Volume 48, Issue 14 by The Medium

The Independent Student Newspaper of the University of Toronto Mississauga since 1974

Issue 14 Volume 48 January 17 2022

themedium.ca

VACCINE MANDATE

CANCER RESEARCH

DAWN FM

Currently, the university requires all students to have both vaccine doses. The Medium interviewed students at the University of Toronto Mississauga campus as well as the St. George campus to find out how this vaccine has impacted their studies.

Dr. Beharry and Dr. Allen from U of T’s Faculty of Pharmacy aim to enhance a current cancer cell therapy treatment known as photodynamic therapy (PDT), which focuses on directing light to damaged cells to kill them.

As a follow-up to After Hours, Dawn FM burrows deeper into The Weeknd’s artistic influences and aspirations, striving toward a more thematically complete album rather than one driven by hit singles.

>> read more on page 02

>> read more on page 10

>> read more on page 13

NEWS

Students hold UTM administrators accountable for lack of communication May Alsaigh News Editor

s the Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact universities across Ontario, students are coming together and expressing their concerns to university executives. The student community of the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) has attempted multiple times through mass emails and petitions to reach the administration office about these concerns, but a response is yet to be provided. Last year when the return of in-person classes was announced, several students were taken aback by the sudden statement and immediately expressed their worries.

>> ACCOUNTABILITY continues on page 03

SPORTS

FEATURES

An analysis of ADHD in women, by a woman with ADHD

A more technologically inclusive future: Dr. Cosmin Munteanu wins award for his human-computer interaction research

Lexey Burns Staff Writer

Dalainey Gervais Associate Features Editor

s a woman with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), I am part of the 4.2 per cent of women who will get diagnosed throughout their lifetime. Despite the average age of diagnosis being seven, I was not diagnosed until I was 19, after one of my friends pushed me to see a doctor. Men are three times more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than women. Girls are underdiagnosed because they try harder to hide their symptoms. They can do this by spending more time studying or asking for help from their guardians and teachers. Fred Reimherr M.D. says that “ADHD is still presumed to be a male disorder” as there is more research solicited towards ADHD in males than in females. It is common for women to not receive a diagnosis until she sees her child exhibit the same symptoms around ages three to six. Because ADHD is seen as a boy’s disorder, teachers, who are typically the first to see signs of ADHD in children, overlook girls that exhibit the same symptoms as their male classmates. >> ADHD continues on page 14

ike many other students at the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM), I am a fellow member of Generation Z. Born between 1997 and 2012, our generation has been coined as the “iGeneration” as an ode to being raised with technology since childhood. Unlike my parents, who grew up with a coil-cabled landline, I got my first cellphone when I was 12. My friends and I shocked our parents with our quick adaptability to new technology while they were all left using the one-finger typing technique on their first smartphone. Dr. Cosmin Munteanu, an associate professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM), studies how humans and computers interact with the goal of making technology accessible to groups who are often left with confusion. Beginning his journey at UTM in 2014, Dr. Munteanu has been actively researching the societal aspects of the

human-computer world. His research heavily focuses on the design of technology, specifically digital interfaces, with an eye for inclusivity. Recently awarded the UTM Annual Research Prize in Social Sciences for his contributions to the study of human-computer interactions, Dr. Munteanu reflects on the importance of advocating for digitally underrepresented groups, with a primary focus on older adults. The UTM Annual Research Prize rewards researchers and faculty who are producing outstanding research in the fields of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Sciences. Recipients of the award receive $2,000 to continue their research development and contributions to their field of study. Typically nominated by the chair of the department in question, the nominees are voted in by a selection committee, which is chaired by UTM’s Vice-Principal Rhonda McEwen. Other UTM professors awarded for this year’s research prize include Dr. Bailey McMeans and Dr. Andrew Beharry for Sciences, as well as Dr. Owen Ware for Humanities. >> DR. MUNTEANU continues on page 11

NEWS

Editor | May Alsaigh news@themedium.ca

Students comment on how the vaccine mandate impacts their studies While some find the U of T’s Covid-19 regulations helpful, others deem it unfair and unjust. Razia Saleh Associate News Editor

ith more than 18,000 cases reported on just the first day of the new year, the Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact the province of Ontario. The exponential increase is making it difficult for the university to reinstate in-person classes. At this time, the university has set a date of January 31 to re-evaluate the situation and decide what will happen next. Currently, the university requires all students to have both vaccine doses. Those who are unable to provide proof of vaccination will be prohibited from returning to campus and will also be deregistered from classes. The mandate has left several students concerned and frustrated about the situation. The Medium interviewed students at the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) campus as well as the St. George campus to find out how this vaccine has impacted their studies. Cyrus Joshua Mena, a third-year student completing a specialist in Biotechnology at UTM, mentions that vaccine protocols are not a concerning issue for him.

“I don’t really mind following vaccine protocols because in high school we had to provide proof of vaccination for polio, measles, etc. all the time. It’s nothing new.”

“I don’t really mind following vaccine protocols because in high school we had to provide proof of vaccination for polio, measles, etc. all the time. It’s nothing new.” Mena finds UCheck, U of T’s self-assessment tool, to be a helpful resource, as it enables him to access all amenities on campus including the library and study rooms. Mena, and many other students who are vaccinated, continue to have access to certain resources, making their experience a little easier. For some, it provides a sense of comfort that these regulations are being upheld and practiced within their place of education. “But this doesn’t affect me because I’m fully vaccinated, and it doesn’t affect my studies at all because I’m staying at home anyway.” Many find that implementing a vaccine mandate allows for an easier transition to safe in-person instruction. Mena hopes that there will be a future return to in-person learning on campus and that the university will find a way to accommodate students who are unvaccinated. “The best way for the university to deal with this is to give students options,” he explains. He goes on to say that online courses can be distracting for students which is why it is important to consider implementing a dual delivery mode. Preferring to stay anonymous, another third-year student in the Life Sciences Program shares her concerns for unvaccinated students. “Knowing those around me were vaccinated, medically exempt, or had rapid-tested negative that day gave me a sense of safety that I am so grateful to have had, especially considering mRNA vaccines’ incredible ef-

ficacy against the alpha and delta strains of Covid-19.” She goes on to mention that she feels more comfortable knowing others around her are taking the necessary actions to stay safe. “Being a healthcare worker myself, I felt more secure and comfortable attending things inperson knowing my chances of picking up the virus at school and giving it to my colleagues and patients at work was reduced. “ However, the mandate has also had a major negative impact on those who are not vaccinated. Students like Amanda Mihalaros, are finding the regulations dismissive of student needs and unfair to those who are not vaccinated. Mihalaros is a first-year Life Sciences student at the St. George campus and demands for greater action to be taken by the U of T campus. “Everyone has the right to make their own medical decisions, and they shouldn’t have to choose between their degree or job, and a decision that they feel is the best for them,” she explains. Mihalaros is one of many students that have been removed from her courses in the new year. Her decision to disclose her vaccination status has largely hindered her ability to progress in academics. “Due to my non-disclosure, the mandate prevented me from both living in residence and attending campus, meaning I had no other choice but to only take online courses. I was trying to hide my situation from my roommates because I was scared about what their reaction would be. I was scared to be judged.” Even though students who are not vaccinated or are not disclosing their status are

expected to fill out an exemption form, many like Mihalaros are finding the university to be inconsiderate of U of T’s unvaccinated population.

“I was constantly receiving threatening emails from the school; either upload proof of vaccination or be deenrolled from classes.” “I was constantly receiving threatening emails from the school; either upload proof of vaccination or be de-enrolled from classes.” Mihalaros also shares her experience when attempting to contact U of T for further guidance on the situation, “When I would call to seek help regarding my situation, [they] told me ‘too bad,’ and that uploading my status is the only way to continue my studies. To say that this mandate impacted my studies is an understatement. The mandate and continuous changes in policy have led to disappointment after disappointment and have left me in a state of complete uncertainty about what my future holds.” Several students who are in a similar situation are calling upon the university to provide more options for those not disclosing their status to be fair and equal. With safety being the key concern now, the university will continue to analyze the situation at hand. The surge of new Covid-19 cases is making it difficult for students to have stability in their academics. Many students believe that speaking up during this time is important to strike change while considering the experiences of all.

UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO

Students hold UTM administrators accountable for lack of communication U of T faces backlash for poor decision-making including the action to approve a controversial and unsafe food service provider. May Alsaigh News Editor

>> ACCOUNTABILITY continued from page 01 The abrupt announcement struck distress among domestic and international students. The tight window left no time for students to organize their schedules and adapt to an in-person routine. As a result, numerous individuals demanded dual-delivery courses, where they would be able to choose between an in-person or virtual course experience. Transparent UTMSU is a group of student volunteers at UTM who aim to address these issues and hold administrators accountable for their actions. In a brief online interview, the group calls on UTM administrators to offer a hybrid course model. Since this design was originally planned for the 2021 Fall semesters, the university cannot deny that the necessary infrastructure is in place for this to be implemented. Additionally, UTM administrators failed to accommodate

immunocompromised and international students with appropriate tools to take on the 2022 Winter term. Given the unpredictability of the pandemic, the announcement did not give these groups enough time to prepare as they require unique arrangements for their situations. Particularly, international students were only given two months to fly to Canada and find a place of residency for their studies. Approving Aramark, an American corporation, as a new food service provider is another concern brought up by Transparent UTMSU and supporting students. The company has been caught up in several scandals due to unsanitary and unsafe food conditions. Looking at previous scandals, the company played a significant role in unleashing a superbug in Ontario in 2011, as they were caught serving food with maggots. The same accusations have also been circulating in the U.S. within different institutions serviced by the company. Considering Aramark was dismissed by multiple universities in North American, previously including UTM in the early 2000s, students are demanding a new

service provider and are questioning why this decision was made in the first place. Shen Fernando, co-founder of Transparent UTMSU and third-year student at UTM is actively working with the team to strategize, create plans, and execute all UTM-related initiatives. According to Transparent UTMSU, issues like these “tie into the poor policymaking decisions made by UTM administrators.” The group is going so far as to contact news outlets in the GTA to hold the university accountable for its incoherent policies and poor decision-making. “We would like to see UTM administrators consider our invitation to have a sit-down meeting with Transparent UTMSU,” mentions Fernando. On their Instagram page, which can be found at @transparentutmsu, the group posts current updates, important facts, and quotes from students. Completing a major in Political Science and minors in Education Studies and History of Religions, Fernando states, “We expect more transparency and accountability from UTM administrators from here on out. As well as more effective communication of their plans.” During an ongoing pandemic, it is especially important for post-secondary institutions to listen to their students and accommodate their concerns. After multiple failed attempts, UTM students are taking the matter to various media platforms in hopes to implement changes and raise awareness.

Committee on Academic Policy and Programs reviews updates for the new year Professor Susan McCahan outlines virtual and in-person proceedings and introduces new programs coming into effect September 2022. Hema Ramnarine Staff Writer

n January 11, the Committee on Academic Policy and Programs held a virtual meeting to discuss the current state of campus life, as well as to provide updates on the state of existing and future programs at U of T. The meeting began with Vice-Provost and Undergraduate Education Professor Susan McCahan who provided a report on the university’s latest decisions. Professor McCahan started by reviewing the cancellation of in-person exams for the Fall 2021 semester. With the rise of the Omicron variant late last year, academic disruptions were declared to inform students and faculty that academic operations will not proceed as normal. The disruptions provide the university with the authority to make changes to its academic activities such as courses and programs. The disruptions, which were declared in a total of 270 courses, enabled professors to cancel exams and reweight assessments to provide an accurate term mark. Additionally, the return to in-person learning was delayed until January 31, with the exception of a small number of in-person instructional activities. When asked about when students and facul-

ty could expect an update on the return to inperson learning, McCahan was unable to provide an exact date, stating that they were taking the situation day-by-day. However, McCahan states that the expectation was for in-person learning to resume this term for many classes. “We know that instructors and students need time to adjust, but we also want to try to make the best decision possible. It’s about balancing those two.” McCahan acknowledges that both staff and students are eager to receive these updates as soon as possible. Professor Leah Cowan of Molecular Genetics and Vice-President in Research and Innovation and Strategic Initiatives provides a report on research activities in light of the Omicron variant. Following Ontario’s return to a modified version of Step 2 of the Roadmap to Reopen framework on January 5, U of T put into effect several measures in order to limit the spread of the variant. Among these was the requirement that all research that can be conducted remotely should resume until January 31. In-person research may only take place if virtual efforts are not possible, and if a two-metre physical distancing rule can be enforced. At this time, research involving human participants and face-to-face interactions is paused.

When asked about residences and international students travelling from outside of Canada, McCahan states that residences would remain open, as they did throughout the holidays. She also states that the date of January 31 was given to allow students to be able to plan accordingly for travel to Canada while considering the necessary quarantine period.

ZHENG CAO/THE MEDIUM

Program changes were also on the agenda for Tuesday’s meeting. The MSc and the PhD programs in Speech-Language Pathology are closing and to be replaced by new Speech-Language Pathology fields in the same programs. According to McCahan, job prospects for graduates of the Rehabilitation Sciences have improved, which was part of the reason for this decision. Admission to these programs was administratively suspended as of January 2021, and the date of closure is not until August 31, 2027, by which time existing students of these programs are expected to have completed their studies. McCahan also introduces a new addition to the Faculty of Arts and Sciences: the Work and Organizations Program. As stated by McCahan, “The proposed major takes an interdisciplinary approach to [equip] students with an in-depth understanding of work and organizations.” The program was conceived in consultation with several faculties, and the proposed start date is September 2022. During the meeting, both students and faculty were commended for their flexibility and resilience during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent changes to academic activities. The U of T community can expect frequent updates on any future decisions.

FLORIAN OLIVO/UNSPLASH

Rapid increase in fuel prices provoke crisis in Kazakhstan’s history Thousands detained and several killed after public demonstrations take place in the country’s largest city. Aroni Sarkar Opinion Editor

ver the last several months, the Kazakhstan crisis has rapidly intensified, and foreign countries have intervened with military power to protect their economic and political interests within the nation. Triggered by the rise of liquified petroleum gas prices, thousands of protestors gathered to demand the reduction of fuel prices. Soon enough, citizens also began to demand the democratization and liberalization of Kazakhstan’s government. On January 5, protestors set City Hall and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s place of residence on fire in Almaty, the largest city of the nation. On January 11, around 164 people were killed, and nearly 10,000 people were detained.

“The Kazakhstan crisis is considered the worst and most violent event in the country’s history since gaining independence in 1991 from the former Soviet Union.” The Kazakhstan crisis is considered the worst and most violent event in the country’s

history since gaining independence in 1991 from the former Soviet Union. Landlocked between Russia and China, Kazakhstan is a nation of 19 million people and is larger than the entire Western Europe region. It holds some of the world’s biggest oil reserves and is still considered under Russia’s “sphere of influence” due to its close proximity and political systems. Prior to the crisis, Kazakhstan was historically perceived as a politically and economically stable nation considering its geographical location, making the situation more distressing for the region. The current violent clashes between protestors and armed police have led to the destruction of cars and buildings, as well as the deaths of dozens of officers and hundreds of civilians. Additionally, a nationwide shutdown of the internet and social networking platforms was put into place on January 4. Shortly after the protests began, the Kazakh government resigned resulting in President Tokayev firing the government and declaring a state of emergency. Tokayev claims that “domestic and foreign provocateurs were behind the violence.” He then called upon Russia to send troops under the Collective Security Treaty Organization to curb burgeoning demonstrations. A day later, on January 6, Russia deployed an undisclosed number of troops in a “counter-terrorist operation.” Eruptions of gunfire

and explosions occurred following their entrance, according to several witnesses and journalists. The deployment of Russian troops to Kazakhstan parallels the military intervention during the Belarus uprising in 2020, protests in Ukraine in 2014, and what is happening simultaneously during the current invasion of Ukraine.

“Whoever does not surrender will be destroyed. I have given the order to law enforcement agencies and the army to shoot to kill, without warning.” “Whoever does not surrender will be destroyed. I have given the order to law enforcement agencies and the army to shoot to kill, without warning,” declares President Tokayev in a televised address according to Al Jazeera Media Network. On January 10, China stated they support Tokayev’s decision to bring in Russian forces to curb the uprising. President Xi Jinping said that “The Chinese people will stand with the Kazakh people forever,” and that he opposes any efforts that destabilize Kazakhstan and their relationship with China. Amid all the violence and terror, local Kazakh people are fearing for their lives and

are trapped in their own nation. Airports are under military control and most people have little to no access to basic necessities such as food, water, internet, and money. As it is most important to raise awareness on global crisis, U of T hosts various webinars to educate students on matters such as these. For instance, the University of Toronto’s Munk School of Global Affairs and the Centre for European, Russian, and Eurasian Studies held a webinar on January 10 discussing the current crisis and its potential implications. The meeting featured three main panellists, including Dr. Asel Doolotkeldieva, a senior lecturer at the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Academy; Dr. Assel Tutumlu, an assistant professor of International Relations and Political Science at Near East University in Nicosia; and Darmen Koktov, a research assistant at U of T. Each panellist went into depth about their research that centralizes around Kazakhstan and politics in Eurasia to examine the current crisis. With Kazakhstan’s politically-strategic location and economically-strategic resources, countries and businesses are all heavily invested in the outcome of this uprising. Considering the global implications of the Kazakh crisis, it is critical for individuals across the globe to learn about the situation, and for governments to support and urge Kazakhstan to protect its population.

