REACH OFFICIAL E-MAGAZINE OF TYO-CANADA
49
OCTOBER 2012
2
OCTOBER 2012
For many generations, women have been strictly confined within clearly defined gender roles. However, there have been immense changes to this kind of oppression as women began to take on new challenges and roles.Tamil women play a vital role in the liberation movement of Tamileelam. This October 10th was the 25th anniversary of 2nd Lt. Malathy, the first woman martyr in the Tamileelam freedom struggle. October 10th is also recognized as ‘Tamil Women’s Uprising Day’. 2nd Lt. Malathy defied traditional roles that were imposed on women as she made the decision to actively get involved in the fight for Tamileelam. During a time where women were predominantly associated with stereotypical gender roles, 2nd Lt. Malathy’s patriotic nature caused her to resist these conventional roles. The fact that 2nd Lt. Malathy took an active role in the Tamileelam freedom struggle not only depicts her devotion to her country, but it
@TYOCANADA
REACH - 49
also illustrates that there were many Tamil women involved in the Tamileelam freedom struggle. Eelam Tamil women are inspirational role models and through their activism, it is apparent that they show no signs of weakness. Rather than merely getting protection, heroic women like 2nd Lt. Malathy took it upon themselves to become the protectors of the Eelam Tamil people. Today, Tamil youth from all parts of the world are remembering the heroic commitment and sacrifice of 2nd Lt. Malathy and others. Tamil people must always remember these brave women who risked their lives so that the entire Tamil community could be cultivated and progress. - TYO-Canada
OCTOBER 2012
TYO - CANADA
REACH A [tamil history]
p.4
Tamileelam Women’s Uprising
E [did you know?]
p.13
Heart over Brain
49 B [world history]
p.5
Harriet Tubman
F [face-to-face]
p.14
w/ Senthamil Stefi
3
OCTOBER 2012 CONTENTS C [youth canada]
p.6
Tamil Womens’s Uprising Campaign, TSA Saraswathy Pooja’s +
G [chef @ cheran]
p.16
Sambal
D [world youth]
p.10
Aadukalam 2012, Saraswathy Pooja
H [youth reflection]
p.18
Breaking Boundaries
TYO
To work towards the enhancement of the Tamil Nation and to provide an avenue for the betterment of Tamil youth in Canada
@TYOCANADA
4
OCTOBER 2012
REACH - 49
A [tamil history] Tamileelam Women’s Uprising
Women’s uprising is a concept that is very significant around the world. In favour of such an initiative, the Tamil community designates October 10th as ‘Tamil Women’s Uprising Day’ because on October 10th, 1987, 2nd Lt. Malathy became the first woman martyr in the Tamileelam freedom struggle. On this day, the Tamil community reflects on the contribution of women to the freedom struggle. This year was quite significant because it marks the 25th anniversary of the first woman martyr 2nd Lt. Malathy. Not only was 2nd Lt. Malathy the first woman martyr, she was also one of the first few whom were sacrificed in the battle against the IPKF. During the heavy mortar shelling and firing by the Indian troops, 2nd Lt. Malathy, along with Janani and Viji, were outnumbered and stayed in a bunker. 2nd Lt. Malathy was shot in both her legs. At this time, she knew she was unable to continue and made the decision to take cyanide. Both Janani and Viji went to carry 2nd Lt. Malathy to safety even when she had refused their assistance. She did not want them to also get hurt. Nonetheless, they had still carried her but unfortunately, by the time they had brought her to a secure place, 2nd Lt. Malathy had passed away. The fact that there was a women’s division fighting for the
@TYOCANADA
freedom struggle not only showcases the promise for gender equality in Tamileelam, but it further demonstrates the passion and determination of Eelam Tamil women in devoting their lives for their country’s freedom. 2nd Lt. Malathy left us at the tender youthful age of twenty, an age when many of us begin to embark upon our dreams and so forth. Not only did she stand trying to fight for the struggle, but she also demolished the gender inequality that is highly prevalent in the eastern world. 2nd Lt. Malathy brings great honour to the Tamil society and even more aspiration for young Tamil women. She has set the bar very high by showcasing the capacity that a determined woman holds. Every year the Tamil community commemorates the contributions made by the strong women whom we lost in the battle for our freedom. Tamil Women’s Uprising Day not only serves the purpose of commemorating such honourable souls, but it also serves as a reminder of the important role that women have in the world.They are definitely highly skilled and the depth of their capacity was strongly displayed through Tamileelam women’s active involvement in the freedom struggle.
