Volume 50, Issue 21

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

Issue 21 Volume 50 March 4 2024

themedium.ca

BEATRIZ SIMAS / THE MEDIUM

Voyeurism

Postgraduation

Crochet Club

On February 22, students at all University of Toronto (U of

You don’t know what lies ahead, all you can do is make the

Looking to express your creative side? From yarn to painting,

T) campuses received a mass email indicating new reports

decision in front of you, even though that may be the decision

art for a cause or art for yourself, the University of Toronto

of voyeurism at New College on the university’s St. George

that determines the rest of your life. Sounds familiar? That is

Mississauga’s (UTM) vibrant artists and artisans are all

campus. An arrest related to accounts of voyeurism in campus

what our soon-to-be graduates are going through right now.

around campus. The Medium took a closer look at UofT’s art

restrooms already occurred earlier this year. >> read more on page 4

community by speaking with Sophia Alonzi, co-president and >> read more on page 13

founder of the UTM Crochet Club.

>> read more on page 15

02

NEWS

Editor | May Alsaigh news@themedium.ca

Humanitarian conditions worsen in Gaza with Ramadan right around the corner

Talks of a potential ceasefire are underway after negotiators from the US, Egypt, and Qatar work together to settle a truce.

Maryam Lela Staff Writer BEATRIZ SIMAS / THE MEDIUM

T

he stakes for a ceasefire in Gaza are higher than ever as the Islamic holy month of

On the other hand, Ahmad Abdel-Hadi, a Hamas official, stated that “optimism on a deal

Ramadan quickly approaches. Israel’s assault on the region has killed more than 30,000

was premature.” Hamas’s demand for Israel to end the war under all circumstances is

people since October 7 and “obliterated large swaths of the urban landscape,” according to a

something Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called delusional earlier this month.

report by CityNews Toronto. As a result, more than half of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million is now homeless—raising an urgent concern for how Gazans will spend Ramadan this year.

Israeli officials stated that, if a deal isn’t reached by the beginning of Ramadan this year, they will “launch an offensive against Hamas’s last stronghold in Gaza—the city of Rafah.”

According to the World Food Programme, “If nothing changes, a famine is imminent in

Ramadan, expected to start on March 10, is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, during

northern Gaza.” Currently, almost the entirety of Gaza’s population requires food aid.

which Muslims around the world fast from dawn to dusk. Egypt, the US, and Qatar warned Israel against such an invasion, stating that it would “endanger the negotiations” currently

Ashraf al-Qidra, Gaza’s Health Ministry spokesman, says that infant mortality rates in Gaza

taking place between Hamas and Israel.

“threaten to surge,” according to CTV News. Four children in northern Gaza’s Kamal Adwan Hospital have died due to dehydration and malnutrition. The same hospital said it was

Yara Ayoub, a displaced person in Rafah, told The New Arab, that the upcoming month of

discontinuing operations as it had run out of fuel. Aid agencies say that Gaza’s humanitarian

Ramadan is “worrying and stressful.” According to Ayoub, “We’ve always said ‘It won’t be

crisis is most dire in the North, as humanitarian aid has been almost completely cut off.

long till Ramadan,’ but now it seems inevitable.”

On February 27, negotiators from the US, Egypt, and Qatar collaborated on a ceasefire

Ayoub, who is a 23-year-old woman from Gaza says that Rafah is “completely different”

negotiation that would call for the freedom of some of the hostages captured by Hamas in

from anywhere else in Gaza. “People are crowded here, and even if food and goods are

exchange for Palestinian prisoners in the West Bank. It would also entail a six-week pause in

available, they’re at ridiculously high prices.”

fighting, and an increase in aid entering Gaza.

During a stop at an ice cream parlour in New York City, US President Joe Biden commented One anonymous senior official from Egypt stated to PBS NewsHour that the deal includes

on talks of when a ceasefire would occur. “I hope by the end of the weekend. My national

Hamas “releasing up to 40 women and older hostages,” in exchange for up to 300

security advisor tells me that we’re close, we’re close, we’re not done yet. My hope is by next

Palestinian prisoners, most of whom would be women, children, and older people.

Monday we’ll have a ceasefire,” he told reporters.

Nutrition and Food Literacy Canada to host meeting at U of T’s Hart House discussing health equity and nutrition

03

Founder Dr. Leanne De Souza-Kenney explains why younger groups need to be aware of social justice and social determinants of health in their communities.

May Alsaigh News Editor

MEGAN LI/THE MEDIUM

T

his March, the education initiative Nutrition and Food Literacy Canada will host a junior

Secondly, the initiative calls for the co-creation of a teacher’s certificate in nutrition and food

meeting with racialized elementary school students at the University of Toronto’s Hart

literacy. The certification would entail completing a set of modules, that, according to Dr. De

House to discuss health equity, nutrition, and food literacy in Canada. The Medium spoke with

Souza-Kenney, would be “concise yet robust across all Canadian Teachers’ Colleges.” The goal

the initiative’s founder, Dr. Leanne De Souza-Kenney, to gain further insight into what this

is to empower and equip teachers with the required knowledge to teach nutrition and food

meeting hopes to accomplish.

literacy topics to students.

Dr. De Souza-Kenney is an assistant professor of global and public health in the human

To date, Canada does not offer a robust curriculum in nutrition and food in K-12 education.

biology and health studies programs at U of T and is cross-appointed to the Factor-Inwentash

Dr. De Souza-Kenney argues that it is critical for Canadians to have access to information on

Faculty of Social Work at the university. “My mission is to bring people along with me on this

eating well, preparing food, and how food environments impact a person’s health.

journey—individuals who are passionate, groups of people, and other organizations [who] work toward food justice and health equity,” stated Dr. De Souza-Kenney.

This coming March, Nutrition and Food Literacy Canada is inviting a class of seventh-grade students from a school in the Greater Toronto Area to share what they want to see in a

Nutrition and Food Literacy Canada first started in Memphis, Tennessee, where Dr. De Souza-

nutrition and food curriculum. This part of the project is in collaboration with the Joannah &

Kenney examined how American cultural structures and systems impact generational health

Brian Lawson Center for Child Health and Nutrition at U of T—where Dr. De Souza-Kenney

in the American South. Dr. De Souza-Kenney extended her work to Canada, where she was

is the Alexander Lawson Distinguished Fellow in Child Health and Nutrition—and with the

awarded the Fulbright Community Partnership Alumni Grant to continue the work she first

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI) Committee of U of T’s Human Biology Program where

started in Memphis.

Dr. De Souza-Kenney serves as co-chair.

“My goal was to leverage those systems that impart structural, social, and cultural

The event, which is called Sustainable Cities and Junior Charette, will address the barriers

impacts on society, such that we can work together to use their resources, strengths, and

students face in their everyday lives that prevent them from optimizing their health.

incredible human talent, to forge a massive cultural paradigm shift for Canadians,” Dr De Souza-Kenney stated.

“When we hold space for groups in our neighbourhoods to access the prestige of our institution, to use the physical spaces and ‘take up space,’ while also supporting authentic

Dr. De Souza-Kenney emphasizes that access to knowledge plays a key role in people

EDI conversations between elementary and university students, we begin to do the work of

understanding and changing their social circumstances. According to her, “You don’t always

dismantling barriers to access in our cities—those that are both physical barriers as well as

know what you don’t know, and that means you don’t necessarily know what and how to ask

deeper systemic and psychological barriers,” Dr. De Souza-Kenney shared.

for what you need when you have never truly [experienced] having what you needed. Get your head around that one.”

Currently, Dr. De Souza-Kenney is collaborating with the Peel District School Board to map Ontario’s curriculum and identify gaps where nutrition and food literacy can be integrated into

According to De Souza-Kenney, Nutrition and Food Literacy Canada is the first national

the existing curriculum. In the next stage of Dr. De Souza-Kenney’s work, she will help map

initiative that unites partners across different backgrounds to implement their dual-purpose

the curriculums of other provinces to build opportunities to teach nutrition and food literacy

vision. The first part of their vision is the co-creation of an “interwoven” curriculum for

across all schools in Canada. “They say it takes a village,” she concludes, “but in this case, it will

kindergarten to grade 12 (K-12) students on nutrition and food literacy. The curriculum would

take a country.”

be woven through existing subjects in the current curriculum and offer in-service teacher training. It will consist of recorded modules, lesson plans, and assessments to support students’ learning of fundamental nutrition and food literacy concepts.

04

Voyeurism plagues U of T students once again after recent reports in St. George residence washrooms U of T increases security measures including posting signage, installing security cameras, and upgrading fob systems at residence washrooms to combat incidents of voyeurism.

Jia Bawa Contributor

FLORIA ZHOU THE MEDIUM

O

n February 22, students at all University of Toronto (U of T) campuses received a

Ayushmaan Aashish Kher, a second-year exchange student studying computer science at U

mass email indicating new reports of voyeurism at New College on the university’s St.

of T’s St. George campus, felt that current safety measures were “not enough to deal with the

George campus. An arrest related to accounts of voyeurism in campus restrooms already

concerns we are facing right now.” According to Kher, students can easily use their cards to

occurred earlier this year.

swipe and enter buildings, including residence halls.

