Thursday, September 6, 2018
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NEWS: A look at the MSU board of directors’ progress so far // PAGE 4-5 ARTS & CULTURE: Local collective throws first ever Black Hair Brunch // PAGE 13 SPORTS: McMaster Football debuts fresh faces // PAGE 14-15
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Thursday, September 6, 2018 McMaster University’s Student Newspaper
LOOKING BACK
EDITORIAL BOARD
September 23, 1955
editor-in-chief | thesil@thesil.ca Emily O’Rourke @emily_oro digital media specialist | dms@msu.mcmaster.ca Aaron de Jesus managing editor | managing@thesil.ca Sasha Dhesi @SashaDhesi production editor | production@thesil.ca Hamza Furmli online editor | online@thesil.ca Yvonne Lu sections
Cassidy Bereskin news reporter Ryan Forrest Tse news@thesil.ca news editor
features reporter
Hannah Walters Vida
features@thesil.ca opinion editor
TBA
opinion@thesil.ca
Justin Parker Jessica Carmichael sports@thesil.ca
sports editor sports reporter
arts arts
& culture editor Razan Samara & culture reporter Rya Buckley aandc@thesil.ca media
Kyle West Catherine Goce production coordinator Sukaina Imam production coordinator Sabrina Lin production@thesil.ca photo editor
photo reporter
Sasha Roshan Martin Burwell online@thesil.ca
video editor
social media coordinator
COVER PHOTO [Brian Zheng]
CONTACT
LEGAL
MUSC, Room B110 McMaster University 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4S4
The Silhouette welcomes letters to the editor in person at MUSC B110, or by email at thesil@thesil.ca. Please include name, address and telephone number for verification only. Letters should be 300 words or less. We reserve the right to edit, condense or reject letters and opinion articles. Opinions and editorials expressed in the Silhouette are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial board, the publishers, the McMaster Students Union or the University. The Silhouette is an editorially autonomous newspaper published by the McMaster Students Union. The Silhouette Board of Publications acts as an intermediary between the editorial board, the McMaster community and the McMaster Students Union. Grievances regarding the Silhouette may be forwarded in writing to: McMaster Students Union, McMaster University Student Centre, Room 201, L8S 4S4, Attn: The Silhouette Board of Publications. The Board will consider all submissions and make recommendations accordingly.
Editor-in-Chief (905) 525-9140, ext 22052 Main Office (905) 525-9140, ext 27117 Advertising ccpc@mcmaster.ca 8,000 circulation published by the
Not so Welcome Week Welcome Week looked a lot different back in 1955. There was a pretty extensive debate about the issues of initiation. The Sil published two personal opinions of the question of initiation, which the Students’ Council reviewed later on.
WELCOME BACK,
MARAUDERS! It’s good to see you again.
www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Sep. 6, 2018
The Silhouette
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News Mac Saudi students to leave by Sept. 22 The university remains unclear and pessimistic about its ability to help keep affected students in Canada Cassidy Bereskin News Editor
In the wake of a diplomatic dispute that broke out between Canada and Saudi Arabia last month, the Saudi government cut funding from students at Canadian post-secondary institutions, including McMaster University. While the university has offered to support affected students, it is unclear what this assistance entails and how much it is actually alleviating the situation. McMaster has just under 200 Saudi students, with roughly 150 enrolled in the faculty of health sciences and 40 in other programs. The students who have been particularly affected are those studying in Canada via the King Abdullah Scholarship, a government program that funds students’ tuition, medical insurance, living costs and airfare. Medical residents are in a safer spot, temporarily being allowed to remain in Canada until they find arrangements outside of the country. However, many students are still being forced to leave by Sept. 22. “McMaster University is working to provide assistance to students following the sudden announcement made by Saudi Arabia over the weekend,” read part of a statement released by McMaster Daily News on Aug. 7. “Students who may be impacted by this change may reach out to the office of international student services or the faculty of health sciences.” Despite the university’s call for students to seek out support from the institution, Sean Van Koughnett, the associate vice president (Students and Learning) and dean of students, did not offer specific information when asked what forms of assistance McMaster can provide. “I tell students that the best thing to do is to come up with
some sort of plan if possible with their faculty to see what can be done to help students in this situation,” said Ana Pereira, the ISS international students program administrator. However, Pereira was unable to share details regarding the specific forms of support ISS can offer, citing the sensitive nature of the subject and the distinctions in individual cases.
“For instance, while a Saudi student may obtain a leave of absence from the university, they could only do so if the Saudi government greenlights it.” The university’s lack of clarity about its capacity, according to Andrea Farquhar, the assistant vice president of communications and public affairs at McMaster, stems from its limited scope. For instance, while a Saudi student may obtain a leave of absence from the university, they could only do so if the Saudi government greenlights it. In essence, the Saudi government has more control over students’ futures than the university does. However, the McMaster Daily News article does not highlight the university’s lack of control over the situation. Khizar Siddiqui, a second-year engineering student at McMaster, came to Canada after studying in Saudi Arabia his whole life. It was only a day before he was supposed to fly to campus when the Saudi government suspended flights between the countries.