OCTOBER 2012
TYO - CANADA
5
B [world history] Harriet Tubman
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world”. Harriet Tubman was born in 1820, her birth date unknown as she was born into slavery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Harriet’s ancestors had been brought to America in shackles from Africa during the first half of the 18th Century. Harriet was the 11th child born to Benjamin Ross and Harriet Greene (slaves of Edward Brodas), and her given name was Araminta. By the time she was an adult, she was calling herself Harriet. Harriet began working at a very early age, and was loaned out to different plantations by her master. By the age of 12, she was working as a field hand, ploughing and hauling wood. At 13, while defending a fellow slave who tried to run away, her overseer struck her in the head with a two-pound weight which resulted in recurring narcoleptic seizures, or sleeping spells, that plagued her for the rest of her life. She was married twice, once in 1844 to John Tubman, and again in 1869 to Nelson Davis, and she never had kids. The biggest turning point of her life, however, came in 1849 when she used her labours for self discipline and set herself the goal of escaping to the North. She ran away from her plantation in the middle of the night and headed towards Pennsylvania. She only traveled at night, and hardly ever slept. She derived a method of sleeping where she would sleep near the side of the road but still be conscious, listening for anyone approaching or any other sounds. She never let her guard down until she had crossed the border between slaveholding and
non-slaveholding states. Once Harriet had reached her freedom, she realized it wasn’t good enough for her. She made a vow that she would help her family and friends win their freedom as well. She went to Philadelphia, found work by cooking, laundering and scrubbing, and saved money to finance rescue trips. She became involved with the city’s large and active anti-slavery organizations including the organizers of the Underground Railroad, a secret network through which slaves were helped in escaping from bondage in the South to freedom in the North and Canada. Harriet Tubman undertook around 20 hazardous missions in which she covertly journeyed down south, pinpointed slaves, and led them to freedom up north – at times going as far as Canada. She never once lost a slave along the mission, and was given the nickname “Moses”, undoubtedly for her freeing the slaves. Harriet became popular, and was soon sought after by Southern slaveholders. However, she evaded capture every time, and managed to free over 100 slaves. In the 12 years from her escape in 1849 to the beginning of the Civil War in 1861, Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad became the most dominant force of anti-slavery. Harriet Tubman lived until the age of 93, dying of pneumonia. Her legacy will always be remembered. She played an inspirational role for African Americans fighting for equality and civil rights, and she was highly praised by leaders. Her bravery stood the test of time, and her words and actions have resonated through generations that came after her.
@TYOCANADA
6
OCTOBER 2012
C [youth canada] Tamil Women’s Uprising Campaign TORONTO, ON
Tamil Youth Organization - Canada commemorated the 25th anniversary of the first woman martyr in the Tamileelam freedom struggle, 2nd Lt. Malathy, on October 10th. It has also been observed as the ‘Tamil Women’s Uprising Day’. Our young generation should remember the contributions of 2nd Lt. Malathy and recognize the fundamental changes the Tamil liberation struggle has created in Tamil society in regard to the equality of women. The struggle has freed people from the shackles of superstitious customs, infused new blood and taken the society in new directions. Liberation does not mean just freedom from foreign domination and tyranny, but also freedom from religious and gender discrimination and oppression of women. Click Here to view the full video.
@TYOCANADA
REACH - 47
TYO - CANADA
OCTOBER 2012
7
TSA Saraswathy Pooja’s TORONTO, WATERLOO & OTTAWA
Tamil Students Associations (TSAs) took the time into preparing for the annual Saraswathy Pooja. Saraswathy is known as the goddess of knowledge and arts in Hinduism. The organization of the Saraswathy Pooja is a direct reflection of the importance of holding such ceremonies. The Pooja’s were attended by many students from around the campuses and was successful.
