idea that their lawyers would not understand ASFA enough to draft bylaws.

“You said that the lawyers would not know what ASFA stands for,” said Galbraith. “But I don’t know what ASFA stands for, and I’m an executive.”

After over an hour of debate, the motion was called to a vote by the representative for Urban Planning, and was passed with 10 out of 18 votes going in favour.

When the proposed restructuring bylaws are complete, MAs will hold General Assemblies to confer with students before returning to council to vote. If that vote passes, the proposed restructuring will be presented to the student public in the form of a referendum.

The council also voted on a second motion, regarding new banking rules for MAs. The motion proposed that “in the event that an MA executive use the bank account to make personal purchases that are not relevant to their association, the ASFA executive will hold that executive financially accountable.”

Recently, ASFA passed a motion granting MAs the use of debit cards, as opposed to turning in receipts after the expense. The motion was proposed in order to address concerns of misuse and was passed.

All of our ASFA stories: http://theconcordian.com/ ?s=ASFA

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3

NATION

BY SAVANNA CRAIG NEWS ASSISTANT

B.C. wilderness 85 per cent protected from logging On Monday, 85 per cent of the land in the Great Bear Rainforest was deemed permanently protected from deforestation and/or industrial logging. The 6.4 million hectares sit on the coast between the north of Vancouver Island to the Alaska Panhandle. The state of the rainforest has been a point of debate for over two decades, an agreement finally reached that pleases environmentalists, First Nations and forest-based corporations. The other 15 per cent of land will be provided for industrial logging purposes. The Globe and Mail reports that this is the most environmentally strict commercial logging regulation across all of North America.

Sexual assault trial begins for former CBC radio host The trial of former CBC personality Jian Ghomeshi has begun. The proceedings began with the testimony a witness who alleges that in 2002, Ghomeshi pulled her hair and punched her in the head in his Toronto home.

Reuters Canada reported that the trial has been greatly anticipated since Ghomeshi’s public firing from the CBC in October 2014. The trial is expected to conclude in three weeks, with a second trial to be conducted for an additional sexual assault allegation.

E-cigarette explodes, burning Alberta teen A 16-year-old Alberta teen has been left with seconddegree burns and broken teeth after his e-cigarette exploded. Wotofo Phantom, the China manufactured e-cigarette brand, made the device that led to Ty Green having first and seconddegree burns on his face, tongue and throat. “He wanted to die. That is how much pain he was in,” Ty’s father said to the Canadian Press. The Canadian Press reported that Greer’s father is now in pursuit of banning the sale of e-cigarettes to minors.

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WORLD

BY SAVANNA CRAIG NEWS ASSISTANT

Boko Haram strikes in Nigeria, killing more than 80 Boko Haram is claiming responsibility for taking the lives of at least 86 people in north-eastern Nigeria on Saturday.

Militants carried out an attack in Dalori, five km east from an earlier strike. Al Jazeera reported that “we’ve seen the attacks reduce on the Nigerian side, and we’ve seen how Boko Haram has been increasingly using suicide bombers on the Cameroon side.” Another 62 people are being treated for burns according to Al Jazeera. The terrorist group have reportedly conducted raids across borders, into Cameroon, Chad and Niger.

North Korean launch site under scrutiny A U.S.-run North Korea monitoring site reported on Thursday that they have noticed activity regarding North Korea’s test missile launch, set to be launched into space.

International Business Times reported there has been speculation that the missile launch will happen in the following weeks. However, monitoring group 38 North responded against this idea.

“A more likely alternative is that an engine test is being prepared,” 38 North announced. The monitoring site suggested that the launching site would be more active than currently reported if a launch was planned for the near future.

North Korea’s last successful test launch was in 2012.

Israeli army partially closes Palestinian city Three soldiers were injured in Ramallah, a city in the West Bank of Palestine, leading to a partial closure of the city on Monday. The Associated Press reported that the Israeli military said Ramallah residents were allowed to enter the city and civilians of closeby cities could leave for humanitarian reasons.

Palestine has partial control over Ramallah and domestic closures in this city have been frequent.

FEBRUARY 2, 2016

CAMPUS

TPP could affect students’ jobs post-grad Economist and activists warn about the agreement’s ramifications

BY LAURA MARCHAND CO-NEWS EDITOR

T

he Canadian government has confirmed that it will sign the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement, reports the CBC. But Trade Minister Chrystia Freeland, in an open letter to concerned Canadians, underlined that “signing does not equal ratifying” and that “only a majority vote in our Parliament can allow the agreement to take force.”

The partnership is a complex web of trade deals between 12 Pacific-coast countries, including Canada, the United States, Japan, Malaysia and Singapore. According to the Government of Canada, the combined markets represent over 800 million people and $28.5 trillion in GDP. All countries involved have two years to properly ratify the agreement before the TPP comes into effect.

But not everyone is ready for the brave new world of free trade: Harold Chorney, a professor in Concordia University’s political science department and political economist, warns students that the agreement could risk their jobs

post-education—if only they the sectors that you’ve got— knew what it entailed. that you specialize in—are hurt “The problem with the TPP… by opening up the internationis that it was negotiated in se- al economy to freer flows of cret, behind closed doors,” said trade,” said Chorney. “[IndusChorney. “Young people in par- tries] are not totally mobile. ticular want to make sure they Not everybody can relocate to have jobs in the future, and that Japan, or even wants to—or to trade pacts increase job oppor- China, or from there to here. tunities rather than decrease It’s not that simple.” them. And these are not easy He believes that the first step questions to figure out.” for Canada is a high-tech and He believes diversified econthat Canadian omy that isn’t de“Sometimes you youth will unpending on raw derstand what material export. lose jobs, because is at risk with “That’s the name the sectors that the TPP. “Stuof the game these you’ve got—that dents all too days,” he said, you specialize well know, unwhile also notin—are hurt by fortunately, ing that Canada opening up the the experience needs to protect international of working in its social frameeconomy to freer low-wage jobs work and health flows of trade.” where they apcare. pear to be fun Economists HAROLD CHORNEY, for a while but are not the only POLITICAL ECONOMIST then become ones weighing dead-end jobs,” in on the TPP said Chorney. “And they want debate. Claude Vaillancourt, to make sure, and I want to president of Quebec chapter of make sure… that they’re going the Association for the Taxation to have jobs and opportunities of financial Transactions and in the years to come, in the Aid to Citizens (ATTAC Québec), decades to come.” warns that the agreement could But Chorney warns that not be worse than people expect, all trade agreements can lead especially in the realms of intelto those opportunities. “Some- lectual rights and education. times you lose jobs, because “In every country they have

their own system of education, and it’s very protected,” explained Vaillancourt. “And you can understand why—it’s our vision, our values … they want to take out all the obstacles that prevent [for-profit and online universities] from exporting courses and education [to other countries].”

Vaillancourt also warns that TPP would give international corporations the ability to sue governments and affect their policies. “It’s a tool for lobbying,” said Vaillancourt, who claims that Canada has already been sued many times under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). “Let’s say the government wants to pass a new law. You don’t like this law.

It will cost you money. So you send your lobbyer to the government and say ‘We are going to sue you.’ It’s very efficient.”

Negotiations for the TPP began in September 2008, when the United States engaged in trade talks with the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Brunei, Chile, New Zealand and Singapore). Canada became an observer at the talks in 2010, and officially joined in the discussions in 2012, alongside Mexico.

Graphic by Charlotte Brancho.

life

LIFE EDITOR /// life@theconcordian.com CRISTINA SANZA ( @Cristina_Sanza)

COVER STORY

Investigating residence food: to eat or not to eat?

We asked students living on campus how they feel about their meal options

BY ZOE DOBSON CONTRIBUTOR In addition to living away from home and adjusting to a university course load, Concordia’s undergraduate students living in residence have the added stress of maintaining a healthy diet.

Not being able to have a standard-size fridge and the mandatory purchase of a meal plan through residence forces students to eat three meals a day from various campus dining halls. What options does the Concordia meal plan offer students with dietary restrictions or people that simply want to live a healthy lifestyle?

Gabriella Szabo, a health promotion specialist at Concordia, describes a healthy diet: “We go by what the research shows and it shows that a healthy diet is a plant-based diet. That doesn’t mean only plants but it means lots and lots of plants.” She said that while fruits, vegetables, whole grains and meat proteins play a role in a balanced diet, the focus should be green, lean and rich in protein.