On February 7, a suspect held an iPhone over an occupied stall in a publicly accessible

When asked how else to ensure safety, Kher claims walking in groups is the most effective,

women’s washroom at New College. A week later, according to the mass email, on February

but recognizes this is not always feasible, especially during the evening when students are

15, a suspect held an iPhone over an occupied shower stall in Wilson Hall residence—a

returning to residences on their own. Kher feels that “the presence of campus security should

residence that requires keys for access. The recent incidents mark three total reports of

be increased in darker and more isolated areas later at night,” specifically pointing to “areas

voyeurism since the arrest in January.

like Queen’s Park benefitting from patrols by campus police.”

On February 21, New College released a statement on their website addressing these

To prevent unfamiliar visitors from entering student spaces, Kher believes “the card swipe

concerns. In the statement, the college acknowledges that it has recently been the target of

system could be implemented at more academic buildings to guarantee that they are only

voyeurism since last month’s incidents and assured students that university staff are working

accessible by students and instructors, or anyone affiliated with the university.” When it

with Campus Safety to address these incidents. “The safety and security of our community

comes to the question of how secure he felt on campus, Kher responded that he did not

are of utmost importance. We are committed to finding a swift resolution to these matters.”

“particularly feel threatened,” but was quick to add that this sense of safety draws from the fact that he is rarely alone while on campus and residence.

U of T has implemented short-term and long-term safety measures to reduce the risk of voyeurism incidents. During reading week, the university called off security presence and

Brenna Dobson, a third-year student at U of T Mississauga completing a major in

installed additional fob locks for the washrooms at Wilson Hall. By February 23, all shower

paleontology, feels otherwise. She believes that U of T is effectively addressing the voyeurism

stalls in Wilson Hall bathrooms and the third floor of Wetmore Hall have been altered

reports and recognizes that these incidents are not “easily preventable.” Dobson, who takes

to feature eye-proofing to guarantee floor-to-ceiling privacy. If these efforts succeed in

some classes at U of T’s downtown campus stated, “I feel that keeping us updated and aware

increasing privacy for students, the university will implement the same changes at New

[of these] situations is the best way to ensure our safety.”

College.

Dobson shared her satisfaction with U of T’s efforts to increase signage as it helps her U of T has also installed additional security cameras at each New College perimeter door as

remain “hyperaware” of her surroundings when using washrooms on campus. “I do not

well as signs that indicate which areas are being monitored. Signage has also been posted to

believe [police] who [supervise] bathrooms is an adequate solution,” she added, as she

indicate where voyeurism incidents have occurred.

claims it would unfairly affect the LGBTQ2S+ community. When it comes to feeling safe on campus, Dobson emphasizes the need to “be hyper-vigilant when using the washroom at the

The Medium spoke with two U of T students about their concerns regarding the ongoing voyeurism incidents.

downtown campus.”

05

UTMSU hosts first in-person event after receiving the 2024 Pillar Sponsorship for its Black Career Pathways The UTM’s student union has received C$10,000 in funding to better support and equip Black students with the required resources to advance their careers.

Samuel Kamalendran Associate News Editor

EKENE AKUNEME/UTMSU

T

he University of Toronto Mississauga Student Union (UTMSU) is the first student-led

The Black Career Pathways project held its first in-person event, sponsored by Pillar, on

organization at the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) to receiving funding

January 23 at the UTM Student Centre. The event hosted two moderated panels, one

from the 2024 Pillar Sponsorship. The funding will support the UTMSU’s Black Career

consisting of five Black law students and the other consisting of five Black lawyers. The

Pathways project, which seeks to provide career mentorship and development services to

panellists shared their first-hand experiences in the law field to more than 80 participants.

Black students with the help of Black University of Toronto (U of T) Alumni.

Students could ask their questions before the event, which were then answered throughout The Black Career Pathways project applied for the sponsorship in October 2023. It officially

the event. According to Alemayehu, “Many questions had an intersectional lens, including

launched in November 2023 and intends to run until November 2024.

questions regarding financial burdens and passion for law as a member [of] the Black community.”

The Pillar Sponsorship runs annually and is offered by U of T with the support of the university’s affinity partners, Manulife and TD Insurance. The grant is open to U of T

Students also had time to ask questions during the event and network with the panellists.

alumni, students, and staff who, according to their website, “develop projects, events or

After the event, the panellists’ LinkedIn profiles were emailed to students so that they could

initiatives which add value to alumni and students in the University community and

connect for future career mentorship opportunities.

embody the sponsor values laid out by [the university’s] affinity partners.”

Looking forward, the project plans to host two more Pillar-sponsored events. The first is Aside from providing C$10,000 in funding, the Pillar Sponsorship offers ongoing support

scheduled for June 1, during U of T’s annual Alumni Reunion, in collaboration with UTM’s

from alumni relations, exposure opportunities across the U of T community, sponsor-

first Black Alumni Reunion. The event will be open to all Black students and alumni among

branded swag, and support with branding and social media practices.

U of T’s three campuses. “It will be a broad networking event and an opportunity to identify Black alumni who want to continue to engage with Black students through mentorship

The Black Career Pathways project is run by a multidisciplinary team spanning three

programs, panel discussions and other networking events,” mentioned Alemayehu.

university departments and five student groups. The students and staff on the team are led by the UTMSU and committed to addressing and meeting the needs of Black students.

Another event in November will focus on Black students’ needs in STEM.

The Medium spoke with Vice President of Equity Ruth Alemayehu to gain first-hand insight

Organizers of the Black Career Pathways project encourage students to contact Alemayehu

into what the project entails and its upcoming plans.

at UTMSU at vpequity@utmsu.ca should they have any inquiries, input for future events, or

“This project is unique as we spoke directly with Black students regarding their needs for career mentorship,” stated Alemayehu. Following these conversations, UTMSU noted three main needs beginning with navigating law schools and careers in law, navigating careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and building professional

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development for students. “Black students can expect events that are tailored to their career

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needs while building their network with Black alumni who can guide them in their future

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for more details!

EDITORIAL BOARD

06

Editor-in-Chief River Knott editor@themedium.ca Managing Editor Jaros Valdes managing@themedium.ca News May Alsaigh news@themedium.ca Opinion Aya Yafaoui opinion@themedium,ca

OPINION

Editor | Aya Yafaoui opinion@themedium.ca

Count it all: fibre arts and feminism From “craftivism” to “yarn-bombing,” fibre arts are weaved into activism.

Hannah Grace Wang Arts & Entertainment Editor

Features Louis Lam features@themedium.ca

BEATRIZ SIMAS / THE MEDIUM

A&E Hannah Wang arts@themedium.ca Sports Omar Khan sports@themedium.ca Photo Daanish Alvi photos@themedium.ca Design Beatriz Simas design@themedium.ca Copy Chris Berberian Chris@themedium.ca Maja Ting maja@themedium.ca Social Media & Online Belicia Chevolleau social@themedium.ca Video Nikolas Towsey video@themedium.ca

F

or me, being able to create something that a machine cannot

impact of yarn-bombing in public spaces.

was perhaps the most appealing aspect of crochet when I first

In queer and marginalized spaces, crochet and yarn art has also

got into it. With robots and technology taking over pretty much

been embraced by the community. For many queer and feminist

everything, it was comforting to know there was something only

communities, fibre arts that are traditionally perceived as women’s

a person could do. But crochet is more than a hobby for me. It

work “are being re-imagined, not as a return to a conservative past,

represents a connection to the past when crochet and fibre arts were

but rather as a break from that past.” Perhaps there’s something

solely women’s work. When I crochet, I’m transported away from

enticing about defying gender stereotypes and pushing the societal

social media and the 21st century to stillness. The motion of each

boundaries around traditionally deemed “ladies’ jobs.” Giant crochet

stitch soothes me, and I feel like I’m out somewhere in a meadow.

penises and vulvas for sale at art markets have become statement art pieces for people to celebrate their sexuality and authenticity.

Traditionally associated with women and the household, fibre arts are oftentimes brushed aside as an “old ladies’ hobby.” Yet, we’ve

The popularity of crocheted items, thanks to social media, has

seen the power of “yarn-bombing” and crochet graffiti in raising

unfortunately fallen into the grasp of fast fashion. Because each

awareness of social justice issues. Fibre arts are more than just a

crochet item is handmade, fast fashion brands that sell crocheted

means to make clothing or a pastime. Women have long embraced

tops and accessories are inevitably exploiting a worker’s craft.

the femininity of fibre arts and used it as a means of activism, or

You can rest assured that these companies are not properly

“craftivism”—the act of protesting with art. This form of colourful

compensating the workers for their work, and that’s a downside to

protest draws attention to its creator, prompting viewers to ask

the rise in fibre art popularity. Not only is this a capitalist nightmare

themselves, “Who made this?” and “How long did it take?” and

for crocheters and designers, but it also undermines the value and

“Why is it here?” It is precisely this aspect that I find so endearing

time needed to craft a quality piece. Fast fashion companies that sell

about fibre art in public spaces. Think about how much a hand-

cheap crochet pieces also directly affect the impact of crochet graffiti

knitted scarf costs on Etsy, or how long it took your aunt to crochet a

or craftivism protests because when people are oblivious to the time

headband for you. Now think about all that time someone dedicated

and effort it takes to create handmade yarn pieces, then they will

to a cause they felt was so worthwhile that they gifted a piece of

also fail to realize and appreciate the significance behind the fibre

themselves—their time, design, and energy—to the public.

arts.

