OPENWIDE v. 20.1

ssue i n o i t a the orient

openwidezine.com

vol 20, issue 1

table of contents

1 - editors note - elizaebth edwards

Western Life 3 - Frosh O-Week Survival Guide - Hannah Aviv 4 - Six Off Campus Places to Visit in your First Year - Sarah Minos

Creative 6 - MTV (strikethrough) MIT Cribs - Grace Armstrong 7 - Ten Things to do During your First Week at Western - Grace Armstrong

Culture and Entertainment 9 -The Beginning of the End - what’s in store for the next generation of Marvel heroes?

- Megan Bishop

Fashion & Lifestyle 12 - Homecoming Looks: Do’s, Dont’s and DIY’s - Marah Minor 13 - The Signature FIMS Look: The Denim Jacket - Marah Minor 14- #Trending: Fall Fashion - Marah Minor

World 15 - The 5 W’s and 1 H of Voting: Who, What, When, Where and How?!

- Zoe Abernethy 20 - “Stuff You ‘Outta Know: Mental Health Resources for Western Students - Elizabeth Edwards

Wow! Another year is here, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome our new FIMS first years! The team at OPENWIDE has been in your shoes before, so we wanted to create an orientation issue that highlights every unique quality of our faculty. I truly believe that when it comes to our identity, FIMS is as diverse and creative as it gets! I know the more you progress throughout your time at Western - the connections you make during classes, with friends, with teachers, and through involvement in our community like OPENWIDE or FIMSSC - this place will really start to feel like a home; a safe space where you are encouraged to be yourself and pursue whatever crazy dreams you have.

But, for right now, you may feel worried you won’t find a place here or that you don’t quite fit in with all these denim-clad strangers.

As someone who really struggled to have fun at OWeek (any other introverts out there?) I wanted to ensure this issue goes beyond picture-perfect representations of university life. If there is one thing I needed to hear on move-in day, it’s that ANY emotion you feel in these first few weeks is valid! Scared, worried, excited, nervous, confused – all valid. Each one of us here at OPENWIDE and throughout our faculty know that every new face and the perspectives they bring help us to continue our unique presence as change-makers on campus, in our communities, and around the globe. In short, you will always have a place here!

You’ll soon learn that us FIMS kids refuse to stand by and idle when individuals, the university, and our community are participating in ideas we don’t see as just. We fight to make this place better, more inclusive, and more transparent - and I hope that we succeed in infusing this feisty spirit into our first issue for this year.

As you read through our ORIENTATION issue, I hope that even one article ignites this same spark in you, one that continues to grow throughout your four years here (and one that maybe gets you in a little bit of trouble).

Here’s to the FIMS class of 2023 and to all returning students too!

We’ve got so many amazing things planned this year for our 20th volume (crazy, right?!) that we can’t wait to unveil! As always, we welcome any and everyone to contribute to our zine so be sure to check out our BRAND NEW website and explore all the exciting ways you can get involved.

We can’t wait to welcome you into this mosaic that is Media studies!

Warmly, Elisabeth Edwards OPENWIDE Editor in Chief like us // facebook.com/OPENWIDEzine follow us // instagram.com/openwidezine write for us // write.openwidezine@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: the sole responsibility of this publication lies within its authors. Contents do not reflect opinions of the University Student’s Council of Western University (“USC”). The USC assumes no responsibility or liability for any error, inaccuracy, omission, or comment contained in this publication or for any use that may be made of such information by the reader.

ELISABETH EDWARDS editor-in-chief ALYSHA BAUER managing editor AMY THOMPSON web editor ARMIN BASHARAT creative director SAFIYA CHAGANI digital content creator EMILY ANDERSON social media curator MEGAN BISHOP cultural and entertainment editor ZOE ABERNETHY world editor MARAH MINOR fashion and lifestyle editor GRACE ARMSTRONG creative editor ELIZABETH LAM western life editor HANNAH AVIV graphics editor MEREDITH MITCHELLE graphics editor SOPHIA BELYK graphics editor ALEXIA CAIN photographer MAX SHAY photographer

openWIDE//WESTERN LIFE

WELCOME TO WESTERN: OWEEK 101

//HANNAH AVIV

Hello! Welcome to Western University and to Orientation Week (OWeek). This week will be one of the most intense weeks of your undergraduate career, but it will also be one of the most rewarding. As a former frosh and a former Soph of two years, I have created a list of tips and tricks, so you can have the most successful OWeek ever!

You don’t have to drink to have fun – I am serious. My favourite OWeek was

in 2017, when I was a first-time Soph. Sophs and Residence Advisors (RA’s) are contractually obligated not to drink during OWeek and I had the most fun getting to know my first-year students.