In the menus provided in the dining halls, different symbols indicate the various dietary restrictions they cater to.

From vegan, vegetarian and gluten free dishes, students with dietary restrictions can easily find a meal suited for them. At first glance, it seems Concordia is taking all the necessary steps to provide a healthy menu for students with different dietary restrictions, but the students beg to differ.

Cassidy Charette, a current student at Concordia, has lived on campus over the last year. She said that although the residences try to provide vegetarian options for every meal, they are typically full of carbs and the selection is mediocre.

“The vegetables are usually so overcooked after boiling them that all their nutritional value is lost,” she said. Charette is not vegetarian but when she has ventured towards meats she says the quality is “debatable” and she has gotten sick from the

food on more than one occasion.

Another student, Zoé Realffe Dagenais, on the other hand, struggles to fill a plate due to her vegetarian diet. She often ends up ordering veggie burgers or grilled cheese that she admits are not the healthiest. However, it’s difficult to choose otherwise when the vegetables “clearly come from a plastic bag and kind of taste like rubber,” she said.

For lunch, there are a few vegetarian entrees, such as steamed vegetables or medleys including carbohydrates. For dinner, the pattern appears to be the same.

There are lots of carb-loaded meals, varieties of meats, either fried or in a sauce, and of course, pasta and pizza.

To help explain the reasons behind the choices of ingredients and menu options, Sabrina Lavoie, the executive director of

STILL LIFE Concordia residences seem to offer a variety of meals, but what do students think?

Photos by MariePierre Savard.

On a given day, according to the menu, breakfasts options include protein-based meals which contain cheese, meat, or eggs, therefore excluding vegans and lactose-free students entirely. Other than the seemingly healthy oatmeal option, students can indulge in scones and muffins, all heavy in carbohydrates, fat and sugar.

Food Services, responsible for budget planning and business development explained the breakdown of their budget.

She said that in 2015 and 2016 the total cost of the all-you-can-eat meal plan is $3,990 per student, including $190 of flex dollars for students who want to eat outside of the cafete-

ria, at different kiosks on campus. The total cost for the 238 days of school is $3,008, meaning approximately $16 a day and $5 per meal, she said.

Lavoie further explained that Food Services has strict contractual regulations with their food provider, Aramark, to reduce the levels of sugar, fats and fried foods as well as ensuring vegetarian and vegan options.

She said that although they control what goes on the menu they do not control the quality of ingredients because it is Aramark’s responsibility.

Aramark has a sustainable food requirement, which means 75 per cent of their produce has to be local in the summer, 50 per cent in the fall and 25 per cent in the winter.

With that in mind, the highest percentages of locally sourced ingredients are provided during the least populated time for the university.

Although Lavoie stated that the budget does not necessarily affect the quality of the produce, there is a clear difference in opinion between what Food Services believes they are providing versus what the students are seeing and tasting on their plates.

“I honestly try and avoid eating at the cafeteria but I don’t really have a choice because I paid so much money to have access to it,” Realffe Dagenais said.

Lavoie urges students to attend the monthly food committee meeting, which takes place at both the downtown and Loyola campuses. The meeting brings together residence, Food Services and the food provider to allow for students to speak their mind in regards to the menu and express their likes and dislikes which are often accommodated by the food provider.

The next Food Services meeting will be held on Feb. 17 at 11:30 a.m. downtown at GN E-104 or 3:30 p.m. at Loyola in the community kitchen in HA.

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FEBRUARY 2, 2016

SEX

Sexually Speaking, in Hebrew

Looking into Jewish understandings of love and relationships, one Rabbi at a time

BY CARL BINDMAN STAFF WRITER I have a confession to make: I’m not a very good Jew. I’m barely informed about my own culture, and I’m not okay with that. So, I figured I’d take this outlet and explore my heritage using a language I know: love.

Since I’m Jewish in the loosest sense, I figured I should find people who are in the know. Rabbi Lisa Grushcow of Reform synagogue Temple Beth-Emanu-ElSholom knows what’s up. “If you have a question, find someone Jewish and ask,” she said. “And then don’t assume that their answer is true for every Jew!” Rabbi Grushcow is a Reform rabbi, and she sees a lot of romance in scripture. Her approach to the Torah can best be summed up by her progressive understanding of even the most “infamous” verses. She points to Leviticus, which states that a man shouldn’t lie with a man as a woman. “The best take I’ve ever heard on that verse is that if you’re a man sleeping with a man, you shouldn’t pretend you’re sleeping with a woman—own your desires, and be at home with your partner and in your own skin,” she said.

The Rabbi also said Judaism espouses qualities that make for good relationships.

“Since ancient times, Judaism has emphasized the importance of sexual pleasure, consent, and respect,” she said.

To her, sexuality and spirituality aren’t disparate for Jews—or for anybody. By remembering their origins in the Torah— as people made in the image of God— Jews can see that sexuality has a spark of the divine. After all, sexuality is intrinsic to

identity, she said.

Dr. Norma Joseph, associate director of Concordia’s Azrieli Institute of Israel Studies, also thinks about sexuality as a facet of identity—among many other things.

She said younger Jews tend not to think about it quite as much, though.

Many people, Joseph said, are looking for other people that they’ll be comfortable with. “But they haven’t ever

ing my background? It becomes a fascinating world to try and figure out what are the bases for your choices,” she said.

Naturally, religion and tradition help inform those choices. She said a lot of younger Jews don’t consciously think about what that means—of how their identities play into who they date.

Younger people might say, in her words: “I’m a Jew, sure, but I’m going out

“If you’re a man sleeping with a man, you shouldn’t pretend you’re sleeping with a woman—own your desires, and be at home with your partner in your own skin.”

RABBI LISA GRUSHCOW Graphic by Thom Bell.

deconstructed what that means, being comfortable,” she said. Sharing a religion or religious traditions are, in her thinking, a way of looking further than initial sexual attraction or liking the same movies.

“For an Ashkenazi, is it someone I can eat gefilte fish with? Is there something that will make them amenable to understand-

for beer tonight so what does it matter?”

An example of what an actual young person might say: “My faith hasn’t really had an impact on my romantic relationships.”

That’s what Daniel Smilovitch, a Concordia student, said. He said by going to Jewish elementary and high schools, his environment ended up influencing his re-

lationships, but not what he looks for in a partner today. The traditions his family holds can make a difference anyway, like Friday night dinners where his partners can meet his family and get to know what his whole deal is.

Elisabeth Nyveen, also a Concordia student, sees it a little differently. “I honestly can’t imagine myself not being Jewish,” she said. “It’s such a huge part of my upbringing and how I see the world.” She said she feels love is an important building block in religion, but not the romantic kind—it’s the community. The biggest thing she takes into romantic relationships from her religion, she jokes, “is that my faith prevents me from finding happiness with anti-Semites.”

Julia Maman, a Concordia student and board member of Hillel, a Jewish association at Concordia, does think the spiritual connection is important in romance.

“It’s the feeling I get when I talk to someone who has the same spiritual balance that I do,” she said. “It’s just something more special that you share with another person.” But, in her life, community and tradition are huge factors too.

“Judaism is different for every single Jew,” she said.

Joseph said that the ideal of the religion is a person who cares, yes about their family, but also about their community and the world in general—and who works towards those ends.

Grushcow sees it similarly. “I think that religion, tradition, spirituality— choose the word you like best—is meant to help us become our best selves, on our own and with each other. I happen to think that’s hot.”

HEALTH

Keeping tabs on your mental health and wellness

Concordia’s event brings awareness to the stress and conflicts many students are facing

BY MINA MAZUMDER STAFF WRITER Concordia’s Counselling and Psychological Services recently hosted an event to raise awareness about mental health and to help students improve their overall wellness.

Psychologists were available to answer any questions students had related to stress, mental health or even about a friend who they might be concerned about. One of the psychologists willing to chat was Marc Leger, who works at the university as a counsellor.

“We want to make sure to support students with the issues they are dealing with,” he said. Bringing awareness to mental health is important as stress can interfere with our everyday lives and proper functioning, he said.

Information sheets were also available to guide students who may be facing certain issues related to stress, depression or personal relationships.

“People might feel shy to seek help

[so] it is important to show that we exist,” Leger said.

Having the courage to seek help and deciding that your health is something worth addressing is crucial and a strength, he said.