TO CONTRIBUTE & CONNECT:

Perhaps one can argue that fibre art protests, aside from being

So, what can you do? For one thing, if you feel compelled to stand

a lively art installation, are a waste of materials. Sure, that yarn

up to conservative gender stereotypes, you can learn to crochet.

themedium.ca/ contact

could be used to make clothing. But would we still pay attention

Take in how you can choose to learn—something not afforded to

to protests if they didn’t make us feel something? The whole point

everyone. It’s something that feminism must still challenge.

@themediumUT

of activism is to stir what’s been stiffened inside us. I can’t help but applaud the first person who took yarn to the streets. With

Craftivism is unlikely to go away anytime soon. If anything, I

@themediumUTM

@themediumUT

92 million tonnes of textiles ending up in landfills every year, a

think yarn-bombing is here to stay. So, when you come across

colourful yarn-wrapped tree being wasteful shouldn’t be the excuse

yarn-bombing, appreciate it. It is a loud statement, not only to the

@themessageUTM

@humansofUTM_

we use to bypass important causes that people have dedicated their

creativity among us but also the dedication we have to causes we

time to supporting nor dissuade us from taking in the powerful

find meaningful.

@themediumUTM

07

How to celebrate International Women’s Day Empower the women in your life through literature, film, and proactive engagement.

Debbie Wong Contributor

AURORA PICCIOTTOLI/ THE MEDIUM

I

nternational Women’s Day makes its appearance on our calendar as we flip it over to March.

“To be a woman is to perform.” A sentiment I believe many women can relate to. Despite

Taking place on March 8, International Women’s Day not only focuses on women’s rights

working hard and doing things solely for themselves, there are still people who see women

movement but also recognizes them for their achievements, whether they are social, cultural,

as inferior, or that everything they do is either less relevant or that they are doing it for the

economic, or political. The holiday serves as a time to reflect on women’s role throughout

“attention.”

history, paying tribute to all the amazing things women have done without acknowledgement.

But let’s be honest, how many of us actually make time to celebrate International Women’s Day instead of just acknowledging it?

Literature often carries the power to illuminate one’s perspective. It is said that a woman will die, but not her idea. Through reading literature, we travel back in time, immersing ourselves in the narrator’s thoughts and experiences, bringing words back into life. I remember reading The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank for the first time. Despite it being set during World War II, revolving around daily life of the wartime, there was one thing that I could not help but keep thinking of as I read the book: “Anne Frank was also just a girl.”

At the age of only 15, Frank was able to portray the challenges many women face during their lives within her words. The suppression under male dominance, the wondrous dreams we have about if the patriarchy did not exist, and the life we could have if there was no such thing as misogyny.

Literature of this kind, like Frank’s diary, fosters empathy and allow us to dive into the heartbreaking fact that gender inequality has existed long ago and continues to exist in many forms today, such as access to education, child marriage, and the gender pay gap in workplaces.

On the other hand, in the film industry, women are often portrayed in a stereotypical way, and that is not surprising when the filmmakers are mostly heterosexual men. Of course, they are just as talented and hardworking as the women are, but without firsthand experiences of being a woman, it becomes challenging to convey the women’s perspectives. But fear not, my ladies.

Within ourselves, we also have some of the most talented and empowering women directors, such as Greta Gerwig and Sofia Coppola, who changed the way women are being represented in movies. For example, the release of the movie Barbie has marked another milestone in feminist history. Being the feminist icon as she has been since the ’60s, Barbie allows young girls to imagine themselves being anything and anyone they want, not just a pretty doll living for the male gaze.

Already watched Barbie when it was first released? Don’t worry, other films like Marie Antoinette and Priscilla are also amazing works realized by female directors for the purpose of combatting to the challenging stereotypes and in affirmation of women’s complexities. They tell a story from a woman’s perspective, showing the heart of the matter of the challenges women deal with on a day-to-day basis. I highly recommend watching any of these movies to open your perspective regarding women’s experiences.

Mere recognition of the problem of gender inequality is not enough. If you are ready to take the next step and make some changes, consider reaching out to organizations dedicated to women’s rights and empowerment. Within the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM), we have the UTM Women Student Association—an inclusive student group dedicated to fostering a strong community among women students. The association often holds fundraising events to support the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. It is a perfect opportunity for anyone looking for a fun and easy way to get engaged with and make changes in society.

If you are looking to further expand your network outside of campus, the YWCA Canada is a voluntary organization aimed at providing support to Women of Colour and newcomers to Canada. You can take a small step by donating to charity or by signing up as a volunteer for their events.

Do you have women in your life that you deeply appreciate? Take action today with words of affirmation.

Simply put aside a moment to call or text, or even better, say affirmations in person to express your gratitude for having them in your life and for the support they have provided to you.

Many times, we are so used to the idea of having a woman performing the role of a mother, having them do all the tasks around the household without acknowledging them. You can change this on International Women’s Day this year by saying thanks and showing your support to them. Let us continue the celebration, empowerment, and unity that this day is all about by taking action!

08

Feminism beyond the big screen: examining the authenticity of your advocacy What kind of woman will you fight for?

Tia Cummins Associate Opinion Editor

AURORA PICCIOTTOLI/THE MEDIUM

W

ith the Oscars arriving on March 10, movie-and-TV-show lovers alike sit in

Mothers in Gaza have been displaced while their children are ripped away from them

anticipation. Fans scour nomination lists across the Internet to get a sense of which of

forever. Pregnant women do not have the resources to keep themselves, let alone the baby

their favourite actors, directors, and other cinematic films have climbed their way to the top of

they are carrying, healthy or even alive. Young girls and women have no way of managing

box office charts and critic lists in 2023. Alongside big-name films such as Oppenheimer and

menstruation, and many girls don’t even have their mothers around to aid them.

Killers of the Flower Moon, motion picture Barbie is up for eight separate Oscars.

What about the mothers in the Congo? Extensive fighting has put women in an even more The film is nominated for Best Picture, along with actors Ryan Gosling and America Ferrera

vulnerable position than they were already in before. Mothers are facing countless incidents

in line for Best Supporting Actor and Actress, respectively, as well as multiple songs from the

of sexual violence after being displaced and separated from their children. Where are the

film being nominated for Best Original Song. Aside from the film’s multiple opportunities

feminist voices of Barbie fans for the rape victims of soldiers in Sudan? Gendered violence

to win an Oscar, lead actress Margot Robbie and director Greta Gerwig are absent from

has been manipulated into a weapon of war, and oppressed women are the ones facing the

the nominations in their respective roles. Fans of the film are outraged by the absence of

repercussions of it.

nominations for the two women, who are understood to be the biggest contributors to the movie’s success.

The truth about the situation is that our security in the Western world distances us from the severity of global conflicts. It is easier to have a strong opinion on the Oscars nomination list

With Barbie’s main theme being centered around feminism, the validity of this nomination

because it has more significance in our everyday lives. We watch these movies, and we relate

outrage is easily questioned. While fans openly advocate for Robbie and Gerwig, the same

to their characters or songs. The effects of the genocide in Palestine, Congo, Sudan, and other

emphasis on feminism isn’t always seen in relation to other global issues. Currently, one of the

distant countries do not directly impact us on a personal level, making it less obvious that we

most important global issues is the genocide taking place in Palestine.

need to empathize with the female victims.

Israeli women who were sexually abused during their capture by the Hamas in October

Although this may be considered an “explanation” as to why many feminist voices are quiet

sparked articles and other feminist activist conversations amongst the Western world. And

in the fight for marginalized women, it does not justify silence. Being that we are safe and

while the sexual abuse allegations against Israeli hostages are unverified and denied by the

protected, it is our duty as feminists to fight for those who cannot fight alone. We are the ones

family of one hostage, UN experts and the World Organization Against Torture ( OMCT )

who have the resources and capital to work toward the liberation of oppressed women, and we

are documenting reports of rape and sexual abuse within Israeli prisons against Palestinian

must act. You cannot call yourself a feminist if you do not fight for the rights and safety of all

women and girls, with cases dating back to 2002 and before. So why are these same self-

women in the world. Feminism is not conditional, and it must be displayed consistently and

proclaimed “feminists” silent in the fight for Palestinian women?

universally.

09

The struggle of women-only tech events The tricky line of trying to promote gender equity in STEM fields.