Something I learned the hard way in first year is that the friends you make while you’re under the influence, may not end up being real friends throughout the rest of the year. By staying sober, you’re being authentically you and that makes the best impression.

You don’t have to go to every event – If raving isn’t your thing, don’t worry. You

are NOT alone. I for one, HATE raves, they are not my thing at all. OWeek may feel very centered around raves but there are always a bunch of alternative events taking place at the residences and on Concrete Beach. Ask your Sophs about the programs taking place during the week and they’ll be happy to help you!

Try to have a few early nights – trust me on this one. Most OWeek events end

around 1 a.m. So, you’re going to want to have at least a couple nights where you go to bed early; I recommend getting lots of sleep the night before your first class so you can start the year with your best foot forward.

Communicate with your Sophs and RA – Communication is a two-way street!

Your Soph wants to be your friend and so does your RA! That’s why they signed up for the role!

Each floor has a different dynamic, but the best floors are the ones that talk to their Sophs and befriend them. I consider a lot of my first-years from when I was a Soph my closest friends and that came from communicating with them.

Take photos – You’ll want to remember your first week of university since it’s such a big milestone in your life!

OWeek is a special time, but it can be overwhelming. If you ever feel like you need to take a step back and take a break from the events you are 100% ALLOWED and encouraged to do so. Good luck class of 2023, you’ve got this! As the Navi’i say, Sivako, rise to the challenge!

Sincerely, Hannah (A.K.A Footlong 2017-2019)

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openWIDE//WESTERN LIFE

//SARAH MINOS

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openWIDE//WESTERN LIFE

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openWIDE//CREATIVE

10 Things to do During your First Week at

Western //GRACE ARMSTRONG

September is a busy time of year for many, especially for those of you entering University for the first time. To help you settle into your new home, I have compiled this list of completely legitimate and totally useful first things everyone should do as soon as they step foot onto campus soil.

AEO AEO

AEO

1.

Share what program you’re in Proceed to tell your roommate, your roommate’s family, your Soph, your RA and literally any other human being you lay eyes on that you, in fact, have AEO status. You must assert your dominance as soon as possible. Even buy one of those snazzy green Ivey half zips to really get the message across, even though you have yet to take a single university course.

AEO

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decorate your dorm room

Once you’ve let all your peers know where they stand, you just can’t wait to start decorating your room. Pull out those fairy lights, aesthetic quotes you printed out from Pinterest, and a single succulent that will likely die in the following weeks. Don’t forget the Polaroids of your high school friends that you will definitely keep in touch with.

3.

get to know your roommate(s)

get your textbooks Stand in line at the bookstore for almost an hour to buy your overpriced required reading that you will never read. Don’t actually need anything from the book store? Stand in line anyway! Everyone else is and chances are you have nothing better to do since you’re already skipping the first week of classes to get “settled in”. (Some upper-year advice: don’t buy your textbooks until after the first few classes, profs will tell you what needs to be bought and what you won’t actually need off the syllabus!)

Now that you’re all moved in, why not take the time to get to know your roommate? I mean, if you aren’t already best friends you obviously will be by the end of the week. So sit back, braid each other’s hair, and ask them completely noninvasive questions about every romantic partner they’ve ever had, their relationship with their family, and if they’re okay if you bring over all your friends and/or hook-ups into the room throughout the year without telling them. Of course, if you are rooming with an old friend you would have already established this before getting to school, so as zero problems arise. You know you both will definitely remain friends after living together.

All joking aside, your first few days in Residence are perfect for sharing what you and your roommate both want out of your university experience and to agree to look out for one another!

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openWIDE//CREATIVE

walk around campus

Walking back from the bookstore, you might as well take a quick tour around campus. With the scenic buildings and budding wildlife, how could you not? You admire the geese on UC Hill. “So cute,” you think to yourself as you take a photo to share with your friends. You remember seeing one of those “Don’t Feed the Geese” shirts in the Purple Store and wonder why you shouldn’t.

6.

did someone say icebreakers?

The next thing you should do is make a list of all the interesting facts about yourself. You never know when one might come in handy at a floor meeting, a sign on the door to your room, or all the super fun icebreakers TAs have you do in your first week of tutorials. You wouldn’t want to seem dull repeating the same fact about yourself over and over again. I mean we get it Grace, you’ve never broken a bone before.

8.

10.

try some campus eats

By now you’ve probably worked up a bit of an appetite. Why not check out the cafeteria? You toured O-Hall and that stir fry bar and pierogi station looked pretty dang good - you can’t wait to blow half your meal plan on a single salad. Be sure to check out some other awesome campus spots, too!