McMaster Saudi students ‘ government funding was cut on Aug. 31. They are exected to leave by the end of the month. SILHOUETTE PHOTO ARCHIVES
Although Siddiqui came to McMaster as a private student, not tied to funding from the government, he remains concerned that if diplomatic relations continue to sour, he will not be able to stay much longer. “The university has encouraged students to ask for help if they need it. However, It would be convenient if students were told what kind of assistance the university is actually able to provide so we could be aware of all our options on how to act,” said Siddiqui. “If Mac is offering help to Saudi Arabian students, I
think they should do a better job of advertising their services.” Siddiqui also believes that the university should be creating scholarships for international students, particularly those whose funding could be stripped as a result of diplomatic strains. Currently, international students at McMaster are not eligible for government loan services such as the Ontario Student Assistance Program and only qualify for the McMaster general bursary and merit-based scholarships. “If diplomatic matters were
to escalate between the two countries and Saudi Arabia were to call its citizens back from Canada, there’s not much that could help me stay in Canada,” said Siddiqui. Amid the diplomatic fallout and the university’s lack of clarity and control, many Saudi students remain less hopeful about a future in Canada.
@cassidybereskin
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NEWS
Thursday, Sept. 6, 2018 | www.thesil.ca
New Year, New Plans President Farah is the McMaster Student Union’s head spokesperson. She oversees the executive board, board of directors and the presidents’ council. While settling into her new role, over the summer, Farah presented a comprehensive year plan encompassing a number of objectives. The document outlines 23 objectives, focused on several key areas, including international student support, food on campus, exam scheduling and MSAFs, campus space and lighting and commuter support. Farah was successful in implementing extended GO Transit hours during Welcome Week. Extended service for the 15A and 47 eastbound Go buses will continue throughout the
year. In September, Farah will turn her attention to increasing lighting on and off campus and well as supporting the Caring Communities Network. A tax-free-Tuesday pilot project will be introduced in November, in what will hopefully be a step towards providing more affordable food options for students. The long term feasibility of the program will be assessed after the pilot month ends. During the rest of the year, Farah will work to change the current examination policy so that two exams in one day will qualify as grounds for rescheduling. Currently, having three consecutive exams over two days is considered a conflict, leaving those with just two exams in one day in a tough position. Revising the examination
scheduling policy falls under Farah’s long term objective called “Re-Examine Exams.” This long term objective also includes re-assessing the gap between the last day of class and the start of exams. “This will be a year-long priority for me and I will encourage future MSU Presidents to take this on as we have been testing students the same way we have in the past 100 years,” said Farah in her year plan. Farah’s second long term objective entails strengthening international student support. While working to fulfill this promise, Farah will address transportation, financial accessibility and student services. Ultimately, Farah hopes to build a foundation of strategic priorities and strategic planning in these areas so that practical changes can come in the coming years.
V.P. ADMINISTRATION
As the vice president (Administration), Epifano coordinates the administration of MSU services, works alongside Student Representative Assembly members and oversees MSU part time managers. Epifano’s year plan largely focuses on improving current structures and programs rather than implementing broader changes. Her objectives, 12 in total, include meeting regularly with SRA caucus members, strengthening SRA support and supporting PTMs. With many students unaware of the work of the SRA,
Epifano also hopes to improve the transparency of this governing body. She will accomplish this is by promoting SRA meeting livestreams and facilitating more effective SRA outreach. In addition, Epifano sees a need for more transparency. “The common confusion is, ‘What does student government actually do?’ – these steps will allow us to move forward in answering this question and showing what we do to students,” reads part of her year plan. Over the summer, Epifano also focused on various aspects of Welcome Week. In particular, she chaired the strategic
themes advisory committee and spearheaded themes including responsible drinking, sexual violence response and prevention, mental health and wellness and community engagement. In the fall, Epifano will conduct a review of Welcome Week planners, specifically their compensation and hiring qualifications. The only long term objective entails improving relationships with vice president (Administration) equivalents from other universities. This initiative will be implemented over three years and aims to establish regular conferences and meetings for these officials.
V.P. EDUCATION
Here’s a look at what the MSU board of directors has achieved in the last four months
The vice president (Education) serves as the chair of the academic affairs council and is in charge of academic and lobbying strategies. In her role, Bertolo is responsible for MSU policy regarding municipal, provincial and federal government advocacy. Bertolo’s year plan highlights 42 general, albeit ambitious, objectives. These address topics such as exam scheduling, quality of education, racial, cultural and religious equity, international student support regarding Ontario Health Insurance Plan and work permits, health and well being, youth employment strategy, sexual
violence prevention, education of tenant rights, transit advocacy and food security. An MSU education team objective established last year, the Pride Crosswalk that can now be found between Sterling Street and Forsyth Avenue, was ultimately the result of a joint effort between the city of Hamilton and councillor Aidan Johnson. Another objective relevant to off-campus housing students is the launch of the Landlord Rating System in September, a pilot project that will allow students to rate their landlords. This project is building upon previous work facilitated by the
municipal affairs committee. Bertolo is also hoping to increase voter turnout for the upcoming municipal election through the #MacVotes Campaign, which was also in full force for the provincial election in June. Transit advocacy is another one of Bertolo’s priorities. “It is important that the MSU continue its strong advocacy in support of the LRT and improvements in transit across the city,” said Bertolo in her year plan. In addition to attending transit meetings held by various groups, Bertolo hopes to run a #YesLRT campaign in the fall.
