Volume 49, Issue 2

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

Issue 2 Volume 49

September 12 2022

themedium.ca

Cultural Appreciation

WORK BY DANIA SABRI, SHAFAQ, 2021

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NEWS

Editor | Larry Lau news@themedium.ca

Shafaq Dania Sabri Oil on canvas, 24” x 36,” 2021 My subject matter is people – their everyday lives, inhabited societies and communities, and ideologies – which I express through portraiture. Shafaq is based on a photograph of my mother in her late teens to early twenties. I incorporate the history and materiality of the original photograph through painterly marks dashed over the work’s surface, as well as vignetting. As for my mother – with her all-white shalwarkameez, red bindi, pearl necklace, and silver bangles catching the light – she epitomizes youth and beauty. The walls around her are bare with the exception of a clock and a mirror, which evokes the passing of time and represents a literal and metaphorical reflection of my mother. I wanted to explore who she was prior to motherhood.

Dania Sabri is an interdisciplinary emerging artist challenging dominant political, religious, andcultural narratives specific to the settler state of “Canada” and the partitioned land of South Asia.

Sabri recently completed a Bachelor of Arts and an Advanced Diploma at the University of Toronto Mississauga and Sheridan College where she specialized in painting and design. During her time of study, she received numerous awards including the Dr. Annie Smith Award for Art & Art History, C Magazine’s Excellence in Art Writing, and several Faculty Awards for excellence in the studio practices of sculpture, painting, and design.

Shafaq, was a part of the AGO’s Portraits of Resilience Project in 2021 and was most recently on display at the AGO’s I AM HERE: Home Movies and Everyday Masterpieces exhibit, which ran until August 14th of this year. The painting was also commemorated at this year’s graduating Art & Art History exhibition hosted online by The Blackwood Gallery as well as an in-person exhibit at the Riverdale Gallery.

To see more of Sabri’s works, you can visit her website www. daniasabri.com or follow Sabri on Instagram @daniasabri_.

Convergence of cultures and ethnicities in the GTA Throughout the years, many ethnic groups have built up sizable communities within the Greater Toronto Area, resulting in the region representing the epitome of cultural diversity.

Hema Ramnarine Contributor

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s one of the most culturally-diverse regions in the world, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is known for both its established and developing ethnic communities. The diversity of these communities is incorporated into the story of Canada as a whole, culminating in the country’s multicultural identity.

“The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is known for both its established and developing ethnic communities.”

Some of the communities, such as Little India and Chinatown, have been growing steadily ever since they were established. Recently however, newer communities have become more prominent in the city’s landscape, reflecting the way the GTA’s population has grown and changed.

One of the neighbourhoods that has been expanding rapidly in recent years is located in the Bathurst-Wilson area of Toronto.

Canada’s Live-In Caregiver Program, established in 1992, allowed many Filipinos to immigrate to Canada in the 1990s and early 2000s. Many ended up settling down in what is known today as Little Manila, a region that now boasts one of the largest Filipino populations in Canada.

The region has many Filipino restaurants and cafés located within. One such restaurant is La Paz Batchoy, which opened in 2015. The restaurant specializes in Batchoy, a soup that takes two days to make and originates from the owner Jennifer Bergantinos Jameer’s hometown, Iloilo City.

The Batchoy is a heartwarming meal for Filipinos and non-Filipinos alike. In an interview with the Toronto Star, Jameer explained the cultural significance of Batchoy: “People come in and immediately recognize us as fellow Ilonggos. We bond and have heart-to-heart conversations about adjusting to life in Canada.”

CITY OF TORONTO ARCHIVES

“People come in and immediately recognize us as fellow Ilonggos. We bond and have heart-to-heart conversations about adjusting to life in Canada.”

Filipino culture continues to be celebrated in Toronto to this day. After being cancelled for two years in a row, the Taste of Manila food festival, which was first celebrated in

2014, returned to Toronto this August. Popular Filipino pop band Ben & Ben start their first Canadian tour at The Opera House on October 9, 2022.

Other ethnic communities around the GTA can be found in Leslieville, Toronto.

Known locally as the Gerrard India Bazaar, “Little India” began in the 1970s, when Gian Naz opened the Naaz Theatre on Gerard Street. Being the first Bollywood cinema in North America, the theatre quickly attracted other South Asian businesses to serve the theatre’s patrons.

While the theatre itself closed in the 1980s, South Asian businesses on Gerard Street continue to thrive, and the street is now the largest South Asian main street marketplace in North America. The development of a welcoming and stable ethnic community has turned Little India, and the GTA, into a desirable place for South Asians immigrating to Canada. According to the 2016 Census prepared by Statistic Canada, 84.6 per cent of all South Asians in Ontario reside in the GTA. For many Canadians who have come from far away, the ability to maintain and embrace the ties to their culture is one of the most valuable things about the GTA. Residents of the area promote inclusivity in the region through festivals and events that celebrate food, music, and culture. Embracing cultures is something many Canadians strive to do every day in order to ensure the GTA continues to be a place that embraces diversity.

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The UTMSU hosts week-long event as cases of academic offence soar Academic Advocacy Week returns this year to raise awareness of academic resources available to new and returning students.

Razia Saleh Contributor

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n the two years of virtual learning, violations of academic integrity have risen to alarming numbers. According to the University of Toronto Mississauga’s (UTM) annual report on academic offences released during the Academic Affairs Committee’s May 9, 2022 meeting, offence cases totaled 1,799 for the 2020-2021 academic year. This is over a 200 per cent increase from any year between 2011 and 2019.

For the 2020-2021 academic year, 45.6 per cent of cases were first-year students, followed by 28.6 per cent for second-year students, 14.0 per cent for third-year students, and 11.8 per cent for fourth-year students. The abnormally large proportion of lower year students suggests a lack of familiarity with the importance of academic integrity at UTM. Starting September 13, 2022, the University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) will be hosting its annual Academic Advocacy Week, giving students the opportunity

to learn about the academic resources offered at UTM. “The UTMSU aims to support students in various ways to ensure that they are staying on track with their academic journey,” says the UTMSU Vice-President University Affairs Suraqa Noor as she explains the rationale of the students’ union hosting Academic Advocacy Week.

The events will take place exclusively inperson, a stark difference from last year’s fully online iteration.

The UTMSU has planned numerous workshops for the week. On September 13, students may participate in the “Academic Integrity Q&A” from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the “How to Petition and Appeal with Downtown Legal Ser-

vices” workshop from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. On September 15, students may learn about avoiding plagiarism through a workshop organized by the Robert Gillespie Academic Skills Centre (RGASC), which will run from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

As mentioned, legal resources will be discussed during the week, delving deep into the topic of academic offenses and methods of handling accusations of violating academic integrity. Downtown Legal Services, the U of T Faculty of Law’s community law clinic, provides assistance in matters relating to academic offences, all free of charge.

A third-year biology student, Loridee De Villa, believes that the university does a lot to inform students of what constitutes to an academic offence and its consequences: “I think

UTM provides students with a detailed account of how academic integrity functions and how offenses are punished within the university.”

De Villa states that she still feels that “the university spends more time telling students that their work should be honest, rather than implementing policies that would reduce the likelihood of students making these offenses.

For example, allowing test retakes during illness or having assessments that do not carry an extreme amount of weight.”

Regardless, there are several resources and support systems that students can use to maintain academic integrity. “Students can also speak to a professor or TA about their academic integrity concerns, seek assistance from the RGASC or the Academic Integrity Unit which has a bunch of resources available to students and, speak to us, the UTMSU,” says Noor.

Moving forward, the UTMSU encourages students to proactively learn about the academic support offered on campus as to make it easier for them to deal with any academic-related challenges encountered throughout their time in university.

Toronto’s 2022 Mid-Autumn Festival sheds light on Chinese cultural traditions The Chinese community in Canada celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival on September 10, commemorating the end of the harvest season with a gathering of families.

Larry Lau News Editor

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he Mid-Autumn Festival takes place on the 15th day of the eighth month of the Chinese calendar. On the more widely used Gregorian calendar, this date varies, however, this year, on September 10, Chinese communities across the world gathered to celebrate the festival under the full moon.

In accordance with the Lunar calendar, the Mid-Autumn Festival traditionally celebrates the year’s bountiful harvest season. The celebration is rooted in the prevalence of agriculture in China’s history.