Mari Khan Contributor

DAANISH ALVI / THE MEDIUM

S

cience, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) camps for women are not new.

a depressing time. It makes sense that the industry is massively oversaturated after many

There are so many out there that encourage women to join STEM and give them the

individuals set up social media profiles to share their journey into tech and how you could

resources they need to succeed in learning. Despite these efforts, women in STEM made

do it, too. Well, someone might want to check up on the tech influencers and see how

up less than 25 per cent of the workforce in Canada in 2023. From my perspective, women

they’re doing now.

have the resources to complete their STEM degrees and there is already an abundance of

Weak consumer demand also makes sense. Everyone who wanted a tech solution achieved

programs dedicated to supporting women through education. The problem is entering the

it during the pandemic. At some point, it just becomes excessive. I’m waiting for the Apple

professional field. And once you enter it, there are a lot of other problems.

iApartment, filled with Apple from the entryway to the balcony. I think the industry blew up too fast and is now adjusting to where it should be.

Organizations and individuals are starting to realize this and there is a demand for more support for women after education. For example, one of Toronto’s largest technology

The problem is that thousands of people must suffer because of this. Enter the Women in

conferences, Collision, offers “Women in Tech” tickets meant exclusively for women. The

Tech events. For some of us, using an opportunity meant for a specific group that you do

ticket also comes along with perks: significant discount in ticket price, access to an exclusive

not identify with is rude. But for others, it is the perfect opportunity in an industry that is

lounge, and talks catered specifically to addressing problems women might face in the

throwing you out. Women in Tech events are the opportunity to get your résumé in front

industry.

of recruiters. Well, why don’t they kick out individuals who self-identify as male? The event would risk facing discrimination allegations. Not a great look for an event focused

I volunteered at this conference and one of my shifts was at registration for the Women in

on providing equity and equality. This leaves women in a place where, once again, they are

Tech tickets. The main problem we were told to address is, if a man walks up with a Women

being shoved aside in the industry—both figuratively and literally.

in Tech ticket, we’re supposed to deny him entry. I struggled with this. What is a man and what is a woman? What if they’re trans? I didn’t want to make a guest feel uncomfortable

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend ElleHacks, a women’s only hackathon, as a hacker!

and there was no proper training for the position, so I felt really lost.

I didn’t win, but I left with free stuff and ate a lot of free food, so I still won. The event did an amazing job of keeping it exclusively for women in terms of hackers. There was a

Ultimately, no one was turned away. The next day when strolling past the lounge meant

hacker who self-identified as male. He was told that he was welcome to stay for the opening

exclusively for women, I noticed that it was not exclusively women. I think that the idea

ceremony and observe but could not actively participate in the hackathon. I think the

behind the ticket is an amazing initiative by Collision, but there needs to be a vigorous

situation was handled with a lot of grace and the event went smoothly.

screening and training process for volunteers and other staff involved.

I overheard a story from someone at the event who worked in the tech industry about Late in 2023, videos were popping up on my TikTok feed showing men overtaking women

how she got passed on for a promotion at work. Understandably, she felt down about it.

in tech events. It’s likely because, right now, the tech industry is experiencing an extreme

Then, she heard from someone that no one got the promotion. When she asked her boss

recession and going through mass layoffs. The once promising and bright industry is

about it, he informed her that it was either her getting the promotion, or no one getting

quickly souring and leaving thousands without employment. With big names like Google,

the promotion. He decided no one would get the promotion. The sad part is that there are

Microsoft, and TikTok being in the pool of companies having mass layoffs, pessimistic

countless stories like this.

futures are being painted for individuals. Companies are explaining these mass layoffs with “pandemic hiring binge[s], high inflation and weak consumer demand.” While this sounds

I think that the priority for the tech industry is to stabilize and then continue to develop

like an excuse taken from a textbook, it makes sense.

programs that allow for equal opportunity in the workplace. There is only so much that women can do. There needs to be accountability in the workplace from employers, too.

During the pandemic, tech was being painted as a utopian industry that would always have space for you, no matter your experience level. It was a bright speck of hope during such

10

The underrated phenomenon that is women in STEM Women in STEM shouldn’t have to face the challenge of imposter syndrome.

Valeria Ramirez Osorio Contributor

BEATRIZ SIMAS / THE MEDIUM

I

’ve picked up this habit since my first year of undergrad: whenever I walk into a new

these thoughts may seem, they’re not part of every story. I am not here to speak for every

computer science lecture, I count how many cis-presenting women I can spot. Now I’m in

woman. Some sciences have large communities of women. For others, devoting energy to

fourth year and the numbers remain the same. Most times I only need one, maybe two hands

reflecting on these struggles may feel like a privilege compared to other challenges in their

to count all of them—myself included. It’s become an unconscious tick, but why do I do it?

lives. Everyone has their own personal battles, whether fueled by race, background, or gender

Maybe it’s the need to see myself in others. Maybe it’s just the desire to know I belong.

and sexual identity. There’s a story behind every one of these women in a STEM class.

It’s 2024 and being a “Woman in STEM” is gaining traction, but what does it actually mean?

It’s easy to fall down this rabbit hole of negativity, swallow ourselves in a pity party, but being

We’re always told to break the glass ceiling, to exceed expectations, to stand out, despite a

a woman in STEM, despite its hardships, is a beautiful thing. It is an opportunity to put a

patriarchal society. But no one ever talks about what internal conflict it can bring or the

voice out into the world and a chance to celebrate. While all women don’t share the same

potential isolation that comes with it. As glamorous and as romanticized as it seems to be a

experiences of doubt or mountains to climb, we all share the same pride.

woman in STEM, it’s hard. But we have nothing to complain about, right?

So, let out that breath you’ve been holding in. We’re women in STEM! Cis, trans, non-binary, Imposter syndrome is defined as “the persistent inability to believe that one’s success is

female-identifying, each and every one of us! We’re doing what was impossible less than a

deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of one’s own efforts or skills.” While not

century ago. We’re allowed to sweat, cry, and get frustrated because it is hard. It’s meant to be

exclusive to women, it seems to be our default. It comes from the deep sense of alienation and

hard. No one said rocket science was easy. Let’s remind ourselves that we’ve made our place

the fear of making a mistake. An underlying doubt about whether we deserve to belong here

here, where we can struggle, learn, grow, and make every woman that came before us proud

or not. It comes with the territory of always hearing “Founding Fathers of Science” and never

by simply just existing. It’s easy to forget your achievements, a common trait in university

“Founding Women.” It comes from knowing we’re not the first thought when someone is

students, but historically and statistically more prominent in women. But just take a look

asked to picture a doctor or engineer. But it doesn’t stop there.

at the women in our very own university. We have future doctors, engineers, psychologists, mathematicians, and scientists walking among us.

On top of the imposter syndrome and self-doubt, there’s a heavy weight pushing down on our shoulders, a pressure to succeed and to prove that those who came before us were right in

Here’s to all the little girls that took things apart just to put them back together. Who watched

fighting for our chance. How can we let down Marie Curie, Mary Jackson, Hedy Lamarr, Ellen

How It’s Made videos obsessively. Who debated mercilessly. Who had stars in their eyes when

Ochoa, all those whose names were not credited, and every other woman that fought for us to

they watched Big Hero 6 for the first time. Who made mixtures of shampoos in the shower.

have a place in our fields? They had to overcome injustice, violence, and every condescending

Who walked around a hospital in awe instead of fear. Or even those who had no interest in

response when they demanded for the right to exist in these spaces. They had nothing, which

anything STEM-related until later in life. To all those who built and learnt, and tried and

in comparison means we have everything.

failed, but still got right back up. This one’s for you. Let us continue to prove the ignorant, and history, wrong. Happy International Women’s Day!

There’s an unspoken expectation to be strong, perfect, and never need help. We have their legacies to uphold from the moment we choose to follow in their footsteps. However daunting

11

features

Editor | Louis Lam features@themedium.ca

The evolving waves: a feminist journey through time From ancient protests to modern-day movements, feminism is a relentless pursuit of gender equality and inclusion.

Zainab Khalil Contributor BEATRIZ SIMAS / THE MEDIUM

M

arch 8 marks International Women’s Day, a public holiday that celebrates the political and social

roles in the workforce that were larger still. This wave put a greater focus on fighting traditional gender

achievements of women and feminism around the world. Feminism is the ideology that all

roles and norms. The Roe v. Wade case—a case that took place in Texas where a woman sued against

genders deserve equal opportunities, whether it be in public or private settings. It focuses on women’s

an anti-abortion law and fought to pass an equal rights amendment for social equality—emphasized

empowerment, identity, and fighting against gender discrimination.

reproductive rights as a main focus of the second wave.

The feminist movement appears to have originated in Ancient Rome, where women organized a protest

Elsewhere, there were protests against a Miss America Pageant, where women threw objects symbolizing

against a law restricting them from purchasing expensive goods. During the Middle Ages and the Age

oppression (high heels, undergarments, etc.) into the trash to fight misogynistic attitudes against women

of Enlightenment, women also protested through literature and took a stance against misogyny and

and unrealistic beauty standards. Despite all the successes of the second wave, it still neglected the

traditional gender roles by advocating for women’s rights.

rights of woman immigrants and religious minorities in the US. They continued to face unemployment, racism, and discrimination in multiple settings.