Ontario court awards $107 million to families of Flight PS752 victims Two years after Flight PS752 was shot down by the IGRC, families of the victims are to be compensated for their losses while countries decide on actions to be taken against Iran to seek reparation. Larry Lau Associate News Editor

early two years ago, on January 8, 2020, Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752, also known as Flight PS752, was shot down by Iranian surface-to-air missiles shortly after taking off from Tehran—the capital of Iran. The tragedy claimed the lives of all 167 passengers and nine crew members on board, including 55 Canadian citizens and 30 permanent residents. Among the victims were eight U of T students. It was not until January 3 that the Ontario Superior Court of Justice ruled to award $107 million to the families of the six Flight PS752 victims, offering them some form of remediation for what they have been through. This occurs after a previous court ruling in May 2021 that declared Flight PS752 to be an intentional act of terrorism by Iran. According to a factual analysis on Flight PS752 reported on June 24, 2021, it was found that while the flight was delayed due to baggage handling issues, there was no evidence of aircraft systems malfunction, and the plane flew along its pre-approved course.

In essence, the report indicated that Iran’s military forces, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IGRC) were the main cause of the incident. They reported having misidentified Flight PS752 as a cruise missile, triggering a false alarm that prompted the use of artilleries for defence. Possible reasons for the tragedy’s occurrence could be that Iran’s military was on high alert during that period. At the time, tensions between Iranian and US Coalition forces were increasing, with several missiles being fired from Iran into Iraq a matter of hours before Flight PS752 departed Tehran. The compensation allots $100 million to recompense for “punitive damages,” $6 million to compensate for “pain and suffer-

CAROLINE ATTWOOD/UNSPLASH

ing,” and $1 million to compensate for the loss of companionship and guidance. However, whether the compensation will reach the hands of the plaintiffs is still in question. In November, Iran reportedly refused to negotiate with Canada and other countries about reparations after the country received a notice of claim in June. Iran also missed the crucial deadline of January 5 that was given for negotiations requests. The next actions taken by the countries seeking reparations from Iran are yet to be declared. Additionally, the Ontario court’s ruling in May 2021 that classified Flight PS752 as an act of terrorism attracted Canadian terrorism law experts. Experts believe that while offering condolences and sympathy to the families of victims is paramount, the ruling itself contained several legal flaws. Given that Canada is a democratic nation, this presented various questions. On Twitter, U of T tweeted about the second anniversary of Flight PS752, where President Meric Gertler shared his condolences on behalf of the university to families, friends, and colleagues of the victims. Photos of the eight U of T Flight PS752 victims were posted along with the tweet for remembrance. What happens next regarding the reparations for Flight PS752 is to be determined. Yet, regardless of the result, all efforts must be made to prevent such a tragedy from happening again.

Toronto shaken by five homicides in the first week of 2022 Professor Julius Haag at the University of Toronto Mississauga comments on how crimes rates can impact the Toronto community. Maryam Patel Contributor

or the city of Toronto, 2022 begins on a rather violent note with citizens witnessing their first few homicides within the first week. Unlike 2021, where the first homicide occurred on January 13, this year, Toronto saw a total of five murders in only 28 hours. On January 2, Toronto police were called to the area of Weston Road and Highway 401 in North York regarding a shooting. They arrived on the scene to find 37-year-old Ariyo Fakomi suffering from gunshot wounds. Fakomi was then taken to a nearby hospital and died due to his injuries—marking the first incident of the year. The following day, police responded to another call near the College and Clinton intersection around 8 p.m. where they found 30-year old Brittany Doff without vital signs. She was transported to the hospital where she was later pronounced dead. Soon after, Kadeem Nedrick, another 30-year-old, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. On the same day, two male gunshot victims were found, as well as a woman who was suffering from minor injuries in a triple shooting near Lake Shore Boulevard West and 30th street. All

three victims were taken to the hospital, where both men were eventually pronounced dead. They were identified by police as 24-year old Minyali Wur and 20-year old Chudier Reat, who were both Mississauga natives. Less than an hour later, police officers responded to a call at a residence in the Palace Pier Court and Lake Shore Boulevard West area. They found Giovanni Raimondi, a 39-year old Toronto resident, with serious injuries who died at the scene. Toronto investigators are asking that anyone with information on Raimondi’s death or his whereabouts that day contact the police. Raimondi was among seven men

LACIE SLEZAK/UNSPLASH

charged with murder conspiracy in a Canada contraband bust in June 2020. This turbulent start to 2022 leaves many individuals to wonder whether these attacks are indicative of a trend that will continue to grow in the new year. However, experts say that this is not the case. According to statistics, Toronto averages between five and eight homicides for the month of January. In 2017, 2018, and 2019, January saw five homicides, while January 2020 had eight, and January 2021 had six. Statistics Canada reported that in the wake of the pandemic, the overall police-reported crime decreased. Yet they noted that societal stress brought on by lockdowns resulted in a rise in certain categories. The murder rate in 202o rose to its highest since 2005; police forces reported 743 murders as compared to 687 in 2019. Professor Julius Haag of University of Toronto Mississauga’s Sociology department writes to the Toronto Star, “We should always be concerned about rising homicide rates, but it’s too early to infer anything from this high starting point for January, or what this says about us as a society.” Professor Haag also mentions that the effects of the pandemic on crime rates are complex and require further analysis. Founder of Diversity Institute at Ryerson University and President of the Coalition for

Gun Control, Wendy Cukier agrees with Haag’s findings and states that the data is insufficient to draw any conclusions. Cukier goes on to say, “More concerning are the persistently high rates of gun homicides in recent years and the lack of concrete action.” Given this information, some factors that influence homicide rates in Toronto, and other urban cities, include gang-related crimes, gun violence, and low socioeconomic areas. There are many evidence-based approaches to preventing crimes, such as social development initiatives and stringent gun control laws. Cukier notes that such laws, like Bill C71 passed in 2019, are yet to be implemented. On the bright side, in recognition of Crime Stoppers Month, the Toronto Police Service acknowledges that despite the pressures of working in a global pandemic, the program has significantly influenced crime and safety in the community. The program processed tips that contributed to the solving of eight murders, 105 arrests, the laying of 780 charges, and the seizure of 18 firearms. Going into 2022, Toronto Crime Stoppers has several successful campaigns and international acknowledgments. With already a rough start to the new year, it is clear that the city of Toronto is taking action against these homicides and doing its best to prevent more casualties.

EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Elizabeth Provost editor@themedium.ca Managing Editor Elisa Nguyen managing@themedium.ca News May Alsaigh news@themedium.ca Opinion Aroni Sarkar opinion@themedium.ca Features Ricardo Jaroslav Valdes features@themedium.ca A&E Danica Teng arts@themedium.ca Sports Duaa Nasir sports@themedium.ca Photo Hayden Mak photos@themedium.ca Design Manjot Pabla design@themedium.ca Copy Juliana Stacey juliana@themedium.ca Miguel DaSilva miguel@themedium.ca Social Belicia Chevolleau social@themedium.ca Videographer Nikolas Towsey video@themedium.ca

ASSOCIATES & APPOINTED ROLES Larry Lau, News Razia Saleh, News Kareena Kailass, Opinion Haya Abu Ghosh, Opinion Dalainey Gervais, Features Prisha Nuckchady, Features Aidan Thompson, Arts Dellannia Segreti, Sports Gladys Lou, Photo Simrah Siddiqui, Photo Isik Vera Senel, UTMSU Correspondent Julia Skoczypiec, Theatre Erindale Correspondent Robert Bui, Campus Athletics Correspondent Erin Delaney, Satirist Helen Yu, Comic Artist

TO CONTRI BUTE & CONNECT: themedium.ca/contact @themediumUTM

@themediumUTM

@themessageUTM

@humansofUTM_

OPINION

Editor | Aroni Sarkar opinion@themedium.ca

Ghislaine Maxwell and the pathological pick-me syndrome The socialite’s trial exposed that approval seeking is usually misguided at best, but it is a pipeline to perpetuating severe abuse. Shreya Joshi Staff Writer

n December 29 2021, former socialite and close friend of Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, was convicted of five out of six counts of sexual abuse during 1994 to 2004. These charges include conspiring to commit sex crimes and the sex trafficking of minors. She is to serve up to 60 years at the Metropolitan Detention Centre located in Brooklyn, New York. Maxwell, who Epstein himself claimed as his “best friend,” lured dozens of underage teenage girls so that the latter could sexually molest and in some cases, rape them. She herself took part in some of the molestation as detailed by a former victim, Carolyn. However, for the most part, she acted as bait and coconspired with Epstein so that he could securely commit sex crimes in his enclosed and affluent, Mar-a-Lago estate, presently known as “Epstein’s Island.” Maxwell’s motivations behind committing these atrocities lie in her pathological need to seek approval from powerful men, a pattern rooted in the early days of her childhood. During her youth, her father, publishing tycoon Robert Maxwell, was authoritarian and singled her out as his favourite. As a result, she did whatever she could to please him. As a young adult, Maxwell continued down a similar trajectory, exploiting her relationships with fellow socialite women to acquire the influence of powerful men. According to a former Oxford classmate, Anna Pasternak, “My recollection is that she was kind of breezily charming to other women, but I don’t remember her being a very close friend of another woman. I think that women weren’t really important to her—only as a means to get to another powerful man.” Maxwell’s behaviour can be best be described by a phenomenon known as ‘pickmeism.’ A “pick-me” person is desperate for acceptance from a particular group and will do whatever it takes to gain access to certain social circles and remain there. A pick-me woman will demean other women to gain male approval. Typically, pick-me individuals are simply misguided people who usually outgrow their desperate need for validation as they feel more comfortable with themselves or seek professional help.

