EWC 2025 Class E-zine

The Age of Free-Thinking: Debunking Preconceived Notions

A collection of Opinion Editorials and Podcast recordings by the writers in EWC 4U, The Writer’s Craft Winter, 2025 Ms. Vickman’s class

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Class note: Hello, readers! We would first like to thank Jacqueline Lang, SS11, for the use of her beautiful painting, “Beyond Black And White”, for our cover image. What you will find in this collection of writing and podcasting are the voices of the students in Ms. Vickman’s 2024-2025 ThE Writer’s Craft course. Throughout our Journalistic Writing unit, we explored the idea of the importance of slowing down to contemplate on the fast-paced world in which we live.

In times of economic and political upheaval, free thinking is of utmost importance. We came upon the title of The Age of Free-Thinking: Debunking Preconceived Notions for our digital magazine after we noticed the wide variety of topics we had been able to investigate. It was amazing to be able to blend our personal passions with important local, national, and global issues. We’ve discussed throughout the year how writing and literature reflects the real world, and we wanted to explore our interests from gender, social, economic, and historical lenses of literary analysis.

Journalism as a vocation is especially imperative today because of the socio-political climate of our world. Now more than ever, questioning the cultural status quo from the lens of adolescence has made us feel a greater sense of control over what our futures may entail. We hope you enjoy reading our pieces and listening to our recordings, and we encourage YOU to practise free-thinking as you continue to navigate your personal journey at SMLS.

F: Will, Katie D., Lily, Sanjana, Diya, Eeva B: Ashe, Addie, Chloe, Kylah, Claire Absent: Sofia, Katie H., Faith

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Cover image: “Beyond Black and White” Jacqueline Lang, SS11 Why Do Intelligent Beings Desire to Escape Reality?

Eeva Moss The Undoing of Democracy Katie Davidson Cats: Love Does Not Mean Possession Chloe Xie Where are the Trans Mascs in the Media L. Franco Davanzo The Rise of the WNBA Addison Chalmers The Sound of Inclusion: Bringing Deaf Theatre to the Spotlight Kylah Gallagher Fatal Fashion – The Deadly Allure of Scheele’s Green Eeva Moss The Colosseum of Virtue Signaling: The Unspoken Elitism in Classical Literature Circles Claire Wang How the Government Controls Citizens Through Food Lily Gorski Controversy of Art: Understanding Modern and Contemporary Creation Chloe Xie The Fifth Wave: The Fall of Feminism Addison Chalmers The Psychology of Music- The Pop Podcast Lily Gorski The Need For Movie Literacy In North America Diya Kathuria Strip Mall Restaurants L. Franco Davanzo The Struggle for Authentic South Asian Representation in TV & Film Sanjana Bassi

3 Home: Is it a person, place, or thing?

Diya Kathuria Movie Theatres Sanjana Bassi Music Theory Kylah Gallagher Eyeliner Katie Davidson “No I won’t make you a sandwich and you’re not funny.” The exponential growth of misogyny in gaming by the trend of e x .

Ashe Hui The Pearl Necklace

Claire Wang Breaking the Routine: How Gymnastics Culture harms Mental Health

Faith Provost The Worst of Rhythm Games

Ashe Hui

4 Why Do Intelligent Beings Desire to Escape Reality?

Eeva Moss

Escaping reality is a universal desire shared by intelligent beings. Researchers observed dolphins passing around pufferfish, likely to experience a mild intoxication from their neurotoxins (Nuwer 1). Meanwhile, humans, the so-called pinnacle of intelligence, use an endless array of substances—from caffeine to alcohol to psychedelics—to alter their states of mind. Approximately 21% of Canadians will meet the criteria for addiction in their lifetime (CMHA Ontario 1), emphasizing the widespread impact of this desire for escape. Why is the desire to escape reality a shared trait among intelligent beings? What drives the need to seek moments of altered consciousness? Dolphins much like humans share a desire in chasing an altered state of consciousness. This shared behaviour raises questions about intelligence's nature and its universal challenges related to addictive behaviour. Recognizing this

5 ubiquitous unhealthy behaviour encourages healthy coping mechanisms that are problem-focused, emotion-focused, meaning-focused, and social coping (support-seeking), improving individual and community outcomes.