Ikram Farah
Kristina Epifano
Stephanie Bertolo
PRESIDENT
Ryan Tse News Reporter
www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Sept 6., 2018
The Silhouette
Scott Robinson Farah Farah will work to change the current examination policy so that two exams in one day will qualify as grounds for rescheduling.
V.P. FINANCE
The vice president (Finance)
is responsible for the financial direction of the MSU, including the budget. The 26 objectives laid out in Robinson’s year plan focus on priorities including the Student Activity Building, revitalization and development of TwelvEighty and The Grind, graduate student support and the Student Assistance Program. This summer, Robinson implemented renovations for the TwelvEighty event stage and a menu redesign featuring a wider range of food at the restaurant. In September, Robinson has promised new programming for Homecoming that better aligns with students’ interests.
Epifano Her objectives, 12 in total, include meeting regularly with SRA caucus members, strengthening SRA support and supporting PTMs.
Robinson also hopes to increase the financial transparency of the MSU, especially regarding the budget. “Currently, the newly elected SRA approves the $2,900,000+ operating budget at their second meeting in April. Without any financial literacy training, and little provided information about the operations of the MSU, the newly elected SRA is expected to make an informed vote on the fate of this important document. I will make tangible steps to improve this process,” reads part of Robinson’s year plan. Robinson will also be working with Farah to optimize student space. One specific target is
Bertolo Bertolo is also hoping to increase voter turnout for the upcoming municipal election through the #MacVotes Campaign, which was also in full force for the provincial election in June.
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to add moveable furniture to the MUSC atrium. Another focus for Robinson is supporting graduate students. Specifically, he wants to continue the “Life After Mac” program in January that was implemented by his predecessor last year and continue to grow the Hire McMaster program, which connects new employers with Mac graduates. Other aim is to increase funding and training for clubs and increase awareness about SAP. Another priority includes investigating the effects of newly-instated OHIP+ on the MSU health plan. @theSilhouette
Robinson In September, Robinson has promised new programming for Homecoming that better aligns with students’ interests.
PRESIDENT’S PAGE
IKRAM FARAH President
president@msumcmaster.ca 905.525.9140 x23885
This time of year feels different than it has before - it is my first time in 16 years that I will not be attending school as a student. I want to use this opportunity to not only introduce myself and the organization that I am proud to lead as MSU President, but also to share some advice I wish I had followed when starting a new year. My name is Ikram Farah. I am a recent graduate from
“Although it took some time, I now see failure as an opportunity to ask for help.” Honours Political Science and Labour Studies, my hometown is Mississauga, and I truly believe that I am the funniest individual in the world. As we embark on another academic year, I want to emphasize that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Throughout my undergrad, whenever I experienced failure through academics,
Thursday, Sep. 6, 2018 | thesil.ca
extracurriculars, and my own personal life, I internalized it. I refused to let people know that I was not okay and convinced myself that I was undermining my independence by seeking support. Although it took some time, I now see failure as an opportunity to ask for help. There are people out there and resources in place that are able and willing to support you in order to get you from where you are now, to where you want to be as a student and person. I wish I knew and believed this during my first year. I have grown to love McMaster as a community that has provided me the space to both learn and unlearn. This campus is student driven, demonstrated through the many different spaces available on campus and the countless opportunities for students to create their own spaces as well. Throughout my undergraduate career, I immersed myself in spaces where I could work towards goals I was passionate about, including the Student Representative Assembly and MSU Horizons. One aspect of student life I wanted to improve was the experience of commuter students. When I began my term as MSU President, this was one of the platform points I began addressing. By working alongside Metrolinx and GO Transit, the MSU was successful in providing extended GO services during Welcome Week, as well as the academic year. During Welcome Week, there were three additional departures from McMaster University on the night of Airbands, Faculty Night, and during the evening of the Welcome Week Concert. Additionally, GO added a weekday eastbound Route 15A departure from McMaster at 23:03 to Aldershot Station, as well as a weekday eastbound
Route 47, departure to York University from McMaster at 23:05. I look forward to continuing to make steps in the direction of improving the commuter student experience within our community. Another aspect of my role is the task of facilitating connections between the diverse range of students, clubs, services, and faculty societies we have at McMaster. In July, the MSU hosted Vision 2018: A Professional Development Conference. The goal of this conference was to provide opportunities for student leaders to connect and share best practices through workshops on topics including marketing, financing, and leadership. During this time, the MSU previewed the Caring Communities Network and led a session for student leaders on integrating wellness initiatives into existing organizational structures.