University of Toronto Scarborough Campus (UTSC TSA) - October 22nd
@TYOCANADA
8
OCTOBER 2012
University of Waterloo (WATSA) - October 23rd
@TYOCANADA
REACH - 47
TYO - CANADA
OCTOBER 2012
9
Carleton University (CUTSA) - October 24th
@TYOCANADA
10
OCTOBER 2012
D [world youth] Aadukalam 2012 UNITED KINGDOM
On October 6th, 2012, the Global Tamil Youth League (T-League) held its 2nd Annual International Dance Competition: Aadukalam 2012. Tamil Youth Organization – United Kingdom had hosted this year’s highly anticipated event, which was held at Logan Hall in London, United Kingdom. After last year’s success, the competition attracted many talented Tamil dancers from all across the world. These dancers were determined to win the title as this year’s champions. They were all excited to take part in this competition and the amount of talent that was displayed on the stage was astounding. This year’s participating teams came from Canada, Denmark, Switzerland, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, and Germany. The theme for Aadukalam 2012 was ‘Freedom’. All of the participating teams had to convey the notion of freedom through their dance movements, and they did so beautifully by showcasing different aspects in the struggle for freedom. It was a very expressive competition, and it was both inspirational and empowering. The teams were encouraged and cheered on by hundreds of fans and spectators who had attended the event to show their support. After a fascinating show filled with great performances and dance routines, the title of the 2012 Aadukalam
@TYOCANADA
REACH - 47
TYO - CANADA
OCTOBER 2012
11
Champions had been awarded to Team GB representing the United Kingdom. The second place award had been presented to Team Canada. All of the participating teams had excelled in their dances and many different awards were also presented for various categories. Aadukalam 2012 was definitely an event that truly brought out the essence of freedom, which is something that is very close to the hearts of Tamil individuals all around the world. T-League’s mission in uniting and empowering Tamil youth from all across the world was definitely showcased through this event. Even though the teams had come from different countries in order to be titled the champions of Aadukalam 2012, they had very quickly become closely associated with the other team members. It proves that although Tamil youth reside in various parts of the world, we are still strongly connected and this strength in unity will surely help us in moving forward as we continue to work together to uphold our nationality. In a comment to the Tamil Guardian, a participating member from Team Canada had stated, “All six countries did an amazing job in recreating definitions of freedom in the form of dance. I wholeheartedly enjoyed every single performance and took home a message from each routine. It was an overall powerful show.”
@TYOCANADA
12
OCTOBER 2012
Saraswathy Pooja UNITED KINGDOM
In the UK, the academy also organized a ceremony to offer special prayers to Saraswathy, considered by devotees to be the goddess of learning and education. In the belief of enhancing the educational aspects of their lives, devotees place their books, and other instruments of learning at the Pooja to receive her blessings.
@TYOCANADA
REACH - 47
OCTOBER 2012
TYO - CANADA
13
E [did you know?]
Heart over Brain A look at Mummufication in ancient Egypt ‘Sleep tight everything will be alright’ is a phrase that even Egypt’s Mummies followed. Ancient Egypt is one of the many civilizations that believe in the concept of an afterlife. The significance of afterlife to Ancient Egypt is apparent even through geological measures as Pyramids serve as tombs for Kings of the time. In preparation for the afterlife, the deceased go through a process of Mummification. In the Mummification process, internal organs such as the lungs, liver, intestine, and stomach are removed since they would decay. They are then washed and stored in jars. While these organs were removed, the heart was left intact. It is a well-known fact that the brain was removed from the nostrils by pieces or stirred into liquid and spilled out. The indelicate procedure used to remove the brain demonstrates the value of the brain to the Egyptians at the time. The brain was believed to have no significance in the afterlife. Egyptians were unaware of the function of the brain and believed the brain had produced snot. The heart was acknowledged to have importance for thought, memory and intelligence. Many medical journals, now accepted as speculations, assigned various significant roles
to the heart. Hieroglyphics of the heart in the early ages consisted with eight vessels branching out; thus, symbolizing the heart having elaborated functions in the body. The channels were thought to transport: saliva, tears, air, nutrients, sperm, mucus and body waste. Hence, it was believed that if the channels were clear, the body was in a healthy condition. The heart was important to keep intact during the Mummification process, as it was a determining factor in terms of being the gateway to the afterlife. Ma’at, the Ancient Egyptian goddess of justice, had weighed the heart of the deceased against the feather of Ma’at, which had represented justice. In order for the deceased to pass on to the afterlife, the weight of the heart must strike balance with the feather thus symbolizing balance with law through their lifetime and therefore granting them entry to the Osiris. The Ancient Egyptian goddess, Am-mit, devoured the deceased who did not fall in line with the law. Egyptians believed that God spoke though their hearts, thus they gave the heart such significance in the ancient community. Although the function of the heart is more clarified today, the significance of the heart still remains strong.