Leger said that one of the main things that students come to him about are relationship issues. He also helps many students with depression, anxiety and stress.

Knowing the symptoms and being self-aware is crucial to students’ well-being, Leger said.

“The main symptom is when you are recognizing that you are feeling stressed or anxious, and your body will tell you, as well, if you are feeling a bit more tense about things,” he said. “[You won’t be] able to concentrate, [you’ll] isolate yourself or have more negative thoughts or turn to things to cope such as substances, whether it is alcohol or smoking up to numb the feeling or move away from it.” He added that lack of sleep might also be an indicator.

Leger also emphasized the importance of listening and showing support. “People

ask, ‘how are you?’ but they need to take the time to listen,” Leger said. He recommended confiding in one or two friends and talking to them about struggles you might be facing.

“We talk about dental hygiene but mental health hygiene [is also important] in terms of self-care,” he said.

“There is a pressure to always be happy and okay,” he said. For example, on Facebook, people might seem happy based off of the photos we see, but there is always the other side of a person that isn’t made public, he said.

The event offered interactive info sheets, including a “What’s Your Stress Index?” form as a simple way to fill-up and recognize your levels of stress.

Photo illustration by Florence Yee.

Counselling and Psychological Services are offered at the downtown campus in room H-440.

The triage is a new service they offer—a drop-in brief appointment with a professional. Students can drop by Monday to Friday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and 2 to 3:30 p.m.

arts

ARTS EDITORS /// arts@theconcordian.com LYDIA ANDERSON ( @LydiaAndersonn) & ELIJAH BUKREEV (

@ElijahBukreev)

EXHIBIT

Contemplate the spawning of social action Ana Jovmir’s photography series What’s the Problem explores the sparks before the fire 1

WHAT’S THE PROBLEM (1) (2) (3) Collage

by Manikmati Photography.

Clockwise, from left: Brian, Abigail and Priime Tiime by Ana Jovmir.

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(4) Exhibit poster.

Photo by Ana Jovmir.

(5) Tessa by Ana Jovmir.

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BY LYDIA ANDERSON CO-ARTS EDITOR

R

ooted at the birth of every social change is a realization or recognition, of oneself or the world, that pushes one to act. Ana Jovmir—a Romanian photographer based out of Montreal—explores these itches that spark social action with her series of portraits titled What’s the Problem. Jovmir has worked as a commercial photographer since 2010 and this series marks her first solo art show. The portraits will be displayed on the walls of Théâtre Sainte-Catherine until March 13 as part of the sixth edition of Studio Beluga’s ArtUp! exhibition series.

“I explained [my project] to people and simply asked them to tell me about some of the things that infuriated them, things they’d want to change whether in themselves or their environment as they stepped in front of the lens and just went with it from there,” said Jovmir.

Each portrait is displayed alongside a quote from the subject. These

quotes address issues that are important to each particular individual and cover themes such as inequality, oppression and religion.

The levels of performance that each subject enacts for the lens has an intentionality that presents them and their views at an amplified level, rather than mystifying them as subjects. “It’s almost like they document a moment of perfect stage direction, where Ana asked them to just be themselves, and they do this exaggerated, human, utterly sincere performance of themselves, and she captures it,” said Lucie Lederhendler, the curator for Studio Beluga who recruited Jovmir for the space.

These portraits are catalysts disguised as succinct, beautiful images.

They celebrate the positive, potential force of frustration and briefly highlight important issues and injustices. Yet, the bulk of the series’ potential lies with the audience and whether or not they concretely engage with the introspection inspired by the discontent of the subjects. This series scratches the surface by merely being the first step—explor5

ing aspects of yourself or your environment that itch at your conscience or ethics. After this, inaction is the passive enabling of problems that you are no longer ignorant to.

We now live in a world of social media activism where pressing the ‘like’ button substitutes rallying and pressing the ‘share’ button substitutes protesting. It feels good, digitally or otherwise, to stand with others in the recognition that things need to change. With that being said, Jovmir’s work requires conscious con4 sumption in order to be wary of the pacifying effect of the environment of safe, shared disgruntlement. Lukewarm resistance and collective denouncements can stir the feeling of illusionary participation.

Resonant agreements on social issues— especially in environments that don’t demand action—can have a pacifying effect that often leads to a lack of concrete change.

Jovmir’s work does not attempt to achieve social action as an entity, but rather highlights areas that it may stem from in her friends and acquaintances.

The value of What’s the Problem is in its attempt to start a conversation around these important issues and its celebration of the potential force behind being angry about them. “It is important to take time to think about … the things that push us to make changes around us. I believe that anger or resentment towards situations, other people or

ourselves is a very influencing force in shaping our world,” said Jovmir. “I’m hoping [this series] inspires people to act on the things that they care about in a positive way.”

The images were shot with an attempt to present subjects as they are and incite a personal rapport between subject and viewer. They were shot with natural lighting and were not digitally manipulated, which showcases Jovmir’s technical skills as an artist to produce an aesthetically enticing, honest image. Thanks to Jovmir the walls of Théâtre Sainte-Catherine now offer you expertly executed photography and lie ready to inspire thought on what makes you angry enough to actively try to improve your world.

What’s the Problem will be displayed at Théâtre Sainte-Catherine (264 Ste. Catherine St. E.) until March 13.

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theconcordian

FEBRUARY 2, 2016

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EXHIBIT

The 1950s in Quebec through the eyes of Lida Moser The photojournalist explored our province with vigour and artistic talent

BY AMBRE SACHET ASSISTANT ARTS EDITOR Many faces emerge from the frame as a halo of light, and yet the tone is set in black and white. No less than 129 gelatin silver photographs taken between 1950 and 1994 are featured at the 1950: The Quebec of photojournalist Lida Moser exhibit, presented at the Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec. Hosted by the Quebec National Museum of Fine Arts, the work of the American photojournalist was presented in Quebec City last year.

The sweet paradox of Lida Moser goes beyond the visual: her work is demystified because of the humanist stance she had to take as a photojournalist. The spontaneous journey in which the American photojournalist discovered the Quebec of Maurice Duplessis can be of great interest to anyone even slightly interested in Quebec history.

What should have been an article on Canada for Vogue turned out as an indepth report about Quebec contradictions. Moser’s exploration keeps oscillating between traditions and post-war contemporary inspiration.

The selection of Lida Moser’s project comes as a logical choice for Manon Pouliot, exhibition project manager at the National Museum of Fine Arts. “The first

time she came to Quebec, Moser let herself be charmed by the province,” said Pouliot. “[The exhibit] is very territorial and cultural.”

The destinations Moser visited serve as the structure of the exhibit itself. With a new place comes a new subject of inspiration for the artist, whose photographic approach evolves with every encounter.

QUEBEC CITY Moser is first fascinated by the European architecture of the city, defining it with an objective look on its buildings and slices of daily life.

CHARLEVOIX – GASPÉSIE The change of landscape, from urban to rural, is illustrated with the development of new techniques. Depicting child labour without bothering with artifice partly defines Moser’s definition of photojournalism.

The exhibit offers a linear perspective, which guides you though through a variety of faces. What could be more candid and faithful to reality than a child’s emotions?

BAS SAINT-LAURENT – CÔTE-DU-SUD Moser’s next stop further develops her art of laying a person’s humanity

LIDA MOSER EXHIBIT

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bare while adding a documentary aspect to it. In many of her photos, Moser becomes permeated with the New York Photo League’s social awareness, in which she participated until its dissolution in 1951. The cooperative included some of the most celebrated American photographers of the time.

“She went beyond photojournalism toward a more personal and humanist perspective through her travel with [politician] Paul Gouin, who helped her [get] closer to people,” said Denis Castonguay, curator of the Musée national des beauxarts du Québec exhibits. ÎLE D’ORLÉANS – MONTÉRÉGIE Devoid of judgment, Moser’s photographs include many personality por-

(1) Two students of Quebec City’s École moderne pose with sculptures.

(2) A boy and a nun take a bus in Montreal.

traits, setting Moser free from her observatory status quo. As an art critic for the New York Times, Moser is drawn toward many artists such as Jean Palardy and Françoise Rosay.

Moser’s adventure, which includes about 1,700 photographs, stands as one of the most important photographic reports ever made on the Quebec of the 1950s. In her own words, she “[aspired] to seize the invisible,” and grasped the social complexities of a contrasted postwar Quebec with a unique intensity.