The festival was first celebrated in China during the Zhou Dynasty (1045 to 221 BC). It began as emperors worshipped the moon goddess in hopes of a plentiful harvest for the upcoming year.

Today, the Mid-Autumn Festival has largely lost its agricultural significance, but is regularly celebrated in active Chinese communities worldwide.

Jinru Pan, a fifth-year management specialist and linguistics minor, and a student of Chinese descent, shared her reflections on the festival with The Medium.

“Traditionally, there are some mythologies that we keep hearing from our parents or even our family,” says Pan as she explains the origins of the Mid-Autumn Festival.

There are several concepts and stories about why the festival is celebrated, one of which revolves around the moon goddess Chang’e. The story, which translates to “Chang’e Fly-

ing to the Moon,” has many different iterations, and involve several other characters of Chinese mythology, including the archer Hou Yi, and the Moon Rabbit (also known as the Jade Rabbit or the Hare). Originating from this traditional tale, Chinese people decided to organize a festival to commemorate her departure to the moon.

Aside from the origins of the Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrations focus on several themes, the most important one being that of family reunion.

NATALIE NG/THE MEDIUM

“This is a festival about gathering with family. To me personally, most importantly, I get the day off when I’m in China and I get to meet with my family,” says Pan as she explains what she enjoys about the Mid-Autumn Festival.

While there is no statutory holiday for the Mid-Autumn Festival in most countries other than China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, to name a few, this year’s festival took place during the weekend of September 10 to 11, allowing people to hold celebrations deep into the night. Chinese people were able to celebrate while the moon was at its brightest and without the fear of being late for work the next day.

The celebrations all around the globe are never short of exciting. To celebrate, people bake mooncakes, which are sweet, glutinous pastries made with lotus seed paste. The dessert is commonly consumed during the festival and is considered a cultural delicacy.

Other activities include making or buying colourful lanterns and carrying them around, guessing lantern riddles, and admiring the full moon.

Due to the presence of Chinese communities within the Greater Toronto Area, a celebration underwent near Exhibition Place. Participants were invited to celebrate their culture, and reconnect with the community through watching the release of glimmering LED water lanterns alongside friends and family.

Due to the hectic lives that university students lead, many put off or forget about meeting with family for extended periods. “I see the [Mid-Autumn Festival] as an excuse for me to get to meet family,” states Pan.

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The end of an era: Queen Elizabeth II passes away UK’s longest-serving monarch and beloved public figure, Queen Elizabeth II, is peacefully laid to rest with millions mourning.

Larry Lau News Editor n the afternoon of September 8, 2022, Queen Elizabeth II, passed away at the age of 96 at Balmoral Castle, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Her passing marks the end of her 70-year reign as one of the world’s most renowned public leaders.

On September 9, King Charles III made his first official address to the public since the Queen’s passing, expressing sorrow for his beloved mother’s passing and proclaiming his dedication to his country.

“That promise of life-long service, I renew to all, today,” says King Charles III as he vows to share the late Queen’s oath to the people of the Commonwealth.

“And wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavour to serve you with loyalty, respect, and love as I have throughout my life,” pledges King Charles III. King Charles III succeeded the Queen on September 10, where he partook in a televised accession ceremony performed at St James’s Palace, London. During the ceremony, King Charles III swore an oath, known as the accession declaration, to maintain the Protestant religion and preserve the Church of Scotland.

The funeral for the Queen includes plans spanning several days. Her coffin will be moved to numerous locations in between now and the date of her funeral for ceremonies and for the public to pay respects. The funeral service will commence at Westminster Abbey, on September 19, with the day being a public holiday in the UK. On the same day, she will be laid to rest within St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle, where her late husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, is also buried.

Throughout her life, Queen Elizabeth II witnessed the appointment and departure of 15 prime ministers, starting with Winston Churchill and ending with Liz Truss, who was appointed on Tuesday, September 6—a ceremony to which the Queen was in attendance.

“Known for her steadfast and kind nature, Queen Elizabeth II established stability in the monarchy, when many questioned their relevance in a democratically dominated world.”

UNKNOWN / LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES CANADA

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Known for her steadfast and kind nature, Queen Elizabeth II established stability in the monarchy, when many questioned their relevance in a democratically dominated world. She pushed forward a series of policies that kept the aging monarchy aligned with changing times.

In his statement, Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, expressed “heartfelt condolences to members of the Royal Family during this most difficult time.” He also stated that the upcoming days will be a period of mourning for Canadians and all Commonwealth citizens, culminating to a National Day of Mourning to end the period.

Days after the Queen’s passing, on September 10, Canada recognized King Charles III as Canada’s new monarch, with Trudeau issuing a new statement: “On behalf of the Government of Canada, we affirm our loyalty to Canada’s new King, His Majesty King Charles III, and offer him our full support.”

“Her legacy will loom large in the pages of British history, and in the story of our world.”

The White House also issued a statement, with President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden recounting their encounters with the Queen and expressing condolences for members of the Royal Family, as well as the people of the UK and the Commonwealth. “Her legacy will loom large in the pages of British history, and in the story of our world.”

The newly established British Prime Minister, Liz Truss, spoke to the public about the passing of the country’s beloved Queen. “We usher in a new era in the magnificent history of our great country, exactly as Her Majesty would have wished, by saying ‘God Save the King,’” said Truss, looking forward to King Charles III’s reign.

“I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service.”

“I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service,” said the then 21-year-old Princess Elizabeth, as she swore an oath to the people of the Commonwealth in 1947.

75 years later, Queen Elizabeth II has witnessed and contributed to the world’s growth and change in ways unparalleled by most of today’s leaders. She will forever be the Queen who refused to be left behind.

JOEL ROUSE/ MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

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Campaigns begin as housing shortages continue to plague UTM students High rental costs and unfavourable living conditions raise concerns over affordable student housing options.

Mihail Cubata Contributor

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ccording to Statistics Canada, in April 2022, 53 per cent of young adults, aged 15 to 29, were concerned about their ability to afford housing. The fear of paying high prices for cheap units is continuously affecting students, who already pay hefty tuition fees.

For the city of Mississauga, the average rental price of a single bedroom unit in August 2022 reached $1,862, rendering such accommodations inaccessible to most students. Of course, off-campus housing has fewer price regulations and varies dramatically in quality, but there are pressing issues regarding on-campus housing options as well.

To aid students in securing affordable housing, the University of Toronto Mississauga’s (UTM) Department of Student Housing and Residence Life (SHRL) is calling for students living on campus to apply for this year’s Student Housing Advisory Committee (SHAC).

Comprised of student representatives, the committee aims to open up a channel of communication with students living on residence. Those interested in applying can submit their application online before the deadline on September 14.

Committee members will regularly meet in-person with SHRL representatives to voice concerns and provide feedback on issues related to housing. Points of discussion include student needs, accommodation policies, and budget allocation.

It will be a place to discuss grievances regarding housing, which many students have.

Tomas, a third-year kinesiology student who lives on residence and wishes to remain anonymous, recounts an unpleasant summer due to faulty appliances. “Our air conditioning was awful this summer,” he says. “Sometimes it just wouldn’t work, other times it was so loud we thought it was broken. It makes you wonder what we’re paying [$2,000] a month for.”

Alex Sigarev, a fourth-year Digital Enterprise Management student, also has concerns about housing costs both on-and off-campus: “I think a lot of people want to live on campus for the social experience and everything. But for me, the price was too much, both on campus and nearby.”

Tomas is enthusiastic about the opportunity to interact with those in charge of on-campus housing. “I think committees like these are always important,” he says. “If you don’t talk to the right people about your problems, they’re never going to get fixed, right?”

The SHRL’s SHAC is not the sole option for students to call for accessible and secure housing options. The University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) is currently accepting applications for their housing committee, which is open to non-residence students as well. The committee will be looking at student housing beyond on-campus options.

All positions for the UTMSU’s housing committee are volunteer based, with the closing date to apply being September 13. As a member of the committee, students can share their insights and concerns on housing to help guide the direction of UTMSU’s affordable housing campaign.

Involving students in conversations regarding their living accommodations is paramount in ensuring the viable stay of those on residence. Committees such as that of the SHRL and the UTMSU foster an open space and a continuous line of communication, thus enabling pressing issues to be addressed in a timely manner. With the already challenging housing situation in the Greater Toronto Area for people of all ages, students especially need to be given the option to live comfortably and within their budget.

