The Rundle Review: November/December 2021

THE

November/December 2021

November/December Theme:

Resilience

The Rundle Review team has chosen resilience as our theme for the November/December issue. 2021 has been a year like no other, And through it all, we have been able to remain resilient. Whether you have overcome an insurmountable challenge or have just made it through the day, give yourself a pat on the back! Through this hectic year, everyone deserves to appreciate how far they have come, and no matter how big or small the challenge is, know that your community is proud of your growth and resilience in 2021!

prizes!

1.

The First PErson to Guess all Countries!

1 $20 gift card of choice.

2. the First person to guess all Songs or guess all countries!

1 big merchandise item of choice baseball caps, toques, water bottles, coffee mugs etc.

4. The first person to unscramble this word: oiitnaptse 2 small merchandise items of choice Lanyards, gym bags, pencils, etc.

Please go see Mr. Cooper out of class time to redeem your prize!

What is something that motivates you?

jacob t

Derek L

isabella d

talia f

some What are strategies that rundle students use to deal with adversity?

Cool down, think about it, then deal with it.

Aoife S, gr. 7 my mom once told me that if I ever get into a situation where I'm scared or I can't get out of it, I should sing this song and breath. It always helped no matter what and I still do it to this day.

Krish J, gr. 9

I do things like reading to calm me down or talk to my friends.

NoraH E, gr. 7

What does resilience mean to Rundle? resilience is a word that can be used to describe many things. if you're a resilient person, it means not only can you recover from difficult situations, but it means you are brave. To think that you can get out of difficult situations, you have to have special heroic qualities that are not only resilience, but, care, bravery, selflessness, and most of all, hope.

Krish J, Gr.9

The ability to recover quickly from things that stand in your path, and the ability to keep going even when things get tough Talia f, gr.7

to never give up in spite of any inconveniences or setbacks you may have faced or been facing.

Brady P, gr.9

How do Rundle students show resilience in day-to-day life?

Continuing to try my hardest to reach a certain goal zoe c, gr. 7

I push myself to join more sports teams, clubs and to do the very best on my schoolwork.

Talia f, gr. 7

I uplift people when they are down and I don't let negative attitudes get me down. anonymous

Peyton K Jan 15: 'WandaVision’ Released Directed by Matt Shakman, Disney+ released the American miniseries based upon Marvel comics, marking it as the first television series in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Feb 7 - ‘The Weeknd’ Super Bowl Halftime Show

Canadian singer, The Weeknd, performed at the Super Bowl LV halftime show and amazed fans in a 14-minute display of his hits. The artist released a collection of his greatest hits known as ‘The Highlights’ two days before the Super Bowl, including 'Can’t Feel My Face',‘Starboy,’ and 'Blinding Lights.’

Mar 14 - 2021 Grammy’s Breaking Records

At the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards, singer-songwriter H.E.R’s Black Lives Matter-inspired song, “I Can’t Breathe,” took home Song of the Year, while Beyoncé broke the record for most personally acquired Grammys, receiving her 28th.

Mar 31 - ‘Godzilla Vs. Kong’ Released

Two cinematic monsters finally come face to face; director Adam Wingard combined the universes of the two infamous creatures and raked in $467.8 million USD in the box office.

May 18 - Italian band ‘Måneskin’ win 2021

Eurovision Song Contest

Performing their song, ‘Zitti E Buoni,’ roughly translating to ‘Shut Up and Behave,’ in the Grand Final, the four-piece Italian band ‘Måneskin’ officially became the winners of the 65th Eurovision Song Contest. The band became an international success, aided by the popularity of their cover song, “Beggin.’

May 21 - ‘Sour’ Released

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series star Olivia Rodrigo released her debut album, ‘Sour,’ having success at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. With wildly successful hits, including, ‘drivers license,’ ‘good 4 u,’ and, ‘deja vu,’ Rodrigo was able to maintain the number one position for five weeks, marking ‘Sour’ as the longest-reigning number one album by a female artist in 2021.

June 20 - ‘Keeping Up with the Kardashians’ Ends

After growing up in the spotlight for over 14 years, the Kardashian

Jenner family discontinued their show following the debut of their 20th season on the E! Network. According to Vox, the Kardashians saw the end of the show as a “keeping with the natural evolution of their careers,” and were quoted as thanking fans for their continued support throughout, “the good times, the bad times, the happiness, [and] the tears.”

Aug 22 - Josephine Baker was announced as the first black woman featured in the Pantheon in Paris, France

Civil rights activist, movie star, French renaissance spy, singer, and all-around performer Josephine Baker was announced to become the first black woman featured in France’s Pantheon monument.

Although announced in August, this became a reality on November 26th.

Sept 13 - 2021 Met Gala

New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art’s annual gala showcased

gowns by esteemed designers and served as a gathering of around

four hundred of the most highly recognized names in pop culture.

With the theme, ‘In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,’ designers

found inspiration for their pieces in every realm of American

history, from old Hollywood to the wild west.

Sept 17 - ‘Squid Game’ Released

Netflix’s Korean thriller drama, ‘Squid Game,’ quickly became an international success, generating an incredible $891.1 million USD. ‘Squid Game’ earned the title of Netflix’s ‘Biggest Original Series,’ with 142 million household subscriptions watching the first four weeks of its release. The show quickly became synonymous with several Korean children’s games, such as the Dalogna Challenge, cutting carved symbols out of a piece of candy without breaking the shape.

Sep 28 - ‘No Time To Die’ Released After 18 Month Delay from COVID-19 Pandemic The release of the 27th movie in the James Bond franchise was delayed a year and a half due to producers worrying the reciprocated cost to film the movie would be underwhelming considering closure of movie theatres surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

Oct 22 - ‘Dune’ Hits Theatres

Based on the best selling 1965 science fiction book by Frank Herbert, the second film version, starring big names such as Zendaya, and Timothee Chalamet, garnered international success, generating $300 million USD in the box office within one month of theatre play. The book has proved hard to adapt to screen, according to Time magazine, as there are a wide variety of possible interpretations from the text.

Oct 30 - Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducts the Foo Fighters, the Go-Gos, JAY-Z, & Tina Turner

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, an organization with the direct mission statement to, “engage, teach, and inspire through the power of rock and roll,” recognized JAY-Z, the Foo Fighters, the Go-Gos, and Tina Turner for their contributions to music history. These artists will be given a display within the Cleveland, Ohio, museum, recognizing their impacts on the world through music.

Nov 12 - Taylor Swift Releases ‘All Too Well’ Film

All throughout 2021 Taylor Swift re-recorded her previous albums, aiming to regain ownership over her music, calling these re-releases, “Taylor’s Version.” After releasing Fearless (Taylor’s Version), Speak Now (Taylor’s Version), and 1989 (Taylor’s Version), Swift released her fourth rerecorded studio album, Red. In part, she wrote a continuation of fan favourite, All Too Well, releasing a film to go along with the now 10minute heartbreak anthem.

Seasonal Depression or SAD. Ava H & Anabel H

What is Seasonal Depression or SAD? Seasonal depression is also known as “Seasonal Affective Disorder”.

It is a type of depressive disorder or depression that begins and ends at similar times every year. Usually it occurs between late fall and early spring months, but can vary depending on the person. There are some negative stereotypes about the legitimacy of the disorder, but by educating ourselves we can help break these down.