However, in a more extreme circumstance akin to this one, a pick-me woman, especially one in a relationship with a toxic man, will never recover and instead harm all women to please him. We’ve seen this pattern occur with predatory couples where the women usually act as bait so that the men can fulfill their depraved desires while remaining interested in their partners. A prime example of this is serial killer Karla Homolka. Homolka aided her husband, Paul Bernardo, in the rape, torture, and in some cases, murder of multiple teenaged girls, including her own sister, as a means of ensuring that he remained interested in her. Similarly, Maxwell who was previously linked to Epstein romantically, was happy to perpetuate the sexual abuse of minors if it meant fulfilling her strange infatuation and maintaining her status as, “Lady of the House.” The socialite world in particular is notorious for enabling predators. Women in this society use their formal education and upper-class backgrounds to partake in highly influential social gatherings and gain access to important people. At the surface level, socialites are depicted as leisurely rich individuals who spend their time gallivanting at parties. However, beneath the surface is a world in which rich predators like Epstein are enabled by a system which prizes social validation and recognition above all. Maxwell used her connections as a socialite to elevate Epstein financially and socially so that he could maintain a firm standing in upper-class society and she in turn could remain close to him. Maxwell also used her socialite connections to groom her and Epstein’s victims. Maxwell’s victims described their initial perception of her as “very sophisticated,” “elegant,” “charismatic”, and “poised.” In exchange for servicing Epstein, she would convince less privileged girls with high aspirations that she would aid their careers. Overall, Ghislaine Maxwell serves as a cautionary tale of severe approval seeking behaviour and its damaging effect on society. The toxic socialite culture Maxwell was a member of contributed to the sexual abuse of the victims in this case. It ensured Epstein’s respectable standing and veiled the pair from potential exposure. While ‘pickmeism,’ or the constant need for validation at the expense of others, is not always sinister in and of itself, it can lead to horrific abuse.

TINGEY INJURY LAW FIRM/UNSPLASH

MASTHEAD

Editorial

A new year, another lockdown We should focus on our mental health and emotional wellbeing instead of spending our precious energy protesting another lockdown. The Medium

or many of us, the Covid-19 pandemic has been nothing but an exhausting and endless roller coaster ride. For others, the pandemic has dispensed a sense of relief from work or school commutes and of course, social anxiety. With the new year inaugurating yet another lockdown and a few more weeks of virtual learning, raising the question of whether we are mentally and financially equipped to endure it warrants the need to familiarize ourselves with some coping strategies.

“48 per cent of youth report feeling isolated and lonely while struggling with balancing mental health and schoolwork.” According to a report by the Mental Health Commission

of Canada, youth are at a higher risk of experiencing poor mental health as opposed to other age groups. Specifically, 48 per cent of youth report feeling isolated and lonely while struggling with balancing mental health and schoolwork. During these times, we should allow ourselves to enjoy hobbies that distract us from the real world. Whether that is writing, cooking, creating catchy Spotify playlists, or even meditating, these activities can help us achieve a sense of comfort that we all need. There is no telling about what the future of Ontario will look like. The government will continue to produce their own decisions without taking into consideration how they can impact the mental and social health of the community. Many are complaining, putting out valid concerns, but forgetting to think about what they can control in the moment. Rather than often unproductive protesting, we must spend this time doing what we can to connect with others and ourselves to maintain our emotional and mental health.

The NFT art craze is booming, at the cost of the environment Liayana Jondy Contributor

nonfungible token (NFT), is a one-of-akind cryptocurrency token. It’s unique with no one NFT being the same. Its one-of-akindness is the driving force behind why NFTs are sold for millions of dollars. NFTs have recently gained popularity, with big name brand companies and celebrities like Marvel and William Shatner selling NFTs. Any digital image can, in retrospect, be made into a ‘one-of-a-kind’ NFT, like the digital kitten that was sold for U.S. $170,000 or the digital images of rocks that were sold for up to U.S. $40,000. While the winning bidder has a right to say that they now ‘possess’ the NFT, images of the NFT are free for the general public to see. Even tweets can be made into an NFT. But there are plenty of artists using the platform because of the ability to retain more profit over their artworks without the need for “a middleman” like art directors, museums, and so forth. Buying NFTs of artworks also mean supporting artists you like. However, anyone can take an image, video, or object and make it into an NFT. What does this mean for artists? Well, digital thieves looking to get rich can take the artwork and post it as their own. This ‘phenomenon’ isn’t unusual, with pirated versions of artists’ works being sold each and every day on online plat-

MORADEYO ADENIYI, @IMIT0R/THE MEDIUM

The blockchain used for NFTs produce detrimental amounts of greenhouse gases and contributes to climate crisis.

forms like Amazon and Etsy. With the growing popularity of NFTs, individuals are becoming increasingly aware of the detrimental environmental effects caused by the Ethereum blockchain. Cryptocurrency machines that store each and every NFT (as the domain is active 24 hours a day) eat away at energy. Alternatives suggest that renewable energy should be used to fuel these machines—energy that can be used for heating or lighting homes. Artists or individuals contributing to the NFT craze propose to pay for carbon offsets, but the ‘solution’ is as superficial as their claims that greenhouse gas emissions would still be produced, regardless of whether or not everyone were to stop using Ethereum apps and no transactions were sent.

Let’s partake in a thought experiment. An individual, call him ‘John,’ contributes on the platform. When faced with criticism regarding the negative effects of the platform he is active on, he says he’ll offset emissions by investing in renewable energy, conservation projects, or technology that fixes the ‘CO2 problem.’ But, that’s essentially saying “I’m part of the problem and here’s what I’m trying to do to make a difference,” a difference that doesn’t address the problem at all. The Ethereum blockchain, like most cryptocurrencies, uses a system built on a fee called “gas.” In order to manage transactions, the system uses machines that use extreme amounts of energy. At the moment, the Ethereum blockchain continues to consume energy. But rest assured, there are plenty of discussions regarding decreasing emissions down to zero per cent, they just haven’t been implemented yet. It is high time that we become more consciously aware of our energy usage. As it stands, NFTs still use an extreme amount of energy. More miners mean higher demand on energy and higher demand on energy drives up the cost. While there are blogs and articles out there boasting about Ethereum’s secure platform, much of the discussion pokes at the ‘early-stage technology in need of improvement’ trope to shoo away environmental concerns.

Don’t Look Up, an allegory of the current climate crisis Over politicization and capitalization of science leads to inaction and complacency in resolving a global crisis.

Spoiler warning: this article contains spoilers of the film.

he latest Netflix science-fiction movie Don’t Look Up, starring Leonardo Di Caprio and Jennifer Lawrence, is about the threat of a planet-killing comet headed toward Earth. Alarmed by the situation, astronomy professor Randell Mindy (played by Di Caprio), and Ph.D. candidate Kate Dibiasky (played by Lawrence), report this information to the U.S. president (played by Meryl Streep). The narcissistic and politically driven president decides to “sit tight and assess” the situation rather than take action, reflecting the apathy many people experience today when environmental issues are discussed. The environmental and political satire in this movie is about the ongoing climate crisis in real life. Politicians neglect to enforce climate protection to an adequate degree. The climate crisis is worsening, and it has become a challenge to bring awareness to the severity of the situation. In Don’t Look Up, the two main scientists continuously present their research, and are

constantly ignored or shamed for not being more positive and “light.” The president only flip-flops in her decisions and action depending on which is more politically favorable. This applies to some egotistical world leaders that pose a threat to human life because they act on self-interest and refuse to tackle the climate crisis. Some world leaders refuse to believe that there is an ongoing climate crisis and say climate change is a hoax.