groups on campus and continue communicating with groups who choose to partake in the Caring Communities Network. Those who join will appoint a member of their group to act as the Wellbeing Liaison, a person responsible for helping connect students in their communities to initiatives related to student health and wellness. If you are a part of a student group and would like to join the Caring Communities Network, visit www.msumcmaster.ca/ ccn or email the project coordinator at ccnpc@msumcmaster.ca. I am excited to continue serving students throughout my term and look forward to the opportunities this new academic year will bring. Please do not hesitate to drop by my office in MUSC 201 to say hi, tell a joke, ask a question, or share your ideas with me.
“I look forward to continuing to make steps in the direction of improving the commuter student experience withn our community.” The Caring Communities Network is a program that aims to build the capacity of students to support and enhance student wellbeing. One of the main goals of the program is to encourage conversations about the proactive initiatives student communities can employ to enhance the wellbeing of students. During the summer months, the MSU hired a Caring Communities Project Assistant to assist in leading the Caring Communities Network. This individual will connect with student
The President’s Page is a space sponsored and used by the McMaster Students Union (MSU) Board of Directors (BoD) to communicate with the student body. It functions to highlight the Board’s projects, goals, and agenda for the year, as well as the general happenings of the MSU.
www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Sep. 6, 2018
EDITORIAL
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Editorial
Home for now
This place doesn’t have to feel like home yet, despite what the reps have been yelling at you all week Emily O’Rourke Editor-in-Chief
A few weeks ago, I flipped through a journal that I wrote during my first Welcome Week at McMaster. I was excited as ever for this huge chapter of my life to start. I wrote about how excited I was to meet my new friends in real life after meeting them in the Class of 2018 Facebook group. I wrote out my plans, from parties to outfits to events that I didn’t want to miss. The next few pages had a wildly different feel to them. I wrote about how regretful I was about choosing McMaster and how badly I wanted to drop out because my experiences hadn’t lived up to my expectations. I thought that I’d feel happier or
more at home somewhere else. It’s an unspoken tradition for the Editor-in-Chief to pen a welcome letter to new marauders. They’re cheesy and nice, warning first years not to miss their morning classes or explaining that getting involved is key. Both of these things are true, sure. Losing that 10 per cent for participation is a bummer and it’s important to make meaningful connections in university. The most important piece of advice that I can think of, though, is to know that if McMaster doesn’t feel like home yet, that’s okay. It’s hard to feel at home when you’re in between a lot of things. It’s also hard to feel genuinely at home when you’re being yelled at by upper years
for a week straight. First year is an anxiety-induced fever dream if I can remember it correctly, but you’ll find your place at one point or another. If you don’t ever feel at home here, I hope you find somewhere you do. Until then, enjoy your time here. Consider it your home for now. Make lasting connections with the people around you and ignore that feeling telling you that you should feel differently. You’re here. You’ve made it. @emily_oro
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To spending another summer procrastinating on learning how to swim To forgetting how to spell “thumbs” To mosquitos drowned in shaving cream To 8:30 labs To labs in general To being a third year in first year courses
Faculty Reps, It’s Our Turn to Cheer You On! You made move-in day amazing. We couldn’t have moved over 3,500 first year students into residence without you - and we wouldn’t have wanted to! From your great dance moves to all the heavy lifting, your McMaster spirit made move-in unforgettable. BTW, you free August 24th & 25th, 2019? Your friends at Housing & Conference Services.
The Silhouette
www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Sept. 6, 2018
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Opinion The impact of Ford’s free speech policies A thought about what these policies mean for McMaster Ruchika Gothoskar Contributor
Doug Ford, Ontario’s new premier, has set out guidelines that give Ontario universities until Jan. 1, 2019 to develop a free speech policy on campus, a hot-button topic among the Progressive Conservative party after several high-profile incidents involving speakers with conservative views. McMaster is no stranger to such engagements, after the highly contentious appearance of controversial psychology professor Jordan Peterson at McMaster in 2017, when his lecture was shut down by protestors. The PC government made it clear that Ontario colleges and universities must come up with free speech policies that “include a definition of freedom of speech and adhere to principles based on the University of Chicago Statement on Principles of Free Expression”. The University of Chicago’s document currently states that colleges and university are places for open and free discussion, that institutions should not shield students from ideas they disagree with or find offensive and that university or college community members cannot obstruct the freedom of others to share their views. Should Ontario post-secondary institution fail to implement this policy, they risk facing major funding cuts. The reality of this situation is that we have had this conversation before, many times. McMaster began creating an anti-disruption policy in 2017, a draft that outlines acceptable methods to protest appearances by polarizing figures. The document was created by the university’s committee on protest and freedom of expression in response to an increasingly polarized political and social climate where protests on campus are becoming more common place. The question now is not whether or not McMaster will
adhere to Ford’s demands on free speech policies, simply because we know that McMaster’s already been eager to shut down disruptions and allow for “free discussion” from the jump. What needs to be thought about now is who this policy is hurting, and what kind of dog whistle is embedded in the creation of policies like these.