Science and Statistics Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or more commonly known as Seasonal Depression affects 0.5 to 3% of individuals around the world. It is caused by the body’s reaction to the change of seasons and the numerous factors that this transition causes. SAD occurs every year around the same time which is most commonly the beginning of fall until the end of winter.

Although the precise cause of SAD hasn’t been determined, it is believed that deep in the brain there are certain types of hormones which prompt attitude changes during different times of the year. This could very well explain SAD and is one of the many theories scientists have surrounding it. From fall to winter Seasonal Affective Disorder, it is believed that the reduction of sunlight also leads to a reduction of serotonin which is a chemical in the brain that affects mood.

This drop of serotonin can very likely

lead to depression and other symptoms individuals with this disorder face. Some of these symptoms can include weight loss/gain, fatigue, suicidal thoughts, less/bigger appetite, and depression. Canada, which isn’t a fairly sunny place around winter, has a higher percentage of people who suffer with SAD. The majority of these people are women, who have more possibility of experiencing it than men.

How can you support yourself?

If you're suffering from SAD, then we might be able to help you, help, well —you!

1. Vitamin D You can start taking vitamin D. The lack of sunshine during these long winter months has a huge effect on your SAD and can make it worse, as you are receiving less vitamin D from the sun, so you are making less serotonin (your happy brain chemicals!). By taking a vitamin D supplement you can help raise your serotonin levels. Vitamin D comes in drop/liquid form and gummy form if you want something more fun.

2. Keep active.

It can be really, and I mean really hard, to get moving when you're in the midst of a depressive episode. Your bed’s warm blanket and cold pillow can be so seductively tantalizing that it can seem impossible to get out of bed.

Your energy is at an all time low and you feel like you can’t do anything.

You have to really try to push through, though, and do something active -it could be as simple as a walk! Assess your energy and get something within that done. Staying active activates your brain and raises endorphins.

3. Connect Don’t disconnect or unplug. Your friends and family are important and if they care for you, they would love to help. We are not saying you need to tell them everything, but simply hanging around people who make you happy can help tremendously. On the flip side of that, you need to make sure you're not over exerting yourself.

How can you support your friends?

If someone you know is dealing with Seasonal Depression, you can be a better friend by helping them out, here are some tips to do that.

1. Reach out.

It is important that your friend doesn’t pull away from you and other people, so reach out. Ask them to hang out with you or even just text them. They may not have the energy to do something, and that's fine, don’t shame them for it. Be there for them and make sure they keep on talking and texting.

2. Don’t be judgemental.

Don’t be judgemental to their face or even behind their backs to other people. You need to realize that they aren’t being lazy or rude. They are currently at war with themselves and cannot help the lack of energy. So be grateful you don’t have to go through the same and instead choose to support them instead of complaining to Jane about how Bobby doesn’t want to go out. Words can be hurtful so please, mind yours.

3. Homework Buddy DON’T DO THEIR WORK FOR THEM! Just do it with them! Having someone else around it may help motivate the individual to finish their work.

Often people who have SAD have very little motivation, so school work can pile up very quickly, especially in the busy schedule of high school. By having study sessions you can really help support your friends.

Call & Text Hotlines:

Canada Suicide Preventio n Service (CSPS) ~1 (833) 456 4566 Kids Help Phone ~1 (800) 668 6868

Crisis Text Line ~Text HOME to 686868 ConnecTeen Helpline ~ Text to 587-333-2724

The Boss Baby: A Critique on Capitalism Connell N

It is important that we, as a society, recognize the impact of The Boss Baby. The 2017 animated movie currently stands as one of the most effective pieces of commentary on belligerent individualism in the modern era. That being said, an untrained eye cannot comprehend the enigmatical symbolism present within the film. Behind the stunning visuals and clever cinematic universe lies a dense and scathing dissection of what it means to be human. In this article, I will guide the reader through a synopsis while articulating the underlying themes present within The Boss Baby.

Right from the start, there is a clear parallel being drawn between government ideologies and the characters within the story. The story’s narrator and main character, Timothy “Tim” Templeton, serves as a representation of the common capitalist. In the introduction, we learn that Tim has been pampered by both of his parents for seven years of his life. Tim’s parents signify “the system,” and it’s clear that Timothy has adopted his individualistic outlook through conditioning by his parents.

The beginning of the story displays how a person that benefits from an unequal system will stand complacent, almost believing that they are the only person in the world that matters.

As we learn about Timothy’s monopoly on attention, the metaphorical currency of this narrative, the film uses visual cues to symbolize what drives a person to a change in political opinion. The viewer is introduced to The Boss Baby through a series of visual gags that take place in a mystical space. The Boss Baby is repeatedly mishandled by a system that claims to have his best interests at heart.

This sentiment is the driving force for political uprising and makes a negative statement about the interplay between citizens and society.

When The Boss Baby finally arrives at the Templeton household, there is an immediate conflict of ideals. As has been previously established, the currency of this film lies in parental attention. Tim, the individualist, believes he has a right to all the attention, while The Boss Baby intends to share that attention equally. From Tim’s perspective, The Boss Baby is syphoning the entire supply of attention away from the common man. This is a clear parallel to communist ideologies. The common capitalist tends to aggrandize the loss of individual power through a belief that his economic independence is completely ruined when in reality he is only splitting the attention evenly.

It is imperative to illustrate the role dreams play in the capitalist’s life. To cope with the perceived loss of power, Tim addresses the situation in the only way he knows how: creating a dream. Since the start of the movie, Tim has been operating in a state of fantasy and self-righteousness to explain his position of power. The common capitalist escapes their situation by believing that every action they take is greater than themselves as an individual. In the same way that certain restless individuals mitigate stress with menial daily tasks, the common capitalist, Tim, uses fantasy to deal with his situation.

The pacifier scene is layered with dense imagery that goes unrecognized by the unseasoned cinema-goer. The Boss Baby offers to explain the situation to Tim, and uses a pacifier to transport them both into a vision of a utopian society. The pacifier, in this sense, represents the education of the capitalist. There is a common theory among communist circles which identifies that the majority of capitalists fear communist ideals because they don’t understand it.

By providing the pacifier to Tim, The Boss Baby is informing the capitalist of the potential equality. They are transported to an image of a utopian society.

Baby-corp is bustling with life, and The Boss Baby identifies the potential within a socialist system. Within Baby-corp however, there is a flaw in the system. The utopian society of diligent workers is serving a corrupt leader that creates an uneven power dynamic among the people. The arbitrary corporate ladder symbolizes the corruption of communism in practice. There are undertones that identify having an individualist mindset can corrupt an otherwise perfect system.

Having been educated, Tim and The Boss Baby have now aligned towards a common goal: an ideal society that works towards the greater good. The main villain does not draw parallels towards ideologies but serves as the idea of corruption. The main conflict of the story is established, and the dynamic duo is actively working to stop revenge and corruption from entering their lives. The main villain creates a plethora of obstacles for our heroes. In this conflict, Tim and The Boss Baby recognize their strengths. The combination of Tim and The Boss Baby shows the ideal combination of values for a utopian society. Tim is imaginative and creates unique ways for them to succeed, and The Boss Baby holds a just vision for the common good. The movie is making a statement on the proper balance of society. It’s important to hold a mindset of innovation like Tim while maintaining divine wisdom like The Boss Baby. This bridge is best shown during the chase scene of the movie. It is The Boss Baby’s advice that leads the duo towards safety, but ultimately, it is Tim’s imagination and courage that launches them over the train.