@TYOCANADA
14
OCTOBER 2012
REACH - 47
F [face-to-face] Senthamil Stefi
EDUCATION IS OFTEN REFERRED TO AS THE KEY TO SUCCESS. WHEN
YOUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL HAS BEEN GETTING A LOT OF EXPOSURE
THIS EDUCATION IS LINKED WITH EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, IT
AND YOU ARE INCREASINGLY BECOMING MORE RECOGNIZED BY
COULD REALLY ENHANCE AN INDIVIDUAL’S SKILLS AND ABILITIES. YOU
THE TAMIL YOUTH COMMUNITY. THE TOPICS YOU DISCUSS ARE QUITE
HAVE HAD EXPERIENCE WORKING AS A TEACHING ASSISTANT (TA).
ENGAGING AND INFORMATIVE. WHAT ENCOURAGED YOU TO START
HOW HAS THIS EXPERIENCE HELPED YOU?
MAKING VIDEO BLOGS AND CREATE A YOUTUBE CHANNEL? WHY
TAing organic chemistry at the University of Toronto allowed me to apply a subject I love into a teaching setting where I could share my interest. Furthermore, having students of varying learning styles (i.e. visual learner) allowed me to develop ways that would help enhance their learning experience by giving them personalized forms of teaching. This ultimately led to my students having some of the highest averages amongst other sections. At the end of the day, what made me truly happy was seeing my students succeed and encouraging them to do things to their fullest potential. They truly inspired me with their astounding will to persevere.
DID YOU CHOOSE YOUTUBE AS A METHOD TO COMMUNICATE AND CONVEY YOUR THOUGHTS TO OTHERS?
I have always loved mentoring kids younger than me. I was actually the science team leader at the University of Western Ontario during my undergrad for their Leadership and Mentorship Program. With a YouTube channel, I felt that I could connect to a larger audience and be able to inspire while also raising awareness to important issues and bringing unspoken topics to the forefront. Furthermore I felt that being a Tamil girl, there was a stigma associated with having something like a YouTube channel. I wanted to break that fear and inspire young girls to create their own identity and not let society define them. As I always say “Don’t be ordinary, be extraordinary!” Why did I choose YouTube? I felt that in our current day society, people were more likely to view videos rather than read. I also felt that I could connect to my audience more so through a video rather than through a written blog.
@TYOCANADA
OCTOBER 2012
TYO - CANADA
15
WE ALL HAVE ROLE MODELS IN OUR LIVES. AS A VIDEO BLOGGER, A LOT OF PEOPLE LOOK UP TO YOU AND REALLY VALUE YOUR OPINIONS. WHO DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE YOUR INSPIRATIONAL ROLE MODEL? WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST REWARDING COMMENTS YOU HAVE RECEIVED FROM YOUR FANS?
Since I was a little kid, my anna (big brother) has always been my inspirational role model. His brilliant nature while being kind and humble has always inspired me. He never let anyone but himself define who he was. Most of my rewarding fan comments are from my younger viewers. When they message me saying akka (big sister) and open up to me, it melts my heart every single time. Like I said in one of my videos… no matter where you are in the world, always know that there is an akka right here. Hearing them tell me that I inspire them makes all the effort I put into my YouTube channel worth it and much, much more. A RECENT VIDEO YOU POSTED WAS REGARDING A CHALLENGE TO
WOULD YOU MIND SHINING SOME LIGHT ON SOME OF YOUR PERSON-
THE TAMIL COMMUNITY ASKING THEM TO SPEAK TAMIL TO THEIR TAMIL
AL GOALS FOR THE FUTURE? ALSO, CONSIDERING YOUR BELIEFS,VALUES,
FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND NEIGHBORS. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO COME UP
AND EXPERIENCES, IF YOU COULD PROVIDE ANY TYPE OF ADVICE TO
WITH THIS CHALLENGE, AND WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM IT? WHY
YOUTH, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY?
DO YOU THINK IT’S IMPORTANT TO UPHOLD OUR TAMIL IDENTITY?