Discover your go-to bagel at The Spoke, and try a fancy tealatte creation at Argo Tea - located inside Weldon Library!

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no one cares

embrace campus culture!

Why leave the dying of your whole entire body purple to just the engineers?? Once a Mustang ALWAYS a Mustang.

Dive right into that vat of purple dye to really show your #PurplePride. It’s not official until all your clothes have been stained and you add UWO plus a purple heart emoji to your Insta bio - and that’s a fact.

attend oweek

Take part in as many OWeek festivities as possible. They are great ways to meet new people and really get to know your way around campus. A fun OWeek hack to make yourself really stand out in the crowd is to personalize your OWeek residence and faculty shirts! Pair it with some ripped black jeans and white converse and you’re all set to perform that choreographed residence dance you’ve definitely been practicing in your room.

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take time for yourself

All of this may seem overwhelming, but make sure to find time for yourself to really develop some personal growth and healthy school habits – so make yourself some ramen and binge-watch your way through some Vine compilations!

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MIT

CRIBZ

Welcome to your new home first years! Whether you call it the FIMS and Nursing Building, FNB, or just the “FIMS building” (for those who forget there’s a whole other side dedicated to another faculty and get confused when you see groups of people in scrubs walking around), this modern and bright piece of architecture is where you may end up spending most of your time throughout your undergraduate career.

openWIDE//CREATIVE

//GRACE ARMSTRONG There’s also a hidden study space there next to a sunny window that makes for an extra quiet spot to get work done.

Another hidden gem in FNB is the FIMS Graduate Library, located on the third floor. This is a great space to find any resources you’ll need for all those MIT papers you’ll be writing. They have a great feature where you can borrow already printed out articles or Even if you don’t find yourself having a lot of classes journals to use in your academic work. You can even in the FNB, it can be a great place to study, meet up donate ones you’ve used in your writing for others to with friends, or to even work on those dreaded group use (#saveourforests!). The FIMS Graduate Library projects. For those long days spent studying, there’s is also where you’ll find the MakerSpace. Here they also a handy-dandy microwave to heat up your lunch have various materials, like a Cricut Explore (a fancy or make a bag of popcorn (I’ve never actually seen vinyl cutting machine) and a 3D printer. You can even anyone do this, but I enjoy the idea of it). The FNB is borrow digital cameras, books (obviously), and have also where you can find copies of OPENWIDE (yay access to multiple online databases. shameless self-promo!). Stands are located on the first floor of FNB outside room 1220 and on the second If you’re stumped on how to navigate your way floor in the Creative Commons. through this building, you can find floor plans all online or hit up the trusty ClassFind website to find The Creative Commons is another great study space. the right room not just in FNB, but in practically all It’s usually quieter and has comfy chairs for lounging the buildings across campus and the affiliate colleges. and getting some of those hefty MIT readings done.

Located in the same area is the faculty’s Undergraduate Academic Counselling offices - a very important resource! If you have any questions regarding course requirements, resources available to you, or general help, they offer drop-in periods during the busy times of the year or you can just email and book an appointment.

The fourth floor of the building is where you will most likely find your MIT TA’s during office hours.

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openWIDE//CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT

The Beginning of the End - What’s in Store for the Next Generation of Marvel Heroes?

//Megan Bishop *Spoilers for Captain Marvel, Avengers: Endgame and Spider-man: Far From Home When it comes to the scope of cinema, superhero films like this year’s Avengers Endgame are currently making the biggest influence as a financial powerhouse and a cultural force to be reckoned with. The popularity of Superhero films continues to grow as cinematic universes expand, introducing a cast of new characters, some already popular and others new to general audiences. Disney has been a leading force in this change in cinema after they purchased Marvel Studios in 2009 and began to create the Marvel Cinematic Universe - an ever-expanding franchise composed of films divided into “phases” which guarantee more movies, more fans, and more money.

2019 marks the end of phase three, after having two major successes with Black Panther and Avengers: Infinity War, Marvel was riding a rollercoaster that continued to go up without a dip in sight. To finish off phase three, Marvel released three major films for the franchise; the first female lead Marvel film, Captain Marvel, Avengers: Endgame, and a film that teases a new future for the MCU in Spider-Man: Far From Home. The three films were released in a fivemonth span, but by August 2019 they rose to the top five highest-grossing films of the year worldwide. While phase three has come to a satisfying conclusion for fans, the MCU is nowhere close to slowing down. Without a break in sight, Marvel continues to make blockbusters all while diversifying talent in front and behind the silver screen.