After defeating the main villain, the corruption of their previous lives leaks back into their existence. Even though they perceived this outcome as the best-case scenario, they start to realize the lack of fulfillment in each extreme.

The Boss Baby is given a corner office but soon realizes that it is lonely at the top and craves the imagination of the individualist. Tim is given a monopoly on attention but is left feeling lonely without someone to look after and provide perspective. They quickly realize the flaws in their previous systems and take a leap towards reform. The Boss Baby quits his position and Tim, given the choice to forget, chooses to hold onto the memory of The Boss Baby.

Having overcome the obstacles of corruption, The Boss Baby and Tim realize that there is no greater pleasure than to live in the company of your fellow human. They shed their former systems and agree to live in harmony with each other, recognizing the unique strengths of the latter. This is the final statement of The Boss Baby.

This is the final statement of The Boss Baby. The movie recognizes the flaws in both systems while urging the viewer to extend a more compassionate hand to their fellow man. The movie truly identifies the potential of a socialist utopia.

In terms of technical ability, The Boss Baby deserves the nomination it received. The imaginative perspective of a seven-year-old is paired with a wild and dynamic art style, that takes confident risks to create intense imagery. There have been other works that attempt to utilize the limitless potential of animation, but The Boss Baby drives its medium to the heart of creativity. Furthermore, the cast of this film does an excellent job at creating a whimsical atmosphere. Alec Baldwin does a stunning job in his portrayal of such a complex character. His smooth baritone coasts sweetly over my tender eardrums. Lastly, the main villain of The Boss Baby is lactose intolerant, so it’s great to see that kind of representation in the media.

In conclusion, underneath the bright colours and intellectual comedy, there lies a deep and insightful commentary on capitalism and individualism as a whole. To the untrained eye, the movie may appear to lack depth, but it’s important to look below the surface on high-brow pieces of media like The Boss Baby.

Celebration of Holidays Geneva w & Haley w

omisaka The word “Omisoka'' means the last day of the year in Japanese. Eating Toshikoshi-soba is a custom on Omisoka, where people will eat this soba noodle dish to wish for a long life like a noodle and letting go of hardship as these noodles are easy to break while eating. Another custom on this holiday is Toshinoyu, which is taking a bath on the night of Omisoka. This bath is used to cleanse the body before New Year's Day. Similarly, many people in Japan will also clean the whole house or do Osoji to have a clean slate for the new year. In addition, it is also a custom of Omisoka that bells ringing out the old year called the Joyano-kane will be struck 108 times as there are 108 Bonnou which are all the human desires and passions that disturb the human mind. The last bell will be struck on New Year’s Day to wish people to not live with Binnou in the new year.

KWanzaa Kwanzaa, the name derived from the phrase “matunda ya kwanza” meaning “first fruits” in Swahili, is an annual celebration of African and African American culture. The seven day holiday, held from December 26 to January 1, celebrates each of the seven Kwanzaa principles; unity, selfdetermination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Each day, a candle is lit on the kinara to represent each value. While each family celebrates differently, celebrations often include songs and dances, African drums, storytelling, poetry reading, and a large traditional meal.

bodhi day The over 2500 year old Buddhist celebration, Bodhi Day, is honoured on December 8th. The day commemorates the legend of the wealthy prince Siddhartha Gautama, who renounced his position to seek enlightenment and understanding of life and spirituality. After meditating under a bodhi fig tree, Siddhartha achieved this spiritual awakening and became the Buddha, teaching others about how to free themselves from suffering. Bodhi Day is celebrated in a tranquil and peaceful way, often by meditating and praying.

Buddhists may decorate a bodhi fig tree, place statues of the Buddha around their house, light candles for 30 days, and eat a traditional meal of rice and milk to celebrate the holiday.

yalda “Yalda” is a Syriac meaning word meaning birth and refers to the rebirth of the Sun. Yalda is celebrated in many countries such as Iran, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, and Armenia. This holiday is celebrated on the longest night of the year to celebrate the transition of fall into winter, the renewal of the sun, and the triumph of light over darkness. By tradition, people will gather in the homes of their elders and family on Yalda night, eat nuts and fruits such as pomegranate and watermelons, drink tea and shabat (sweet drinks made from fruit syrup and water), read Hafiz poems, make good wishes, and talk and laugh all together to give a warm welcome to winter and a farewell to fall.

hanukkah Hanukkah or Chanukah is an eight day Jewish celebration that commemorates and celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, where according to legend, Jews had risen up against their Greek-Syrian oppressors during the Maccabean Revolt. Hanukkah begins on Kislev 25 on the Gregorian Calendar. The most important tradition during Hanukkah is the lighting of the Menorah every night during the celebration. The Menorah is a candelabra that represents the lamp (and the miracle) from the Hanukkah story told in the Talmud, a book of Jewish religious teachings. Other traditions apart of this holiday include playing dreidel (a small spinning top), eating fried food such as potato latkes, and nightly gift exchanges.

las posadas Mainly celebrated in Mexico, Latin America, Guatemala, Cuba, Spain, and some parts of the United States, the religious festival, Las Posadas, commemorates the travels of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem in search of shelter suitable for Mary to give birth to the baby Jesus. The festival is celebrated during the nine days leading up to Christmas (December 16 to December 24), a time period which is said to represent the nine months that Mary carried her baby or the nine days of Mary and Joseph’s journey. It is celebrated by a procession of adults, children and musicians holding lit candles as they walk to select homes, asking for refuge. At each stop, they are refused; however, passages of scripture are read, Christmas carols are sung, and the hosts often offer refreshments.

Peppermint mocha latte Prep time: 3

Cooking time: 3

Servings: 1

Ingredients 1 1/2 cups milk (any kind) 2 1/2 tablespoons cocoa powder 1 tablespoon peppermint syrup or creme de menthe 1/2 cup espresso/strong coffee whipped cream chocolate chips for garnish Candy canes for garnish

Directions 1. heat cocoa powder and a 1/4 cup of milk in a saucepan over medium heat or in a microwave for 30 seconds 2. remove from heat and add in the espresso/coffee and peppermint syrup/creme de menthe 3. steam the rest of the milk and add it to the espresso mixture 4. add in additional sweetener if needed 5. garnish with whipped cream, candy canes, chocolate chips

Holiday Favourites Grace L

HOME ALONE

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS

1990 • Family/Comedy • 1h 43

2000 • Family/Fantasy • 1h 45m

Join the main character, Kevin

This live-action adaptation of Dr.

McCallister on a journey of being

Suess’ beloved children’s tale will for

home alone, while his family is on a

sure give you and your family a good

trip to Paris. A classic holiday movie

laugh this holiday season. Even if

that will for sure give you and your

you’ve seen it before, you can never

family a good laugh!

get tired of this holiday staple.