IMDb.com

Haya Abu Ghosh Associate Opinion Editor

“A film about a comet hurtling towards Earth and no one is doing anything about it? Sounds exactly like the climate crisis,” argues climate scientist Peter Kalmus. The butt of the joke in this film are the anti-science individuals and non-believers that refuse to acknowledge the scientific community. This also includes people who are immersed in capitalism and toxic political systems. These institutions get in the way of accepting science for the sake of public good, simply because the governmental parties want to twist it for individual gain. The film exposes the individual, societal, and institutional levels of complacency and inaction that continue to worsen the climate crisis. The film shows how helpless people can be, no matter how much individual effort they dedicate to combatting the crisis, simply because the problem requires everyone to work together. Unlike comet-ending movies like Armageddon, the comet actually does make impact and destroy the earth which kills everybody on it. The only ones that survive are the ultrawealthy who manage to get on a Noah’s Arc type spaceship. After thousands of years in

a cryo-chamber, they arrive on another earth-like planet to restart the human race. This shows that those with wealth and power are unaffected by destructive forces and will continue to seize whatever they can, regardless of the consequences. There is one credit scene where the last man on earth says, “What’s up, y’all? I’m the last man on Earth,” before signing off with, “Don’t forget to like and subscribe.” The grim ending to the movie is a realistic depiction of what will actually happen if nothing is done. This final comment is a jab at popular social media trends of advocacy that aren’t substantial, and only blind people from the reality of the situation. It becomes an escape, but the movie argues that we can’t just escape it, we need to fight it head on. Don’t Look Up reflects ongoing issues such as the Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, populist world leaders, violence, and more. The director of this film, Adam Mckay, emphasizes the dangers of over politicization, and formulates the perfect political satire. We are past the time to listen to scientists. The science and data are there, it is our responsibility to ensure it doesn’t go to waste, and that we take immediate action, as a human race.

“Don’t Look Up!” (2021): Critics vs. Audience

Helen Yu Comic Artist

Ear to the ground:

Zoom university symphony

GABRIEL DALTON/UNSPLASH

Decades late, Canada attempts to right its wrongs The federal government allocates $40 billion in reparations to compensate for First Nations ethnic cleansing. Aia Jaber Contributor

fter many years of demanding justice, the Canadian federal government has approved to allocate $40 billion in reparations in the name of reconciliation—a feat that is a massive win and step forward towards reconciliation. But it is it enough? Canada has far too much blood on its hands to simply continue with this narrative of being one of the happiest, most peaceful countries amongst the superpowers. The lives, traditions and stories of Indigenous individuals and tribes have suffered a massive ethnic cleansing which is still evident today. The decision to declare reparations is a step towards creating meaningful change in the lives of Indigenous communities, but we still have a long way to go. The battle towards reconciliation and Indigenous rights has proven to be exhausting, and lengthy. The Assembly of First Nations and the First Nations Child Family Caring Society had filed a complaint mentioning the federal government’s blatant discrimination towards First Nations. Following this urgent order to the federal government, and a few years later, Canada decided to supply $20 billion to families affected over the course of the last three decades, as well as another $20 billion over the course of a five-year reform.

“It is a step made toward ensuring that wrongs are made right.” The notion of reparation is not a foreign endeavour. Reparation is often payments made to compensate for the destruction and damage inflicted on an individual or group of people by a higher power. It is a step made toward ensuring that wrongs are made right. After periods of unlawful constraint and violations of human rights, vulnerable communities are in dire need of resources to rebuild the lives and infrastructures stolen from them. In regards to Indigenous rights, money will not bring back the lives lost in residential schools and erase the countless other accounts of bigotry and discrimination. But, it can provide these victims the ability and a starting point to take back what is theirs. Individuals who are approved for support are children living on reserves, those affected by the Jordan’s Principle (rather, the lack thereof) which was meant to be supported by the House of Commons in 2007. The principle was meant

to protect First Nations children in their right to receive free health care. Others available for reparation include Indigenous adults transitioning out of the welfare system, and families living in Yukon who were forcibly removed from their homes from 1991 to 2022.

“This settlement [will] mean meaningful change for First Nations [. . .] but we can’t look away from these issues now that we have a settlement. Now onto long term reform.” Dakota Kochie, an Ojibwe person and former chief of staff of The Assembly of First nations tweeted, “this settlement [will] mean meaningful change for First Nations [. . .] but we can’t look away from these issues now that we have a settlement. Now onto long term reform.” While Canada has reached the conclusion and acknowledged its part in a horrifying ethnic cleansing, supplying $40 billion to the communities it destroyed is not enough. This is a step toward doing what is right, but it did not come easy and it is long overdue. The lives lost, languages erased, history and traditions made a mockery of, the children that were stolen from their parents and put in schools in which they were tortured, will never be forgotten. Under the reign of Stephen Harper, it was found that thousands of documents proving and exposing human rights violations and acts of discrimination against Indigenous children were concealed by his government, in an attempt to deny these communities their basic rights. The very least Canada can do for destroying the children of the past is to ensure the children of the future have equal opportunities to achieve and preserve their beliefs and stories. Many have taken to Twitter, expressing their thoughts and appreciation for the advocates who fought for justice—the largest class action lawsuit in the history of Canada. I, too, am hopeful that a brighter future is coming for First Nations residing in Canada. While we can’t overlook the fact that many communities still live in troublesome environments with little access to healthcare and clean drinking water, change is happening. The First Nations communities have been true superheroes, inspiring countless lives within Canada’s borders but also outside who may have direct ties to the discouraging reality of ethnic cleansing. We, as a society, have great impact on the future, and we must keep fighting.

The sounds that go on in the background while we’re muted on a Zoom call. Aya Yafaoui Columnist

t seems that with every new semester, we get hit by a new strain, which really puts a bummer to the phrase “new year, new me.” Since Omicron is going on its grand world tour nowadays and we’ve all been forced to resume lockdown and “Zoom University,” I thought it would be interesting to revisit my last column and see how different the university experience is from home. Of course, these sounds are the ones I hear around my house, and they will differ for each student and their circumstances. Yet, I hope some of these sounds are familiar or relatable to you as you slog through another two-hour Zoom lecture or sit in awkward silence during a breakout room. The first sound I hear in the morning, like most people, is my alarm, which I set to wake me up ten minutes before my class because I refuse to wake up earlier just to flip open my laptop and click a Zoom link. As I carry on through the day, I can hear my younger siblings sitting through their own online classes, from math, to art, to gym. Gym class basically consists of my brother doing half-hearted jumping-jacks and push-ups as the china in our display cases shudder and clink together. While I gather my last shreds of energy to log in to another Zoom class, I can hear my other brother start to practice his saxophone. Sometimes the music flows beautifully, but most times, the wrong notes squeak louder than my professor’s nasally voice. Either way, it is entirely unhelpful for my already wavering concentration. As the day draws to a close and the sounds of my rambunctious family begin to quiet, I can finally sit down and focus on some of my readings. That is until my cats start to fight and wail. So much goes on in the background of our lives that impacts our learning, both in our control and entirely outside of it. So, while every households’ cacophony may be different, know that you’ve made it through almost two years of a global pandemic, and at this rate, you might have to make it through another two before we’re done.

Until next time! Aya Yafaoui

features

Editor | Ricardo Jaroslav Valdes features@themedium.ca

Late Professor Lee Ann Fujii’s book Show Time depicts uncomfortable truths about violence Professor Fujii’s bravery and passion for her research continues to inspire the scholarly community. Prisha (Maneka) Nuckchady Associate Features Editor

e all have a particular professor whose class we look forward to because of their incredibly engaging lectures. Professor Lee Ann Fujii was a talented and beloved faculty member who fulfilled that role for many of her students and colleagues. When she passed away on March 2, 2018, faculty members and students across the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) campus were left deeply saddened. Prior to her successful academic career, Professor Fujii was an actress. Her passion for theatre, as well as her charismatic energy, shone through her teaching and resulted in engaging, performance-like lectures. “She held herself with such poise,” says Professor Edward Schatz from UTM’s Department of Political Science who worked alongside Professor Fujii. “She never failed to entertain.” Professor Fujii was highly conscious of and intrigued by political violence. In September 2021, her book titled Show Time: The Logic and Power of Violent Display was posthumously published. Show Time investigates the reasons behind the uncanny public nature of violence and asks why “perpetrators of political violence, from lynch mobs to genocidal killers, display their acts of violence so publicly and extravagantly.” According to Professor Schatz, Show Time explores hard truths that might be difficult to confront. It examines three instances of extreme, public violence: the murder of a Tutsi family amidst the 1994 genocide in Rwanda that killed one million Tutsi, the killing of Muslim men in Bosnia during the Balkan Wars, and the lynching of George Armwood in 1933.