Implementing school wide policies that do not allow for things like trigger warnings or safe spaces are ultimately harmful for everyone involved. Implementing school wide policies that do not allow for things like trigger warnings or safe spaces are ultimately harm-
ful for everyone involved. These content disclaimers and spaces allow for individuals to decide how or if they want to engage. For people who experience trauma, such as sexual assault or attempted suicide, unexpected re-exposure to traumatic events can provoke a strong negative emotional response, impeding on their ability to learn and interact appropriately. Furthermore, the threat of cut funding is one that hits home for many. Playing around with an institution’s funding is a bold declaration. Many, if not all, post secondary institutions admit students, hire staff and create boards on the sole and main expectation that they can honour employment contracts or periods of study. This makes non-compliance with the free speech policies high risk, putting not only students’ livelihoods at stake, but also administrators’ and educators’. Realistically, when implemented, policies like these do
nothing but reduce advocacy for minority groups and the left hand political spectrum, leave students without a voice and further silence those who already come from marginalized backgrounds. Activist and writer Nora Loreto says it best, “free speech is freedom from reprisals from the state. This [policy], instead, is a stunning attack on
“Free speech is freedom from reprisals from the state. This [policy], instead, is a stunning attack on the free speech of anyone in the university of college community.” Nora Loreto Activist and writer
the free speech of anyone in the university of college community.” Oftentimes, when individuals speak out on acts of oppression, such as sexism or ableism, they are told that they are being politically correct. This ultimately derails the conversation and forgoes an opportunity for a mutually beneficial learning experience, counterproductive to the nature of university. With political correctness and trigger warnings, we are still able to have difficult conversations. And we should; being uncomfortable is often necessary in learning as it means we are challenging what we know and critically engaging with what is presented to us. Adopting a politically correct perspective ensures that these conversations are constructive and that we recognize our words for what they are: impactful. @RGothoskar
Kyle West // Photo Editor
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HUMANS
Thursday, Sep. 6, 2018 | www.thesil.ca
Meet our new Editor-in- Chief: Emily O’Rourke
facebook.com/HumansOfMcMaster
Catherine Goce Photo Reporter
What would you like your readers to know about you? I’m Emily O’Rourke, I’m the Editor-in-Chief of the Silhouette. I’ve been working at the Silhouette since my third year, working as the News Reporter, then Features Reporter, then as the Editor-in-Chief after I graduated from Communications Studies. I drink a lot of coffee and I really love journalism. What would a typical day as Editor-in-Chief of the Silhouette be like? There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes in production that you don’t see in the papers. A typical day revolves around setting up all of our editors for success, making sure that everyone’s in line with their stories, and making sure everyone has their interviews done. I make sure the whole paper’s together; I pay the bills, I work with administration to make sure we’re on the right track as a service and engage with other people
in the community to find stories and resources. You recently graduated from McMaster. Do you have any advice for students still in their undergrad and/or pursuing journalism? If you’re still in your undergrad, don’t sleep through your 8:30 classes, I learnt that the hard way. If you’re interested in pursuing journalism as an undergrad, volunteer. Do what you can to volunteer, whether it’s at the Silhouette, we’re always accepting volunteers, or whether it’s at a local publication, or local blog, everyone’s always looking for content. It’s just a matter of being confident, getting yourself out there and making sure you’re outside of your bubble. Everyone needs a break, what do you read on your own time? I’m listening to a lot of podcasts, actually. I’m I’m really interested in Vox Explained. I also listen to the New York Times’ Daily podcast which is similar but is a little more
political and mostly talks about the States, and I’m really obsessed with US politics. Particularily in Hamilton, I’m a big fan of Urbanicity’s work, CBC
Hamilton,ocal bloggers like Hamilton Small Fries and local culture bloggers are always fun. @theSilhouette
WANT A FREE AGENDA? COUPONS | C A MPUS M AP DAILY PL ANNER
Grab one at the Underground Located in the basement of the student centre
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www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Sep. 6, 2018
Arts & Culture More than just a performance
Sean Leon connects to student through his music and self-made success story Razan Samara A&C Reporter
Sean Leon’s burst of energy kicked off Welcome Week’s Aug. 31 concert. Leon’s unique beats were taken in by attentive ears, his anomalous sound pulsated through thousands of hearts as the rhythm swayed concert-goers’ feet and left a little tingle in the fingertips of their airborne hands. On stage, Leon’s presence is all about the music. He wears no mask and doesn’t hide behind the smoke. In a pair of Tommy Hilfiger jeans and a loose t-shirt he is himself, clutching the mic and rapping the lyrics to “Laying Low (Cooking Up)” as he interacts with the crowd.