While Marvel seems unstoppable, the movie-making titan has taken on new challenges like Captain Marvel, which proved to be a major test of the company’s own limitations. Marvel had come under fire in the past for the absence of a female-led superhero film. In 2017, rival studio, Warner Brothers, released Wonder Woman, a huge success for the company that proved female superhero films have the ability to be both culturally enriched and commercially successful. With a strong woman in front of the camera, the film also featured a female director, a first for the superhero genre. In 2015, Marvel announced that they would release their first female-led superhero film in Captain Marvel; the character, while having her own comic stories, was not popular to the general public. The following year at Comic-Con, Marvel announced that a directing team of both a man and woman would be leading the project which would star recent Academy Award Winner, Brie Larson. In 2019, the film was released on International Women’s Day (a cheeky marketing maneuver) and was a massive success.

Featuring a dominantly female cast absent of male love interests, the film quickly became one of Marvel’s most successful films. The success of this film further proved that Marvel could take an untapped corner of its market and transform it into a worldwide phenomenon. While an important film for female representation, the film cemented Marvel as a truly invincible company.

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openWIDE//CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT

After the success of Captain Marvel, Avengers: Endgame had the difficult task of living up to the hype of its former in the series, Avengers: Infinity War, a film which ended with the demise of half of the characters in the MCU. Being released a year later, Endgame followed up with a close to three-hour runtime (and even a catchy hashtag: “#DontSpoilTheEndgame), which excited fans for the conclusion to the overarching story with the inclusion of original characters such as Iron Man and Captain America, and new favourites like Ant-Man and Valkyrie. The film served as a conclusion to the universe at large, including a massive battle featuring all of the heroes, and many good-byes for characters who will not be returning. Avengers: Endgame celebrates the franchise by revisiting past Marvel hits, giving viewers a new look at the franchise over the years. By choosing to go back in time, the film does not offer new ideas about the MCU , but instead keeps progress stagnant, allowing fans to focus on an ending rather than a potential future.

With a definitive and clear ending, Endgame does not have much to say other than thanking fans for sticking by them and making the franchise the most popular, while introducing a new slogan to share their appreciation with “I love you 3000”. Avengers: Endgame conquered the box office and became the highest grossing film of all time.

Although Avengers: Endgame offered a definitive ending for Phase Three, Marvel (and Sony Pictures) had yet to release Spider-Man: Far from Home. Since the film dealt with the events of Endgame, the marketing was kept secret as promotion began before Avengers was released. While dealing with the circumstances of Endgame and offering a new future for the franchise, Far from Home had a lot to accomplish - and it pulled it off by having two of the most important after credit scenes hinting at the future of phase four. While the film teases a multiverse, it ultimately flips the MCU on its head through the reveal of Spider-Man’s real identity. By having a character’s identity revealed (and framed for the death of Mysterio) Marvel teases a story that has not yet been explored in the previous Spider-Man films or in other MCU movies. With the reveal, Spider-Man is thrust into the role of Iron Man, which he was toying with throughout the film. With the end twist, this positions Peter Parker as the new face of the Marvel Universe. The scene in the final credits reveals that the Skrulls, shape-shifting aliens that were introduced in Captain Marvel, are impersonating well-known heroes. This reflects the importance of Captain Marvel’s film and shows that the MCU is headed towards an interstellar direction.

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openWIDE//CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT While phase three has come to a close, the MCU is nowhere near slowing down. At San Diego Comic Con, the Phase Four slate was revealed to contain both films and TV shows on streaming platforms. In the fall of 2019, Disney will venture into streaming as the corporation will launch its own streaming service, Disney Plus. The service will include new original films, Star Wars TV shows, and Marvel TV shows. By including Marvel streaming shows into the Phase Four slate, the service will likely have more subscribers as fans will want to make sure they are not missing any story that affects the films. The shows also feature fan favourite characters such as Loki, the Winter Soldier, Falcon, Scarlet Witch,and Hawkeye. By using pre-established characters from the films, fans will have to subscribe to the service if they want to see the stories surrounding these characters as the MCU films will be introducing new characters.

With the shows featuring old favourites, the MCU is heading in a new and diverse direction with their upcoming films. While established characters like Black Widow, Thor and Doctor Strange are getting independent films, they all have a new and unique angle that solidify their place in Phase Four; Black Widow will be the first MCU film directed by a solo female director, Cate Shortland while Thor: Love and Thunder will introduce Lady Thor and will explore Valkyrie’s bisexuality, and Doctor Strange will venture into other genres as a horror film. Other new films Marvel has announced will diversify characters. The Eternals, directed by Chloe Zhao, will star a cast that has an almost equal ratio of men to women, with a deaf actress as well as actors of various ethnicities.