“She wanted to make people uncomfortable, but in a productive way. It’s almost like she thought that telling the truth as she saw it was her [duty].” “I myself [struggled] with stomaching the uncomfortable truths that she depicts,” explains Professor Schatz. The idea of uncovering troubling truths was not uncommon for Professor Fujii. “She wanted to make people uncomfortable, but in a productive way. It’s almost like she thought that telling the truth as she saw it was her [duty].” To him, it seemed like Professor Fujii was never entirely comfortable in Canada. Many assume that Canada, in comparison to the

GOODREADS

United States, is the more “polite” country where racism is not as severe. But Professor Fujii disagreed with that assumption. After all, systemic racism is present in Canada. Professor Schatz notes that it’s almost like she felt that these forms of oppression weren’t silent, but merely quieter. “She preferred a state where people spoke their minds a little bit more directly [rather than pretended out of politeness],” he explains. For Professor Schatz and many others, Professor Fujii’s ability to voice her opinion, no matter how uncomfortable, inspired them. He recalls previous departmental meetings where she “called things as she saw it,” he states. “She would question policies and procedures whenever there was a more efficient way of doing things. It made us a lot more productive.” As a result, departmental meetings with Professor Fujii were never dull. Her inquisitive attitude was also mirrored in research projects. For instance, where most of us would be satisfied understanding the aims behind violent criminal actions, Show Time asks why these perpetrators chose the less efficient but hugely public way of reaching their goals. In her first book published in 2009 titled Killing Neighbors: Webs of Violence in Rwanda, Professor Fujii focused on the history and causes of the Rwanda Genocide. In fact, Professor Schatz notes that from the headstart, “unlike most Ph.D. students, Professor Fujii knew exactly what she wanted to write about: the Rwanda Genocide.” Among Professor Fujii’s publications, her articles on research methods deeply resonated with Professor Schatz. Professor Fujii emphasized that research needs to be accessible. She remarked that, although the most sophisticated statistical methods might be useful, they should not be the main derivative focus of research. Instead, she encouraged an immersive field world approach to research:

“Political scientists should be talking [and engaging] with the people that they are studying,” explains Professor Schatz in reference to Professor Fujii’s field research that spoke to those involved in the Rwandan genocide. Drawing on making research accessible, Professor Fujii had a unique writing style. “Her research publications are written in [simplistic] language with refreshingly short sentences,” continues Professor Schatz. “She was uninterested in scholarly jargon [and] focused simply on communicating.”

“Despite looking at violence in extraordinary detail, it is also deeply humanistic in the best sense of the word.” According to him, many of her scholarly publications are accessible to readers with a genuine interest in the matter. Show Time is slightly more complex, but still caters to an undergraduate audience. Reviewers of the book have praised Professor Fujii’s originality and research. Professor Scott Straus from the University of Wisconsin-Madison praises Show Time in an online review saying that it is “a strikingly original and courageous intervention in the literature on political violence. Despite looking at violence in extraordinary detail, it is also deeply humanistic in the best sense of the word.” Professor Schatz adds that Professor Lee Ann Fujii was a “deeply atypical political scientist,” which coming from him, is a huge compliment. Always challenging redundant norms, calling out issues as she saw them, and voicing her opinion when she thought something was wrong, Professor Fujii was and remains a blessing and an inspiration to the scholarly community.

From cancer survivor to cancer researcher: Dr. Andrew Beharry and his team aim to enhance photodynamic therapy The Beharry Lab is developing a more efficient cancer cell therapy treatment. Wid Al-Zahraa Al-Khafaji Contributor

r. Andrew Beharry, an assistant professor in the Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences at the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM), was 20-minutes away from delivering an online lecture when he learned he had been award-

ed $244,160 as part of Canada’s New Frontiers in Research Fund (NFRF). “I got an email stating that the decision was available on the online grant submission portal,” he recalls. “I sat there fighting the urge to check the status, because in the event it was not funded, it would throw off my teaching.” But when he learned he was approved, he “gave the world’s best online lecture.” The NFRF is a federal research funding program that pro-

motes worldwide, multidisciplinary, ground-breaking research. This year, three UTM professors received funds for their respective research: Dr. Nicole Charles, in collaboration with Dr. Tonya Haynes on type-2-diabetes; Dr. Mary Cheng, in collaboration with her sister Dr. Hai-Long Margaret Cheng on stem cell therapy research; and Dr. Beharry, in collaboration with Dr. Christine Allen on cancer cell therapy research. >> DR. BEHARRY continues on page 11

>> DR. BEHARRY continued from page 10 In their research project titled “Darkdynamic Therapy: Photodynamic Therapy without Light,” Dr. Beharry and Dr. Allen from U of T’s Faculty of Pharmacy aim to enhance a current cancer cell therapy treatment known as photodynamic therapy (PDT), which focuses on directing light to damaged cells to kill them. “Although the requirement of light in PDT is responsible for minimizing side effects in patients, its use for treating cancers in the human body is limited,” explains Dr. Beharry.

ly,” adds Dr. Beharry. “PDT is important because compared to conventional treatments, its mechanism of cancer-killing is unique, and long-term side effects such as the formation of secondary cancers are essentially non-existent.”

“[It was] this personal experience that geared my interest towards developing therapies that worked more effectively without risks of long-term side effects.”

“Cell therapy is one of the most promising and recent fields of cancer research and treatment— and PDT falls under this umbrella.” Cancer develops when mutated cells expand and kill healthy cells. They spread uncontrollably to other body parts and may eventually form a tumor that consists of a cluster of cancer cells. There are many types of treatments available to patients, some of which include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, cell therapy is one of the most promising and recent fields of cancer research and treatment—and PDT falls under this umbrella. According to Dr. Beharry, light through PDT helps minimize toxicity to healthy cells. “[It’s] a procedure that uses a small, non-toxic molecule that becomes toxic only when it is exposed to a certain colour of light,” he explains. In other words, when light interacts with this non-toxic molecule, a highly hazardous, reactive agent called “singlet oxygen” is produced. Singlet oxygen destroys nearby molecules, eventually killing cancer cells. But this procedure does not penetrate far enough to treat tumours that develop deep within the skin. Therefore, intercession such as incisions and fibre optics are necessary to assist the delivery of the singlet oxygen. “This is an unfortunate issue because singlet oxygen is effective at killing cancer, it just isn’t being produced efficient-

not work during the time of diagnosis, and the probability the cancer may come back if the treatment does work. Probabilities are frustrating for any patient to hear—even if chances of survival are good, you tend to think about falling in the low percentile.”

DR. ANDREW BEHARRY

On the road where it all began, Dr. Beharry shares what inspired him to research more effective cancer treatments. “I am a cancer survivor of nine years who underwent radiation therapy. Though I’m grateful such a therapy exists, there are long-term side effects that can accompany this,” he explains. “I was also made aware of the probability the treatment may

Dr. Beharry is a graduate of York University, having done his postdoctoral fellow at Stanford University, and presently a researcher and assistant professor at UTM. “[It was] this personal experience that geared my interest towards developing therapies that worked more effectively without risks of long-term side effects,” he says. “Having been trained in large multi-disciplinary Ph.D. and postdoctoral research programs, I was well equipped to design and synthesize molecules and test them biologically.” Dr. Beharry states that he and his team have made excellent progress in the last five years regarding his research development. “I did not think within my first five years at UTM we would already be working with medical doctors,” he adds. “Of course, we will continue to actively engage in these interactions, along with developing new projects like dark dynamic therapy so that the medical community has new tools to work with that are unique but effective.” He further continues with his aspirations, stating “I have a very strong research group that is enthusiastic and ambitious towards the cause, and so with this team, we hope to drive home preclinical evaluation of our lead compounds and initiate commercialization within the next five years.” Surviving cancer, and now researching it himself, Dr. Beharry wishes for an innovative future: “I hope our research brings a non-conventional, positive change to standard care in the future, that leads to large improvements in cancer patient survival rates.”

A more technologically inclusive future: Dr. Cosmin Munteanu wins award for his humancomputer interaction research With most essential services going online, older generations must be kept in the loop. Dalainey Gervais Associate Features Editor >> DR. MUNTEANU continued from page 01 “With shifting services online, we risk creating a two-tiered society created by a digital divide, and we are actively contributing to that divide if we don’t understand the ways we can make this technology more accessible,” says Dr. Munteanu. As the pandemic pushes toward a virtual switch of critical services such as healthcare and banking, the conversation is ever more relevant. Rather than slowly incorporating technological elements into these services, the brisk shift has halted some inperson services.

“The risk is that there are groups of people that are left behind.” “The question is, how can we support their needs through different designs?” adds Dr. Munteanu. If we don’t focus on making these technologies more accessible, it’s possible that

older generations will no longer have access to essential services. “The risk is that there are groups of people that are left behind.” Dr. Munteanu currently teaches CCT380: Human-Computer Interaction and Communication, a third-year introduction to the field of

study. “This is my favourite course to teach,” he shares. “It is the first significant course where students learn about human-computer interactions. They tend to get excited about the course because they haven’t previously put much thought into the space.” CCT380 is a fundamental course that looks at human factors of design in digital interfaces. This includes key design principles and user-centered design, all while keeping the needs of the user in mind. Being in a multidisciplinary field of research, Dr. Munteanu has worked on a multitude of societal aspects that factor into the humancomputer interaction world. His previous work ranges from the study of wearing sensor-based fall risk assessments in older adults, mobile language assistance for adults with low-literacy, as well as ways to improve the accuracy of automatic lecture transcription, a topic relevant with university lectures being primarily conducted through virtual settings. Co-directing the Technologies for Ageing Gracefully (TAG) Lab at U of T alongside Ph.D. student Benett Axtell, Dr. Munteanu identifies common problems of aging that can be addressed through beneficial development in technology. He encourages stu-

dents who are interested in research to reach out to professors they would be interested in working with. “When I was in my undergrad, one of my [teaching assistants] approached me letting me know that a professor was looking for a research assistant,” he recalls. “I spent the next three years working as a research assistant.”