However, it was not until the 1800s that the first wave of feminism took place. This takes us to the US, where in 1848, during the Seneca Falls convention, a rally was organized by feminists advocating for

In the ’90s, the third wave was just starting to form, where women embraced their femininity and

the right to vote and to not be viewed as property of men. During this time, feminism was connected

sexuality. During this wave, advocacy against sexual assault and misogyny was on the rise with the

to the abolitionist movement, a movement created to fight for the end of the transatlantic slave trade

creation of the #metoo movement, a focus on giving women of colour equal pay, and a fight against

and slavery in the country. This gave a voice to various feminists, such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton and

discrimination. In South Asia, advocacy for women to have access to education was also on the rise with

Sojourner Truth. Slowly but surely, women started gaining rights to education, work, better wages, and

advocates like Malala Yousafzai, while in Saudi Arabia, women gained the right to drive. In 2017, more

much more, paving the way for the world we live in today.

than five million people marched worldwide advocating for full rights for women the day after Donald Trump was elected president, as he threatened to remove rights to immigration, racial equality, and

Around the same time, women around the world were protesting for the same cause—equal rights in

reproductive rights in the US.

both societal and political settings. Women first gained the right to vote in New Zealand, followed by Australia, Finland, and the UK. In Nigeria, women protested a tax imposed on only women. In Ireland,

The fourth wave of feminism is now on the rise due to the ongoing inequalities many women are still

women protested poor conditions where they were paid low wages, working in dangerous settings, and

facing today such as violence, unequal pay, unemployment, public pressure, lack of representation in

were given limited leave. In the US, during World War I, women were trying to prove that they deserved

politics, reproductive rights with the overturning of the Roe v. Wade case, among many other issues.

equal rights. In the 1920s, the amendment giving only white women the right to vote was passed,

The definition of feminism also started to shift, becoming more inclusive and switching from traditional

ignoring the needs of women of colour in the country. Despite these setbacks, women around the world

feminism to modern feminism by including trans women and other genders who are advocating for

also started working and hence began playing a bigger role in the workplace; however, they were still

equal rights.

facing discrimination with lower pay and unequal treatment. During this first wave of feminism, on March 19, the first International Women’s Day was celebrated across Europe in 1911.

Feminism has evolved dramatically during the years and is continuing to evolve to address the needs of all women around the world, regardless of be race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and even religion.

After an ongoing battle lasting 112 years, the second wave of feminism began in the 1960s and continued into the ’90s. During this time, women received the right to equal pay in the US and women of colour were finally given the right to vote alongside their white counterparts. Women also started playing new

Happy International Women’s Day!

12

“Dania’s Cuisine:” how a UTM graduate stepped into the world of TikTok content creation A glimpse into food blogging with Dania Arwini.

Maryam Lela Staff Writer

T

he Internet is a great place. It can teach you how to do pretty much anything. How

every day.” The six-episode series consists of recipes like baked salmon filets with sweet

to fix a leaky faucet? Easy. How to drive a car? Sure. How to make the most amazing

potatoes, one-pot orzo, and stuffed peppers with a side of salad and chicken.

brown butter chocolate chip cookies you’ve ever had? “Dania’s Cuisine” has got you covered

Despite her two thriving social media accounts, Arwini was still a full-time student who

on that one.

prioritized school over recipe-making and content-creating. “Since Dania’s Cuisine [was] a hobby, I had the freedom to prioritize my university classes over posting,” she explained. “I

In fact, Dania Arwini, founder of the social media account Dania’s Cuisine on Instagram

had times in which I would go even months without posting because of a busy university

and TikTok, has been educating the world on how to cook for years. The 22-year-old has

semester.”

amassed more than 415,000 followers on Instagram and TikTok combined. She makes recipe tutorials on all kinds of classics, from stir-fry noodles and macarons to chicken

Now, almost four years into food blogging, Arwini admits how much the online world

noodle soup. And did I mention she’s a recent University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM)

continues to surprise her. “Often, the videos I expect to do horribly are the ones that go

graduate?

viral,” she admitted. One such video is a behind-the-scenes of hosting a dinner party, which garnered more than 2.5 million views on TikTok. “I was procrastinating editing the

But how did Arwini get into

video for so long because I had little

food blogging in the first place?

motivation to post it. I really thought it would flop.”

“It was an accident really,” Arwini says. “My mom is an

The financial aspect of food blogging

excellent cook, and growing up,

also surprised Arwini. “I wish I had

I watched her make home-

known earlier how much money

cooked meals almost daily. I

there is to be made in content

think watching her was a big

creation,” she says. “Capitalizing was

part of my inspiration to get

not a motive in creating my page, but

into cooking.”

I would have created my page a long time ago if I knew I could capitalize

Growing up, Arwini

off of my hobby from the comfort of

experimented with recipes she

my home.”

found in cookbooks, as well as ones she found online. “The

But along with its highs, content

Internet was my best friend if I

creating comes with its share of

was looking for a specific type of

mental health challenges. “Whether

recipe, and I learned traditional

you realize it or not, the constant

Libyan recipes directly from my

comments and direct messages

mom.”

take up mental capacity and can affect your well-being. It’s important

In September 2019, Arwini

not to take them too seriously nor

began her full-time studies at

personally,” Arwini explains. She

UTM. Alongside pursuing a

keeps her face out of her videos to

double major in biology for

“limit unwanted attention.”

health sciences and psychology, Arwini continued to cook and bake. “I had a phase where anytime I would bake or cook

In June 2023, Arwini graduated from UTM with an Honours Bachelor of

DANIA ARWINI/@DANIASCUISINE

something, I would share it to my private Instagram account for my

Science with high distinction. She is currently taking a gap year before pursuing

friends to see.” Arwini’s friends suggested that she make a specific Instagram account just

further education. She aims for a career in health care. “I’ve wanted to work in health care

for food blogging. “They were probably annoyed with the spam,” she laughed.

ever since I was little,” she says. “But as a kid, I also contemplated pastry or culinary school.

So it’s amazing that I’m working towards the best of both worlds.”

In April 2020, Arwini took her friends’ advice, and Dania’s Cuisine was born on Instagram.

Aside from cooking and content creation, Arwini volunteers with the Libyan community Throughout 2021 and 2022, Dania’s Cuisine gathered more followers and views. In an

in Canada during their Eid events. She explains that many people see Dania’s Cuisine

Instagram reel and TikTok video posted in December 2022, Arwini demonstrated how to

as a Libyan representation. “There aren’t many Libyans making Libyan food content in

make Libyan meat-stuffed potatoes called embattin. As of February 2024, the videos have

English—I think that’s part of what sets my channel apart,” she says. “I’ve had many Libyans

amassed more than 16.5 million views combined.

tell me that my channel helped them [when] non-Libyans ask what Libyan food looks like—they finally have a source to refer them to.”

“Creating content was a fun stress reliever for me,” Arwini explains. “I scheduled it in just like any other pastime or hobby.”

Arwini concludes with a piece of advice for aspiring content creators: “Don’t stress yourself out trying to reach a certain amount of likes, views, or followers,” she says. “Do it out of

Occasionally, Arwini includes a new series on Dania’s Cuisine, each related to a specific theme. For example, in 2022, she started a series on her channel called “Full-Time Uni Student Dinners,” where she demonstrated “what a very busy person makes for dinner

love—as a hobby.”

Navigating the fog: what life is like postgraduation

13

Graduation marks the start of a new journey often filled with uncertainty.

Rafiqa Zubair Associate Features Editor

BEATRIZ SIMAS / THE MEDIUM

Y

ou are walking through a thick forest with nothing but endless trees and pathways.

So, if you are struggling to see through that fog, remember that you are not alone. After

Ahead of you feels like an abyss. A fog builds so thick it is blinding your vision. One

graduating, you get to decide what you want to do and that can be a daunting decision.

path may lead you somewhere and another in a completely different direction. You don’t

It can also be hard to achieve your goal, get into your dream program, or start your own

know what lies ahead, all you can do is make the decision in front of you, even though that

entrepreneurial business.

may be the decision that determines the rest of your life. Sounds familiar? That is what our soon-to-be graduates are going through right now.

The advantages that you have with planning for graduate school or your next step in your life are age and experience. Whereas when you chose your undergraduate program, you were no

Graduation is often romanticized amongst students with big dreams and high hopes of

more than a 17- or 18-year-old teenager. Now you are an adult. Plan for the future. Ask the

escaping the struggling student life. However, what most students fail to realize is that the

questions and do your research. Take the time to investigate why this specific program will be

journey begins after you graduate. A journey of discovering who you are without the shadow

beneficial to your future and where can it potentially lead you. You have the power to control

of being a student for the past twenty-something years.

where you want to go from here.