1950: The Quebec of photojournalist Lida Moser will be shown at the Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec until April 3.

FILM

Girlhood in a Turkish village patriarchy The French-Turkish Oscar-nominated Mustang is a moving tale of lost innocence

BY ELIJAH BUKREEV CO-ARTS EDITOR Oh, how sweet is the carelessness of a summer break in the countryside when you’re young, wild and beautiful.

Such is life at first for the main characters of Mustang—Deniz Gamze Ergüven’s first film—but that would all soon change.

The five sisters run around in the sun, their long hair flowing in the wind, toward the sea. Some boys carry them on their shoulders as they play fight in the water. When the girls get home, the whole village has heard of their proximity with boys. Their grandmother tells them they have dishonoured the family and will be locked up.

The film is set in Turkey, but it feels instantly familiar in that it has a fable-like tone, far from the naturalism one could expect. The sisters are orphans, subject to a controlling uncle who decides it is time to marry them off. These girls are more than inseparable—they are so united that they are almost the same. When one is attacked, all of them are. And yet, they will have to be torn apart from each other.

While the film shifts between adventure and tragedy, the story feels particularly delicate, like a flower that slowly loses its five petals.

What may catch your interest is that

First noticed at last year’s Cannes film festival, Mustang has become one of the year’s arthouse phenomena.

the director brought European sensibilities to a setting presented here as a conservative patriarchal community.

That blending of cultures seems to speak not only of Ergüven’s own status as a French-Turkish citizen, but also of the complexities of a country that is simultaneously part of two continents. The girls are so free and uninhibited, it is a shock to find them suddenly imprisoned and bereft of any free will. Perhaps that is commentary on a country that granted women the right to vote before France—and Quebec—did, but whose recent leaders have expressed alarming opinions on women’s rights, some of which are heard on a T.V. broadcast during the film.

Based partly on the director’s person-

al experiences in her home country and partly on her observations, Mustang remains very classical in its storytelling, relying on touchingly soft imagery, a compelling score by Warren Ellis and most of all the performances of the five young actors who dominate the cast. While they don’t look alike enough to be perfectly believable as sisters, they have genuine chemistry with each other and a comfortable screen presence. Never shy of the camera or their cast members, they seem to celebrate femininity with every move and every gaze.

Narrated with a certain sadness by the youngest sister, Lale (Günes Sensoy), who dreams of Istanbul and a different fate for her siblings and herself, the film can be taken as a half-rebellion and a half-sur-

render, in which captive characters can challenge a man, but will ultimately have to adjust themselves into a system they cannot change. Mustang could have benefited from a less straightforward narrative and looked closer into plot points that are only hinted at, but it’s an undeniably effective drama that is also, for all its difficult passages, a pleasure to watch.

MUSTANG Directed by Deniz Gamze Ergüven Starring Günes Sensoy, Doga Zeynep Doguslu, Tugba Sunguroglu, Elit Iscan Released on Jan. 15, 2016 Duration 97 min

FEBRUARY 2, 2016

theconcordian

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OPERA

Verdi’s Otello delivers a masterful tragedy

The Opéra de Montréal’s latest masterpiece is all but certain to move you and resonate with you 1

OTELLO (1) Otello sings of his victory over the Turks.

(2) Desdemona is played

by Hiromi Omura.

(3) Mistrust breaks the once-loving couple up.

BY MICHELLE GAMAGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF @missmishelle When Opéra de Montréal artistic director Michel Beaulac heard tenor singer Kristian Benedikt perform several years ago at a gala, he knew he had found his Otello.

The gala, which celebrated the 200th birthday of composer Giuseppe Verdi, would be the turning point in which Beaulac would realize he could bring his favourite Verdi opera to Montreal.

“That is why I planned Otello actually, because you don’t plan a production of Otello if you don’t have a very serious candidate for the title role,” said Beaulac.

However, you need more than just Otello to bring Shakespeare-come-Verdi’s masterpiece to life. Having stellar singers for the spiteful character of Iago and the innocent Desdemona are also a must.

For those who never read Shakespeare’s Othello, the opera is about an outsider, called Otello, who has worked his way through the military ranks to become general. When he overlooks Iago for a promotion, Iago sets off on a vicious plan of revenge. He manipulates Otello into believing that his innocent wife, Desdemona, is unfaithful. Blinded by his own insecurity, Otello murders his wife, only to have Iago’s manipulations revealed moments after her final words. Consumed with grief, Otello takes his own life.

“Dramatically, musically … [Verdi reached] the summit of his art at the end of his life with Otello,” said Beaulac.

Iago is performed by Aris Argiris, whose acting and baritone mastery let him steal the show.

“He really has a presence that is overwhelming and he has the voice to match.

The colour of the voice—there is some brassy, very resonant, very powerful outreaching, commanding, colour to his voice that makes him musically, certainly,

cious-looking sword languidly slung over

Photos by Yves Renaud.

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an ideal Iago,” said Beaulac.

Argiris reincarnates the evil of Iago with full body projections of disgust, hatred, spite and disdain so powerful you fear him casting his eyes out to the audience, lest that hatred fall on you. His frequent asides to the audience keeps the spotlight on him, and builds tension between characters by reminding you he is the master manipulator here.

“You need this drive, this projection, this intensity and this inner force to make [Iago’s] character believable on stage,” said Beaulac, and Argiris certainly delivered—marked by the audience leaping to their feet for a round of applause that resonated loudest of all at the end of the show.

Hiromi Omura plays Desdemona, whose innocence acts as the perfect foil to Iago’s palpable evil.

“Desdemona is a warm, expressive, honest, true to life, ingenuous character that Hiromi portrays with such ease and facility because that is her personality,” said Beaulac, who has similarly been casting Omura as Desdemona for years.

“When I asked her to come play [the character of] Butterfly here, one of my objectives, [within] four or five years, was to have her sing Desdemona here in Montreal because, to me, she is the ideal Desdemona in every aspect,” said Beaulac.

With three potential powerhouses cast in his mind already, Beaulac didn’t hesitate when he found a time when all three

singers were free.

The result is a powerful performance that keeps the audience at the edge of their seats for the entire show.

A simple set design of stone pillars and gauzy hanging white sheets allow the stage to be transformed from a harbour facing a tempest-plagued sea to a city street packed with 48 merry, celebrating choristers, to a quiet bedroom with an ominous white bed seemingly glowing next to Desdemona during her final moments. Guy Simard, who designed the lighting for the show and Jamie Nesbitt, who designed the video, project crashing waves and dimly lit city streets on the hanging sheets to expertly set the scene.

This simple set design created one of the most amazing character entrances I have ever seen. Desdemona, who the audience now understands is doomed, has just fallen asleep on her pure-white bed, clutching her wedding dress in hopes it will defend her from her crazed husband. The audience’s attention snaps to the gauzy white sheet that hangs as her headboard while Otello, with his vi-

his shoulders, slowly approaches her bed from behind the curtain. His silhouette is so menacing with the glint of his weapon visible through the curtain that I almost called out to wake Desdemona, to urge her to run, to escape.

It is this connection the audience develops with the characters which makes Otello such an amazing tragedy, said Beaulac.

We all identify with the different characters throughout the play, said Beaulac, because we are all sometimes the victim, the tool of manipulation or even the manipulator. But Otello, the outsider, is whom everyone connects with the most.

“We identify with him subtly because we are all different, and all have individual personality traits that make us different.

So [Otello’s character] is an expression of everyone’s solitude,” said Beaulac.

Treat yourself to a night of glamour, drama, sophistication and art for a night to remember at the Opéra de Montréal Feb. 2, 4, and 6. Tickets range from $22 to $144.

music

MUSIC EDITOR /// music@theconcordian.com SAMUEL PROVOST-WALKER

Quickspins

REUNIONS

Get the playlist: http://spoti.fi/1SoWmgB

Band reunions to be cautiously excited for

TINDERSTICKS

1

The Waiting Room (City Slang, 2016)

1

Though it’s easy to get excited in the face of new music, the results can often be bitter

RETURNING CHAMPS (1) James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem (2) At the Drive-In (3) London’s Lush (4) ...E-Eddie Murphy?