ELF

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE

2003 • Family/Comedy • 1h 37m

1946 • Drama/Fantasy • 2h 10m

A move that never fails to bring a smile

Do you enjoy old movies in black and white?

to your face, is definitely Elf. This sweet

Well this movie is perfect for you! This

and funny movie perfectly embodies the holiday spirit. This classic holiday movie is perfect to enjoy with your family and friends this holiday season.

bittersweet heartwarming classic holiday movie will for sure bring you warmth this holiday season. This is by far one of the best holiday movies. Be sure to check this one out and enjoy this with your family and friends!

Guess the Song!

Use the emojis to try and decipher the Song! The first person to decipher all of the songs will get a prize, please see Mr. Cooper if you think you have all of the answers!

Guess the Country!

Use the emojis to try and decipher the country! The first person to decipher all of the countries will get a prize, please see Mr. Cooper if you think you have all of the answers!

Your (unconventional) Highschool Horoscope savannah s and Haley W

LEO July 23 - August 22

CANCER June 21 - July 22

You are going to get into a slippery situation on the icy Rundle sidewalk. Watch out!

Feeling frustrated or burnt-out? Do not worry, your hard-work will soon pay off.

TAURUS

ARIES

April 20 - May 20

You are going to strike a creativity gold mine this month. Maybe pick up a paintbrush and create the next artistic masterpiece?

March 21 - April 19

No more shoulda, woulda, coulda. The time to live the life you want to live is now.

GEMINI May 21 - June 20

Your self-esteem is on the rise. It's something your friends and teachers will surely take notice of.

PISCES February 19 - March 20

Luck is on your side this month. Maybe you should try one of the fabulous contests in this issue!

AQUARIUS

CAPRICORN

SAGITTARIUS

January 21 -February 18

December 21 - January 20

November 22 - December 20

Do you like to bake?

Either way, it’s time for you to test your luck in the kitchen. Who knows, you might just make something delicious!

You should make a point of remembering everything before you leave in the morning. You wouldn’t want to forget your winter jacket this time of year!

October 23 - November 21

September 23 - October 22

SCORPIO

It’s in the stars for you to have some fun! Whether that’s sledding, skiing or skating outdoors, or playing games indoors, you are sure to have an exciting winter break.

LIBRA

Your kind actions will have a big effect on others this month. You may want to invest time in helping others during these cold months.

Hey you! Yeah, you Sagittarius! You are overworking yourself. Make sure you take some time this winter break to kick your feet up and take a well-deserved break.

August 23 - September 22

VIRGO

Your expertise is valued by those around you.

Don’t be afraid to take the lead and lend out your superb advice!

HAPPY HOROSCOPE'ING RUNDLE!

Current Events and Local Spotlights

The Last Dalai Lama PATRICK I IN THE DECADES SINCE THE CULTURAL REVOLUTION, THE CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY (CCP) HAS CULTURED A SUBTLE YET FAR-REACHING RELIGIOUS REVIVAL. FOR THE WHOLE OF MAO ZEDONG’S RULE, THE PARTY CONSIDERED RELIGION AMONG THE “FOUR OLDS'', AND THEREFORE ANTIPROLETARIAN. THE REVOLUTION BELIEVED THAT THERE WAS AN INTRINSIC CONNECTION BETWEEN CHINESE CULTURE AND ECONOMIC BACKWARDNESS. TO CULTIVATE REFORM, OLD DECREPIT IDEAS NEEDED TO BE CLEANSED AND REBORN. IT WAS AND STILL IS TO AN EXTENT, BELIEVED THAT RELIGION WAS A TOOL OF FOREIGN POWERS AND THAT THESE DOCTRINES WERE BEING LEVERAGED AGAINST THE WORKING CLASS. TEMPLES, CHURCHES, MOSQUES, MONASTERIES, AND CEMETERIES WERE LOOTED AND DESTROYED. PLACED UNDER GUNPOINT, RELIGIOUS LEADERS WOULD OFTEN PARTICIPATE IN THE LEVELLING OF THEIR OWN SITES OF WORSHIP, BRICK BY BRICK.

HE CCP HAS SINCE ACKNOWLEDGED THE ABRASIVENESS OF THE CULTURAL REVOLUTION, CITING IT AS “RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MOST SEVERE SETBACK AND THE HEAVIEST LOSSES SUFFERED BY THE PEOPLE, THE COUNTRY, AND THE PARTY SINCE THE FOUNDING OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC” IN 1981

WHILE LACKING THE SAME BASE VIOLENCE, THE GENERAL APPROACH TO RELIGION IN MODERN CHINA REMAINS SIMILAR IN TONE TO THE CULTURAL REVOLUTION. MUSLIMS, THE UYGHURS IN PARTICULAR, ARE CURRENTLY SUFFERING THROUGH A RIGIDLY STRUCTURED GENOCIDE IN THE XINJIANG REGION. WHILE CHINESE BUDDHISM IS TOLERATED TO EXIST IN A TAPESTRY OF PAPERWORK AND LEGAL LIMBO, OTHER SECTS HAVE BEEN REPRESSED. GELUG, THE YOUNGEST SCHOOL OF TIBETAN BUDDHISM, IS REPEATEDLY TARGETED DUE TO AN INHERENT CONNECTION TO SEPARATIST MOVEMENTS. BUDDHISM IS INCREDIBLY INFLUENTIAL IN TIBET. BEFORE THE CULTURAL REVOLUTION, TIBET HAD BEEN RULED BY SUCCESSIVE DALAI LAMAS. IN SIMPLE INEFFECTUAL TERMS, THE DALAI LAMA IS A TULKA, AND THEREFORE A LINEAGE OF REINCARNATED CUSTODIANS WHO REJECTED NIRVANA AND INSTEAD CHOSE TO OVERSEE THE DEVELOPMENT OF THEIR TEACHINGS. THE TULKA TRADITION HAS BECOME A CRITICAL ASPECT OF TIBETAN BUDDHISM, WHICH IS PRECISELY THE REASON IT IS ILLEGAL TO OWN A PHOTOGRAPH OF THE DALAI LAMA IN TIBET.

THE CURRENT DALAI LAMA, NUMBER FOURTEEN, INFLUENCES THE SITUATION OF HIS HOMELAND THROUGH AN EXILE GOVERNMENT CURRENTLY BEING SHELTERED IN INDIA. HIS POSITION IS QUITE DELICATE, AS HIS WORDS OFTEN SWELL BEYOND THE INTENDED PURPOSE OR WEIGHT. FROM 2009 TO 2020, 156 TIBETIANS, MANY OF WHOM WERE BUDDHIST MONKS OR NUNS, SELF-IMMOLATED IN PROTEST AGAINST THE CONSTANT REPRESSION OF THEIR CULTURE. OFTEN, THESE PROTESTERS EXALT THE DALAI LAMA UNTIL THEIR FINAL BREATH, EVEN AS THEIR SKIN IS BLACKENED AND CURDLED BY FLAME. IN REGARDS TO THE TOPIC, THE DALAI LAMA SAID, “THIS IS A VERY, VERY DELICATE POLITICAL ISSUE. NOW, THE REALITY IS THAT IF I SAY SOMETHING POSITIVE, THEN THE CHINESE IMMEDIATELY BLAME ME. IF I SAY SOMETHING NEGATIVE, THEN THE FAMILY MEMBERS OF THOSE PEOPLE FEEL VERY SAD. THEY SACRIFICED THEIR OWN LIFE. IT IS NOT EASY. SO I DO NOT WANT TO CREATE SOME KIND OF IMPRESSION THAT THIS IS WRONG. SO THE BEST THING IS TO REMAIN NEUTRAL.”