Finally, Shang-Chi will be the first Asian superhero, played by Western-Ivey alum Simu Liu. It is an exciting time for franchise filmmaking as stories are featuring more diversity and inclusivity.

With the popularity of these films, it is important to use this platform to fight for equality. While Marvel contributes to making giant blockbusters that are rendering original studio films nonexistent, it is also hiring exciting young directors and exploring stories that have not been told for general mass audiences. With the end of Phase Three, the invincible studio continues to push forward bringing brand new stories to light in the pop culture lexicon.

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openWIDE//FASHION & LIFESTYLE

homecoming looks

Do’s Don’ts and DIY’s Homecoming season is just around the corner Mustangs! It is the most wonderful time of the year for all and can be made even better with these 9 essential tips. Here is what to do, what not to do, and what to do yourself to have the most fun filled day celebrating our amazing school.

DO: Bring a backpack with all of your essentials.

DIY: Cut your favourite western T-shirt into your DON’T: Wear open-toed own design! Some examples shoes! In these big crowds of seen over the years are creschool spirit, it is likely to be ating v-necks, bows on the stomped on. front or back or your shirt, It is better to come prepared to or cropping them! these events (don’t forget lots of water and snacks!)

DO: Wear something comfortable and unrestrictive!

DON’T: Count on your white clothes or shoes to stay Homecoming is a long day white! Instead, wear some- filled with many adventures, so having an outfit you can thing that you don’t mind rely on is key. getting dirty and that is easy to clean.

DO: Use purple makeup or face paint to add some extra flair to your look!

DIY: Use a bandana as a little something extra. Some examples are to tie your bandana around your bag, loop it through your belt, or tie it around your wrist or ankle!

DON’T: Forget to prepare DIY: If you’re feeling spontaneous, use semi-permanent for the rain! Bring a small purple hair dye to really umbrella that you can fit in stand out in the crowd. a bag, and a Western hoodie or sweatshirt in case it gets cold.

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openWIDE//FASHION & LIFESTYLE

openWIDE//FASHION & LIFESTYLE

The Signature FIMS Student Look

The Denim Jacket As a FIMS student, it is one of your duties to own (and rock) a denim jacket.

It’s become the uniform of a media student, symbolizing our creative style and abundance of theoretical knowledge. The best part about denim jackets is their variety in styles. Here are five examples for you, the class of 2023, to choose and wear for the upcoming school year!

The Thrifted Jacket

The Patchwork Jacket

A brand you’ve never heard of, a slight rip in the sleeve, and a worn in fit that’s absolutely perfect, the vintage denim jacket found at thrift stores is unique and timeless!

A brand you’ve never heard of, a slight rip in the sleeve, and a worn in fit that’s absolutely perfect, the vintage denim jacket found at thrift stores is unique and timeless!

The Cropped Jacket

The Distressed Jacket

For those of us who want our piece to be a little more modern, the cropped denim jacket is perfect. Paired with high waisted jeans and a comfy tee or sweater underneath, the cropped jacket shines with its boxy flair.

The Oversized Jacket

On a day where comfort is much needed, the oversized denim jacket allows for you to layer under for extra warmth.

You can never go wrong with this jacket, as you will be able to last all day feeling hugged by this essential oversized item.

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For those of us who want our piece to be a little more modern, the cropped denim jacket is perfect. Paired with high waisted jeans and a comfy tee or sweater underneath, the cropped jacket shines with its boxy flair.

openWIDE//FASHION & LIFESTYLE

fall trends 2019 1 Flare Jeans This 70s trend has hit the stores again, and we’re excited! Flare jeans have been known to be the most universally flattering jean and will have anyone feeling their absolute best. They have a retro vibe but can be paired with anything to suit your personal style. Also, if you are on the shorter side, they make you look even taller.

3 Western Style Boots

This trend started coming to the forefront last year and has continued into the upcoming fall and winter seasons! Westerninspired boots are replacing the classic black ankle bootie. These boots can add a subtle (or not so subtle) detail with their ribbed or patterned texture. Although this trend may spook some at first, you will quickly grow to love the little something extra they provide for your outfit.

2 Casual Suits

Pairing a relaxed blazer with a pair of your favourite jeans or trousers is the everyday suit look! It’s sophisticated, means business, but is not formal. This look can make you feel more confident when giving a class presentation, attending a meeting, or walking around campus.

Own it!