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BY SAMUEL PROVOST-WALKER MUSIC EDITOR “Break up.” “Indefinite hiatus.” Whenever a band announces these words, there’s always a degree of skepticism in regards to their finality. Whatever the reasoning for the split, people change, as do their decisions. While the prospect of a band reuniting can be exciting, it’s important to remain rational and realistic; these things rarely go all that well, as history has showcased time and time again (see Pixies, the Axl Rose-led Guns ‘N’ Roses, Smashing Pumpkins, etc.). With that said, here are a few reunions and returns we’re cautiously excited about.

LCD SOUNDSYSTEM Few bands have gone out with a bang quite as large as LCD Soundsystem; following the release of 2010’s This Is Happening, creative brainchild James Murphy set the gears in motion for the band’s closure, culminating in a grandiose, nearly four-hour-long concert at Madison Square Garden. Its finality couldn’t be stressed any more, a documentary chronicling the days leading up to the show being released shortly after the event itself.

And yet here we are, less than five years later, with LCD Soundsystem set to headline a slew of summer festivals and a new album in the pipeline.

Though it’s easy to look at this cynically and assume that Murphy is pulling a “get rich quick” lever, his projects in the interim period not exactly filling up the space left behind by his former band, this doesn’t seem probable. Having produced Arcade Fire’s hugely successful 2013 release Reflektor and collaborated with David

Bowie, the man wasn’t struggling for high profile work. Murphy has always been upfront with his fervent fanbase and this is no different, offering a sincere apology to those who traveled for their first final show. That being said, the prospect of a new album is a potentially disconcerting one, though only time will tell. It’s all still a blur of equal parts confusion and excitement, mostly due to the fact that it’s been so little time; most people haven’t even had time to miss them.

AT THE DRIVE-IN Though angst-ridden punk rock can be timeless, some things are better left in the past. Take At the Drive-In, the seminal post-hardcore band and the seeds to spastic prog band The Mars Volta, for example; following the latter’s dissolution, the band briefly returned to the stage in 2012 to a generally middling reception. Relationship of Command, an angsty post-hardcore masterstroke, has only become more adulated with time, its prog-rock inflected song structures breathing new life into its nervy, teenage narrative. While known for their live-wire performances, the reunion found lead guitarist Omar Rodrigez-Lopez disconnected, affected by the recent passing of his mother as well as his growing disenchantment with At the Drive-In and the bad memories within. Rodriguez-Lopez even went on record at the time, ruling out the possibility of new material in an interview with NME. So what happened? Maybe singer Cedric Bixler-Zavala and Rodriguez-Lopez’s latest project Antemasque brought them closer than ever. Perhaps the rest of the band feels musically rejuvenated. Maybe it’s just a big paycheck. Who knows.

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Twenty five years and almost a dozen albums later, Tindersticks have released The Waiting Room. Sonically, the British chamber-pop group’s latest record is more diverse than their recent work; “Second Chance Man” features jazzy moments overlapped with calm, distorted vocals and soft cymbals. On “We Were Once Lovers,” the bass leads angst-ridden lyrics, while “Hey Lucinda” is a web of dreamy xylophone and wind instruments. Though The Waiting Room is boldly cinematic with its orchestral arrangements, Tindersticks manage to seamlessly weave in moments of electronic instrumentation without disrupting the album’s disposition.

Trial track: “Hey Lucinda”

7/10

— Jessica Romera

One thing’s for sure; you can expect a new At the Drive-In album in the coming year, whether you want it or not. Here’s hoping they fare better than Refused!

LUSH With the resurgence of noise pop sonic aesthetics, the 2010s have been a particularly fruitful decade for bands occupying the more adventurous corners of ‘90s alt rock. Shoegaze in particular has experienced a boom, its pedal-clicking hisses and dissonance finding their way into other, completely disparate genres (see black metal bands Alcest and Deafheaven).

With this resurgence of course came reunions from just about every founding pillar; Dublin’s My Bloody Valentine, Berkshire’s Slowdive and Oxfordshire’s Ride are all back in action. Though tragedy unfortunately put an end to London shoegaze act Lush, with drummer Chris Acland taking his own life in 1996, the band appear ready to return to the stage for the first time in 20 years. While the long-term plan for this reunion hasn’t been officially disclosed, a couple of London concerts have been scheduled and sold out, with North American dates planned in the near future. Time can certainly be cruel towards a band’s significance; in Lush’s case, time hasn’t caught up to them just yet, as reflected by today’s indie rock scene.

EDDIE MURPHY Really, the return we NEED. I want it.

You want it. We can all agree “Red Light” was a bonafide banger and “Party All the Time” a moody masterpiece. What’s the hold up, Eddie? We’re waiting!

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SAVAGES

Adore Life (Matador, 2016)

Adore Life isn’t an ode to love tropes; it’s a vindictive onslaught of anti-love anthems—“If you don’t love me, don’t love anybody,” declares Jenny Beth. Less cavernous than their previous outing, Savages have beefedup their chicken-wire guitars into a sound that’s distinctly crunchy. This artistic alteration isn’t presented in black and white; it reverberates across, careening back into Beth’s infectious choruses and concludes with the force of a sledgehammer.

While the record runs into dull moments, Adore Life doesn’t dilute Savages’ artistic transformation. They’ve turned their frenetic, noise imbued despondency into confidence—a chaotic gradation of firmly held conviction that’s strangely inviting.

Trial track: “The Answer”

7/10

— Calvin Cashen

FEBRUARY 2, 2016

theconcordian

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RECOMMENDATIONS

MORE LIKE THIS

A beginner’s guide to RUSSIAN POP STARS

http://theconcordian.com/ ?s=Quickspins

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(1) The eccentric Glukoza (2) The sultry VIA Gra (3) Godfather of R-Pop Philipp Kirkorov (4) Pop outfit Korni

3

DIIV

Is The Is Are (Captured Tracks, 2016)

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Zachary Cole Smith has settled comfortably into his refined dreampop sound and this both pushes and limits Is The Is Are. If this album was shorter, it’d be a spiritual escape into Smith’s heavy and dark melodies played by light, reverb and delay-soaked guitars. However, Is The Is Are is too indulgent; the album drones on for 17 songs that all sound similar. “Dopamine” serves as a catchy gem in an album without a clear progression. Each song is individually solid however: “Mire (Grant’s Song)” is another standout tune where Smith nails that dreamy, dark confusion he’s become known for. Even if Is The Is Are doesn’t explore new creative paths, it features enough to be worth a trip.

Trial track: “Dopamine”

7/10

— Mia Pearson

ANDERSON .PAA

K

Malibu (Steel Wool, 2016)

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Anderson .Paak’s Malibu is what Miguel’s tepid Wildheart was striving so desperately to be; raucous, personal and sexy with charisma to spare. Following up on his eye-opening turn on Dr. Dre’s Compton, the California-born singer effortlessly lays his raspy vocals over a vivid backdrop of colourful sounds both new and old.

As varied as much of the production on Malibu is, it’s .Paak’s playful, charismatic demeanor that truly brings everything to life; singing and rapping his way through innuendo-laced imagery, he recalls Kendrick Lamar at his most charming. Unapologetically funky and sexually charged, Malibu is a confident potpourri of soul sounds and a star-making release from Anderson .Paak.

Trial track: “Am I Wrong”

8/10 — Samuel Provost-Walker

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BY ERDENE BATZORIG CONTRIBUTOR

and Masha Rasputina’s “Roza chainaya” and VIA Gra and Valerie Meladze’s “Pritiazhen’ja Bol’she Net”.

Though the Cyrillic alphabet may be bit difficult to follow and decipher, music-lovers should still dive into Youtube to check out the following Russian pop artists:

The Russian pop genre is pure entertainment, but it isn’t on the radars of many music lovers. For people wanting to get into it, a recommended starting era would be the golden age of R-pop: the early ‘00s.