A syndrome that a lot of students develop during their undergraduate studies and tend to

Another important step for graduates to take is in networking. Talk to alumni and learn

struggle with even after is imposter syndrome—a persistent self-doubt and an irrational

from their stories. Do their stories align with your vision? Use resources like LinkedIn,

sense of intellectual fraudulence despite clear accomplishments. It’s a paradox wherein

your postgraduate program’s social media pages, and group chats to start connecting with

success and competence coexist with nagging feelings of inadequacy. This makes navigating

individuals who are also starting with you. These connections will eventually become lifelong

decisions after graduation even harder.

friendships or your professional network that play a role in helping you land that job, the people you will seek out to for advice on that entrepreneurial idea, or simply a study partner

Often, students find themselves considering their options of entering the working world

to share the ups and downs of graduate school with.

or continuing further education. According to Urban Institute Graduate Studies, within 10 years of receiving a bachelor’s degree, 40 per cent of those graduates enroll in a graduate

And finally, don’t forget to cherish your time in your postgraduate life. As an alumnus

school. Students are often not satisfied by the workplace because it doesn’t provide the same

myself, I think this is one advice all alumni would give. Students are so eager to complete

high that academic successes and achievements provide. They find themselves looking at

their undergraduate programs and graduate that they forget to romanticize it. You are finally

programs and wanting to continue their education after graduating even if that was not their

graduating from young adulthood to full adulthood, where you have the power and freedom

initial plan.

to explore who you are and build everything with your own hands.

Noorma Fatima graduated with a specialist in biology in 2023 from the University of Toronto

As daunting as life after graduating can be, remember to take it one day at a time. Don’t

Mississauga (UTM) and explains this feeling perfectly, “Unfortunately, when I graduated,

compare yourself to your peers who are on their own paths. Everyone is on a different

there was a period where I didn’t know whether I should continue being a student or apply

pathway, and they see just as thick of a fog as you do. Take one step at a time and trust

to jobs. I had to figure out my options both in the academic field and in the job market.”

yourself in navigating through it. There is something very exciting about trusting the process,

Fatima went on to pursue medical school the following fall at Poznan University of Medical

putting in the work, and seeing where it eventually leads you.

Sciences. Although she had found her passion and next steps, she still describes postgraduate life as difficult to deal with, as you may not know what’s next. “It can get challenging because sometimes you may not understand what you want to do or what your options are. I would recommend being patient and calm during this transition because it is not the easiest one.”

Congratulations to all the upcoming soon-to-be graduates. We are proud of you.

14

Arts

Editor | Hannah Wang arts@themedium.ca

Challenging the patriarchy: The power of the gaze

How the female gaze empowers both men and women and changes patriarchal narratives.

Mashiyat Ahmed Associate Opinion Editor

BEATRIZ SIMAS / THE MEDIUM

T

he media—be it books, movies, television, or podcasts—are powerful for their artistically

male viewer. After Hours is no exception, and not much has changed since the ’80s. Part of

appealing façades and storytelling depth. Written mediums such as literature are spaces

the recipe for the male gaze is to use a woman’s physicality to reveal her “personality,” an

where the reader has a unique opportunity to become intimately involved with a character’s

ineffective formula that ends up, at least historically speaking, creating one-dimensional

consciousness, or as close as possible to their spirit. In visual mediums, this closeness is

characters, and in the process, attributes a woman’s worth to her body or how effectively she

interfered with by the sensation of visuality, which initially distracts audiences from the

can please men.

characters’ inner lives. Acclaimed writer Donna Tart, author of The Secret History, sums it up

Popular films like Blade Runner and mass-consumed books like the Fifty Shades of Grey

perfectly when she says that “in films, we are voyeurs, but in novels, we have the experience of

series or The Great Gatsby (a personal favorite) also have in them scenes or characters that

being someone else: knowing another person’s soul from the inside. No other art form does

either glamorize or simply brush off instances of patriarchal harm and sexual or physical

that.”

assault. If the media we regularly consume reflects a loose morality surrounding what constitutes assault, how does that impact our personal and learned understandings of what is

As such, media, but especially books and novels, are uniquely positioned to powerfully

normalized? Sadly, sometimes the films and books that are drenched in harmful gazes are the

tell stories and impact a person’s identity, perception, and understanding of the real world

ones that are most popular and cherished.

moving forward. For far too long, our media has been a weapon for perpetuating harmful understandings of the world and the people who live and thrive in it. Mass media, especially,

Men also suffer from the restrictive lens of the male or patriarchal gaze, which sees men

has been a catalyst for reinforcing patriarchy—which is already ubiquitous and suffocating

and masculinity as the epitome of strength, power, and accomplishment. In another one of

without the help of TV, books, and film—and undermining men, women, and gender-

Scorsese’s most renowned films, Taxi Driver, the leading character, Travis Bickle (played by

nonconforming individuals alike. How we present stories and people determines how they are

Robert DeNiro), progressively spirals into psychosis as his job of being a taxi driver makes

consumed by audiences, and this greatly shapes the tangible and symbolic world we live in.

him feel menial and unimportant. Travis’s views on women centre around adoring and providing for them solely on the condition that they bolster his ego or make him feel “more

In media studies, “the gaze” is a character’s awareness of being perceived through a lens from

like a man.” In other words, Travis is not your typical outright sexist. Instead, he is a man

an outsider’s perspective, one that, historically speaking, has usually been the objectifying

who measures the validity of his masculinity on how well he can either save women from

perspective of the heterosexual cisgender man or the patriarchal gaze. The idea behind the

the plight of gritty Americana or how well he can provide for them. In the ending sequences

gaze is that people being gazed at are scrutinized into behaving a certain way that satisfies the

of the film, Travis spirals into psychotic violence due to his loneliness and fractured sense of

gazer’s preferences. Despite the triumphs of feminism and gender equality, which should be

self, a sense of self heavily rooted in idealized masculinity and a savior complex. For people

celebrated and multiplied, we still live in a world where both men’s and women’s perceptions

watching, the political messaging of Scorsese’s film is stark: unhealthy and idealized notions of

of self, relationships, and ideas about success are polluted by the subtle yet insidious nature of

masculinity, as is perpetuated by the modern male gaze, hurts men and women equally.

patriarchy.

The female gaze, on the other hand, focuses greatly on the inherent and valuable subjectivity I love Martin Scorsese’s films: his grittiness, boldness, and unapologetic showcasing of often

of its subject, actively choosing to see both men and women as self-directed and emotionally

troubled male characters prompt necessary societal reflection on ideas of masculinity, crime,

sophisticated identities even if there is a focus on their bodies at some point. The male gaze

depravity, and power. But underneath my veneration for Scorsese’s artistry is a discomfort

works to both harm men and women, as demonstrated by the movies and books mentioned

stemming from his undeniably objectifying portrayal of women in his films. Recently, I

above. The female gaze sees women as more than what their bodies can offer and, similarly,

watched the comedy After Hours, a 1985 Scorsese film chronicling a series of funny and

this gaze allows space for men to define their masculinity based on ways that are grounded,

surreal misadventures of a lowly office worker in New York City. Back in the day, the easiest

sensitive, and emotionally cognisant. Popular media and the gazes present in them have the

and most effective way to establish a female character’s personality and purpose was through

power to shape the culture surrounding politics and human interactions, and this culture is

the camera’s exploration of her body, oftentimes, clothed sexually and for the appetite of the

oftentimes what teaches people more than classrooms and parents ever can.

The not-so glamorous side of the Grammy Awards

15

The Grammys’ controversies, hidden biases, and on-stage dramas fuel debate in the music industry.

Mariana Dominguez Rodriguez Contributor

F

rustrations about Grammy Award disparities continuously linger within the music

he should have given his award to Beyoncé.” This altercation happened six years after West

industry. Most controversies and public confusion resulting from nominations and

deliberately took the microphone from Taylor Swift for winning Album of the Year over

winning results are directed toward the voting process and systems of categorization itself.

Beyoncé as well. Both events sparked comments about respect in the music industry.

For instance, fans were unimpressed when Macklemore was awarded Best Rap Performance and Ryan Lewis took home Best Rap Song over Kendrick Lamar in 2014, or The Weekend

The Grammy Awards nomination and award decisions made by the Recording Academy

shutting down the Grammys after his critically acclaimed album, After Hours, did not receive

committee have been questioned and criticized, as the public is not made aware of how the

any nominations in 2021.

voting process for these prestigious awards is conducted and on what grounds the winners are decided. The Grammy Awards process is made up of six official steps, as disclosed by the

Other Grammy controversies depict showdowns between artists and nominees, which also

Recording Academy: submission, screening, nomination, special nominating committees,

produce speculation around the motives and conversations that go on behind the scenes of

final voting, and results.

the choices displayed.

Although this process seems to be straightforward and “fair” as described by the Recording One major Grammy controversy was the interruption of Bob Dylan’s set by performance

Academy, it is understandable that certain steps in the process, like the peer relations

artist Michael Portnoy (Soy Bomb Guy) to embody his disagreement towards Dylan’s

between voters and biased opinions of members within the same field or category, may be

“dense nutritional life” and representation of transformational art in 1998. Another mention

considered as loopholes for possible misconception, and create opportunities for tampered

of controversial interactions on the Grammy stage is the infamous on-stage interruptions

and influenced nomination decisions.

made by Kanye West.