“I think we can get on this pursuit of things and it’s not necessarily what we want. Maybe it’s something that we see has brought [other] people happiness,” Sean Leon Artist Leon has full control over his sound, he writes, engineers and produces music almost exclusively by himself. He has had the support of individuals in the community in the past but does not consider himself as part of the music industry. “I get through off a conversation, [or] just the work being polarizing enough that it jumps up and it attacks and grabs people. It makes them want to pay attention, want to watch the movie,” explains Leon. As his own label and manager, Leon’s balances many roles and titles to grow himself as a musical artist. He often takes unconventional paths like rather than hosting extravagant
release parties, he would rather bring a few people at a time into a recording studio to listen to his upcoming music for the first time. His main priority is not the fame and money. Leon wants to move people with his music, he wants to evoke indescribable feelings and inspire with his craft which makes him stand out against a myriad of rappers. It is not easy challenging the norms or being self-made in a lucrative industry, but it is important to staying true to himself. In much the same way students will experience the pressure of conforming into their environment and perhaps can pick up a few tips from Leon’s experiences. The university environment is an incubator for fostering student growth and success, yet it is easy to slip into a robotic trance shuffling from class to midterm to class to exam on a predefined conveyer belt. The end result is thousands of paper degrees marked by the same ink that vary by a few letters and if you’re ambitious, the kind of framing. Leon’s presence on campus was a reminder that while the cookie-cutter method may work for some students, to get the most out of your experience at McMaster and life beyond university, it is important to be a self-starter, your own leader and define success as it pertains to your goals and dreams. “I think the key to happiness is just understanding what it is you’re actually pursuing… I think we can get on this pursuit of things and it’s not necessarily what we want… Maybe [it’s] something somebody else wants for us. Maybe it’s something that we see has brought [other] people happiness,” explained Leon. Once finding his own pursuit, Leon’s younger self was focused on achieving success by a certain age. By taking it easy and removing the pressure of being ‘somebody’ by a certain point in his life, he has found greater happiness and welcomes challenges that come his way. He boasts about aging like wine.
v C/O BRIAN ZHENG Leon also talks to himself to gain clarity of the present moment and insight into where he sees himself in the future. Self-awareness and self-perception are important. He cannot control what others think of him, but he can control his perception of himself. “I talk to myself more than I talk to anybody, like by far, by miles, leaps and bounds… How else could I know… If I talk to other people I can get a sense of what people want from me or what they are comfortable with me having or what box they’re willing to put me in,” explained Leon. “[T]hat could be good to know for some people, that can give you some sort of security as well if it matches with what you have your vision for yourself
“I get through off a conversation, [or] just the work being polarizing enough that it jumps up and it attacks and grabs people” Sean Leon Artist but if it doesn’t, you see a lot of people becoming unhappy.” Leon also has confidence in his craft and sees himself as an expert. However, a key to continuously evolving is that he approaches things with a beginner’s mentality. It would be a shame for him to deny himself
of learning opportunities or see himself as anything less than a master. Attending the Welcome Week concert was nothing short of an attempt to kick it and lose yourself in the music before the stress of university life seeps into daily regimens. However, students can also take away powerful messages from Leon’s presence that’ll get them through the year. Now that Welcome Week is over and academics are in full swing, think about what success means to you and make this year something you are proud of. @theSilhouette
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A&C
Thursday, Sep. 6, 2018 | www.thesil.ca
Back to Hogwarts
The legacy of a student wizard lives on in the hearts of student as a new academic year begins Rya Buckley A&C Reporter
As Welcome Week wound down at McMaster University, the students of Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry were getting fired up to leave for another year of school. They grabbed their trunks and went down to King’s Cross for a train ride from platform nine and three quarters. The September sentiments at the wizarding school are in many ways parallel to the experiences of the Muggles of McMaster. The first-years talked anxiously about what house they would be sorted into while upper years excitedly reconnected with friends and peers while practicing a few spells. In its own way, the first week of school has a magical charm and I found it hard to go back to school without thinking about what it must be like at Hogwarts. This year marks the twentieth anniversary of the publication of the second Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Since the series debuted, the thought of a boy wizard has expanded into a series of seven volumes that has been interpreted through film, exhibition, theme park, studio tour, merchandise, play and so much more. Though the original ink has dried, the story is kept alive by the legions of devoted Potterheads in the fandom. I first read Harry Potter in the fourth grade when I received a boxed set of the first three books for free. At that point in my life, I was mostly reading mysteries and trashy teen dramas. It was the first time that I can recall reading about magic and it entranced me. I could barely put the books down. I have a fond memory of getting towards the big reveal at the end of the first book as my family was driving home one night. As soon as I got home, I ran upstairs and threw myself on my bedroom floor. I didn’t get up until I finished it. After reading the entire se-