4 Mesh Layering

The fall season is all about layering. For the days when it isn’t too cold yet, mesh layering is an easy way to step up your outfit. Pairing a mesh short or long sleeve under a dress or tank top or putting a mesh button up over your outfit really steps it up. This layering is light and effortless. Have fun mixing up your looks with a mesh top!

5 Statement Sleeves

With this trend, the bigger the better! Statement sleeves include puffed shoulders, balloon sleeves and trumpet sleeves that flare out A top with this detail on the arms really catches your eye and can make a simple outfit look really put together. This trend is found on blouses, button-ups and sweaters. Once you start venturing outside the box with these unique sleeves, you won’t look back!

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openWIDE//WORLD

The 5 W’s and 1 H of Voting //ZOë Abernethy

Who, What, When, Where, Why and How?!

Politics are often portrayed as something that you either know about or don’t; however, most people know and care more about politics than they might think. You don’t have to be an expert to talk and care about politics. Life is political and it’s important to get involved, even if you think that your vote doesn’t make a difference. There are a number of ways in which our votes count, and it’s important to understand what’s at stake in the upcoming election and what we can do at the individual level to influence positive change. This article will help to give you a solid starting point before you decide who to support as our future Prime Minister.

How: How does voting work, and how does one go about voting for the first time?

Canada’s electoral system is called the single-member plurality system (SMP) or “first-past-the post.”

Up on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, we have the House of Commons, which is where the members of Parliament (MPs) make all the big decisions. Each MP that sits in the House of Commons is there because they captured the largest percentage of the vote in their riding, which awards them a seat.

A “riding” is a geographical area, also known as an electoral district or constituency (these terms are used interchangeably). Every province and territory is designated a certain number of seats, and each seat, held by an MP, represents a riding. In total, there are 338 seats in the House of Commons, which means there are 338 total electoral districts in Canada. The percentage of seats given to each province and territory is divided in relation to the population of each province, which is why Ontario has significantly more seats than a smaller province like Newfoundland and Labrador.

When a federal party wins an election, their on the Elections Canada website and enter the leader becomes the Prime Minister. There are information they ask for - it takes maybe five two ways that a party can win an election: minutes.

You have to vote in the riding that corresponds A majority government, which means that to whatever your legal address is, and chances are they hold over 50% of the seats in the House of you didn’t change your address on your driver’s Commons. So, with 338 seats in the House, a license to your address that you live at during the party needs to hold at least 170 (which is exactly school year. If you are unable to go home to vote 50% of the seats plus one extra) to win a majority. at the designated location for your riding, you can A minority government, which means that they apply to vote through a special ballot. The form hold more seats than any other party, but less to apply for this can be found on the Elections than the amount required to rule as a majority. In Canada website. the case of a minority government, the opposing The specifics of how to do this for the upcoming parties can block bills from passing. election are not available yet, but as soon as concrete dates and information become available, So how do you vote for the first time, and/or how we will share it on the OPENWIDE social media do you vote if you aren’t able to go home to vote platforms. in your riding?

To be eligible to vote, you need to be at least 18 years old on election day, a Canadian citizen and be registered to vote. To register you simply go

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openWIDE//WORLD When: The election is scheduled to be on October 21st, the Monday after homecoming (not FOCO/ Purplefest) weekend, but this is still subject to change. Be sure to check OPENWIDE’s social media platforms for more updates closer to the date!

Who: Now we know how electing the Prime Minister works, let’s take a look at the main federal candidates, their parties and the basic values associated with each party. Canada has only ever had Conservative and Liberal Prime Ministers, but there are a couple of other parties worth mentioning.

The Conservative Party of Canada (CPC): Led by Andrew Scheer ·

As the most right-wing of the main parties, some of their general characteristics include: · Pro-small government, which basically means that they think there should be less publicly subsidized programs and services available to citizens. · For us students, a small government that generally spends less means that things like tuition and student loans are negatively impacted. Less government regulation means less control over tuition increases, and less government funding means that things like OSAP get cut significantly, which already happened when Ontario elected a Conservative Premier, Doug Ford. · People often gravitate towards the idea of lower taxes and less government regulation because it is framed as increasing our freedom and making our country richer. What could be bad about that? Well, the problem is that this “freedom” is really only beneficial to corporations and other people who are already rich, because they get to keep more of their money and they can afford to pay upfront for things like healthcare and education, unlike most of us. Our taxes are used to fund things that we take for granted like healthcare, schools, parks and roads, as well as social programs such as welfare and old age security.