MASTHEAD EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Elizabeth Provost editor@themedium.ca Managing Editor Aia Jaber managing@themedium.ca News Larry Lau news@themedium.ca Opinion Kareena Kailass opinion@themedium.ca Features Prisha (Maneka) Nuckchady features@themedium.ca A&E Julia Skoczypiec arts@themedium.ca Sports Alisa Samuel sports@themedium.ca Photo Samira Karimova photos@themedium.ca Design Manjot Pabla design@themedium.ca Copy Aidan Thompson aidan@themedium.ca Juliana Stacey juliana@themedium.ca Social Belicia Chevolleau social@themedium.ca

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OPINION

Food: keeping us cultured and connected Rising food spots in the GTA have affected the way we define culture and how we stay celebrate each other.

Fariha Shimu Contributor

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’ve never tried shawarma,” said my co-worker. Several heads turned. I gasped. In hindsight, it was quite comical how we made it out to be this monumental revelation. But why was it so shocking to so many of us?

There is no denying that cultural food spots have become widespread, so much so that it feels like the world’s cuisines are at our fingertips. Within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), there is immense cultural diversity. Several cuisines have become so popular that it is genuinely shocking when someone is part of the minority that has not indulged in a famous dish. The rising reputation of ethnic cuisines gives space for underrepresented, marginalized communities to be recognized on a larger scale. In addition to this, small businesses can directly reap the benefits of sharing their cuisines with the world.

“The exposure of different cuisines creates a shift in attitude from gatekeeping culture to the sharing foods and traditions eagerly.”

The effect this has on our collective knowledge of culture is massive. The exposure of different cuisines creates a shift in attitude from gatekeeping culture to the sharing foods and traditions eagerly. Anthropologist Margaret Mead described the act of sharing food as a form of gift-giving. In many ways, food represents one’s cultural heritage, and thus, giving people outside our culture the opportunity to participate in this experience is a meaningful exchange.

Since food and culture are so deeply intertwined, having access to cultural food spots allows us to embrace and celebrate our own, as well as different cultures, through their rich cuisines. The way that food is grown, cooked, served, and even eaten, has a deeper meaning within its cultural context. When we eat cultural

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food and take the time to learn the appropriate etiquette, it is an act of respect. In doing so, we acknowledge the profound history behind the techniques and rituals that go into preparing food.

Fusion cuisine, where elements from two or more cuisines are combines in some way, has become a popular phenomenon. Hakka Chinese cuisine is a well-known mix of Indian and Chinese flavours. In this instance, this fusion reveals a migratory event in history where Chinese immigrants put down roots in Kolkata in the 1700s. Making use of the regional Indian ingredients, they prepared dishes using techniques they honed from Chinese cooking and sold them as street food, which established Indochinese food as the popular fusion cuisine that we know today.

“The presence of cultural food establishments is incredibly important for our sense of community.”

The presence of cultural food establishments is incredibly important for our sense of community. The concept of “third places” comes to mind here. Sociologist Ray Oldenburg coined the term to refer to a location in between the home—the first place, and the workplace—the second place. A third place is meant to be an environment where we can establish connections, have fun, and build our communities. According to Oldenburg, the most compelling locations for third places are those which are easily accessible and reliable for routine hangouts. The cultural food establishments within the GTA can become places where everyone has an enjoyable time. For my friends and me, this can look like sushi night or going out for tacos at a local Mexican restaurant.

Having common third places in the form of cultural food spots helps us diminish the “other” mentality we may have with respect to other cultures.

Food can transform into a form of camaraderie where, irrespective of our own backgrounds, we can come together and celebrate our love for food, while appreciating the beautiful, diverse cultures from which they originate.

Editorial

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Embracing inclusivity In the workplace, a public image of inclusivity is not enough; performative policies and promises are not enough.

Our differences strengthen and connect us. They ensure fresh perspectives are heard, which not only amplifies representation, but also inspires creativity and drives innovation.

The Medium

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ountless organizations have faced lawsuits regarding discrimination in their hiring practices. From ethnic racism to cultural exclusion, companies are afraid of being charged. As such, businesses have made it a point to showcase their inclusive hiring methods in the media. Bold promises are made year-round; after all, it’s what they need to do to keep customers engaged. But promoting diversity for media purposes is not enough.

For many of us, culture shapes our identity through our beliefs and customs. Nobody deserves to feel excluded—especially not when employees dedicate so much time and effort to their work. When long, tireless hours are spent in the office, employers are obligated to ensure that all workers feel appreciated and included.

DDI

How do we know if a company fulfills the values it projects onto the public? Take a look at their leadership teams!

The Medium remains focused on community, welcoming any contributor by encouraging writers of various cultural backgrounds. From Russian to Iraqi to Guyanese to Polish and more, our editorial team showcases diversity. Reflected in our pitches, we invite students to share their perspectives on topics important to them.

The University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) consists of a diverse community of domestic and international students. We take it upon ourselves to give UTM—you, dear reader—the space for expression. As such, we strive to raise awareness by ensuring that every member of the UTM community feels both represented and understood. But, keep us on our toes and let us know if we miss something by submitting a Letter to the Editor at www.themedium.ca/ letters.

SHRM

How to: Culture shock 101 Here are three tips to help you through culture shock and enjoy your time in Canada.

Malavika Puri Contributor

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erriam-Webster defines cultural shock as “a sense of confusion and uncertainty sometimes with feelings of anxiety that may affect people exposed to an alien culture or environment without adequate preparation.” This shock impacts people who migrate to or visit a foreign country.

As the 2022 fall semester begins, international students from over 130 countries will start their studies at UTM—leaving their homes to begin a new chapter in Canada.

There will be many aspects of Canadian life that students will have to adjust to, such as Canadian colloquialisms, crappy coffee, and endless snow. I remember feeling confused and out of place as a new student in middle school—asking teachers questions during class or approaching my classmates to join their groups for class projects made me so nervous as a new immigrant. I felt intimidated and didn’t have the confidence to put myself out there. Over the last seven years,

I have learnt a lot during my time in Canada, and I have seen how willing people are to help make you feel at home. So, here are some easy tips that helped me adapt to my new life in this country.

One of the first barriers is understanding the language and accent. At first, I found a lot of unusual slang terms and different pronunciations in daily speaking which were difficult for me to understand. In class, when my professors spoke, I would have to follow the written words on the whiteboard or the handout, since keeping up with the teacher was so tough. The language barrier combined with the unfamiliar accents complicated things—including understanding class assignments, navigating social interactions with my classmates, and participating in class, which is essential in many courses.

Before moving to Canada, I watched a lot of media—particularly Bollywood movies and Hindi TV shows. Then, I decided to start regularly watching English TV shows, like Friends and Brooklyn 99, which helped me because they spoke the same accented English as Canadians. These are comedy

shows that have light-hearted jokes and straightforward plotlines, which helped me get used to listening to and understanding the English commonly used in Canada.

Moving to a new country can be an anxiety-inducing experience. One of the many ways to overcome this is by making friends.

Socializing is essential and can be very difficult and nerve-wracking, but UTM offers many fun opportunities to interact with others. There are events organized almost every week by various clubs on campus that provide opportunities to meet new people. You can follow their social media pages to get notified about these events in advance. UTM has a variety of diverse student groups and societies so you can find clubs that match your likes and interests. Through these organizations, you will quickly meet people that share similar interests and tastes as you.

Once you push through the initial awkwardness, you will find out how much the UTM community has to offer.

The weather in Canada is especially treacherous these days. Getting used to the snow can be challenging, and seasonal de-

pression makes it worse. The best way to get used to the snow is to accept it as a constant.

The weather app on your phone and some warm clothes will become your companion for at least four to five months—maybe even longer. Invest in puffer jackets, knitted hats, warm socks, wool scarves, fuzzy leggings, and other winter essentials, as they are crucial to survival in the cold climate. You should find fun activities with your friends, like snowball fights, taking pictures with the serene snowy backdrops, and ice-skating at Celebration Square—just a 10-minute drive from campus.

Coming to a new country is a nervewracking experience. I salute those who decide to move abroad for education and dream of a better future. Going through these mental and physical hardships can be difficult, but these adversities do not have to define your experience. A lot of people understand and want to support you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Making the best of your adventures through my tips can help make your experience more favourable and ease your transition to Canada.