ries, I still find myself returning to it. I have thumbed through Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix on days where nothing seemed to be going my way. I have opened to a funny passage in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone when I needed to laugh. I have rediscovered my favourite chapters in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban when I needed a distraction. My love for the series has forged connections between myself and others I have met in every stage of my life, including university. However, the Harry Potter experience doesn’t end with the books and films. I have seen Harry Potter: The Exhibition and the Potted Potter play. I have been to opening nights, a studio tour and to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, twice. I have Hermione’s wand, a copy of The Tales of Beetle the Bard, a quill, a sweater and jewellery all branded with Harry Potter insignia. When I read the books the first time, I was blown away by the web that was being spun under my nose, ready to catch me off guard at every twist and turn. It made me think a lot about storytelling and it has contributed to making me a better writer. Countless others have been moved by Harry Potter in such a way that they will continuously return to celebrate the book and movies in any capacity. This ongoing loyalty made it possible for The Zoetic Theatre & Creative Arts Company to host a monthly event entitled “Epic Harry Potter” throughout this year, which culminates on Sept. 7. This historic Hamilton theatre has been playing each of the eight movies since February, each screening being accompanied by prop bags, cocktails and other surprises. The creation and success of this event demonstrates the staying power of the boy wizard in the hearts of those who have embraced his story. It is worth noting that the Harry Potter universe is not perfect and has in some cases let down its fans. There was the poor characterization and plot
in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, J.K. Rowling’s appropriation of Indigenous culture on Pottermore, as well as issues that exist within the original story itself. The fans that have held the fandom accountable for its actions show that Potter loyalty is not static and frozen like the original story. Our love for Harry Potter grows up with us and it evolves as we mature with more critical eyes on the series we loved as children. At the same time, it is sometimes nice to know that, even through transitions, some things, like the presence of the sweets trolley on the Hogwarts Express, will never change. Whether you’re a first-year experiencing university life for the first time or stepping into your final September on campus, there is magic in hanging onto the stories that were formative for us and still bring us comfort. Perhaps if we all do that, all will be well. @theSilhouette
C/O ROUSHAN TABASSUM
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SPORTS
www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Sep. 6, 2018
Sports
BUT The McMaster Marauders may look younger than last year, but are looking to get better every day and every play
Jessica Carmichael Sports Reporter
The return of Canadian university football started off on a high note for the McMaster Marauders who won their home opener 16-15 against the University of Guelph Gryphons. The young team led by second-year quarterback Jackson White looked slow right out of the gate, as they trailed 0-10 in the first quarter.
The Mac men knew if they wanted to win this game, they could not just scrape by; they needed to score touchdowns. The Marauders cut the Gryphons’ lead in half at the beginning of the second half thanks to Mac’s dependable kicker Adam Preocanin, the Mac men knew if they wanted to win this game, they could not just scrape by; they needed to score touchdowns. “We recognized we were
making some mistakes and we only want to make mistakes once they get it cleaned up,” said head coach Greg Knox following the game. “The message has been and will continue to be grit and perseverance, and we’re going to try and get better every day and every play.” In the third quarter, Mac continued to slowly chip away at the difference, adding another field goal, bringing the score to 9-12. The Gryphons’ kicker Gabe Ferrero struck back and was able to extend his team’s lead, ending the third 15-9 in Guelph’s favour. All hope was not lost as a fourth-quarter touchdown pass to Michael Bazzo from White gave the Marauders just the edge they needed to win the game. “You expect to make mistakes but you want to fix them, and I thought we did that too,” said Knox. “First game of the season you never really know what you’re going to get so you’re defending everything” As for White, the win was an ugly one but the Marauders showed up and drove the field when it mattered. The team having as many first- and second-year players as they do, this result was not all that surprising.
Though the team is a lot more inexperienced, White believes that the Marauders are overall more skilled on offence and that Mac can depend on a good core group of players who can get the job done. “Obviously last year with guys like [Mark] Mackie, Cody Stellar, and Mitch O’Connor we had a lot of good leadership guys, and it’s definitely different this year without the amount of fifth-years that we have lost this year,” said White. “But I think a lot of guys are stepping up this year such as Jordan Lyons, Lucas Bill and even myself.” Only being in second-year himself, White describes this new role that can be quite of a challenge at times. But as the team’s starting quarterback, it comes with the role. Unfortunately for White, this was not the only challenge he faced in Mac’s burgeoning season. The Marauders’ second game of the season was a gritty 18-11 loss to the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees. With heavy rain in the first half, White found it hard once again to score those much-needed touchdowns. Mac relied heavily on the running game of Jordan Lyons who had a total of 174 yards on 24 carries, including an explosive 38-yard rush.