POP STARS For one, don’t expect James Blake-like nuances or other alternative elements in the mix. This is mainstream pop music. It’s FABRIKA music you can dance to, pure and simple, This girl group reigned supreme in the tailor-made for slumber genre after their release of parties. Their entertainment Девушки фабричные, or This is industry reveals a lot about Factory Girls in 2003. The the Russian culture at the group was formed through mainstream time. a singing competition simpop music. It’s Since it was still a tranilar to American Idol called music you can sitioning period, you can Star Factory. Although they dance to, pure see both leftover tradilost to the band Korni, they and simple, tions and new styles comnonetheless went on to tailor-made for ing into play. Beautiful girls achieve great success. slumber parties. would come up on a huge stage, often in skimpy outKORNI fits and perform in front The crowned winners of hundreds of seated people. The cam- of Star Factory’s first season, this pop era would dolly over the crowd, showing group’s beautiful lyrics are what truly deoff these very ordinary and calm people fine them. clapping and enjoying the energetic music from their seats. Though they were VIA GRA very rigidly and neatly organized, not all This group is a prime example of the performances were alike. sex appeal mentioned earlier. Their music The early ‘00s brand of pop was very is very suggestive, as evidenced by their dramatic and theatrical. It was very sen- name. Though an intentional reference, sual and sexual. In fact, sex appeal was their name does not simply mean Viagra; absolutely paramount. instead, the first three letters serve as an When watching the music videos of acronym for “vocal-instrumental ensemthe era, gratuitous close-ups are every- ble” in Ukrainian. where, wind blowing seductively through the singer’s hair. These are usually acPHILIPP KIRKOROV companied by some new, untested dancHe is a legend of the genre. His career, es too, though these are mostly made up spanning upwards of 30 years, has provof swaying rather than actual moves. en that the man is simply unstoppable.

Russian pop also uses duet songs to In many people’s eyes, he is seen as the convey an intimate dialogue between two godfather of R-pop. singers. Good examples of this are Irina Toneva (of Fabrika fame) and Pavel ArALLA PUGACHEVA temyev’s “Ponimaesh”, Philipp Kirkorov Her hit song “Million Roses,” a song

originally composed by Latvian composer Raimonds Pauls and since immortalized

by Pugacheva, is among the most famous Russian songs in the genre’s rich history.

She is truly an icon, her voice as gentle as it is powerful.

NIKITA MALININ A heartthrob of the genre, his song “Kotenok” swayed and broke the hearts of many Russian girls.

GLUKOZA Finally, there’s Glukoza. Simply put, Glukoza was Sia before Sia was Sia. When Glukoza first debuted, no one knew who she was or what she looked like. Her music videos featured a computerized version of herself going about with her two faithful dobermans, often doing various awesome things in the process.

She did not achieve success after her initial debut but in 2003, Glukoza rose to fame with her song “Nevesta.” At the time, she was very different from all the female artists in the genre; unlike other pop stars like VIA Gra, she didn’t rely on her sexuality to promote her music. Her music was a mix of pop hits and empowering anthems. She was spunky and had an appealing boyish charm, ensuring her enduring status as an idol.

Her song, “Sneg Idet” is a particularly powerful love song. Though some of the poetry may be lost in translation, its lyrics are still effective: “And it is snowing, and it is snowing, It is beating on my cheeks.

I am very ill, I have a fever, I am standing and waiting for you like a fool.”

In short, Russian music is perfect for those fun, drunken nights, especially for singing in comradery. Put your arms around each other, sing off-key, feel the love and the vodka flowing and you will find yourselves harmonizing out of nowhere. It’s bizarrely beautiful.

sports

SPORTS EDITOR /// sports@theconcordian.com ALEXANDER COLE ( @a_cole39)

EQUESTRIAN

Equestrian: much more than just sitting around A spotlight on an overlooked yet fascinating and compelling sport

BY BRIANNA BALLARD STAFF WRITER

The addition of a horse as a teammate adds a different dynamic that other athletes can never experience.

itably, riders develop very strong bonds with these animals.

The biggest criticism I’ve faced with the sport is that many people think it isn’t one. It’s been said that the athletes “just sit there” or “the horse does all the work,” to name a few common jabs. Mostly, these comments come

Graphic by Florence Yee.

How many athletes can say that their teammate is a 700 kilogram animal?

Equestrians face unique challenges, but they also take part in one of the oldest and most traditional sports out there. According to Discover Magazine, humans have been riding horses since nearly 3000 BC, and since the year 1900 equestrian has been considered an Olympic sport. It’s also one of the few Olympic sports where men and women compete together.

There are three equestrian events in the Olympics: dressage, show jumping and eventing. Dressage involves the showcasing of various movements that can only be attained through intense physical training on the part of both the animal and the rider. Similar to figure skating, the routine is judged. In show jumping, the athletes are timed over a series of obstacles reaching heights of 1.6 metres and widths of two metres. Faults are incurred by knocking down obstacles, refusing an obstacle, or going over the time allowed. Eventing combines dressage, show jumping and cross-country, which involves jumping over fixed, natural obstacles made of stone walls, logs and water and ditches

in a three-day event.

As an equestrian, I can say that competitive riders are like any other athlete; they train with a coach, sometimes up to six days a week, and have intense schedules that are both physically and mentally demanding. But the addition of a horse as a teammate adds a different dynamic that other athletes can never experience. The horse is just as much of an athlete as the rider, and it’s the rider’s responsibility to maintain the fitness and health of the horse. Inev-

from people who have never ridden a horse (riding one on a beach during a family vacation in Cuba that one time doesn’t count). Riding a horse takes enormous physical strength, and that strength has to be precise.

When someone is on their back, horses can feel everything; every tiny muscle movement, every breath the rider takes and every shift of their body weight, meaning that the rider has to have complete control of every muscle in their body. It also becomes the rider’s job to balance the animal properly—an animal weighing 700 kilograms, as you remember.

Riders communicate with their horse through their legs, and balance themselves through their back and core muscles. They have very good endurance, often training on horseback for hours at a time; even when standing still, being on a horse works the rider’s muscles, as they are in constant tension to keep the rider balanced.

While it is a difficult sport, it is also a dangerous one. According to TIME, equestrian eventing is one of the most dangerous Olympic sports in the world, with over 12 deaths reported in just a year and a half between 2007 and 2008.

Regardless of the danger or the difficulty, horses are beautiful animals and incredible teammates. Equestrian sports may not be well known, but the sport is one of the most unique and most rewarding ones out there. Working with an animal in that way is something that teaches patience, discipline, athleticism and sportsmanship in a way that you can’t find anywhere else, in any other sport.

SARAH & THE HABS

Habs tickets: does the performance justify the price With the team’s recent losing streak, some believe the organization is charging too much for tickets

BY SARAH KOSSITS STAFF WRITER

Graphic by Charlotte Bracho.

Hockey fans in Montreal live with the fact that to see their team live, they have to pay a small fortune.

The price difference from arena to arena around the league can be a little absurd. At the start of this season, I paid $100 to see the Habs

play the Blackhawks during a pre-season game. I also paid $17 to see the Blackhawks play in Ottawa in December.

Growing up, hockey games were a luxury that I would get once a year as a gift from my parents. I valued that night like no other. I would even go to sleep those nights with visions of hockey players skating in my head, win or lose.

Now that I’m older and have a job that allows me to support my own hockey addiction, I see five or six games per season. I estimate that I spend about $700 per year on Habs tickets.

Some fans who are upset with the team’s slump have expressed on social media that they want refunds for their tickets. In my opinion, the people arguing for their money back aren’t

true Habs fans.

It’s very hard to get tickets to a Canadiens game as most of the tickets sell out in minutes. Fans sit anxiously around their computers in hopes of being lucky enough to snatch a pair and, when they do, they accept the price and hit the “buy” button. At the time, it’s a fair trade. They put down the money and they get to see their team play.

When you buy a ticket, you take a risk. Your team might not win. They might not even score a goal. You might spend $300 to watch them lose 5-0. As a fan, you know and acknowledge this risk at the time of purchase.

Fans in Montreal are passionate about their team and like to see them win. The team rarely goes on losing streaks such as the one they are currently on, and the fans demanding refunds are just mad at themselves for spending so much money on a loss.

Real fans buy a ticket, go to the game and cheer on their team in hopes that they get a win. They will continue to support their team through hard times.

I understand being frustrated, but asking for a refund is ridiculous. They’re still watching some of the best hockey players in the world play live. Instead of complaining, they should embrace that experience.

For those who absolutely refuse to pay so much for a hockey MORE LIKE THIS game, there’s good news theconcordian.com/ for you: you author/s_kossits/ can still see professional hockey for cheap in Montreal. Les Canadiennes, Montreal’s professional women’s hockey team, sells their tickets for under $20. Arguably as talented as their male counterparts, these women do not get paid a salary despite the revenue generated from thousands of ticket sales. Many of them work other jobs and play the sport simply because they love it. I urge you to give them a chance— they deserve so much more attention than they receive.