THE PLIGHT OF THE DALAI LAMA IS NOT SOLELY POLITICAL. CHINA HOSTS A BUDDIST POPULATION OF ROUGHLY 244 MILLION, WHICH IS A DIFFICULT FIGURE FOR THE STAUNCHLY ATHEISTIC CCP TO SWALLOW. INSTEAD OF REJECTING RELIGION, RECENT POLICY SEEMS INTENT ON FORCING TIBETAN BUDDHISM INTO THE PARTY’S FOLD. THE CCP HAS BEGUN TO GRAPPLE WITH SPIRITUAL REINCARNATION, WITH THE PURPOSE OF ACHIEVING AUTHORITY OVER INFLUENTIAL TULKA DYNASTIES. ON THE FOURTEENTH OF MAY 1995, THE DALAI LAMA RECOGNIZED GEDHUN CHOEKYI NYIMA AS THE ELEVENTH PANCHEN LAMA. THREE DAYS LATER, THE SIX YEAR OLD REINCARNATE WAS KIDNAPPED AND SUBSEQUENTLY DETAINED BY THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT. SINCE HIS DISAPPEARANCE, NOT A SINGLE FOREIGN OBSERVER HAS SEEN OR COMMUNICATED WITH GEDHUN. THE POSITION OF PANCHEN LAMA HAS SINCE BEEN ASSUMED BY THE CCP APPOINTED CHÖKYI GYALPO, OFTEN REFERRED TO AS A PROXY OF THE STATE.

BY INSERTING THEIR OWN PANCHEN LAMA INTO THE BUDDIST COMMUNITY, THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT IS ALLOWED LIMITED PURVIEW OVER THE RELIGION. THE DALAI LAMA AND PANCHEN LAMA SEEK OUT ONE ANOTHER ETERNALLY, ESSENTIALLY TRACING THE OTHERS' SOULS THROUGH THE AGES IN A SPIRITUAL GAME OF LEAPFROG. THIS IS OF COURSE A GROSS, BUT NECESSARY SIMPLIFICATION OF A VENERABLE PRACTICE OF GREAT CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE. WITH THE CURRENT PANCHEN LAMA SUPPOSEDLY PULLED BY THEIR STRINGS, THE CCP HAS THE ABILITY TO REGULATE FUTURE DALAI LAMAS. CONFRONTED WITH THE CORRUPTION OF HIS OWN LEGACY, HIS DIVINE PURPOSE, THE DALAI LAMA HAS BEGUN TO PULL AT THE SPOKES OF THIS EVER-TURNING WHEEL OF DEATH AND REBIRTH. HE CANNOT APPOINT YET ANOTHER PANCHEN LAMA, AS GEDHUN MAY YET STILL LIVE. IF THE DALAI LAMA CHOOSES HIS OWN REPLACEMENT FOR GEDHUN, THE CCP IS GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO FLAUNT THEIR CAPTIVE GOD-KING, BRINGING THE WHOLE OF THE DALAI LAMA’S RELIGIOUS AUTHORITY INTO QUESTION. PARTIALLY FOR THIS REASON, AND PARTIALLY BECAUSE OF HIS DYNASTY'S CRUEL, “FEUDAL” ROOTS, THE DALAI LAMA IS DEBATING WHETHER OR NOT HE SHOULD RETURN TO THE EARTH IN A FIFTEENTH BODY.

“ON ONE OCCASION THE DALAI LAMA INSTITUTION STARTED,” HE SAID. “ THAT MEANS THERE MUST BE ONE OCCASION WHEN THE INSTITUTION IS NO LONGER RELEVANT. STOP. NO PROBLEM. THIS IS NOT MY CONCERN. CHINA’S COMMUNISTS, I THINK, ARE SHOWING MORE CONCERN.” THE DALAI LAMA HAS ALSO EXPRESSED WILLINGNESS TO REINCARNATE IN A NATION OTHER THAN TIBET, MOST LIKELY INDIA. THIS WEIGHT IS NOT HIS ALONE TO BEAR, AS THE DALAI LAMA IS USUALLY SELECTED BY A COMMITTEE OF SORTS, AND OFTEN WITH THE RIGOROUS SEPARATION OF SPIRITUAL WHEAT FROM THE CHAFF. IT SEEMS INEVITABLE THAT THE DALAI LAMA LEGACY WILL CONTINUE TO DITHER ABOUT FOR ANOTHER GENERATION OR TWO. EVEN IF THE DYNASTY SEVERS ITS OWN HEAD, THE CCP WILL EAGERLY TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO INSTILL THEIR OWN DALAI LAMA. TIBET SEPARATISTS STILL FERVENTLY RALLY TO THEIR SO-CALLED “WOLF IN MONK’S ROBES” DESPITE HIS SIXTY-TWO YEARS OF EXILE. IT WOULD BE DISHEARTENING AT THE VERY LEAST, FOR THE SHEPHERD OF THIS GENTLE MOVEMENT TO BE WARPED SO COMPLETELY AND CYNICALLY IN HIS NEXT LIFE.

PICTURED: THE DALAI LAMA BECOMING AN HONORARY CITIZEN OF CANADA ALONGSIDE STEPHEN HARPER IN 2006—ONE OF THE 6 PEOPLE TO EVER RECEIVE CANADA'S HIGHEST HONOUR.

Dolly L

GROUNDBREAKING, PATH-BLAZING, COMPASSIONATE, GENIUS, VISIONARY, AND ONE-OF-A-KIND. ON NOVEMBER 28TH, 2021, VIRGIL ABLOH PASSED AWAY FROM HIS TWO-YEAR PRIVATE BATTLE WITH CARDIAC ANGIOSARCOMA. HIS DEATH NOT ONLY SHOCKED THE FASHION WORLD BUT ALSO THE MILLIONS HE IMPACTED THROUGH HIS KINDNESS, CREATIVITY, AND ADVOCACY FOR INCLUSIVITY.

VIRGIL ABLOH PAVED THE WAY FOR DIVERSITY IN LUXURY FASHION AS THE FIRST BLACK ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF LOUIS VUITTON. HIS MISSION TO CREATE "PATHWAYS FOR GREATER EQUALITY IN ART AND DESIGN" INSPIRED THE WORLD; HE ESTABLISHED MANY SCHOLARSHIPS, MENTORSHIP PROGRAMS, AND OTHER OPPORTUNITIES TARGETED AT UP-AND-COMING YOUNG BLACK DESIGNERS IN THE FASHION COMMUNITY. AFTER FOUNDING OFF-WHITE IN 2012, VIRGIL ABLOH TOOK THE FASHION WORLD BY STORM BY COMBINING STREETWEAR WITH HIGH FASHION WHILE COLLABORATING WITH BRANDS LIKE JIMMY CHOO, RIMOWA, IKEA, JORDAN, MERCEDES BENZ, LEVI’S, MONCLER, TAKASHI MURAKAMI, AND COUNTLESS OTHERS. HE BELIEVED THAT THE POWER OF ART COULD INSPIRE FUTURE GENERATIONS, AND OFTEN STATED THAT “EVERYTHING [HE DID WAS] FOR THE 17-YEAR-OLD VERSION OF [HIMSELF].”