By the half, the Marauders were up 5-3 thanks to a safety and a field goal. Though not taking a chance to see if White could pull off another second-half miracle, Mac’s second-string quarterback Andreas Dueck stepped in. With the rain gone, his impact was immediate, connecting with several receivers right off the bat which led to a field goal that helped the Marauders tie the game at 11 in the fourth quarter. But a late 10-yard pass from Ottawa quarterback Sawyer Buettner to Dylan St. Pierre in the end zone gave the Gee-Gees the win. Starting off slow seems to be a bit of a trend for the Marauders. “It’s been kind of a thing in the last few years, it’s not the best thing but sometimes we get off to a little bit of a slow start,” said fourth-year safety and captain Bill following the first game. The low score of both games proves that when it comes to defence, the Marauders know how to contain their opponents which is great, as it is often said that defence wins games. But defence alone is not enough. This was a similar tale for the Marauders last season
@jaaycarmichael
during the Ontario University Athletics semi-final game against the Laurier Golden Hawks. “As a team offensively in the final game against Laurier we put up six points and that’s not good enough to win a championship,” said White. w Though Dueck’s performance in the second-half against the Gee-Gees showed that he too is capable of the starting job, it is still too early to be certain that he has what it takes to lead the team to fulfill the Marauders’ goal — to win the Vanier Cup. “Obviously if the goal is not to win the Vanier Cup I don’t know why you’re playing,” said White. “The goal is to win the Vanier Cup every year and we’re going to have to get hot at the right time and stay injury-free like every championship team.” But first, they will face the defending OUA champions who also happen to be the U SPORTS Vanier Cup holders the University of Western Ontario Mustangs. This will be the toughest test yet for the young team, but if they continue to channel their grit and resilience, with the combination of scoring much-needed touchdowns, Mac will be able to hold their own.
SPORTS | 15
www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Sep. 6, 2018
C/O Kyle West
KEY DEPARTURES
KEY RETURNING Eric Blake Adam Preocanin Jackson White Jordan Lyons
LB K QB RB
Eric Mezzalira Mark Mackie Hassan Barry Cody Speller
LB DL DL DL
KEY RECRUITS Xander Tachinski Eryk Bujalski Levi Paul Liam Putt
REC LB REC QB
THURSDAY
THE
SWEAT Y My time during #MAC W W2018 C12
HAMILTON SPECULATOR HIDING IN THE SIL OFFICE SINCE 1934
September 6, 2018
NOTSPEC.COM
First years keep getting more intimidating The youth are officially here
Why are they so coooooooool?
HILDA O’HOOLIHAN Born in 1996.
Sept. 4 marked the first day of university for a group of people born in 2000 and boy, could we tell. First years, clad in their fire fits and knowledge of cool slang, took on campus for their first days of class and honestly? I was intimidated. I mean, just look at them. They’re so much cooler than I was and admittedly than I ever will be. Everyone’s wearing checkered Vans and posting baddie pics under the #MacWW2018 hashtag while I’m getting sweat-
ier and more self-conscious with every step I take on this god damned campus. I don’t get it. First year Chad Chadderton, who is planning on rushing Pike next week and is entering his first year of commerce, shared his thoughts on #MacWW2018 in terms that I had to look up on Urban Dictionary. “Bruuhhhhhh, Welcome Week was LIT!”, said Chadderton. “Tbh, Majid Jordan is the GOAT. The squad and I got some straight fire pics this week to post up on IG and low key we got TURNT.”
Am I just getting old? Or what? Can someone explain this to me? These Gen Zers are a lot to handle for my Millenial ass, so I asked psychology scholar Prof. Koe Jim to explain what the hell was going on. Is everyone born before 1999 left in the dark? “There really is no scientific explanation for this,” said Jim. “You were born in the 90s. These kids aren’t getting cooler, you’re just getting old. If you want to keep updated, check your Insta explore page. Stay woke fam. Prepare to see clearer skin and sick street wear waiting in the MUSC Starbucks
POLL: WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE STREET WEAR BRAND? BAPE
Vouis Luitton
Kenshi Toronto
Guess
Supreme
What?
I was born in 1996
Adidas
line.” I genuinely don’t understand how this is fair. How these students know how to take care of themselves better than I, a real Adult, can? If anyone wants to tutor me in the ways of Gen Z, please email me at thesil@ thesil.ca
- Andrew, born in 2010
Disclaimer: The Hamilton Speculator is a work of satire and fiction and should not under any circumstances be taken seriously. STAY WOKE.
HAS CAMPUS ALWAYS BEEN THIS BUSY?????A4 LIVE FEED ON THE LINE AT THE CAMPUS STORE B4 HIRING: A TRAFFIC CONTROL OFFICER IN MUSC C1 SACRIFICING A HOLIDAY WEEKEND: I LIVED IT D3 I HOPE MY STAFF THINK I’M COOL E4 FEELING LIKE YOU HAVE SEASONAL DEPRESSIVE DISORDER BUT YEAR ROUND F5 THE BASEMENT STILL SUX A3
Tweets to the Editor Keep it up, Grandma.
INSIDE
BACK WHEN I WAS YOUR AGE, I WAS OLDER THAN YOU - Ethel, 75, Mac Alum
PER ISSUE: I’m going to spend all year in the Sil office training myself to understand the youth of today.