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: SOS-come-now-before-I-geteaten-by-a-coyote Elizabeth Provost Editor-in-Chief

Dear Liz, A month ago, I went on a date and he tried to take it too far. I am interested in a relationship, and it was clear he was annoyed I wouldn’t kiss or have sex on the first date.

He told me “No guy will ever respect you if you respect yourself too much.”

I am new to dating so this incident has left me with nightmares and worried to go out again. But I don’t know how to keep this from happening since asking someone if they are looking for a genuine relationship might come off too strong. How do I protect myself in the future so that I can better understand a guy’s intentions before I put myself in harm’s way?

Signed, Beauty and the Beast Dear Beauty and the Beast,

I

am so sorry this happened to you, and I need you to know that this is not your fault. Absolutely nothing you say, or don’t say, do, or don’t do, should ever give any man the right to disrespect your boundaries—physical or emotional.

And as for his Andrew-Tate-ass quote, please disregard. He obviously has never felt any motherly love—or the touch of a woman (not consensually, at least).

In no way is asking if a person wants a genuine relationship coming off too strong—it’s simply honest. If they’re a good person, their answer will come easily—and whether it’s yes or no, there will be a concrete, consensual, next step. But, also be weary; men will say anything to get in your pants. Take for example my first kiss. I was a naïve 15-year-old who thought that a guy saying I’d make a great girlfriend meant he was deserving of my untouched lips. I guess he meant I’d make a great girlfriend for someone else, because I got ghosted.

There are two things you should do when you go out on a date next time (and please, don’t let this one asshole be the reason you don’t find love). First—listen to your inner voice and take any red flags, turning stomachs, or racing heartbeats seriously. Don’t give him “just another chance” if it means putting yourself in danger. Second—make sure to assign a “SOSI-have-a-flat-tire-stranded-on-the-QEW-and-if-you-don’tcome-right-now-I’ll-get-eaten-by-a-coyote” friend who at the utter of a safe word will call you and give you a good excuse out of any nasty situation. Make sure that friend, and perhaps a parent if you’re comfortable, has your location so that if you don’t reply at your hourly check-in, they can rush over to make sure you’re okay.

Please do not ever lower your standards for a man—or anyone for that matter. You know yourself best so don’t let anyone make you question your worth. Even if that means saying no to a guy whose Tinder profile and enticing pick up line made you think you’d finally found “the one.” (Side note: maybe “the one” isn’t on Tinder). And remember, before, after, or even during your next date, I’m just a short letter away with all my support.

With love,

A Brown girl’s guide to cultural appreciation on social media Social media has greatly impacted our understanding and appreciation of culture in both positive, and at times, negative ways.

Fariha Shimu Contributor

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’m sure many Brown girls are familiar with the feeling of being taunted for our oiled, sleek braids, or having noses turned up at the aromatic curries our moms packed us for lunch. Exposed to Western standards, we grew up thinking that the deeply rooted cultural practices we took part in were “too eccentric.” Except, it is these very customs that go viral on social media nowadays.

In today’s globalized society, social media has become a ubiquitous part of our lives, connecting millions of people worldwide and offering glimpses into how people from different backgrounds incorporate culture into their daily lives.

This has been a pivotal tool in my journey towards increasing my own intercultural awareness.

“If one understands a cultural product, one is unlikely to use it in offensive or otherwise objectionable ways.”

Professor James Young at the University of Victoria emphasizes the importance of understanding in our journey towards intercultural awareness. He argues, “if one understands a cultural product, one is unlikely to use it in offensive or otherwise objectionable ways.” This is part of cultural appreciation—the notion of valuing a culture different from ours without the intent to exploit or steal, but rather to admire the customs and traditions of various groups.

Social media presents an excellent way for us to develop that understanding. Learning directly from people who follow specific cultural practices is an unparalleled, authentic experience that we may not have elsewhere. Even witnessing practices from my own culture on social media presents a valuable opportunity to learn about how people do things differently than I do.

“Seeing aspects of my own culture glamourized through TikTok trends can sometimes feel like a double-edged sword.”

While I love consuming content pertaining to culture, seeing aspects of my own culture glamourized through TikTok trends can sometimes feel like a double-edged sword. I grew

up struggling to fully embrace, and was even embarrassed by, the cultural practices that have been passed down through generations in my community. My culture was not something I was proud of and often felt like it was a part of myself to be tucked away.

But seeing these aspects of my culture being admired on social media has forced me to reconcile that culture is a strong part of our identity and defines our communities. It has also brought up feelings of not being “Brown enough,” because I tried so hard to hide those aspects of myself and now find myself mourning the time that I spent not celebrating my culture.

“Now find myself mourning the time that I spent not celebrating my culture.”

Still, having my culture showcased on such large platforms fills me with a sense of pride and belonging that I did not know I could feel. I can now look at my culture from a lens that is separate from the embarrassment I felt growing up. It has given me a space to celebrate a part of myself that I initially carried shame for. Witnessing other South Asians embrace aspects of their culture so confidently and proudly has been such a validating and inspiring experience for me.

Social media content creators like Indian-American Milan Mathew, who created a video in which she wears a lehenga— a beautiful South Asian garment often adorned with beads and sequins—awoke a wave of cultural appreciation online.

Mathew’s video inspired a viral trend where thousands of people shared their cultural clothing.

Similarly, Indian actress Simone Ashley garnered positive reviews for her portrayal of Kate Sharma on the wildly popular Netflix show Bridgerton. From the haldi ceremony, to Kate’s love of chai, to the gorgeous Indian jewelry and fabrics used in the show, Bridgerton’s cultural representation was commended immensely on social media. For once, it felt like aspects of my culture were being recognized in a way that did not depict us as “the other.”

Being exposed to culture through social media has not only allowed me to fall in love with my culture again, but also to recognize how important it is to share our customs and traditions. The more aware we are of other cultures, the greater our state of appreciation and mutual respect will be. We can learn to see things from other perspectives and come to understand that there is so much beauty in diversity.

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Cultural gatekeeping might be more dangerous than cultural appropriation Cultural appropriation isn’t straightforward enough to be regulated by the public, rather, the solution lies in self-awareness.

Maryam Patel Contributor

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he debate on where the line between cultural appreciation and appropriation must be drawn continues to grow as social media users direct their energy toward reprimanding hairstyles.

Through a theological lens, there is a clear difference between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation. Cultural appreciation is appreciating other traditions and heritages in order to learn and understand its practices and customs, with the intention of connecting

with other members belonging to that culture.

Cultural appropriation, on the other hand, is using a part of another culture without permission and mocking or misusing its practices or traditions. For example, attending an Indian wedding in a sari may be cultural appreciation versus wearing one for Halloween, which is appropriation. Largely, the definitive line between the two concepts is concerned with the given consent prior to indulging in a culture other than your own.

“While the definitions of these two ideas are continually expanding, it seems society hastens to criticize any adoption of a different culture.”

While the definitions of these two ideas are continually expanding, it seems society hastens to criticize any adoption of a different culture.

First and foremost, we must acknowledge that mocking or ridiculing another culture is unacceptable. There are instances where cultural appropriation is racist, worsens stereotypes, or exploits already marginalized groups. Some examples include: wearing blackface, a bindi, or a headdress to a festival, as well as imitating accents of another ethnic group.

The best remedy for harmful displays of another culture is through educating yourself. Learn more about other cultures to avoid the above scenarios.

“You should look to members of that culture to gain an authentic and accurate insight into their culture.”

Everyone is perhaps a bit sensitive about how the media portrays their culture. But I think we can all agree that not all media creators are good resources for learning about other cultures. You should look to members of that culture to gain an authentic and accurate insight into their culture.

The issue in all of this is when someone is being “cancelled” for innocent endorsements of another culture.

I understand that cultural appropriation is based within white colonialism, and many ethnic minorities have had their traditions and practices snatched or erased. However, it’s important to note that each culture is the product of other cultures throughout history. There is overlap between vari-

ous cultures—each somewhat embedded in the other. This occurs through trade, immigration, social media, and more.

Using chopsticks, wearing African braids, applying henna, and doing yoga or martial arts are practices of other cultures that should not be penalized, as they don’t reinforce negative attitudes toward those cultures.