“They didn’t grow up surrounded with the technology that comes so easily to our generation.” Although I stop and chuckle when seeing my parents struggle with texting, I do understand the challenge. They didn’t grow up surrounded with the technology that comes so easily to our generation. Like any other field, a push in accessibility and representation for underrepresented groups is the next step to a more inclusive world, even if it potentially leads to frustrating tutorials. Rather than letting the gap between older generations and the digital world grow bigger, we can all play a part in bridging the divide through reflecting on ways to help those around us.

Arts

Editor | Danica Teng arts@themedium.ca

Encanto gives Disney a charming new look Breaking barriers with the latest heroine while exploring the beauty of Colombian culture. Lexey Burns Staff Writer

Spoiler warning: this article mentions scenes from Encanto.

any Disney lovers were skeptical about the latest Disney movie Encanto and wondered if it would live up to the expectations of a successful film like Frozen. However, with eye-catching illustrations, creative magical realism, a twist on Disney villainy, impressive Colombian symbolism, and a bopping soundtrack, Encanto has exceeded expectations. To introduce the extensive Madrigal family to viewers, Encanto opens with “The Family Madrigal,” a musical number where the main character Mirabel (Stephanie Beatriz) explains to some nosy town children the variety of gifts her family possesses. Abuela Alma (María Cecilia Botero), Mirabel’s grandmother, was given the “miracle”— what they call their magic—in the form of a candle after her husband was killed. With the candle’s magic, Abuela’s three children received the first of the Madrigals’ magical abilities. Mirabel’s mother, Julieta (Angie Cepeda),

can heal injuries through food, her aunt Pepa’s (Carolina Gaitan) emotions control the weather, and her uncle Bruno (John Leguizamo) can see the future. Each one of the second-generation Madrigals symbolize the past, present, and future. Mirabel’s sisters and cousins are also blessed with unique gifts, which are reflected in the characters’ outfits. Mirabel is the only one born into her family who did not receive a magical talent. Even though the Madrigals are not royalty, their “miracle” and individual powers

provide exalted status in their community. The Madrigals act like leaders and are the closest thing to royalty in Encanto. So, Mirabel is technically our new Disney princess. Mirabel is also the first leading female Disney character ever to sport glasses, making her the first unofficial Dis- ney princess with glasses. Meg Murry from A Wrinkle in Time and Sadness from Inside Out are also female characters with glasses, but none of them are Disney princesses. With movies like Moana and Coco, Disney has shifted to a more diverse cast. Their latest addition, Encanto, is set in Colombia. The film never explicitly names a location but still gives many hints of Colombian culture. Most of the Latin voices who appear in the movie are also Colombian-born or Colombian-descent actors.

“it’s kind of the home of magical realism in literature and culture and the home of the great Gabriel Garcia Marquez,” IMDb.com

These efforts are also reflected in the film’s music. Lin-Manuel Miranda, writer of musicals like Hamilton and In The Heights,

was also heavily involved in Encanto’s soundtrack. Miranda and other Disney creators travelled to Colombia for research. Miranda wrote eight original songs for the movie in English and Spanish, taking inspiration from the country and culture as “it’s kind of the home of magical realism in literature and culture and the home of the great Gabriel Garcia Marquez,” Miranda said in an interview. Writers also took inspiration from symbols that Marquez used in his famous novel, One Hundred Years of Solitude, which became a major part of the movie. Unlike other Disney movies, there is no clear villain in Encanto but rather an unseen threat as the candle’s magic begins to disappear. Disney has recently been trying to get rid of the villain as Frozen 2, Ralph Breaks the Internet, and Moana all have metaphorical threats instead or focus the plot on the protagonist’s quest for self-discovery. For Encanto, the conflict that drives the story is based on familial pressures, confronting generational grief, and denial. Even though movie theatres are closed because of Ontario’s new lockdown, Disney+ released Encanto on December 24 for fans to watch as many times as they want from the comfort and safety of their homes.

Mukbangs: the latest all-you-can-eat trend Food broadcasts rise in popularity as people feast their eyes on the screen. Dalainey Gervais Associate Features Editor

ooking and baking shows have been popular for years. People are fascinated by the art of food plating and the icing of cakes. However, in the last few years, a new genre of food entertainment has emerged: mukbangs. Rather than watching people complete baking challenges, we watch people eat sizeable mounds of food at an astonishing rate while talking to viewers. Originating in South Korea, mukbang roughly translates to “eating broadcast.” Essentially, people who film mukbangs begin the video with an absurd amount of food which they will then eat in its entirety. The type of foods used in the video can range from homemade dishes—which are typically cooked on-screen—to the entire menu of a local fast-food restaurant, with meals lasting hours long. Those who partake in mukbangs draw viewers in by playing with their sense of indulgence and curiosity. The trend began in the early 2000s, gaining popularity across Canada and the U.S. in 2015. While the majority of mukbang streamers were of South Korean descent in the beginning, it has grown since then, with some of YouTube’s biggest names taking part. In recent years, the trend has boomed in demand, allowing some of YouTube’s top mukbangers to

make $10,000 per month. While this salary includes an income from the viewership on Youtube, it can also include outside sponsorships from food brands like McDonald’s or Burger King, who pay professional mukbangers to review their products during a binging session. While eating large amounts of food is already a task, mukbang streamers have been encouraged to participate in a multitude of challenges. One of the largest challenges is the

STEPHANIE SOO/YOUTUBE

four-times spice fire noodle challenge, where mukbangers try to eat multiple packages of Samyang’s Spicy Mala Buldak Ramen—known to be one of the spiciest instant ramen packs you can purchase. As mukbangs become more popular among mainstream YouTubers, content creators have been adding new aspects to entertain their viewers, like Stephanie Soo who guides her followers through gruesome crime investigations while eating buckets of fried chicken. Other influencers like Zach Choi, whose entire social media presence surrounds the art of mukbang, eat their food of choice in complete silence to reflect another viral trend—the Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR). Possibly adding to the rising interest in mukbangs, ASMR is the tingling sensation from pleasurable auditory stimuli, typically triggered by whispers or eating noises. The vitality of the ASMR movement on social media platforms has received mixed emotions as some people love it, while others feel strong, negative responses (particularly to mukbang ASMR videos). In some people, the sound of chewing or breathing causes intense anger, which is a sign of a condition called misophonia. The question remains—why are people interested in watching these videos? Well, whether we love eating with our eyes, are amazed at the amounts people can eat, enjoy seeing someone suffer from super spicy noodles, or appreciate ASMR, mukbangs truly offer an all-you-can-eat experience.

Sunbearer

Amour?

Cool Boots

Komalroop Kaler

Paige France

Dagale Mohammed

You stare into the candle’s flame the bud is like molten from a volcanic eruption the rock glows as it becomes dim and then bright light makes shapes as it swirls and loops around and gets high and low you cup your hands around the warm candle jar while whispering love notes into the flame in the small bud resides a small universe candle wax tries to drown the liveness of your light your flame is stronger you see light floating on this orange sea as it vibrates astral emotion you blow out the candle and wait for Death as ribbons of smoke hover around the candle’s pyre remnants of Love’s note sing to Death and force black soot to birth another flame

I gave you my love and you let it go to waste, And as I collect myself from our once well-trodden bedroom floor, I see you with her in a better place, I see her now with a man I still adore. Amour?

“cool boots!” Thanks, I like them too (if you do) They fit like a dream! (I have so many blisters I’m going to scream) They’re the colour of figs, a masterpiece (and unlined, no fleece) Best of all I got them on sale (I can’t take another step; I feel so frail) Huh…(ugh) Now that I’m walking in them, my feet might be a size too large…(was I overcharged?) That’s fine I’ll break them in (that’s right, take it on the chin) Besides, they have so much personality (yes, yes, you’ve purchased individuality!) My feet are being abused (but at least I have cool shoes)

The floorboards creaking from painful neglect, I catch my imagination playing games, And the figment of mine is that you still cared, But how can I blame that innocent, deceiving smile, or whatever remains? When despite all we’ve been through, your feelings were spared, With my white stilettos perched beneath my bed, Cold feet at the edge of yours, pastry gown crumbled in the closet, How can I fathom my hand would not be the one you wed? Bleeding emotions on the dusty hardwood, only your neglect could cause it, Your hand was never mine to hold, And for this my bed is forever cold, Delusions of grandeur, Amour?