AS A GLOBAL CELEBRITY, VIRGIL ABLOH WAS DEEPLY LOVED BY MANY. FORMULA 1 STAR LEWIS HAMILTON PRAISED VIRGIL ABLOH ON INSTAGRAM, STATING THAT “VIRGIL SHOWED US THAT DREAMS, NO MATTER HOW BIG THEY ARE CAN ALWAYS BE TURNED INTO REALITY. HE WAS A VISIONARY, SOMEBODY THAT FOREVER PUSHED BOUNDARIES AND NEVER LET ANYTHING OR ANYONE HOLD HIM BACK.” GIGI HADID ALSO USED HER PLATFORM TO PAY TRIBUTE: “I PICTURE HIM NOW LIKE OUR MICKEY MOUSE .. FOREVER WITH US, FOREVER ADORED, FOREVER MAGICAL, FOREVER GUIDING US WITH THAT SPECIAL VIRGIL FUN; I’M SURE THAT’S HOW HE WANTED TO BE REMEMBERED, BUT STILL IT WILL NEVER BE THE SAME WITHOUT HIM IN THE ROOM.” STREETWEAR LEGEND NIGO—FOUNDER OF A BATHING APE— ALSO WROTE, “HE USED TO SAY THAT HE WAS GREATLY INFLUENCED BY ME, BUT NOW I CAN’T IMAGINE MYSELF WITHOUT VIRGIL’S PRESENCE.”

PYREX VISION IS REBRANDED INTO OFF-WHITE IN 2013, VIRGIL ABLOH REBRANDS PYREX VISION INTO THE MODERN-DAY LUXURY STREETWEAR LABEL OFF-WHITE. TODAY, OFF-WHITE IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST BRANDS IN FASHION AND IS EASILY RECOGNIZABLE BY ITS ICONIC QUOTATION MARKS, BOLD LETTERING, ARROW SILHOUETTES, AND INDUSTRIAL THEMES.

“THE TEN” COLLECTION IN 2017, VIRGIL ABLOH WORKED WITH NIKE, JORDAN, AND CONVERSE TO RECONSTRUCT THE AIR JORDAN I, NIKE AIR MAX 90, NIKE AIR PRESTO, NIKE AIR VAPORMAX, NIKE BLAZER MID, CONVERSE CHUCK TAYLOR, NIKE ZOOM FLY SP, NIKE AIR FORCE 1 LOW, NIKE REACT HYPERDUNK 2017, AND NIKE AIR MAX 97.

FIRST LOUIS VUITTON RUNWAY SHOW IN JUNE 2018, VIRGIL ABLOH PRESENTED LOUIS VUITTON’S SPRING/SUMMER LINE AT PARIS FASHION WEEK. THE SHOW WAS TIED TOGETHER WITH A "WIZARD OF OZ" THEME FEATURING A RAINBOW RUNWAY AND CONNECTED FASHION WITH MUSIC BY FEATURING PLAYBOI CARTI, SHECK WES, ASAP NAST, KID CUDI, AND OTHER ARTISTS AS MODELS.

Rundle Review's

Sports Column Sahj D

MA JO R TA KE AW AY S FR OM TH E NH L This year's NHL season is well on its way and has delivered entertaining hockey to fans worldwide. All arenas in the NHL are at 100% capacity and for the most part, have returned to pre-pandemic levels. Locally, the Saddledome has been quite busy during the Flames’ home games, and the Flames have worked exceptionally hard to make sure that spectators have a reason to come and watch them play. Currently, the Flames are first in the Pacific Division and are up 3 points on the Oilers. Led by veteran coach Darryl Sutter, the Flames have been unbelievably consistent this year and have delivered outstanding results. The Flames stand-out players are Andrew Mangiapane with the third-most goals in the NHL, team point leader Johnny Gaudreau, and goaltender Jakob Markstrom. Unfortunately, some of the Flames’ Canadian counterparts aren't experiencing as much success as them right now. Looking out west, the Canucks have struggled as of late and have resorted to firing their head coach, Travis Green, and manager, Jim Benning, in hopes of getting back in the win column. Out East, it's a similar situation with the Ottawa Senators as they are second to last in the entire league. However, their situation is a little more promising as they are poised with young talents such as Tim Stuzle and Brady Tkachuk, unlike the struggling Canucks. The Montreal Canadiens have also surprisingly struggled this season despite being a Stanley Cup Finalist last year. The Canadiens are without franchise goaltender Carey Price due to personal reasons and are offensively not producing, leading to them being second last in the Atlantic Division, only ahead of the Senators. This season there have been a lot of surprises, but the most surprising and unlikely success story is that of the Florida Panthers; they are first in the NHL and beating nearly every team in their path. Led by two of the most underrated players in the league, Jonathan Huberdeau and Alexander Barkov, the Panthers have had nothing but success and they don’t plan on stopping.

MA JO R TA KE AW AY S FR OM TH E NB A AN D NF L The NBA season has been off to an exciting and fast start. As of right now, the finals picture is not overly clear, but there are certainly a few teams who have caught the eyes of NBA fans. The Phoenix Sun boasted a franchise record 18 game winning streak until coming to an end against the powerhouse Warriors. Warriors are still without Klay Thompson and James Weisman but have managed to stay atop the standings. This Warriors and Suns game provided fans with what may be a preview for the Western Conference championship. Looking back at the off-season, the most notable free-agent acquisitions would have been that of Demar DeRozan and Lonzo Ball by the Chicago Bulls. These two players helped turn around the Bulls’ franchise from one of the last teams in the Eastern Conference last season to one of the best teams now. Unlike their neighbours to the East, the Boston Celtics have had a tough start to the season and have failed to produce any meaningful results. Similar to the Celtics, The Toronto Raptors have also had a very tough start to the season. Despite having great talented players throughout the lineup such as Pascal Siakam, Fred Vanvleet, and OG Anunoby, the Raptors are in much need of a clear superstar who can serve as the team number one option on offence. Along with the Raptors, the Los Angeles Lakers have had a worse than expected start to the season as veteran players such as Russel Westbrook have not lived up to their expectations. Notable Canadians making a significant impact in the NBA this season are Luguenz Dort, Shai Gilgeous Alexander, Dillion Brooks, Andrew Wiggins, and Delano Banton.

The National Football League is reaching the final stretch of the season and has been very entertaining as of late. Teams such as the New England Patriots and Dallas Cowboys have lived up to their former glory once again. Despite these teams having a mediocre season last year, they have stepped and have begun the first seed in their respective conferences. Led by rookie quarterback Mac Jones and football mastermind Bill Belichick, the Patriots have become one of the most dominant teams in football as they were during the Tom Brady era. The Cowboys have often had a very high-powered offence but a lacklustre defence leading to their demise; however, headlined by CornerBack Trevon Diggs, the Cowboys have stepped up their defence and have been able to offensively produce through the 3rd highest-paid player in football, quarterback Dak Prescott. Atop of the NFC sits the Arizona Cardinals, struggling with injuries throughout the season to star players such as Kyler Murray and Deandre Hopkins. The backups have been able to stop and fill their shoes and lead them to a very successful season. This season, a major story was the return of the Carolina Panthers former quarterback Cam Newton; after injuries landed QB Sam Darnold on the injured reserve, the Panthers were forced to look at new options at quarterback and landed on Cam Newton with hopes of reigniting success within time.