Research reveals intriguing links between intelligence and escapism, according to MIT News. Fluid intelligence—the ability to think quickly and recall information—peaks around age 20. During this time, individuals are also most likely to consume alcohol. Data from Statista shows that alcohol use is highest among people aged 21 to 29, with 59.9% reporting current use and significant rates of binge and heavy drinking in this age group. This data highlights the need to escape and how it increases the rates of substance abuse. During this age range, the desire to escape reality is not limited to humans; evidence suggests that other intelligent species, like dolphins, exhibit similar behaviours. Dolphins have been observed interacting with pufferfish in ways that appear to induce a mild state of intoxication. Similarly, humans have a long history of seeking out substances to modify their perceptions, whether through alcohol, marijuana, or synthetic drugs (Cottier 1).

The pressures of heightened awareness—a hallmark of intelligence—may contribute to this phenomenon. Intelligent beings possess the cognitive capacity to reflect on existential concerns, social dynamics, and personal limitations. For humans, this awareness can manifest as stress, anxiety, or even existential dread. Pursuing altered states may be an evolutionary response to the burden of intelligence. For humans, substances offer salvation from reality, allowing for relaxation, creativity, or a shift in perspective. Dolphins' use of pufferfish similarly serves as a way to bond or socially alleviate the monotony in their lives.

6 Research suggests that problem-focused coping is among the most beneficial approaches. For example, actively planning, finding practical solutions, and suppressing competing distractions can effectively address stressors (Algorani and Gupta 1). Programs that teach problem-solving skills, such as stress management workshops or school-based resilience programs, can empower individuals to adopt these strategies. Support seeking, also known as social coping, further aids in healthier responses to trauma. It reduces an individual's stress by seeking emotional or instrumental support from an individual's community (Algorani and Gupta 1). Studies have shown that individuals who use social coping report higher positive emotions and a better sense of well-being (Ahmad 1). On a community scale, initiatives like peer support groups or mental health outreach programs can foster stronger social networks. For example, universities offering group therapy sessions can provide much-needed emotional support.

Coping mechanisms can also result in worse outcomes for the individual. Some strategies, such as avoidance, disengagement, or emotional suppression, can lead to worse mental health outcomes and exacerbate stress for individuals (Algorani and Gupta 2).

The commodification of escapism in human societies has led to a troubling dependency on substances like social media, caffeine, and drugs. While these methods provide relief, they often fail to address underlying issues, leading to cycles of dependency and declines in well-being (Jouhki and Oksanen 1). While some view escapism as a weakness, it can enhance creativity, problem-solving, and stress relief, much like dolphins’ playful intoxication (Burns).

7 Solutions that promote healthier coping mechanisms and improve outcomes for individuals and communities include addressing the root causes of distress. The widespread use of unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as avoidance or emotional suppression, exacerbates stress and worsens mental health outcomes. A solution is to encourage and support healthier strategies at both individual and community levels.

Examples of effective strategies are taking up healthy hobbies, seeking support, and reducing negative emotions associated with the problem through positive reframing, acceptance, turning to religion, or using humour.

Escapism, whether through playful intoxication or substance use, is a shared trait among intelligent beings. For humans, the challenge lies in balancing this desire with the need for healthy coping mechanisms. Individuals must prioritize mental health by having conversations, advocating for accessible resources, and promoting healthy alternatives to harmful escapism in schools, workplaces, and communities. Ultimately, dolphins remind us that escapism can be playful and harmless, but their example also serves as a cautionary tale. By acting now, individuals can ensure that their pursuit of altered states enriches their lives and strengthens communities.

8 Works Cited Ahmad, Samoon, MD. “Commonalities in trauma response.” Psychology Today, 29 June 2021, www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/balanced/202106/universal-coping-mecha nisms.

Algorani, Emad B., and Vikas Gupta. “Coping Mechanisms.” StatPearls - NCBI

Bookshelf, 24 Apr. 2023, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559031.

Burns, Will. “Multiple Creativity Studies Suggest: Creating Our Reality Requires Detaching From It.” Forbes, 10 July 2013, www.forbes.com/sites/willburns/2013/07/10/multiple-creativity-studies-suggestcreating-our-reality-requires-detaching-from-it.

Cottier, Cody. “Our Ancestors Got High, Too.” Discover Magazine, 17 Mar. 2023, www.discovermagazine.com/mind/our-ancestors-got-high-too.

Jouhki, Hannu, and Atte Oksanen. “To Get High or to Get Out? Examining the Link Between Addictive Behaviors and Escapism.” Substance Use & Misuse, vol. 57, no. 2, Nov. 2021, pp. 202–11. https://doi.org/10.1080/10826084.2021.2002897.

Kumar, V. Krishna, PhD. “Environment Effects on Behavior.” Psychology Today, 18 Oct. 2013, www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/psychology-masala/201310/orderly-and-dis orderly-environments-and-creativity.