“Controlling each aspect of your culture diminishes progression and growth.”

Cultural gatekeeping is an ineffective notion. Put simply, each member will never

agree upon whether a particular adoption of their culture by an outsider is acceptable or not. Controlling each aspect of your culture diminishes progression and growth. This is an unhealthy precedent, as members of this culture will become less diverse, and fear of deviating from the norms will become common.

Cultural gatekeeping divides communities and threatens cultural diffusion—a product of globalization—by fostering a sense of entitlement and control over one’s culture.

“Cultural appropriation, while having legitimate cases, is often used to perpetuate “cancel culture,” especially via social media.”

Cultural appropriation, while having legitimate cases, is often used to perpetuate “cancel culture,” especially via social media. The mentality that portraying a culture other than one’s own is toxic, persecutes people, especially prominent figures like celebrities, who are simply trying to embrace elements of another culture. There is a distinction between appreciating cultural ideals and making a mockery of them. However, two issues exist here.

One—it is not always clear what a person’s intention is, and sometimes a lack of knowledge is to blame for their behaviour, and two—the general public does not always have enough information to determine whether a person is appreciating a culture, perhaps even their own, or if they’re “borrowing” traditions without permission. This confusion is what leads to controversy.

“Cultural gatekeeping, cancel culture, and concern of accidentally falling into cultural appropriation may deter people from interacting with other cultures out of fear of scrutiny.”

Cultural gatekeeping, cancel culture, and concern of accidentally falling into cultural appropriation may deter people from interacting with other cultures out of fear of scrutiny. This could ultimately cause people to keep to their own communities, and become apprehensive to trying new things and learning about others.

I believe that it is essential for people to hesitate before criticizing or “cancelling” others. Each side in this debate is responsible for seeking understanding from others. What is socially acceptable is constantly changing, but I believe we need to prioritize spreading knowledge before sentencing people to social annihilation.

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features

Editor | Prisha (Maneka) Nuckchady features@themedium.ca

Geographically far, emotionally close UTM students share their defining experiences with their cultures.

Familiarity in an unknown place Aia Jaber Managing Editor

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y feet drag slowly across the pavement, eagerly approaching a busy plot of land filled with pieces of my culture, language, and favourite foods. Eyes wide open, a gasp escaping my mouth, I run over to the street sign reading “Edgware Road.” To any pedestrians passing, I must appear silly—a girl standing in front of a street sign they ignorantly walk by every day on their daily commute. For me, I’ve waited my entire trip in England to see this very sign.

Shops and restaurants stand tall with Arabic writing across their windows. I stare at each store as I walk slowly down the long street— dreading the end of the alleyway, signalling it’s time to go home. All around me, I hear Arabic speech shared between families, friends, and shopkeepers. The interior of each building filled with cranberry red cushioned chairs and tiled walls—a staple in Iraq’s modernizing shopping scene. I am 5,711 kilometres away from Toronto and 5,210 kilometres from Baghdad, and yet, I feel at home.

The ability to feel closer to my relatives, to those whom I have not seen in over a decade, is emotional. The smell of a charcoal grill cooking skewers of chicken fills the night air, making my friends and I far hungrier than we already are. The ability to witness large groups of people who share my culture, traditions, and language is surreal.

We have a large Arab population in Ontario, but London feels different, and I can’t tell you why.

Many ostracize the street—laughing at its creepy men and immigrant feel, but I love seeing details of my culture in the Western world.

I’m filled with excitement as I stop to take a picture of a restaurant called “Masgouf ”—its name a specialty grilled fish made throughout Iraq. The singular photo of the dimly lit, odorous restaurant I take with shaking hands encapsulates my longing to see my country. It is no wonder why ethnic groups flock to similar regions in Western countries desperately yearning for a place like home. There is comfort in what is familiar—even in an entirely new country.

Learning to live with survivor’s guilt Shahed Ebesh Contributor

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am a first-generation n immigrant from the city of Damascus. The story of how I came to Canada is a lucky one. When I was four years old, we moved near Vancouver from Saudi Arabia, with plans of returning to Syria in 2009 when our apartment there would be complete. Right before our trip, civil unrest began to stir, and we made the life-saving decision to wait another year.

I’ve grown up carrying my Syrian heritage together with a state of permanent grief and survivor’s guilt. For my family, this manifested in stricter religious attitudes. Up until recently, I tried to distance myself from my heritage to avoid thoughts of the war. Now, I realize how my original attitude was the issue. My culture is not one of war; my culture is delicious foods like ma’loubeh and fetteh, and upbeat dances like dabke dances and belly dancing with women you cherish. I love learning new idioms in Arabic. I keep the memory of my country alive by discussing Syria in a positive light, as the jasmine-scented, cat-filled, bustling nation I remember.

I still carry that survivor’s guilt—until the war is over, I don’t think there will be any place to put it down. But with it, I carry pride in my identity as a Syrian woman.

11 The school of dreams Elizabeth Provost Editor-in-Chief

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y mother immigrated to Canada from Russia in 1999. I was born shortly after, in 2001. After my mother was handed my birth certificate, she began searching for places in Montréal where I could be exposed to Russian culture.

Once I was able to talk, walk, and know to dry my tears at the sound of a Russian ballad, my mother enrolled me in a Russian school. The school’s name translated to “The School of Dreams.” That, it really was.

The classes were part of an after-school program. We took Russian, literature, algebra, and physics—little children trained with the expectation of one day winning a Nobel Prize. None of us ever did, but the friendships we made have lasted a lifetime. After the heavy subjects, we were shipped off to the basement of the old church rented by the Russian women who ran the school. There, we would paint, put on plays, sing in choir, and learn to play the piano.

When I turned 10 years old, my mother and I moved to Ontario, leaving behind our warm and welcoming family of “The School of Dreams.”

The sweet taste of Russia was gone.

It’s undeniable that the easiest connections are made with those who share our cultures. When I meet a Russian now, I hold onto that bond and quench my thirst for my language and my values, reminded of the late nights singing and dancing “Katyusha” in gold-embroidered traditional Russian costumes on the squeaky floors of the stage that made me who I am today.

Guyana, always close to heart Kareena Kailass Opinion Editor

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oming to Guyana as indentured workers under the reign of the British, the Indo-Caribbean diaspora was born. Creating a fusion of cultures between the varying diasporas in the nation, including the Afro-Caribbean diaspora and Amerindians, the unique culture of Guyana came about.

My parents, descendants of the Indo-Caribbean diaspora, always made sure my older sister and I were close to our Guyanese heritage and in touch with our culture. We were taught to pass on our cultural traditions throughout the generations, to learn the values and principles that they teach, and to be proud.

Bright colours and warm, good vibes are the best way to describe who and where I come from. My favourite part of my culture is the happy, uplifting spirit it spreads.

Carnival, or in Guyana, Mashramani, is one of the most well-known parts of the culture—aside from the food and music, of course. The Toronto Caribbean Carnival, or Caribana, is one of the biggest displays of our culture in Canada, meshed with the culture of various other Caribbean countries that share similar cultures.

At Caribana, our feel-good music blasts as parade participants display their bright, jewel-encrusted costumes, proudly showing off our culture.

The warm scents of our food fill the air as vendors prepare authentic meals—a smell that always makes me feel at home.

The University of Toronto Mississauga—a shared space that is open and encouraging of our cultural displays—is home to many Guyanese and Caribbean students. Through this welcoming environment, we continue to keep our traditions alive.

and warm, s r ou ol c t h ig “Br the best way e r a s e ib v d goo where I d n a o h w e ib to descr come from.”

12 Granting myself the opportunity to discover my cultural identity Maryam Patel Contributor

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rowing up, I didn’t see the importance of preserving my cultural identity. I narrowly believed that if you lived in the West, you’d automatically assimilate to that country’s expectations and dispose of your customs at the door.

For most of my life, I tried to conceal my ethnic identity because of unfair stereotypes and assumptions. I attended a predominantly Arab school where the only Desi people were of Pakistani descent. In anticipation of mockery and whispered remarks from my classmates, I recall feeling anxious when teachers would ask students where they were from on the first day of class. I remember kids putting stickers on their foreheads, making weird noises to imitate our music, asking if I was secretly Hindu, and telling me that India was a dump.

I didn’t feel proud to be Indian. I was embarrassed. It seemed like the idea of an Indian Muslim was unheard of.