Musical controversy persists in the Grammy community. After all, awards seasons are In 2015, artist Beck won Album of the Year over Beyoncé, which prompted West to

composed of entertainment, showstopping performances, and musical rifts, so controversy

interrupt Beck’s award moment by approaching the microphone on stage, quickly deciding

is bound to slip in too.

against the interruption, and taking his seat. While West did not deliberately interrupt the artist’s award presentation, he later told E! News that “Beck needs to respect artistry and

Art at UTM: The Crochet Club The president of the UTM Crochet Club talks about welcoming new crocheters and plans for the club.

Lourdes Duah Contributor

L

ooking to express your creative side? From yarn to painting, art for a cause or art for

More experienced crocheters can bring their current projects to the club’s crochet circles to

yourself, the University of Toronto Mississauga’s (UTM) vibrant artists and artisans are

work alongside other enthusiasts. The Crochet Club also accepts volunteers to teach basic

all around campus. The Medium took a closer look at UofT’s art community by speaking

stitches to new crocheters.

with Sophia Alonzi, co-president and founder of the UTM Crochet Club.

Alonzi hopes to continue building UTM’s crochet community in the future. “We hope to Alonzi knew people had an interest in crochet but understood how complicated it looks

start some community projects, like a blanket composed of granny squares made by our

to beginners. “People always used to tell me that they’d love to learn how to crochet, but

members. It would be super rewarding to watch it grow along with the

they don’t know where to begin, don’t know what supplies to buy, etcetera,” Alonzi said. So,

club.”

she started the club to bring crocheters of all skill levels together and provide a low-barrier environment where beginners can learn. The Crochet Club has now grown into a space for

The Crochet Club is always

people to socialize, trade advice, collaborate with other arts clubs, and grow their skills in a

accepting general member

community with other crocheters.

signups. You can keep up with their events on

The club has several events that don’t require any crochet experience, such as last

their Instagram, @utm.

semester’s crochet basics workshops. Many first-time crocheters turned out for the recent

crochet.

collaboration with UTM’s Creatives for Change Club, where attendees crocheted roses and lavender for Valentine’s Day. “It was really nice to see the more advanced crocheters help their peers complete their first project,” Alonzi said of the event. Working alongside the UTM Literature is Alive Club, they also hosted a coffee and beginner crochet afternoon with performances by student writers.

16

Lily Gladstone is the first Native American person to be nominated for Best Actress

A discussion of the 2024 Oscars, Lily Gladstone, and the history of Indigenous people in film.

Skyler Piskoroski Contributor

BEATRIZ SIMAS / THE MEDIUM

T

he 96th annual Academy Awards are soon approaching, and recent nominations have

peoples from the film industry. Killers of the Flower Moon challenged these typical ways

caused quite the buzz! From sweeps to snubs, people everywhere are discussing their

of representing Indigenous language, with Gladstone and other Indigenous actors actively

favourite films of the year. One nomination in particular has made headlines, and that is

learning and speaking Osage to portray the events of the film properly and respectfully.

Lily Gladstone’s Best Actress nomination for her role in Killers of the Flower Moon. Not

This portrayal of the language in a mainstream piece of media is an important moment in

only is this Gladstone’s first Oscar nomination, it also marks the first time a Native American person has been nominated in the category. Regardless of

Indigenous representation in film, as well as in the revitalization and preservation of the endangered Osage language.

whether Gladstone takes home the Oscar, she has already made history with her Golden Globe

Gladstone challenged stereotypical portrayals of

win. And all awards aside, her role in Killers

Indigenous women, who have historically been

of the Flower Moon represents a historic one

exoticized as a princess or daughter of the chief

for Indigenous peoples in and out of the film

role and who, once again, passively exist for the

industry.

white hero to save her from some sort of conflict.

Gladstone’s character, despite speaking fairly minimally

In the past, Indigenous people were either left out of

in comparison to other characters, plays a very active role in

films entirely or, when they were represented, they were often

the film. She works on her own to hire a private investigator to look

portrayed in Western films as antagonistic, in smaller roles,

into her family’s deaths; she is weary of the new Insulin despite

and typically as a conflict for the white hero to overcome. As Gladstone mentioned in her Golden Globe acceptance speech, Indigenous language has historically been denied from mainstream

her husband’s insistence on her taking it; and despite being ill, she lobbies in Washington and successfully gains an investigation into the recent murders.

film; instead of speaking their actual language, Indigenous actors were told to say their lines in English and later the recording was played in reverse to “sound”

Gladstone provides an important representation of Indigenous women in her

Indigenous. Alternatively, actors were instructed to simply say anything in their

portrayal of an active, strong, and independent Indigenous character, as well as

native tongue and filmmakers would later add the English subtitles they wanted.

in her speaking of the Osage language. This form of representation is particularly

This often resulted in Indigenous actors saying rude or comedic things in their language

important in a widespread, large-budget, mainstream film such as this, as it is one that

for only other speakers to understand.

has rarely been shown in mainstream media. Gladstone has already made history this awards season, but regardless of the outcome at the Oscars, her role and performance

In Canada, specifically, Indigenous language films were not funded for many years as they

are monumental and will hopefully open the door to further positive Indigenous

were not considered official Canadian languages, which only further isolated Indigenous

representation in film!

17

The day TikTok went silent Universal Music Group pulled all of their artists’ music from TikTok over fair compensation and copyright protection.

Karissa Harrypersad Staff Writer

JAY CHANG/THE MEDIUM

“

This sound isn’t available” and “Sound removed due to copyright restrictions” were some

to change these vast amounts of flaws on its platform, the largest label company has decided

messages seen across TikTok on February 1, 2024. More specifically, TikTok videos that

to end its contract with the platform.

carried any song from Universal Music Group (UMG) went completely silent. UMG pulled

UMG’s exit from the social media platform has shifted the landscape for TikTok creators.

their artists away from TikTok, which has major implications for individual creators who

When the contract ended, there were repercussions on the platform itself as well as the

can no longer use popular music for their content.

music industry. The feud between UMG and TikTok is still ongoing, with debates about fair compensation and copyright protection in the music industry. TikTok has helped

This includes music from singers such as Drake, Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, Ariana Grande,

individuals become famous through music—and the music industry has benefited from

Harry Styles, and thousands of other popular artists. Besides creators, this rift has critical

this too. TikTok is a vital promotional platform for the musicians because it can create hype

repercussions for the music industry’s relationship with the social media platform.

for future albums and upcoming tours, and popularize hits or glamourize old classics we thought had died. Now, creators are feeling the heat as they are unable to provide content to

A day before their licensing contract with TikTok was going to expire, UMG decided

their viewers using music from UMG without copyright infringement.

to publish an open letter with accusations against the platform. In this letter, the group addressed concerns for its artists and songwriters because TikTok wasn’t fulfilling their

The platform’s content was focused on music, dancing, and lip-syncing, but these all have

promises. The letter includes three major concerns, including “appropriate compensation

been affected by the pull of artists. The contract ending between TikTok and UMG was a

for our artists and songwriters, protecting human artists from the harmful effects of AI, and

plot twist that TikTok creators did not see coming. For certain creators, this means that their

online safety for TikTok’s users.” There have been initiatives and growth within these areas,

content must change, and creators will have to become super creative or switch up their

but it is not up to UMG standards because TikTok is compensating artists and songwriters

style to keep their audience alive.

very little. UMG claims that TikTok is not paying a fair value for the music on its platform and is taking advantage of artists’ and songwriters’ hard work.

Universal Music’s decision to withdraw its artists from TikTok marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing relationship between major record labels and digital platforms. Creators

Another problem that TikTok is facing is AI-generated music. Not only is this platform

must adapt and actively engage their audience using other skills while ensuring their voices

flooded with AI-generated music, but it also promoted individuals to use AI music, which

continue to resonate in an ever-changing digital world.

goes against UMG’s mission statement and what they stand for. Within this letter, the group has also stated how “TikTok’s tactics are obvious: use its platform power to hurt vulnerable artists and try to intimidate us into conceding to a bad deal that undervalues music and shortchanges artists and songwriters as well as their fans.” With TikTok making little effort

18

The beauty of your body: a painting in the mirror for every woman Every gesture in the curve or straightening of the fingers is artistically expressive and gorgeous—so too is the body of a woman.

Sabrina Garcia Contributor

SARA LI /THE MEDIUM

I

personally have always been in awe of and adored the anatomy of all bodies. The intricacy

There is also a scientific lens to this line of thinking. People are “naturally attracted to shapes

of the muscles creates unique contours and depth in the body of every person. Women’s

with smooth, flowing curves” as “these shapes create a sense of movement and fluidity

bodies, specifically, have various forms and shapes. Join me as we recognize and appreciate

that is aesthetically pleasing to the eye.” This is not to say the curvier one is, the prettier the

the beauty of women.

body. Everybody has curved lines through the make-up of their muscles. Regardless of the thinness or pronunciation of one’s curves, the presence of movement and fluidity in the

Women’s bodies come in various forms and there is no such thing as an “ideal” body shape,

contours of the muscles remain. All variations of women’s bodies thus have a natural beauty

regardless of what some may try to tell you. The shape of women has multiple variations,

to them that is pleasing to the eye.

ranging from the classic “hourglass,” “rectangle,” and “triangle,” to many others, like “spoon” and “diamond.” Women cannot be defined by one form.