Carolina has been without their starting running back and the highest-paid running back in the NFL, Christian Mccaffrey, and hope that a running quarterback such as Cam Newton can help fill his shoes.

THE RITTENHOUSE TRIAL

P Jaiden

Kyle Rittenhouse’s case is an undoubtedly controversial and complex one, so it’s best to give some background on the events leading up to the night of the fatal Kenosha shootings. There were multiple posts on Rittenhouse’s social media accounts that depict him as an avid gun enthusiast, as well as a supporter of pro-police causes such as Blue Lives Matter – he even started his own pro-police fundraiser for his sixteenth birthday called “Humanize the Badge.” On August 23, 2020, an officer responding to a domestic disturbance call shot Jacob S. Blake seven times in the side and back, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. Blake had a warrant for his arrest based on charges of third-degree sexual assault in July, trespassing, and domestic abuse in May; the officers claimed they were aware of the pending warrant before they arrived on the scene. The police shooting was promptly followed by unrest which included rallies, marches, property damage, and clashes with the police.

The Kenosha shooting only added fuel to the fire of the various protests against police brutality and inequality that had been active that summer in the wake of various high-profile police killings. Police tear gas hundreds of protestors who defied a curfew, throwing bottles and shooting fireworks at a Kenosha courthouse the night of August 24, 2020. The Governor of Wisconsin, Tony Evers, calls in the National Guard as the protests continued to escalate. Calls go out on social media from a page known as “Kenosha Guard” for people to “take up arms and defend the city from thugs.” Kyle Rittenhouse answers the call, travelling around 24 kilometres across state borders from Antioch, Illinois to Kenosha, Wisconsin to protect businesses. Rittenhouse arrived at the scene of the protests with an AR-15 style rifle; there is a large amount of footage showcasing Rittenhouse’s altercations with protestors, which would be an integral part of the case. Shortly after midnight, protestors Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber were shot dead by Rittenhouse; another protestor, Gaige Grosskreutz is wounded but alive. Following the shooting, Rittenhouse is charged with multiple counts, including intentional and reckless homicide, recklessly endangering safety, failure to comply with an emergency order, and possession of a firearm as a minor. At a conference a day before he visited Kenosha, President Donald Trump stated “You saw the same tape as I saw…he was just trying to get away from them, I guess. And he fell, and then they very violently attacked him. And it was something that we’re looking at right now and it’s under investigation. But I guess he was in very big trouble. He would have been – I – he probably would have been killed.” Going forward to November of 2021, this would be a very important argument in Rittenhouse’s case – Rittenhouse claimed that he was simply defending himself, and his actions were justified on the basis of selfdefense.

The 12 person jury would deliberate for more than 25 hours over the course of four days, eventually coming to the conclusion that Rittenhouse was not guilty on all charges. The entirety of the four-day trial was streamed for public viewing, and many had different takes on the proceedings. NBA athlete Lebron James said “That boy ate some lemon heads before walking into court.” followed by three laughing emojis in response to Rittenhouse breaking into tears while on the witness stand. Those against Rittenhouse called his stand an example of “crocodile tears” to gain pity, and believed that Rittenhouse shouldn’t have been at those protests with a rifle in the first place.

On the contrary, those in support of Rittenhouse believed his motive was inconsequential, and that he was simply defending himself after being attacked. This case is as layered, complicated, and controversial as it gets but, at the end of the day, Kyle Rittenhouse was acquitted of all charges against him. When questioned about the verdict, President Joe Biden said “I stand by what the jury has to say…the jury system works.” Whether you agree on the verdict or not, one thing is certain – this case has become a flashpoint in the U.S. debate over guns, racial-justice protests, vigilantism, and law and order.

Pictured: kyle Rittenhouse in court

Memorable Elections in 2021 haley w

2021 has been a year of groundbreaking and historic elections that have interrupted narratives about who can lead our society today. More than ever, have people of colour, women, and other minority groups been at the forefront of the world’s most important decision making, changing white-male dominated statistics one election at a time. These memorable elections serve to change the face of true leadership forever.

As a female, Asian-American, and POC Michelle Wu made history when she was elected Mayor of Boston on November 2. Wu is not only Boston’s first female mayor, but additionally is the first POC and Asian American mayor, breaking a 199 year streak of white, elected, city leaders. Not only that, Wu also capitalized on her motherhood as a large component of her campaign, insisting that her being a mother, along with her unique racial and gender demographic, will be central to who she is as a politician and Boston’s future mayor.

Michelle Wu was sworn in as Mayor on November 16 and hopes to use her progressive platform to “build a Boston for everyone”.

For more information about Michelle Wu, her story, and her platform please visit: https://www.michelleforboston.com/

In New York City, Eric Adams, a Democrat and former police captain, will be the second Black mayor in the city’s history. Adams is credited for an attentiongrabbing persona and an adamant focus of racial justice that has fueled his 22 year long life in the public sector. Adams will take office on January 1 2022, and will face a new set of challenges as the US largest city deals with the consequences of the pandemic, crime and quality of city life, and sharp political divisions. Clearly, Adams' win starts a more center-left Democratic leadership that he has promised will reflect the needs of the working and middle class POC voters. Adams has coined himself the People’s Candidate and hopes to enact positive change for all New Yorkers.

For more information about Eric Adams, his story, and his platform please visit: https://ericadams2021.com/

On November 24, Magdalena Andersson was announced as Sweden’s first female Prime Minister and then only hours after she had to resign due to her proposed budget failing to pass and her coalition government breaking down. But, on November 29 she was again appointed to Prime Minister by Sweden’s Parliament and plans on forming a minority government with only her party. Breaking the cycle of the previous 33 male Prime Ministers who preceded her, Andersson and her party of Social Democrats will however undoubtedly face a number of challenges as the party only holds 100 seats in a 349 seat government, meaning that her party will have to seek support from other parties in order to pass legislation. In her leadership over Sweden, Andersson hopes to break segregation, creating green jobs by leading the way in climate change, and regaining control of welfare.

Madeline B

The Free Britney movement is a social media movement to grant Britney Spears autonomy over her thirteen year old conservatorship.

The conservatorship began in 2008, when Spears was committed to a psychiatric ward after numerous public meltdowns; this set the grounds for a temporary conservatorship. Before the end of that year, Britney’s father, Jamie Spears, had been granted a permanent conservatorship, giving him the rights to control her entire $59 million dollar net worth such as her estates and assets. Not only that, the conservatorship gave him full authority over Britney, similar to a parent and child relationship, even though she is 39 years old. For example, Britney was restricted from being married, having children, and was forced to take certain medications. The singer couldn’t purchase anything with her own money without consultation, yet the arrangement allowed her father to live off her fortune, with him even making hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees off of Britney. A conservatorship is supposed to protect those who cannot take care of themselves, yet Spears continued to record albums and perform world tours. In total, four albums were released throughout the conservatorship timeline. (Circus, Femme Fatale, Britney Jean, and Glory). One could conclude that since Britney was healthy enough to remain working and in the public eye only four months after her time in the psychiatric ward, that she could’ve been responsible for her own property and decisions.