Nuwer, Rachel. “Dolphins Seem to Use Toxic Pufferfish to Get High.” Smithsonian

Magazine, 7 Jan. 2014,

9 www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/dolphins-seem-to-use-toxic-pufferfish-toget-high-180948219.

“The Rise and Fall of Cognitive Skills.” MIT News | Massachusetts Institute of

Technology, 6 Mar. 2015, news.mit.edu/2015/brain-peaks-at-different-ages-0306#:~:text=Scientists%20ha ve%20long%20known%20that,then%20begins%20a%20slow%20decline.

Saniotis, Arthur, and Maciej Henneberg. “An Evolutionary Approach Toward Exploring Altered States of Consciousness, Mind–Body Techniques, and Non-Local Mind.”

World Futures, vol. 67, no. 3, Mar. 2011, pp. 182–200. https://doi.org/10.1080/02604027.2011.555250.

Staff. “8 Helpful Coping Mechanisms to Use in Addiction Recovery.” Bodhi Addiction

Treatment & Wellness, 11 Oct. 2024, bodhiaddiction.com/coping-mechanisms.

Statista. “Alcohol Use in Persons Aged 12 or Older in the U.S. by Age 2023.” Statista, 6 Nov. 2024, www.statista.com/statistics/354265/current-binge-heavy-alcohol-use-among-per sons-in-the-us-by-age.

Substance use and addiction. ontario.cmha.ca/addiction-and-substance-use-and-addiction.

10 Music Theory

Kylah Gallagher

The Podcast

11 The Undoing of Democracy

Katie Davidson

In 2023, less than 50% of the world lived in a nation governed by a democracy (The Economist Intelligence Unit). Across the globe, there has been a decline in democracy caused by corrupt leaders and extremist groups that threaten human rights and create crime and conflict (“Democracies in Decline”). Numerous countries worldwide are governed by authoritarianism, and these types of governments use political power to control their people, limiting the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens. Many of us who live in democratic countries may take our freedoms for granted, failing to realize how not everyone has access to them. People face violence, persecution, and discrimination in parts of the world simply because they choose to speak up against their government. We must recognize how vital it is for people’s voices to be heard, and that democratic backsliding is possible in any country.

12 On one end of the spectrum, developing countries, specifically in Africa and Asia have demonstrated a clear deficit in democracy. In Uganda, Yoweri Museveni has been president for nearly forty years and has remained in power by using police brutality and military force to scare his citizens into submission (“Yoweri Museveni”).

Individuals in countries like Uganda are often targeted for speaking up about their beliefs. During the last election held in Uganda, “[t]he United States and an African election monitoring group complained of election irregularities” ("Uganda's Museveni Wins"), including internet shutdowns before the election and ballot stuffing. Bobi Wine, a political activist, singer, and lawyer ran against Museveni in the 2021 election, and he and his supporters faced assault and false arrest multiple times during the campaign (Bobi Wine: The People’s President).

Despite this, some critics believe we are shifting towards democracy. Russia has been facing “harsh economic sanctions” (Carothers) for its actions against Ukraine and recent elections in Honduras, Slovenia, and Zambia have allowed more promising candidates to gain power (Carothers). Still, these small efforts in reversing authoritarian drift do not compare to movements in the opposite direction. Democratic backsliding in the U.S. and a myriad of other nations has been accelerated by dangerous political ideologies and strategies that have been reducing democracy in certain states since 2010. Various States have made it more difficult for voters to register or vote, or have strategically redrawn electoral districts to favour one candidate (Williamson).

One political leader, Donald Trump, backs this kind of intervention in democratic processes. When Trump lost the 2020 election, he rejected the results and supported

13 his followers as they stormed the capitol building (Williamson). Election manipulation has played a large role in democratic erosion in the U.S. and has led to a recent increase in the representation of right-wing and evangelical Christian beliefs in politics across the country. The large Republican population has led to the reversal of several laws that protect fundamental rights and freedoms. Many women are no longer able to access critical abortion care, and with Donald Trump’s re-election, even legal immigrants in America face deportation.

Thus, wealth and population do not protect countries like the United States from democratic backsliding. Across the spectrum, nations face challenges relating to democracy and must recognize issues as they arise. Democracy is a cornerstone of our society, delivering inclusivity and equality to individuals, while also creating better opportunities for people and building resilient economies. The safeguarding of democracy is something that needs to happen in countries that are already experiencing democratic backsliding and democratic countries as they recognize the potential risk. There also needs to be a movement toward democracy for countries that do not yet have a functioning democratic government.