One could argue the same about men’s bodies, which is perfectly valid and true. Genders of all kinds have beautiful forms that make up their body. However, women’s bodies tend to be

Each body, like art, is unique and expressive through gestures and clothes. Clothing acts as

objectified and seen through a lens that obscures their beauty. A woman’s beauty becomes

the color in each art piece, while the body becomes the form of every model. The expression

sexual, distorting the artistic beauty of anatomy. It is important to appreciate and love one’s

of the hourglass is different from that of the spoon, but neither is more sensual or beautiful

body through an artistic lens to fully recognize the uniqueness of the self and the form of

than the other. I cannot think of a better example that mirrors this than the expression in

shape, without a shaming or embarrassed gaze. Thus, to all women cis, trans, and gender-

hands. Each curve and line of a woman’s body is an expression of herself.

fluid, your body is beautiful. The mirror is your canvas that always shows you a model of art: your body. Express it with pride.

sports & health

19

Editor | Omar Khan sports@themedium.ca

The rise of the “pink Pilates princess” Empowering women through functional health and inclusivity in fitness trends.

Noor Shaikh Contributor DAANISH ALVI / THE MEDIUM

W

omen often find themselves in the crosshairs of an ever-evolving trend landscape,

While studies show that high-intensity exercise may reduce insulin resistance effectively

illustrated by the transitions from aesthetics like the “clean girl look” to the recent

in people with PCOS, overdoing it can also possibly act as a chronic stressor and disrupt

rise of the “pink Pilates princess” trend. A quick dive into TikTok using the term “Pilates”

hormonal balance. This disruption can potentially worsen PCOS symptoms due to

reveals many videos and tutorials guiding viewers on achieving this particular aesthetic

chronically high levels of cortisol, which might lead to disruptions in the menstrual cycle

through pink athletic wear and bows.

and other symptoms associated with high cortisol levels like weight gain, fatigue, and mood swings.

While the underlying hyper-consumerism of these trends merits a deeper discussion, it’s equally fascinating to explore what fuels the popularity of certain exercises and fitness

As research evolves, it becomes clear that the approach to exercise is highly individualized,

regimens that promote physical well-being and advocate for a specific aesthetic or lifestyle.

with no universal solution. However, as more women suffering from women’s health problems prioritize their unique health needs over general recommendations, the popularity

The rise of this Pilates princess trend reflects a growing consciousness among women

of gentler activities like Pilates, yoga, and walking is unsurprising. These exercises are less

regarding their distinct physiological needs. A study from the journal Sports Medicine

likely to trigger cortisol spikes and stress the body. They still promote muscle strengthening

highlights a critical disparity: current exercise guidelines predominantly stem from research

and recovery from more strenuous activities, gaining popularity for their balanced approach

conducted by and for men. This male-centric standard in medical treatments and health

to physical well-being.

protocols often leads to misdiagnoses in women and promotes fitness regimens that are misaligned with their specific physiological requirements.

Thus, the rising appeal behind Pilates is more than just about fashion or aesthetics; it’s a response to a systemic issue, creating more inclusive approaches to health and wellness that

Dr. Alana Ogata, a Pilates instructor at the Recreation, Athletics, and Wellness Centre at

recognize and address the specific needs of women’s bodies.

the University of Toronto Mississauga and researcher with a lab dedicated to addressing the unmet medical needs of women, shares her personal journey and professional insights into

However, the popularity of Pilates may also stem from the misconception that it offers a

the world of Pilates. “I have grown to love Pilates because of its benefits for your functional

quick and effortless path to achieving a “toned” physique and visible “abs.” This is similar to

health,” she explains.

other fitness trend fads, from Chloe Ting’s YouTube workout series aimed at sculpting abs during lockdown to resistance bands designed to imitate Kim Kardashian’s curves.

Developed initially to rehabilitate bedridden prisoners of war and veterans, Pilates has evolved into a comprehensive exercise regimen. “It’s good for your overall health because it

Women are continually presented with new methods to attain the currently trending body

is low impact and focuses on strength, flexibility, and breathe, so it’s good for anyone who’s

shape—as if women’s bodies are trends that can be cycled through like the season’s must-

body is under stress—whether from high impact running exercises or from sitting all day,”

have boots.

Dr. Ogata continues.

The goal for workout routines targeted to women should not be how to look better but how She highlights the advantages of Pilates, noting its crucial role in strengthening and

to feel better. As seconded by Dr. Ogata, who uses terms such as core instead of abs to focus

rehabilitating the body’s powerhouse muscles. This activates the core, leading to improved

more on how people feel after Pilates. “I don’t really focus on the physique that it gives you.”

posture, boosted efficiency in daily activities, and safe and effective performance of various

She continues, “I do particularly love Pilates for the purpose of empowering women.”

exercises. “We’re trying to correct everything that is destructive about sitting at a desk all day,” she states.

Dr. Ogata takes her role as a Pilates instructor seriously in her pursuit of helping women be their best in whatever they do. “My role as a Pilates instructor is to help all women feel good,

This low-impact workout regimen, emphasizing functional health and strength, is

whether to help them get stronger or provide an hour of stress-relief, and to empower them

particularly suitable for women dealing with conditions such as polycystic ovarian

to do whatever great things they are going to do next.”

syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or other specific women’s health challenges. PCOS affects approximately eight-13 per cent of reproductive-aged women. In comparison,

The rise of the Pilates princess trend, reinforced by Dr. Ogata’s expertise, signifies a

endometriosis affects almost 10 percent of this population but potentially a lot more,

meaningful shift in the fitness industry—from chasing aesthetic ideals to emphasizing

considering it is often misdiagnosed.

functional health and inclusivity, thereby fostering a culture that values and addresses the unique physiological needs of women.

20

Redefining women’s hockey

A fresh sheet of ice for women in hockey.

Daanish Alvi Photos Editor

DAANISH ALVI / THE MEDIUM

F

ollowing a tumultuous path to worldwide recognition, it seemed that women in hockey

higher and higher each following week. In a unique collaboration with the MLSE and the

would never get the same level of spotlight they rightfully deserved when compared to

NHL, Toronto’s February 16 matchup against Montréal was announced to be held at the

their male counterparts. Countless attempts were made, but the most notable was with the

Scotiabank Arena, home of the Toronto Maple Leafs. The stands were packed with avid

Premier Hockey Federation (PHF) in March 2015. The Federation sought to allow seven

young fans eager to see both teams hash it out. The attendance at this game turned out to

teams from across Canada and the US to face off against each other for the Federation’s

be a record-breaking 19,285, the highest attendance of any game played in the history of

crowning achievement—the Lady Isobel Gathorne-Hardy Cup. These seven teams included

women’s hockey.

the Boston Pride, the Buffalo Beauts, the Connecticut Whales, the Metropolitan Riveters, the Minnesota Whitecaps, the Montréal Force, and the Toronto Six.

Adding to the buzz around the PWHL, the League made their first-ever announcement regarding its playoff structure earlier this week. It has long been argued amongst viewers of

Out of these teams, the top four in the standings would move on to the PHF playoffs, in

the NHL that predicted playoff matchups from overall league standings in December have

which the first-place team would play the team in fourth-place, and the second and third

almost no change when refreshed in March due to the league’s set format, which makes

place teams would face each other, respectively. These playoff rounds would be in a best-

for an overall dull season. This is why the PWHL’s announcement of their playoff structure

of-three style, with the winning teams from each round facing each other in the Isobel Cup

enlightened fans.

final series—also a best-of-three.

They vow to keep the entire regular season constantly engaging, as they are taking the top It was clear that the Federation made its long-overdue mark on the hockey world for young

four teams out of the total six to the playoffs and will allow the first-place team a 24-hour

girls everywhere. Shortly after the Toronto Six defeated the Minnesota Whitecaps and

window to choose any of the other three teams as their opponent. The fun does not stop

were awarded the 2023 Isobel Cup, it was announced that a new Pro Women’s Hockey

there, though—after the top four are decided, the remaining two teams at the bottom of the

League (PWHL) would launch in 2024. This meant the lights in the PHF arenas would shut

standings will begin accumulating points toward their draft order in what the PWHL calls

down—but this news was far from unfortunate. The players and the staff of the Federation

its “Gold Plan.” From the time that they are “mathematically eliminated,” meaning they do

threw their hands up in celebration knowing that their hard work had paid off, and that the

not have a chance to make their way into the top four in the standings, the bottom teams

light shining on women in hockey would only grow brighter from this point forward.

will fight to still get as many points as possible, with these points determining their position in the PWHL Draft—the higher the points, the higher the position.

Almost a year after this announcement, the PWHL is alive and thriving, with teams in Minnesota, Montréal, Boston, Ottawa, Toronto, and New York. After an explosive New

After a bombastic start to their first-ever season, the PWHL just continues to show the

Year’s Day start to their season, raking in 2.9 million viewers in a game between New York

world how fun the game of hockey can truly be, inspiring young girls just that much more

and Toronto, the necessity for women’s hockey was only reinforced. Interest has spiked

to pick up their very own hockey stick.