It wasn’t until the Covid-19 pandemic that I began accepting my culture. I’m still unsure of what exactly sparked the shift in my attitude toward my culture. Perhaps being at home, surrounded by my traditions and family, birthed the newfound sense of appreciation I felt. It could be all the Bollywood movies, learning to cook our cultural dishes, like tandoori chicken, or the long conversations I had with my aunts about our family’s heritage. As I learned more about my culture, I discovered a part of myself I had purposely buried, unaware of how much I missed it.

Now, I realize that my culture is beautiful. The vibrant colours of our exquisite foods and clothing are just the beginning. The importance of family and togetherness is one cultural aspect that, aside from the music and dance, I’ve admired a lot more in the past few years.

“Strength lies in differences, not in similarities,” once said American author Stephen Covey. Worthy of being cherished instead of mocked, expressed instead of hidden, and shared instead of buried, our differences—cultural or otherwise— make us special.

I am a descendent of colonizers Dalainey Gervais Contributor

What is happening, India?

Malavika Puri Contributor

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s a child, my friends and I would feast on Eid, celebrate Baisakhi, and play with colours together on Holi. India became home to people of many different religions because their right to religious freedom was respected and upheld. Today, people are being tortured in the streets and forced to chant “Jai Shri Ram” (“Glory to Lord Rama”). “Liberty of belief, faith and worship” has vanished; “Liberty of one faith, worship and hatred for others” is taking over.

Rani Lakshmi Bai taught me that we should speak up against injustice and fight for our freedom. Countless freedom fighters under her leadership laid down their lives in the first revolt for independence against the British in 1857. As a country established by fighting for its freedom against colonizers, we should honour the right to protest and fight against injustice—not encourage it. Yet, young activists are blinded with tear gas and maimed with steel pellets as they try to protest the government in Punjab and Delhi. “Liberty of thought and expression” is long forgotten, and “Oppression of thought and expression” is taking over.

India showed me that nobody is less or more—we are all capable of enacting change. We must encourage communities to be more accepting in a way that respects, honours, and protects all citizens. Yet, the only thing changing is the news headline, from violence to deaths. As the most significant democratic republic in the world, India should have an equal society. However, this is far from reality. Politicians have an excess of power to misuse. “Secular Democratic Republic” is transforming into “Totalitarian Religious Dictatorship.”

India taught me a lot. Now, it has to change and grow before it destroys its legacy. With the appropriate values already embedded in our culture, it’s time for India to remember what our previous leaders and activists fought for and taught us.

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rowing up, I felt inner conflict when accepting my cultural identity.

My family’s lineage extends to early French-Canadian settlers. While I am proud to say I am Francophone, I understand my ancestors’ implication in the colonization of this land. Although I don’t know their names or faces, it is easy to assume that my French-European ancestors sailed across the ocean and played a role in the whitewashing of this country.

Through my inner turmoil, I have realized that while it was not my own hands that caused a century of cultural and ethnic genocide, it is my responsibility to partake in reconciliACTION—a significant plan to take active steps towards reconciliation. I can embrace my family’s traditional Québécois dishes, folk dancing, and songs. I can enjoy our Christmas Réveillon traditions. But I also have to acknowledge my status as a descendant of colonizers.

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Arts

Editor | Julia Skoczypiec arts@themedium.ca

INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART

Art is a necessity for all: Reflections from an Egyptian household A thought provoking argument on the tough yet necessary meanings of art for those in Egyptian families.

Rola Fawzy Contributor

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rowing up, the closest I got to meeting artists was by watching them on my TV. I was born and raised in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Egyptians who held jobs in the UAE were doctors, engineers, and corporate employees. Accordingly, these were the only career options I knew. All children of the diaspora were led down these paths, and the vast majority obliged without question.

“Those artists did not only become the black sheep of their families, but also of their whole communities.”

After graduation, I began to hear about the odd schoolmate or two that decided to drop out in pursuit of the arts. Those were strictly cautionary tales that were brought up in conversations with gossiping aunts and uncles. Those artists did not only become the black sheep of their families, but also of their whole communities.

Art is baked into Egyptian culture. To make sure I never lost touch with my home country, my parents acquainted me with Egyptian movies, songs, and literature. My friends and I often spoke in catch phrases we’d learned from Egyptian comedies.

After breaking the fast in Ramadan, we had our pick from about 30 shows produced during the month. When Palm Sun-

day or either of the Eids rolled around, a televised play almost always found its way into the plans. During weddings and family get-togethers, we became the dancers we watched on TV.

“Artists in Egypt are viewed as immoral people who lead questionable lifestyles.”

Artists in Egypt are viewed as immoral people who lead questionable lifestyles. At a certain point in time, Egyptian cinema was quite liberal and many taboo topics were depicted, including sexuality. In the collective consciousness, actors didn’t dig into their character’s sex lives. Similarly, the belly dancers who are central to most weddings are viewed as promiscuous women who bathe in the male gaze. You may hire a belly dancer for your wedding, but it is shameful to marry one, let alone be one.

“Art does not feed one bread.”

According to Egyptians, “art does not feed one bread.” One pursues the arts only under two circumstances: if you inherit enough and don’t need to work another day in your life, or if you have nothing to lose financially. Accordingly, children of immigrants find themselves in a gray zone. Many come from working and middle-class origins where work is a necessity for survival.

Egyptian parents work hard for their children to access financial opportunities that may never be accessible to most people back home. Families aim to maximize the success of their children while minimizing any disdain from the commu-

nity around them. The name of the game is financial stability from a respectable profession.

Yes, bread (financial stability) is necessary because it keeps us alive, but bread did not console my mom as she battled homesickness; Algerian singer Warda’s songs did. When my father came face to face with uncertainty, he did not find solace in bread. Rather, he found it in Mohamed Mounir’s song “El Donya Reesha Fe Hawa” (“Life is a Feather in Wind”). When my first friend in Canada died, my grief was so overwhelming I barely ate. A scene from an Egyptian movie called Yom Lel Setat (“A Day for Women”) guided me through my grief. When the character in the film finally allowed herself to mourn the loss of her son, I found someone who related to my pain. Art in those cases may not serve the same purpose as bread. Still, it serves a vital purpose. To quote famed actor Ethan Hawke, in many instances, “art becomes sustenance.”

“They need to be encouraged to tell their stories, because when they tell their stories, they tell our stories.”

So, do I recommend that we all abandon practicality in pursuit of the ‘romantic notions’ of life that our parents have feared? Not quite. But I do recommend that we respect the artists whose art we so deeply depend on. A part of that is respecting that those artists live within us. They need to be encouraged to tell their stories, because when they tell their stories, they tell our stories. Lest we, in the words of renowned comedian Hassan Minhaj, “lose more Rumi[s] to med school.”

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Robert Eggers continues to redefine genres with The Northman Egger’s film is yet another example of the history that creates historical fiction.

Aidan Thompson Copy Editor candinavian men in nothing but wolf pelts dance around a roaring fire in the Icelandic wilderness. How’s that for a hook? Despite the somewhat salacious imagery, the ritual the men are performing in Robert Eggers’ latest film, The Northman, is drawn from an image depicted on one of four Torslunda Plates—a collection of Nordic relics dating back to the sixth century. This close relationship between history and fiction is not unusual for Eggers, whose films have redefined period dramas as a genre that is no longer constituted by kings or cowboys.

The Northman, Eggers’ latest and most ambitious film, received six times the budget of the director’s two preceding films combined—The Witch (2015, US$4 million) and The Lighthouse (2019, US$11 million). Seeing as the film constructed entire Scandinavian villages to maintain its historical accuracy, the budget was not wasted. In case you’re wondering if he needed US$90 million to create a Viking movie based on a folktale, let me tell you that there is an epic fight on a volcano only rivaled by a certain intergalactic duel in a highly contentious prequel film directed by George Lucas.

With his two previous features, Eggers individualized him-

IMDb.com

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self as a director with an intent to pull audiences into period pieces that don’t take place in a castle or on a frontier. Seeing as the genre is swamped with charming princes and lonesome cowboys, this is an overdue change. IMDB lists 51 Western movies set to release by the end of 2022. Even despite your most earnest aspirations, there is no way that even 10 per cent of those will be worth seeing.