Dawn FM—The Weeknd is saving pop, one album at a time The singer-songwriter is back with a dark twist on the classic ’80s sound. Aidan Thompson Associate Arts & Entertainment Editor

bel Tesfaye’s (The Weeknd) fifth studio album Dawn FM was released on January 7 and serves as a more experiential and conceptual follow-up to his preceding album, After Hours, which conceived singles like “Blinding Lights” and “Heartless.” As a follow-up to After Hours, Dawn FM burrows deeper into The Weeknd’s artistic influences and aspirations, striving toward a more thematically complete album rather than one driven by hit singles. The album’s instrumentation moves decidedly in the direction of ’80s disco-pop, with sugary chord progressions and electropop drumbeats. The vocals and melodic structures drive the songs forward and it is easy to hear Michael Jackson or Daft Punk peeking out from behind the arrangements. The Weeknd worked alongside Swedish record producer Max Martin—who is secretly responsible for some of pop’s biggest hits, including Britany Spears’ “...Baby One More Time” and The Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way”—and Daniel Lopatin, an American experimental electronic music composer whose more commonly recognized to stereo heads as Oneohtrix Point Never. The album stands as a testament to The Weeknd’s admiration for ’80s disco-pop but repurposes the genre by subverting the spacey, fluorescent instrumentation with dark, sobering lyrical content. The pulsing drums and atmospheric synths contend with lyrics that

continuously stumble upon a gloomy revelation—be it sobriety, romance, or existence. “Gasoline,” the album’s second track, outlines the emotional turmoil and existential uncertainty of an early morning comedown: “It’s 5am I’m high again/I’ve fallen into emptiness/ I’m staring into the abyss/I’m dozing off to R.E.M/I’m trying not to lose my faith.” This existential preoccupation is firm in songs like “Take My Breath,” which teases out themes of emotional and sexual arousal at the risk of death with lyrics like “I know temptation is the devil in disguise/You risk it all to feel alive,” or “You’re way too young to end your life/Girl, I don’t wanna be the one who pays the price.” The darker hedonistic themes of the album revolve around the more dominant transitionary theme of purgatory and self-acceptance. While many of the album’s stronger songs appear in the first half and are songs of indulgence and pleasure, the latter half of the album deepens those earlier themes by reflecting critically upon them. The final track “Phantom Regret by Jim” perfectly caps off the album’s myriad of gloomy and expressive themes as Jim Carrey reads a poem about moving forward from the past with lines like: “Heaven’s for those who let go of regret/and you have to wait here when you’re not all there yet.” This resolution is spoken over a soft electronic accompaniment that serves to unwind the tense music as Carrey’s poem unpacks the darker preoccupations of the album, ending with the line: “You gotta be Heaven to see Heaven/May peace be with you.” Dawn FM’s structure recalls the nostalgic

era of radio where uninterrupted musical sequences were a rarity, however, the structural design is not as effective or intentional as others albums—such as Vince Staples’ FM!, which used its structural element to formulate its thematic content. In Dawn FM, The Weeknd continues his

search for the perfect pop record, diving even deeper into the ’80s sound that sugar-coated After Hours. Conceptually complete and sonically refined, Dawn FM proves again that The Weeknd is pop’s only hope of being resurrected from the corporate-grave that public opinion has confined it to.

THE WEEKND/SPOTIFY

sports & health

Editor | Duaa Nasir sports@themedium.ca

An analysis of ADHD in women, by a woman with ADHD Women are often underdiagnosed and overlooked when it comes to ADHD. This can have a longlasting impact on their lives. If you think this could be you, here is some information that can help. Lexey Burns Staff Writer

>> ADHD continued from page 01 Two of the side effects of untreated ADHD are anxiety and depression, which are common diagnoses for women before finding out they have ADHD. For women who do receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis, they often face the challenge of finding a professional who provides appropriate treatment. In my personal post-diagnosis experience, I switched from my university doctor to my family doctor since my medication would wear off in the middle of the day. I was exhausted by 2 p.m. It turned out that my previous doctor had prescribed me 18mg of Concerta as a long-term prescription. This dosage is typical when starting to treat ADHD, but you’re supposed to increase it weekly, which I only learned after speaking with my new doctor. Apparently, I was on the same consistent dosage level as a five-year-old boy, and that’s why I was experiencing these side effects. ADHD medication can be broken into two categories: stimulants and the non-stimulants. Stimulant drugs for ADHD treatment include various amphetamines and methylphenidates,

while non-stimulant drugs increase levels of norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is a naturally occurring chemical in the body that doubles as a stress hormone and neurotransmitter— a substance that sends signals between nerve cells. The brain secretes norepinephrine in response to stress. Some short-term side effects of ADHD medication include loss of appetite and sleeplessness. While long-term side effects in women have not been thoroughly studied, some common ones include seizures, irregular heartbeat, and addiction.

ADHD vs ADD - What’s the difference? Attention deficit disorder (ADD) and ADHD are considered subtypes of the same condition but ADD lacks the symptoms of hyperactivity. It is usually referred to as inattentive ADHD. Some symptoms of inattentive ADHD include forgetfulness, distraction, lack of attention to detail, and careless mistakes. Hyperactivity symptoms include constant fidgeting or squirming, excessive talking, interrupting, struggling with impulse control,

and difficulty sitting for long periods of time. This is important to note as it was more common for girls to be diagnosed with ADD, while the term was still relevant, as the inattentive-type symptoms are more common for girls. The psychiatrist who diagnosed me told me I had ADD while my doctor explained to me that the term ADD is a now out-of-date term, but it is still commonly used to refer to inattentive-type ADHD. In the United States, ADHD diagnoses increased by 11 per cent in 2011. That’s an increase of 42 per cent between 2003 and 2011. OSAP recognizes ADHD so if you do have ADHD, or think you do, you may be eligible for the Bursary for Students with Disabilities to help pay for an ADHD assessment or ADHD coaching.

The impact of a later diagnosis Going undiagnosed could lead to developing mental health risks later in life, like depression. Accord-

ing to Medical News Today, “It could also result in [individuals with ADHD] having issues forming and maintaining relationships and succeeding in education.” Undiagnosed ADHD in adults typically presents as finding organisation challenging, difficulty holding a job, struggling to manage time, restlessness, and problems completing tasks. When I was diagnosed, everything made sense. I had a hard time maintaining friendships throughout childhood and could never understand why. Recently, I’ve had more niche ADHD videos appear in my feed that explain why I’ve felt or experienced certain things. One digital creator on Instagram with the handle @connor.dewolfe creates videos that highlight ADHD traits that are normally overlooked. You can also check out the Centre for ADHD Awareness, Canada, for information, resources, and treatments. So, if you suspecting you’re suffering from ADHD, even if your symptoms don’t line up with the stereotype, don’t freak out! It can manifest in and impact individuals differently, as it often does in women. It’s never too late to get a diagnosis, and you’re definitely not the only one who hasn’t been diagnosed before adulthood.

MAGNET.ME/UNSPLASH

WEEKLY EXERCISE SERIES: High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) HIIT workouts can provide a wide array of benefits, even in only ten minutes a day. Anjalli Becharbhai Staff Writer

igh Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) involves intense, rapid, and fast bursts of movements, followed by periods of slow movements for recovery. HIIT workouts are increasingly popular because they offer an intense workout within a short time frame. Some workouts range from 10 to 20 minutes with a multitude of health benefits. Popular HIIT workouts include The Bike Sprint, The Bodyweight Tabata Circuit, and The Basic Sprint Interval. The Bike Sprint offers an in-

tense workout that targets your quads and hamstrings. It involves pedalling on a stationary bike with added resistance for thirty seconds, then slowly for one minute. This workout requires 10 repetitions to achieve optimal weight loss. The Bodyweight Tabata Circuit focuses on bodyweight exercises such as burpees, squats, and mountain climbers. These exercises require you to move quick and fast for twenty seconds, and then rest for ten seconds. The consistent repetition is meant to burn a greater number of calories for fat loss. The Basic Sprint Interval involves running on a treadmill or track. You begin with a jog for three minutes and then a sprint for fifteen to twenty seconds. You follow this with a one-minute walk. This exercise is repeated ten times. One benefit of engaging in HIIT workouts regularly is the elevated mood you experience. In 2019, a study was conducted that revealed HIIT can reduce the severity of depression. Due to the short duration of exercises, this has been

proven to motivate those who find it difficult to make time to exercise after work, school, or merely due to laziness. These HIIT workouts are designed to be less of a chore or feel like a huge commitment for those on the go and surviving busy lifestyles. Another benefit is that HIIT workouts can reduce blood pressure in those who are overweight. One study found that eight weeks of HIIT on a stationary bike rapidly decreased blood pressure in adults. This was similar to engaging in traditional endurance training. This 2022 semester, due to Omicron and continued virtual learning, the Recreation Athletics & Wellness Centre will be facilitating HIIT group classes online. These include HIIT and Movement on Monday and Plyo HIIT on Tuesday. The variety of HIIT workouts gives individuals at any fitness level an opportunity to engage in short and effective workouts that will target many fitness goals. These workouts will keep students feeling energized and mentally fit throughout the school year.