This supposed “freedom” ends up freeing the government from taking care of most of its citizens’ well-being in the name of economic growth. · Pro-oil industry: the goal of developing Canada’s manufacturing sectors and nationwide trade is what led to the formation of the CPC. Broadly speaking, the CPC’s number one priority is the economic success of the country. · This ties into their value of reducing government programs and increasing privatization. · Scheer wants to make it easier to build pipelines and transport natural resources across the country and elsewhere in order to make Canada’s oil industry more appealing to private investors.

This is another example of true Conservative values shining through. While this would benefit Canada’s economy immensely, it would negatively impact the Indigenous communities whose land would be further compromised by these developments.

There have already been severe consequences for Indigenous peoples with pipelines and other resource extraction projects in the past that have yet to be addressed properly, so building more would likely make things worse. · Conservative platform includes an extensive climate

change plan, which even claims that they want to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into preventing climate change. However, their plan does not include any attempts to reduce carbon emissions and environmental degradation if it is at the expense of the oil industry. In reality, the CPC knows that they have to address climate change in order to get votes, but their economic priorities remain clear. · Hard on crime: Conservatives are known to be particularly hard on crime, in the sense that they do not value rehabilitation.

Instead, they push for harsher, longer sentences, despite the evidence that shows the ineffectiveness of this approach to fighting crime. · Scheer wants to be harsher on gang and gun-related crimes, which is valid but somewhat missing the point. Increasing sentencing for these offenses is simply treating a symptom of the larger structural issues that motivate individuals to get involved with gangs and guns.

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The Liberal Party of Canada: Led by Justin Trudeau it means that public funding will likely be reduced, and definitely not increased. Trudeau did announce in March (the current PM) The Liberals are Centrist, which basically means that they try to strike a balance between left and right-wing values.

Today, they are often described as socially progressive but economically conservative . Their versatility is arguably one of the reasons why they have been the most successful party in Canada’s history (in the sense that they’ve ruled for more time than the CPC has).

Because of their versatility, however, it’s hard to describe the fundamental values of the Liberal party. Additionally, some argue that social progressiveness and economically conservative-ness are incompatible traits because, in order to be socially progressive, you have to support programs that may cost taxpayer money and/or require government regulation, which goes against fiscally conservative values.

Trudeau’s time as PM exemplifies this incompatibility, as by attempting to be both socially progressive and fiscally responsible, he’s given people on both ends of the political spectrum reasons to be unhappy. Not only did he not follow through with many of his promises to influence positive social change (e.g for Indigenous peoples and immigrants), he also did not do enough to bolster Canada’s economy and address the nation’s debt.

Broadly speaking, if a government is fiscally conservative,

The New Democratic Party of Canada (NDP): Led by Jagmeet Singh The NDP is the most left-wing of Canada’s major political parties. While they have yet to win a federal election, their presence in the House has still been influential on the adoption and prevention of numerous bills and policies. Some of their notable features are: They have historically advocated for environmental protection more than the other major parties.

Pro-Welfare State: They believe in taxing the wealthy and large corporations more in order to provide better publicly funded programs and services to citizens.

Singh has promised to create a universal healthcare program by 2020, to create more affordable housing and to declare a national health emergency for the opioid epidemic.

Pro-Central Government: Essentially the opposite of the CPC in the sense that they value a government

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that part of the Liberal budget for this year includes reducing interest on student loans, which would save students a significant amount of money when repaying their debt. This exemplifies an attempt to balance being socially progressive and economically conservative. However, it also demonstrates what this attempt to balance results in, which is arguably nothing significant.

While the Liberals have not released their platform yet for the 2019 election, it appears that Trudeau is promising many of the same things as he did in 2015. It will be interesting to see what he does change this time around, as well as whether Canadians choose to believe him.

that regulates the economy, that redistributes wealth through taxes and government programs.

Being the most left-wing party means that the NDP is generally supportive of socially progressive initiatives; for example, Singh wants to make it easier for refugees to come to Canada since the US is no longer safe for them.

The most common criticism that the NDP receives is that they are unrealistic because they don’t explain how they’re going to pay for the programs they want to enact. While these criticisms are not entirely unwarranted, the NDP has explained how they will pay for these programs: by eliminating loopholes that essentially allow the wealthy to pay fewer taxes than the majority of the population. This concept of increasing taxes on the rich is arguably the reason why the NDP is less popular and less successful than the Liberal and Conservative parties. To suggest making such drastic changes to what has long been the status quo is unfathomable to many; however, this does not make these ideas impossible.

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Why: Why is it important to vote anyways?