In contrast to the thousands of films based around the turn of the 19th century, The Lighthouse has no cowboys or bandits. The Witch may be one of the only films based in the 17th century that doesn’t take place in a world of medieval means.

Eggers’ ability to bring unique periods of time that are generally overlooked by other filmmakers to life is coupled with his ability to make highly authentic historical films. His films exist in a space that is entirely unique to his vision.

Alongside his unique settings, Eggers does not sacrifice historical accuracy to limit cost or promote convenience. With The Northman, Eggers used several consulting academics to guide his vision towards complete authenticity. His narrative rests atop artifacts and literature that are centuries-old and have all been carefully contextualized by historians. Like every good, researched story, his narrative comes from the research instead of coming from carefully curated facts used to legitimize an otherwise incomplete story.

With the help of historians and academics, ships were constructed, and clothes were sewn with close attention to every thread and nail. Even the incredibly odd and dramatically violent “sport”—traditionally called knattleikr—played between clans was overseen to ensure that no rules were forgotten.

As Eggers begins working on his fourth film—which has been rumoured on multiple occasions to be a remake of Nosferatu—audiences and fans can rest assured that it will remain consistent with his previous films. Eggers has defined himself as a true auteur—a director who is capable of, and is interested in, expressing a unique worldview, and signing it with his distinct style.

Hopes and griefs in The Joy Luck Club Amy Tan’s novel offers significant cultural messages through generational depictions of Chinese characters.

Maja Tingchaleun Contributor

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he Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan follows the stories of four women who meet after church every week to talk about their adult daughters and play mahjong—a popular Chinese tabletop game. Around the table the women reflect, haltingly and cautiously, on the lives they’ve left behind in China. The novel interweaves 16 vignettes from the perspectives of two mothers and their two daughters into one larger saga that spans two countries, two cultures, and several generations.

The members of the “Joy Luck Club” center their reflections around the abuse and horror of the mass displacement that resulted from the Cultural Revolution. The women yearn to see their children experience the joys they were robbed of and as each character, both mother and child, seek love and acceptance, the complex tenderness inherent to motherdaughter relationships becomes the heartbeat that thrums throughout the novel.

The Joy Luck Club is also rife with familiar references to elements of Chinese spirituality.

From giving children “bad” names to protect them from evil spirits, to naming a mahjong club with the dually auspicious words of “joy” and “luck,” ancient Chinese superstition is persistent throughout the novel. The women of

the “Joy Luck Club” double down on traditions promised to bring peace and prosperity to protect their children from the loss and poverty they have experienced.

Another recurring motif from Chinese mythology that turns up throughout the lives of the women in the “Joy Luck Club” is the power and unpredictability of nature—a force to be both respected and feared. Game points are constantly illustrated using references to bodies of water, turtles, swans, and tigers. Despite

the beautiful symbolic language used throughout the novel, Tan’s diction remains simple: a testament to the plain English she and her mother spoke to each other when she was growing up. The whole novel serves as Tan’s love letter to her mother, and each word—chosen for her mother to understand and enjoy— reflects that.

While the “Joy Luck Club’s” daughters scoff at their mothers’ superstitious paranoias and outdated fables, they themselves fall into the MQR

same behavioural patterns—internalizing their stories and finding explanations that do not speak true to their mother’s tales. These are just a few ways that The Joy Luck Club effectively compares the cultures of Chinese, Chinese immigrants, and Chinese Americans. Tan wonderfully and subtly dismantles the prevailing myth that the Asian experience is monolithic.

She shows that language, beliefs, assumptions, thought patterns, and traditions differ from generation to generation—but so do the subtler aspects of culture, such as relations to authority, concepts of self, and expectations.

It takes a certain type of deftness to write multiple perspectives in a novel, especially perspectives that span multiple generations and cultures. I am not entirely sure that Tan possesses that deftness. At times, I found it difficult to differentiate between the voices of the different characters. The novel jumps from story to story and narrator to narrator, making it more difficult to get immersed in one storyline or character. I believe the book may have worked better if it had been presented as a collection of short stories instead of as a novel. However, the text remains a poignant exploration of universal feelings of love, fear, and cultural expectations through the lenses of Chinese and Chinese American peoples. It rightfully celebrates and highlights a culture by sharing the vivacious stories of its people—stories that are still lived today.

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Faith and Fortune: Challenging and illustrating colonialism Art Gallery of Ontario’s new exhibit displays four decades of colonization with the art of the Spanish Empire.

Elizabeth Provost Editor-in-Chief

JENNIFER LIU

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rom 1492 to 1898, the Spanish Empire ruled across the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Rising from the ashes of the fallen Roman Empire, the Spanish Empire established a new era of colonization. Inspired by the Portuguese, in the last decade of the 15th century, the Spanish sailed west.

Columbus stumbled on America in 1642, and Portuguese conquistador Vasco da Gama, set foot in India in 1498. The Spanish Empire made the most of the resulting unexpected discoveries. Part conquest, part exploration, part colonization, the Spanish Empire changed the narratives of nations as far West as North America and as far East as the Philippines.

The Art Gallery of Ontario’s (AGO) exhibit Faith and Fortune: Art Across the Global Spanish Empire is on until October 10, 2022 and is a collection of over 200 works of art from Spain, Latin America, and the Philippines. The exhibit spans the four decades of the Empire’s reign and is comprised of curated works from the Hispanic Society Museum & Library. The collection seeks to examine the visual culture of the Empire, critically exhibiting the methods of colonialism, and their lasting effects.

The exhibition outlines three mechanisms of colonialism: natural resource extraction, enslavement, and the spread of Catholicism through the assimilation of Indigenous Peoples. The ensuing exchange of art, technique, and culture writes a complex narrative.

Faith and Fortune presents one of the first examples of antiIndigenous propaganda with the “Map of Tequaltiche,” produced in Mexico in 1584. Between 1570 and 1580, colonial administrators asked local authorities to gather data and produce maps of the land they were colonizing. By command, the “Map of Tequaltiche” was created by artists Indigenous to Tequaltiche, but the captions were written by Spanish authorities. The map shows Indigenous Peoples at war with each other—wrongfully illustrating them as uncivilized and dangerous.

The spread of Catholicism by colonialists in Latin America and the Philippines is evident throughout the exhibit. These works, most from the 17th century, were made by settler Spanish artists in Latin America. These artists brought their workshops to Mexico and made religious icons for churches across

the country. They trained Indigenous artists to make objects with religious iconography—assimilating both style and faith.

Such actions shaped the legacy of colonization and established the core issues we are trying to understand and address today.

The final room of the exhibit reveals glimpses of the Philippines under Spanish rule through 15 daguerreotypes—the first available, widely-accessible public photographic technology, which originated in 1839 in France. To make an image, a mirror-surfaced silver-plated copper sheet was treated with a solvent to make it light-sensitive, subsequently exposing it in a camera for three to 30 minutes. This long capture period made it hard to photograph people.

The images presented in the exhibit, from the early 1840s, were the first ever photographic records of the Philippines displayed to the public. They show the landscapes of the nation following the transfer of colonial power from Spain to America in 1898. The collection of daguerreotypes, commissioned from a French photographer, display the bare landscapes of Filipino culture and lifestyle, making the country appealing to the incoming generation of American colonizers.

Faith and Fortune bravely challenges the uglier histories of colonization. The exhibit reshapes art into its proper contexts and highlights the immediate and lasting impacts of colonization. Through the display of objects that history has not bothered to remember, and with the intention not to glorify colonization, the AGO presents an exhibition that is brave in its narrative and breath-taking in its presentation.

Folk music helps us understand our own cultures Julia Skoczypiec Arts & Entertainment Editor

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hat makes music “folk?” How does a country’s history influence its rhythms? While well-known folk artists like Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan play into the genre’s acoustic sounds and meaningful stories, folk music is more than just deep lyrics and upbeat guitar.

While modern folk is heavily influenced by blues and country music, its roots come from oral traditions that are centuries old.

Folk songs are not written by a single artist. Instead, stories performed orally are passed on by generations, and their sounds establish the genre’s shape. From its use of storytelling to its acoustic instruments and choral chants, folk inspired the natural, live band sounds used in popular music today.

As folk music exists in different cultures, I can only speak of the music that I grew up with. Polish folk songs have shaped the way that I communicate with the families and friends of my community. Its traditional

instruments—violins, accordions, pianos, and guitars—are incomparable to the contemporary folk songs that you’ll find playing in Toronto cafés.