After all, you’ll be saving money.

FEBRUARY 2, 2016

theconcordian PORT

S

The rise of competitive video gaming

S

eSPORTS

13

in the news

BY JEFFREY MUNTU

A look at eSports and their place among mainstream athletics

WIDEMAN SUSPENDED R INDEFINITELY FO AN M ES N LI G IN HITT According to NBC, Calgary Flames defenseman Dennis Wideman has been suspended indefinitely by the NHL and will undergo a hearing after the All-Star weekend.

Wideman, a Kitchener, O.N. native, hit a linesman from behind while going back to his team’s bench after being hit by another player.

Wideman claimed it to be “completely unintentional” and apologized to linesman Don Henderson. The mishap could cost him a suspension of up to 10 games. Wideman, a 10-year NHL veteran, has two goals and 17 assists in 48 games for the Flames this year, according to nhl.com. This could be a tough loss for an already struggling Calgary team that occupies the sixth and second to last place in the Pacific Division.

S RAONIC SUFFER SS LO AL SEMI-FIN IN MELBOURNE

BY ALEXANDER COLE SPORTS EDITOR

S

ince the 1970s, video games have been a huge source of entertainment for people all around the world. Whether it be through Atari, the very first Nintendo or even newer consoles like the Xbox One and Playstation 4, there are people who have experienced hundreds of hours of entertainment because of video gaming.

The invention of multiplayer games began a new era in video gaming—an era where competitiveness and beating your friends was what video games were all about. Games like Super Smash Brothers and Quake were just the beginning when it came to this new video game genre.

When the next generation of consoles came out and multiplayer services such as Steam and Xbox Live hit the market, competitive gaming exploded.

Today, leagues like the Halo World Championship and Electronic Sports League are home to competitive gaming, or eSports. According to Sitting Eagle, an eSports gaming clan, the most popular eSports video games are League of Legends, DOTA 2 and Counterstrike: Global Offensive.

In a report published on eurogamer.net, it was revealed that in 2014 there were 89 million eSports enthusiasts around the world. These numbers are significant when considering that across the globe, there are 94 million people who watch hockey. According to the same study, by 2017, it is projected that there will be 145 million people who watch eSports, which is just 6 million shy of those who watch American football.

Between 2012 and 2014, the popularity of eSports almost doubled.

This past year, eSports gained even more mainstream attention as RDS dedicated a whole week in December to League of Legends and Starcraft 2 matches. Also, in the month of January, ESPN launched a dedicated eSports section on its website that features highlights and news

from the world of competitive gaming. to frequent the gym in order to strengthStudents at Concordia University have en their minds for repetitive tasks, ultiembraced the culture of eSports, with the mately furthering the notion of athletiformation of the Concordia eSports As- cism amongst gamers. sociation (CESA). The group currently has While many who participate in the sport over 1,000 likes on Facebook and was consider and treat themselves as athletes, formed during the Fall semester of 2012. some people aren’t convinced that video Its members compete regularly against gaming can be considered as a real sport. schools in the United States such as New “They’re not real sports, they are York University, California Tech and the games,” Concordia journalism student University of Georgia. The group plays Theo Kyres said. “There is no physical acgames such as Counterstrike, League of tivity involved except for moving your finLegends and Hearthstone. gers. I think there is no denying the comVice president of finance for CESA petition aspect. So many people watch it Dimitri Kontogiannos said the group has but I can’t call it a sport.” become quite popular among students.

In an interview with redbull.com, former “The Concordia eSports Association NFL punter Chris Kluwe came out as an adgets a lot of interest from students who vocate for eSports and its competitors. have a general passion for games,” Kon“I think [eSports are] just as much a togiannos said. “While there are varying sport as football and baseball,” Kluwe said. degrees of competitiveness and differ- “You have to dedicate a large portion of ent fan bases for different games, it gives your life to becoming good at it. You need a lot of students the opportunity to ex- to have reflexes, you need to have handchange ideas, discuss and play with oth- eye coordination. You have to be able to ers who share their interests.” react quickly to a changing situation.”

Those who compete on eSports Despite being a part of the culture, teams are treated and considered as Kontagiannos isn’t convinced that eSathletes. According to a report by Sports ports and sports are of the same breed.

Illustrated, Robert Morris University Il“Competitive games have a similar linois has their own League of Legends structure and infrastructure to sports but team that offers partial athletic scholar- are a sort of a genre [in themselves],” said ships. The same report by Sports Illus- Kontagiannos. “While elite players spend trated revealed that some eSports ath- thousands of hours practicing, they do not letes retire due to chronic wrist and hand require the physical prowess of an athlete.” pain. Furthermore, teams However, Kontagiannos even work with physical said competitive gamers “While elite trainers in order to mainstill have to demonstrate players spend tain good posture during athletic ability such as thousands of matches. quick reaction time and hours practicIt takes many hours of quick decision making in ing, they do practice to get really good order to be successful. at these games, according On Feb. 20, CESA will be not require the to Kontagiannos. hosting a tournament that physical prowess “It’s quite frequent for will feature schools such as of an athlete.” an average League of LegMcGill University and UniDIMITRI KONTOGIANNOS ends player to log over versité de Montréal. Any 2,000 hours a year playConcordia student is aling [League of Legends] on top of their lowed to compete or just come watch and already charged practice schedule and experience what eSports are all about. competitive matches,” said Kontagiannos.

Graphic by Florence Yee. Kontagiannos said some gamers like

In an exciting match, Canadian tennis star Milos Raonic was unable to become the first Canadian man to reach the finals of a Grand Slam tournament. The match went to the limit of five sets, with each set ending: 4-6, 7-5, 6-7, 6-4, 6-2. Andy Murray, the No. 2 seeded player in the world, was able to capitalize off of Raonic’s mistakes in order to come back and win the match.

After going up two sets to one, Raonic went to the locker room for treatments on his right leg. He came back a few minutes after but was never able to re-establish his fast serve or move fluidly on the court. It cost him the win and he even described the loss as one of the most heartbreaking moments he has had while playing tennis, according to TSN. Andy Murray went on to play Novak Djokovic in the finals, and Djokovic won the match.

MORE TROUBLE FOR JOHNNY MANZIEL The former Heisman trophy winner and first-round draft pick of the Cleveland Browns is continuing to make noise for his off-the-field antics. According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Manziel was investigated following an alleged assault on an unknown female Saturday morning. The Cleveland Browns quarterback was not arrested when the Fort Worth Police arrived on the scene as they deemed the woman in question as “not cooperative.”

According to ESPN, NFL spokesperson Greg Aiello said the league is aware of the situation and is currently looking into it. Manziel and the Browns have yet to make a statement regarding the incident. According to USA Today, this isn’t Manziel’s first time being investigated for assault, as in October of 2015, Manziel was questioned after witnesses saw him get into a physical altercation with his girlfriend.

opinions OPINIONS EDITOR /// opinions@theconcordian.com DAVID EASEY

EDITORIAL

W

hat has ASFA accomplished in what may well turn into its last year of existence?

Should we talk about the Mei-Ling sexual harassment case peppered with sexist and racist slurs that was settled recently? Should we reminisce about Frosh (which we now have to call Launch Week), which reportedly cost over $80,000 for a select few froshies—sorry, launchies—while the rest of the federation looked on in sad exclusion. Or should we dabble in the conversations of consistently over-budget events, the revolving door of executives who tend to quit mid-council meeting, or about the alleged misuse of ASFA funds for personal gain, as ASFA reported in its own proposal to reform itself?

Sure, ASFA has been known to throw the occasional wine and cheese event, or to hand money out to its member associations to throw food and various types of goodies at students. But when was the last time

Out with the old ASFA, in with the new the positive news outweighed the bad news coming out of the student federation?

It’s not that we here at The Concordian have been ignoring it.

It simply doesn’t exist. There aren’t any positive things to report on. New execs come in, promising change and a better and brighter future, only to get bogged down with the ongoing issues and quickly lose steam, positivity, and willingness to try and turn that ship around. After all, there is only so much you can do when the vessel is already half-sunk.

Which brings into question the usefulness of ASFA. After all, what crime has the organization not been found guilty of?