You may think that your one vote doesn’t really make a difference, but that is a very commonly held assumption, especially with young people who don’t really follow politics. At the bare minimum, voting tells parties that our generation is interested in the future of our country and in who leads it. In the 2015 election, only 68.5% of the population voted, which was the highest turnout since 1993. Less than 58% of voters between the ages of 18 and 24 voted, which was also an extreme increase from previous elections.

If everybody who could vote actually voted, the results of the election could be considerably different. The only way to find out is to try. Moreover, the aforementioned difference in the amount of power held by a majority versus a minority government (where opposing parties can prevent bills from passing), is an important motivation to vote, even if you don’t think that your party will win. For example, though the NDP has never won a federal election, they are at least partially credited with influencing the adoption of important social programs such as national healthcare and old-age pensions If it wasn’t obvious, the more seats held by a party, the better. Not only in the case of a minority government, but even with a majority, as the party with the second-highest number of seats becomes the official Opposition. The official Opposition party is designated a certain number of days each year to discuss any issues they choose, as well as to vote on any matter they desire.

The reality is that many people are currently unhappy with Trudeau’s government and want change. A poll held in January showed that if the election was held then, the Conservatives would have won. Whatever that means to you, the fact of the matter is that many of the issues at stake right now, such as immigration and refugee policies, reconciliation with Canada’s First Nations and climate change are extremely time sensitive.

The way that these issues are addressed in the next four years will make a significant difference in the future well-being of our country and planet. We simply do not have time to waste, and the next government needs to understand that.

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Stuff You 'Outta Know: Mental Health Resources for Western Students No matter how effortless it looks on Instagram, adjusting to University life is one of the biggest challenges for new students.

Whether you’re from across the globe, the country, the province or the ever-expansive Democratic Republic of Toronto, starting at a school as large and bustling as Western can trigger a wave of to-do lists, worries, and new experiences that only add to that ensuing mountain of readings, assignments and due dates.

With all this being said, here is your guide to finding the best resources for information and help with health and wellness, balancing school and stress, academics, homesickness and more — no matter what you may be experiencing, there is someone willing to help! These resources are accessible, discreet, compassionate, free, and available year-round to every Mustang. Be sure to keep this article in your dorm room or on your fridge, and share it with your friends!

Residence Counselling One of the best resources for students living in Main Residence buildings is residence counselling, which provides free short term counselling sessions for students focused around mental wellbeing, navigating your new life at school, and even mindfulness techniques!

Send an email to needtotalk@uwo.ca or drop by their office in room 3C10 of Ontario Hall.

Student Development Centre Another counselling resource centre for students, regardless of where you’re living, is the Student Development Centre in the Western Student Services building (located beside the UCC). The Development Centre provides students with a wide range of services; from individual and crisis counselling to educational lecture series’ and group sessions. They also offer walk-in single sessions, so if you’re feeling like you need someone to talk to, but not too sure what help you need, the Development Centre is a great place to start!

Find them in room 4100 of the Western Student Services Building, or give them a call to book an appointment: 519-661-3031.

Wellness Education Centre Most students walk by the Wellness Centre every day, it’s welcoming staff and engaging events, like guest speakers advocating for wellness, Movies for Mental Health, and yoga classes are just a few of the programs aimed at making wellness education fun and accessible.

The “WEC” is open every day from 10am to 4pm in Room 76 of the UCC, right across from the Bookstore.

Reach Out Let’s not forget that the BEST resources you can find are just an arms length away! Reach out to your roommates, Sophs, RA’s and campus staff; anyone you feel the most comfortable talking to. Sometimes the smallest “me too” from a friend can validate what you’ve been struggling with, and continuing the conversation on mental health with transparency and compassion helps to push Western’s boundaries for awareness and proactive wellness resources even further. Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to your TA or professor to seek accommodations because of poor mental health, if needed! REACH OUT provides free mental health and addictions crisis support both over the phone and through a mobile intervention team that will come to your door to assist you. *If you or a loved one is in crisis and needs immediate support, call REACH OUT London: 519-433-2023 or visit their website at www.reachout247.ca.

a special thank you to: the FIMS Undergraduate Student Fund FIMSSC Print Three London

disclaimer: OPENWIDE Online is funded by the FIMS Undergraduate Student Fund (USF) The opinions and ideas expressed in student-written pieces on OPENWIDE belong to individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or values of the OPENWIDE editorial team, the FIMS Student Council, or the faculty of FIMS. While every piece for OPENWIDE is edited, the zine is a place where people can express opinions with much less filter than in a traditional (or corporate) publication. Here, contributors have the freedom to grapple with controversial ideas and sentiments, sometimes in controversial ways.We hope that (respectful) conversation will ensue.