One of my best friends, Ruban inspired me. He taught me the importance of retaining the Tamil language. He made me realize how difficult it was for me to completely express myself in Tamil like many of the Tamil kids growing up in our western society thus inspiring me to make the challenge. The challenge video reached over 3,000 views in less than 4 days! Like many Tamil youth around the world, I ended up completing the challenge. Was it successful for me? That would be questionable, but I did try my best. With the completion of the challenge, I realized the vital role that our generation had. Being in between the older generation and the new and upcoming generation, it is ultimately up to us on whether or not we want to pass on the culture, the traditions, and the language. I truly think it is important to uphold the Tamil identity. Why? Well… if we don’t uphold it… then who will?
My future goals include building a career in organic chemistry, building personalized orphanages in Tamileelam, to continue giving back to the Canadian community in various ways, and to continue to inspire youth through my YouTube channel and other means. My biggest piece of advice to youth would be to NEVER give up and don’t ever let anyone else define who you are… define yourself and carry yourself out like a boss! ;)
@TYOCANADA
16
OCTOBER 2012
G [chef @ cheran]
Sambal INGREDIENTS
• • • • • • •
1 onion 3 green chili peppers 2 tsp vegetable oil 1/2 tomato, diced (chopped in cubes) 1 coconut, grated 2 1/2 tbsp chili powder Salt for taste
@TYOCANADA
REACH - 47
OCTOBER 2012
TYO - CANADA
17
INSTRUCTIONS:
1 Finely chop onions and green chili peppers.
4 Once it has turned golden brown, toss in the chopped tomato as well and let it simmer
2 In a wok on low heat, pour 2 tsp of vegetable oil. Toss in the chopped onions and green chili peppers. Give it a little stir and let it simmer until it is golden brown.
5 Then add in 2 handfuls of coconut shavings into the wok and stir it in
3 Prepare diced tomatoes
6 Add 2 1/2 tbsp of chili powder and salt for taste. Stir it well into the mix. Once the sambal is completed, you can eat it with roti, bread, and dosai!
@TYOCANADA
18
OCTOBER 2012
REACH - 47
H [youth reflections] Breaking Boundaries
Tamil people have demonstrated and continue to demonstrate their accomplishments globally. Tamil women have their part in that as well as they strive for their equality and still manage to shine through with their success.
2nd Lt. Malathy was a heroic figure that transcended traditional roles that were expected of Tamil women. She was the first woman in the battle for Tamileelam that had lost her life. It shows that while gender equality is an obstacle that women face on a global scale, 2nd Lt. Malathy still challenged these Looking at the women in the Tamil Diaspora, there has been obstacles as she fought for her nation. Her determination and tremendous improvement from enrollment in education; sacrifice is historical, and she even had a memorial statue that entry into workforce and even the general perspective that was made after her in Kilinochchi. the community has about women is pushing to change. We can see subtle progress in our daily lives when our mothers As the world evolves and gets more complex, more women wake up to go to work alongside our fathers, and even when are standing up to demand equality. The national leader of Tamil women within the broader society take on numerous Tamileelam, Hon. V. Pirapaharan stated, “It is my wish that a leadership roles within the community. revolutionary society arises in Tamileelam, where women receive the same rights, are liberated from all kinds of It is an understood fact that education is very important in oppression, and live with equal rights with men and in dignity�. any aspect. However, for women, education is an especially Through his words, we are able to see that the women of powerful tool because when linked with hard work and Tamileelam are encouraged to live a life that is free from any dedication, it can really bring them to immense heights type of inequality. In reflection of this, 2nd Lt. Malathy was and enable them to open new doors that were previously definitely a true role model in exhibiting the strength of Tamil inaccessible. Tamil women should always educate themselves women in breaking boundaries in order to fight for their to acquire not only knowledge for self interest, but also for dreams. independence, strength and to posses the raw materials to fulfill future desires.
@TYOCANADA
OCTOBER 2012
TYO - CANADA
19
Speak Out As Tamil youth in Canada, we have the ultimate duty of educating others, as well as ourselves of the suffering of the Tamil people. Understanding is crucial. And with understanding comes awareness, the most essential step in the path to progress.
Join TYO Our doors are always open to new members that are looking to make a difference for Tamils around the world. As an organization with the interests of Tamil youth at heart, TYO provides opportunities for Canadian Tamil youth to network, contribute, and develop their skills in various areas as well. Interested in getting involved? Please contact us at
REACH@CANADATYO.ORG
Or visit us at
WWW.CANADATYO.ORG
REACH Team Editor Tharchini. V Designer Shiyamdev. S
@TYOCANADA