As academic terms come and go, leadership changes hands again and again, and yet ASFA’s list of infractions only grows. It’s not a question of nuts and bolts or errant bad apples anymore: something has set into the bones, and it’s permeated the very structure of the association as a whole. Something

smells, and students are bound to be getting tired of that funk.

After all, these are not petty crimes.

While there can be little denying that there is a toxic culture within the organization itself, it was clearly given a ripe environment to grow.

Fortunately, ASFA is finally working on ways to actually systematically change itself rather than hoping the incoming executives— this time surely—will really be able to make a difference.

This week, ASFA passed a motion asking its lawyers to draft bylaws for a new ASFA: one whose role is grounded in financials and support for more independent member associations, and it is a step they should be applauded for.

But it is only the first step of many: those associations still have to discuss with their constituents, and then vote on whether or not the bylaws should be put to a referendum, and if so, it then has to make quorum and actually pass. Already associations are showing their lack of faith in ASFA to do any

more than continue to downwards spiral, such as the Political Science Students Association, who last week voted to become independent from ASFA. Maybe ASFA’s lawyers will be able to draft a new federation which will rise from the ashes like the phoenix it dreams of being.

However, all of this hinges on the bylaws that are drafted being acceptable.

Not everyone agreed that ASFA needs a page-one rewrite. After all, it’s easier to try to change something than it is to build from scratch, right?

But that’s exactly what ASFA needs: a complete overhaul, likely from scratch, to rework and remake the federation. Only then can we—the Concordia community—be sure that something will change.

Maybe ASFA will be able to be like its asfa.ca website. Deleted, only to (one day) return better than ever.

We are done airing out ASFA’s dirty laundry: it’s time to throw it out. All of it. And rebuild.

SOCIETY

Men just want to throw some dresses on Jaden Smith is ushering in a new era of fashion where men wear skirts and mesh tanks

BY SARA CAPANNA CONTRIBUTOR

Graphic by Thom Bell.

An important change is taking place in the world of fashion: the movement towards a more androgynous state. I for one am absolutely ecstatic that fashion is moving towards this new direction and how this androgyny is becoming more mainstream.

One of the conveyors of this change is none other than Jaden Smith, who recently became the new face of Louis Vuitton.

Posing in a stunning skirt and a mesh top alongside female models, the son of Will Smith makes a bold statement as the new face of a womenswear collection.

Smith, who has previously delved into acting and music, has become something of a social media phenomenon over the past year. He’s previously been photographed wearing skirts and has been blurring the lines of fashion and gender in the process.

Whether you care to admit it or not, fashion plays an integral role in society; for better or worse, that is for you to decide. Besides giving us a means to clothe ourselves, the fashion industry gives people an opportunity to express themselves daily.

However, fashion has also been used as a means to divide society, whether through class, wealth and most prominently, gender. It has been ingrained with-

in us that women wear dresses and skirts that represent femininity, while men are confined to the traditional suit and tie that exemplifies the rigidity of a gender divided fashion industry.

This was the case until the later part of the 20th century. With the rise of thirdwave feminism and queer theory, members of society have begun to realize just

how rigid the gender construct is, and how the non-binary is just as valid an identity.

But what do others think of this change? I decided to talk to my fellow Concordians to see what they thought.

Creative writing student Danielle Eyer weighed in and said fashion was separating itself from gender.

“We say ‘dresses’ rather than women’s

clothes, because it is perfectly acceptable for a person of any gender, meaning female, male, or someone not ascribing to the gender binary, to wear a dress or other traditionally ‘feminine’ clothes,” Eyer said.

“We are moving toward a world in which clothing has no gender, which absolutely has its rewards,.” she said.

Fellow English literature student Bronwyn Haney chimed in and agreed, but has her concerns about how this movement will be taken advantage of.

“I worry that men will once again be able to use this as an exercise of privilege, as in by wearing something feminine and having no repercussions,” Haney said. “A woman is judged heavily on her appearance, dress size, choice of clothing, and it often leads to greater social issues.”

She also worries about its effect on trans people. “It will take away a sense of power given to trans women in being able to affirm their identity in the early stages of transition,” said Haney.

But she does think that this could be used to “protect trans women from abuse.”

Fashion channeled through clothing is a pivotal part of personal expression. If people—especially teenagers and young adults—are granted the freedom to wear what makes them feel most comfortable and in touch with themselves without scrutiny or judgment, I am positive it will do wonders for their self-esteem and image.

FEBRUARY 2, 2016

theconcordian

15

POP CULTURE

Diversity wasn’t in Hollywood to start with The Academy Awards feature an all white ensemble again, but are the Oscars really to blame?

BY ELIJAH BUKREEV CO-ARTS EDITOR For another consecutive year, the Oscars are being reprimanded for the lack of diversity in the acting categories. This time, the crowd behind the #OscarsSoWhite hashtag has grown much louder, with just about everyone who is anyone in Hollywood commenting on the issue amidst talks of boycotts and abrupt changes in the Academy’s rules.

It’s easy to side with protesters and see an injustice here, but is this furor worth your time at all?

The answer is, hardly so. Because, in the end, who has been most vocal about boycotting this Oscar ceremony? None other than Jada Pinkett Smith and Spike Lee, both of whom have a dog in this fight, so to speak. Pinkett Smith’s husband, Will Smith, was the star of Oscar contender Concussion, while Spike Lee directed Chiraq. Neither film ended up being nominated. I can’t be the only one made uncomfortable by the fact that both Pinkett Smith, who was nowhere to be found during last year’s controversy, and Lee are speaking out, as both of them have a personal interest in the Oscar race.

The outrage is made even more absurd by the fact that the Academy has awarded many black actors over the years, with Hattie McDaniel winning an Oscar as early as 1940, at a time of actual racial segregation, and 12 Years a Slave winning Best Picture as recently as 2014.

When a film or a performance stands out and has all the ingredients that make it an awards contender, the Academy is known to take notice.

Year after year, once nominations are announced in the month of January, there’s just as much talk about who made the cut than about who didn’t.

With only five spots to fill in most categories, and many more contenders, perceived snubs are bound to happen. How do you objectively measure the worth of

an acting performance, or even of a film as a whole? Any critical evaluation is subjective to the person who formulates it.

There’s no math in deciding who gave the best acting performance—any such opinion is arbitrary.

The Academy has decided that the best performances of the last two years have been given by white people. That is a defendable opinion, which no one should have to apologize for. Can you name an actor of colour who you find deserving of a nomination for a 2014 film?

David Oyelowo comes to mind for his role in Selma, and… no one else. What about 2015? Concussion suffered from mixed reviews, while Straight Outta Compton and Creed lacked the prestige to make it into most categories. Idris Elba was the most obvious snub, but Beasts of No Nation was a Netflix production, likely ignored for that reason.

Which is not to say that Hollywood does not have a racial unbalance. It clearly does. Not enough roles are written for actors of colour, not enough minorities are cast in race-neutral roles. Not nearly enough female and ethnic minority directors get to make films that would speak for them. But to criticize the Academy for not nominating films that barely exist in the first place, and to blame that on the racism of its members, is simply dishonest and libelous.

The Academy has now decided to review its rules by disqualifying voters who are inactive in the industry and vowing to include more minority voters for diversity’s sake. What message does that send?

These changes, made abruptly with no investigation and only in response to a public outrage, should be taken as an insult to Academy members, who come across not as a whole body of professionals, but as a bunch of segregated communities. The assumption that each member will only vote for people of their own background is in itself a sign of prejudice, and an affront to these people’s profes-

sionalism. One change the Academy still has to make is actually requiring its voters to see the very films they vote for.

At the end of the day, there’s nothing academic about an Academy that turns itself into a crowd-pleasing show, that elects to disregard artistry in order to make a cheap political point. While

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this overblown controversy has gotten so much coverage, how many of you have heard of the events in Flint, MI, a majority African-American city that has found its water contaminated with lead? Now that’s a story worth investing your energy in.

Graphic by Florence Yee.

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theconcordian TINDER OF THE GODS

Photos of the week @JONCARLING Jon Carling’s illustrations are reminiscent of notebook sketches but also transport us to a fantasy realm which are inspired by his childhood. This Oakland-based artist has been drawing for years and rarely uses a splash of colour.

PHOTO BY SPACEBAHR.

ZEUS

Alpha male · Jock who rarely attends class · Founded a Greek fraternity here on campus · Always at Le Gym working on those abs · May have fathered multiple children · En/Fr/Ancient Greek

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