The lyrics in Polish folk speak of the country and its people. Songs like “Szła Dzieweczka do Laseczka” (“Went a Girl Through the Forest”) and “Hej, Sokoły” (“Hey, Falcons”), boast about the forests and mountains that surround Poland. They also touch on the patriotic and almost medieval love held between Poles—a symbol that frames Poland’s history and its journey to independence in 1919. While these tunes are far from contemporary, they still tug on the heartstrings of the country’s people today. Sometimes, traditional Polish weddings will incorporate remixed versions of these songs on the dance floor for the simple fact that everyone will know them.

Today, it is nearly impossible to create a song that unites listeners of all cultures.

The beauty of cultural folk music is the unison it creates, something that you cannot always find on the radio.

When I think of North American folk music, artists like Odetta and La Bolduc

MINA BRAUN/PINTEREST

Although traditional folk music is not heard much on the radio, it holds deep significance to a culture’s people.

come to mind. While these female singers grew to fame in the early 1930s and late 1950s, the music they left behind share their perspective of North America through drastically different cultural lenses. Odetta’s African-American roots graced her listeners with lyrical calls for civil rights movements. On the contrary, La Bolduc’s French-Canadian tunes offered a perspective that encouraged the preservation of the French language in Canada. While both artists come from opposite ends of the con-

tinent, their songs have become a retelling of the complex history of North America.

It can become difficult to identify music as “folk.” Apple Music and Spotify tend to label traditional folk tunes as “blues” or “indie” as these genres often overlap in sound. Next time you listen to a song that you believe to be “folk,” ask yourself: “does this music teach me anything about a culture’s people?” If yes, the roots of a genre centuries old are still alive.

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sports & health

Editor | Alisa Samuel sports@themedium.ca

Research suggests youth who play sports should not ignore their pain Misconceptions about osteoarthritis can lead to misdiagnosis, especially in young athletes.

Dalainey Gervais Contributor

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steoarthritis, a degenerative disease that changes your bone structure, is often associated with the elderly population, but recent studies have demonstrated its prevalence in youth. The misconception has led doctors to misdiagnose youth who suffer from the chronic condition as merely having growing pains.

A 2014 review by family doctors Adae Amoako and George Pujalte from Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center analyzing osteoarthritis in young people finds obesity as its main cause, but an increase in youth who experience arthritic pain suggests that localized injuries may be a causal factor.

“Sports that cause direct blunt trauma to joints (such as football, soccer, hockey, lacrosse, and rugby) account for the most impact damage,” they say. “It has been shown that more than 80 per cent of American football players with a history of knee injury had evidence of osteoarthritis 10 to 30 years after competing.”

Greater levels of pain tolerance pose a challenge to the diagnosis of osteoarthritis in young athletes. Those who play contact sports tend to get injured more often and might as-

sociate their slight joint pain to a good game.

Unfortunately, their pain tolerance, alongside the general assumption that pain comes with small injuries, leads to the development of undiagnosed osteoarthritis in this demographic. The more youth engage in athletic activities, the higher their chances of developing symptoms of osteoarthritis before or during adulthood become.

Youth with mild symptoms are more likely to complain about pain only after having it for an extensive period of time. Typically, these minor pains, such as osteoarthritic stiffness from heavy-lifting workouts, are felt in the first hour of waking up.

A variety of tests, including ultrasounds, CT scans, and x-rays, can be used to diagnose osteoarthritis. Ultrasounds are a popular diagnostic tool as they are easily accessible and cost efficient.

Non-radiologic tests may also be employed to evaluate the sensitivity and deformity of the suspected and surrounding joints.

To reduce joint pain and promote mobility, regimented exercises combined with medicine, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, may be prescribed. Wearing a brace to support and align the patient’s joint can also be helpful. While surgery treats severe cases of osteoarthritis, it is seen as a last resort treatment due to the risk of physical trauma.

The researchers say: “The treatment of osteoarthritis in the athlete or young individual should be patient specific, with consideration for the patient’s expectations and the period of absence from sports activities.”

Until athletic youth, especially those who play sport competitively, first accept that osteoarthritis is not just an old person’s affliction but in fact a potentially debilitating health outcome for them, the widely-held harmful misconception will continue to perpetuate misdiagnosis—or no diagnosis at all— and thereby lead to more cases of developed osteoarthritis in youth.

The rise in active and athletic youth who suffer from osteoarthritis, as pointed out in the work of Amoako and Puljate, is a call to action for all student-athletes. Don’t ignore joint pain, tenderness, or stiffness until it becomes unbearable. Checking in with a doctor while feeling early symptoms is the best way to delay prognosis should osteoarthritis be the case.

Samiha Mohsen on adjusting to student life in North America: “Though everything was changing, the pool is always there for me” Success for the 23-year-old student-athlete comes through discipline, sacrifice, and gratitude for the sport that gave her an opportunity of a lifetime.

Alisa Samuel Sports & Health Editor

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amiha Mohsen received a bachelor’s degree one year before her classmates, earned a master’s degree from the University of Calgary (U of C) and is currently enrolled in U of T’s medical school as a second-year student.

Born and raised in Cairo, Egypt, Samiha accepted a full-ride undergraduate athletic scholarship to Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 16. Determined to move to Canada from the United States, Samiha expedited her bachelor’s degree in pre-med biology.

“I found that there would [be] better opportunities for me to be a citizen [in Canada] and so I decided to move when I was nineteen,” she says.

“I landed in Calgary.”

Samiha got her masters in epidemiology at U of C before enrolling in U of T’s medical school, an institution she believes “really pushes towards a holistic view of [health] than just textbook studies.”

Samiha was always drawn towards medical research. “I really loved working in the hospitals in Egypt,” she says of her time as a healthcare-enamored teenager. “Helping get medica-

Samiha describes herself as having been a tions to the population that needed them, that couldn’t afford them […] it really impacted me “very hyper” child. With the encouragement of emotionally to see how much helping someone her parents, she channelled her energy through a variety of physical activities growing up, from else can change their entire life.”

“When [your health is] impacted in any roller blading to ballet to fencing and swimshape or form, it impacts every avenue in your ming. But she wasn’t born talented like people life, and so to be a part of a system that may help generally expect elite swimmers to be.

“Honestly, I was not a good swimmer up unthat in any way […] it meant so much to me, and was worth the long road ahead, the oath til the age of maybe 13, which is a long time.

It seems early, but when you started a sport you have to take, and the sacrifices,” at four, you can be competitive as early as says Samiha. nine [or] 10,” Samiha explains.

What could possibly drive Despite the late start, Samiha a young international student learned some valuable lessons in her without parental presence or early years as a swimmer. “I don’t the comforts of familiarity to inthink it’s easy to want to love waking cessantly challenge herself at evup at seven a.m. every day, even when ery step of her academic career? you’re eight or nine, but it is a sport that Swimming. requires you to really be in the game early On top of her academic achieveon,” Samiha says. “And then, after ments, Samiha recently won six that, you kind of just [build] gold medals for Egypt at the this routine [of] comfort 2022 Arab Swimming and habit that’s always Championships in going to last.”

Algeria. She was Samiha didn’t go also a top-scoring out much in high member of the school. Her life 2021-22 Varsity revolved around Blues women’s KEVIN VAN PASADENA/SUNNYBROOK making sure she swim team.

was getting eight to 10 hours of sleep every night to conserve her energy for swim practices.

In spite of her impressive dedication to academics and the pools, Samiha inevitably faced cultural and educational barriers away from home. “While I do have those bursts of confidence before competitions, I do have a lot of doubts,” she says.

Simple issues like not knowing how to send an appropriate email in academia or how to turn the dial to get her locker opened initially made it hard for her to “feel as good as my counterparts here,” she admits.

But support from mentors and teachers encouraged Samiha immensely. “I don’t think a successful physician or athlete is a one-man show. It takes a whole community,” she says.

Samiha attributes much of her success in Canada to Varsity Blues swim coaches Byron Macdonald and Linda Kiefer. They were flexible enough to customize swim practices for her busy schedule and even sought out financial aid for her as a non-Ontarian student so she could go to medical school.

Alongside her work in critical care epidemiology, Samiha plans to swim professionally for Egypt while continuing her athletics training at U of T. We offer Samiha our best wishes for her future career.