Although Britney had not spoken out about her situation until recently, some lyrics from her pre-conservatorship songs could be interpreted as foreshadowing or cries for help. For example, in Lucky, which was the seventh track on Oops I Did It Again (2000), the lyrics “she’s so lucky, she’s a star / But she cry, cry, cries in her lonely heart” could relate to her fear of speaking out. This ties into a recent testimony in which she stated that, “I didn’t want to say any of this to anybody, to the public, because I thought people would make fun of me or laugh at me and say, ‘she’s lying, she’s got everything, she’s Britney Spears.’” Even the title of her song Overprotected (2001) can lead one to the same conclusion— the toxicity of the relationships in her life.

Although the Free Britney movement started more than a decade ago, through the website FreeBritney.net that Britney fans created after the guardianship was instated by the court, this movement picked up steam in May 2021 when fans started getting suspicious due to repeated social media posts, potential hidden meanings behind posts, and videos that appeared as though the artist was being held hostage. This triggered the #FreeBritney movement to start up again, and it soon became trending on a plethora of social media platforms. Britney virtually faced the Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Brenda Penny to share her story and stand up against her father and the conservatorship, pleading “I just want my life back and it’s been 13 years and it’s enough.”

Jamie Spears was removed from the conservatorship on September 29 2021, and replaced with a temporary replacement chosen by Britney and her attorney. On November 12 2021, Judge Brenda Penny finally granted Britney freedom from her conservatorship by terminating its complete existence. Now, the legendary “Princess of Pop” is at liberty to do what she pleases with her fortune, career, and life decisions.

RED (TAYLOR'S VERSION) Kate H

When Red (Taylor’s Version) by Taylor Swift was released on November 12 of this year, it broke records, amassing over 90.8 million streams globally on Spotify in its first day and debuting at the number 1 spot on the Billboard 200, which is notable because it is an album released independently by Swift herself.

Scooter Braun (who is most well known for managing artists like Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande) acquired Taylor Swift’s previous record label, Big Machine Records, in 2019. The label owned the rights to the master recordings for her first six studio albums, and therefore, Scooter Braun now owned the rights to distribute the finished recorded copies of her music. However, because Taylor Swift owns the publishing rights to her material such as sheet music and lyrics, she is able to re-record her albums so she will therefore own her own master recordings. She did this successfully with the release of Fearless (Taylor’s Version) in April, which had the biggest opening day of any album streamed on Spotify in 2021 and also debuted at the top of the Billboard 200.

Although big artists have attempted to release their music independently without the help of a record label, they have been met with little success. For example, when the British rock band Radiohead released their 2007 album In Rainbows online with the ability for the listener to pay what they wanted for the album, piracy actually increased despite the option to obtain the album for free. However, with the advent of social media and streaming platforms such as Spotify, artists are able to promote their music without even consulting a marketing firm. In Taylor Swift’s case, the social media platform Tiktok was used heavily in order to promote Red (Taylor’s Version) which ended up playing a large part in the album’s success.

The success of Red (Taylor’s Version) has left many to wonder what kind of effect these independent releases will have on the record industry. Record labels are the determining factor between whether or not an artist’s album will succeed or even get released, and it is almost impossible for an artist to have autonomy over their own intellectual property. Taylor Swift’s experience has led artists such as Olivia Rodrigo to negotiate with their record labels in order to gain ownership of their master recordings. As the music industry moves away from radio and physical sales and more towards social media and online streaming, there is a decreased need for a middleman in the form of a record label, and the impact Taylor Swift’s monumental decision will have on the record industry remains to be seen.

Listen on Spotify:

Elon Musk and the UN Maria P While much of the population suffered massive economic losses during the Covid-19 pandemic, 88% of billionaires saw their wealth increase and now have a collective $13.1 trillion according to Forbes. Not only was there a significant wealth increase, but there was also a significant increase in the number of wealthy people; there are now 2,755 billionaires, 660 more than last year. That's an astounding amount of money in the hands of powerful people. With this surge in wealth, people have started to inquire why those wielding so much money aren’t trying to end poverty. Before the pandemic, Oxfam reported that 2153 billionaires owned more money than the poorest 4.6 billion people world wide, in turn displaying massive amounts of inequality. This eventually led citizens to ponder why nothing is being done about this issue.

Recently, this idea was addressed in an article published by CNN Business. They specifically called out the richest men in the world, Jeff Bezos (Amazon's Founder) and Elon Musk (CEO of Tesla), and stated that Elon Musk’s wealth could help end the poverty crisis. The director of the United Nations' World Food Programme, David Beasley, stated in an interview with CNN that “billionaires need to step up now, on a one-time basis." He said that 6 billion dollars would help 42 million people that are going to die if help isn't offered soon. With the COVID-19 crisis, worsening climate change and an increase in conflict, millions have been pushed to the brink of hunger and poverty. To put this amount of money into perspective, let's look at Elon Musk’s net worth. According to Forbes, Musk has a real time net worth of $274.4B. The $6B needed to help 42 million people would only be 2% of his total net worth.

However, in 2020, the UN raised $8.4B and clearly did not end poverty, which begs the question as to how $6 billion would help now. This query was raised by Dr. Eli David, a member of the Forbes Technology Council, in a tweet sent out on October 30 that vocalized the issue and examined the idea of using billionaires' money to bridge this inequality. Musk himself later replied to the tweet and said, “if the World Food Programme (WFP) can describe on this Twitter thread exactly how $6B will solve world hunger, I will sell Tesla stock right now and do it." David Beasley replied to the tweet and outlined the ways that the money would be used within an article titled, “A One-Time Appeal to Billionaires”. He then proceeded to clarify how $3.5 billion would be for food and its delivery and $2 billion would be used for cash and food voucher systems. Using this money, promotion of these programs would increase in places where markets can function. This type of assistance enables those who are most in need to buy the food of their choice and supports local economies as well. $700 million would go to country-specific costs to design, scale up, and manage the creation and operation of new programs as well as millions of tons of food and cash transfers and vouchers which provide a direct payment or voucher for those in need to pay for basic human needs. These would then be adapted to the in-country conditions and operational risks in 43 countries and this money would help cover that cost as well. Lastly, $400 million would go to global and regional operations management, administration and accountability.

This would essentially help support the logistics behind the scenes and it would support the coordinating of distribution, global supply chains, and aviation, as well as many other administrative duties. In addition to all of this, the money was going to be used in an open source account so the public would be able to see precisely how the money is spent to keep the organization accountable. As of now, Musk has yet to respond but Beasley remains adamant. He tweeted, “this hunger crisis is urgent, unprecedented, AND avoidable… We're ready to talk with you [Elon Musk] - and anyone else - who is serious about saving lives. The task is $6.6B to avert famine in 2022.”

Overall, the use of billionaire’s money can be used to help aid the poverty stricken population of the world in a clear and detailed manner. If any billionaires heed this call for aid, it could lead to revolutionary changes for over 40 million people around the world. This could even possibly lead to the end of poverty as we know it if anyone with the means needed is willing to take action.

November/December 2021