It is critical that election officials invest in and advocate for voter education, creating campaigns that spread factual information about candidates in upcoming elections, how to register, and ways individuals can cast their votes. Citizens need to be educated on who and what they are voting for and how their lives will be impacted (Mears and Bedekovics; "Strengthen Democratic Values"). Additionally, countries need to learn from past events, such as those in the United States or Uganda and get ahead

14 of election subversion. They must strengthen certification processes before they are attacked and questioned, and create truly valid election results.

However, for government officials to truly create change in their electoral systems, citizens must rise up, just like Bobi Wine did during his campaign for president. Even as he faced violence, he persisted and was able to get his message out to people across the world about the issues Uganda is facing. Powerful, democratic countries need to listen to the voices of those living under authoritarian governments and work alongside them to create real change.

15 Works Cited

Bobi Wine: The People’s President. Directed by Christopher Sharp, Netflix, 2021.

Carothers, Thomas. "Is the Global Tide Turning in Favor of Democracy?" Carnegie

Endowment for International Peace, 30 May 2023, carnegieendowment.org/research/2023/05/is-global-tide-turning-in-favor-of-de mocracy. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

"Democracies in Decline." Freedom House, https://freedomhouse.org/issues/democracies-decline. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Mears, Rebecca, and Greta Bedekovics. "8 Ways To Protect American Democracy."

Center for American Progress, 4 Jan. 2024, https://www.americanprogress.org/article/8-ways-to-protect-american-democrac y/. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

The Economist Intelligence Unit. Democracy Index 2023: Age of Conflict. 2024, https://pages.eiu.com/rs/753-RIQ-438/images/Democracy-Index-2023-Final-rep ort.pdf. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

The Investopedia Team. "American Dream." Investopedia, Dotdash Meredith, 2 July 2024, www.investopedia.com/terms/a/american-dream.asp. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025 Williamson, Vanessa. "Understanding Democratic Decline in the United States."

Brookings, 17 Oct. 2023, https://www.brookings.edu/articles/understanding-democratic-decline-in-the-uni ted-states/. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

16 "Yoweri Museveni." Encyclopaedia Britannica, Encyclopaedia Britannica, 14 Jan. 2025, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Yoweri-Museveni. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

17 Cats: Love Does Not Mean Possession

Chloe Xie

Podcast

18 Where are the Trans Mascs in the Media

L. Franco Davanzo

As a kid were been many, many signs that I was trans. I’ve always taken pride in knowing myself well and hate not knowing what a certain feeling is. I remember first wishing I was a boy when I was five years old; when I was seven, I would have constant daydreams about secretly being a boy. When I was ten, I wanted to be a drag queen but didn’t know why. When I was twelve, I learned how to change my body shape with clothing so strangers would see me as a boy. There have been many more instances; however, looking back on them makes me angry.

I knew what trans women were since I was nine. The only question I had was why anyone would possibly want to be a girl. I would hear about them in the news and sometimes see them in movies, but I never saw trans men, leading me to think only trans women existed. It was only four months after learning what a trans man was that I realised that I was one too. I’m left forever wondering: if I had seen a trans man in the

19 media I consumed growing up, would I have made that connection sooner? It infuriates me that I could’ve spent fewer years of my life feeling confused and hurt instead of living the childhood I always daydreamed of. With this anger, I’ve come to notice the lack of trans masculine representation there is in both creative media and the news compared to trans feminine representation.

Most transgender characters you see in media are trans women. While the representation can range from beautifully told stories about the trans femme experience to throw away jokes that demean their existence, they are pretty visible in creative media. However, that is only the case for binary trans women. Other trans femme identities are overlooked. This is especially the case for trans men and trans mascs. Out of the thousands of pieces of creative media I’ve consumed, I can think of over fifty different trans women but only six trans men. Why is that the case? What is causing such a divide between the two?

Often, characters who display trans masc qualities or hints towards a trans masc identity are dismissed as just being butch lesbians or tomboys. The cause of this is often theorized to be misogyny; women who have stereotypically masculine qualities are treated as outliers and put into categories that make them be treated as inferior instead of equals to men with the same qualities. This issue isn’t exclusive to media, as scholar Jack Halberstam points out. He states, “While it is true that transgender and transsexual men have been wrongly folded into lesbian history, it is also true that the distinctions between some transsexuals and lesbians may at times become quite blurry” (Lgbtq History).

20 Telling a trans character’s story is difficult to get right, especially if they aren’t the main focus of the story. Not much can be done about the amount of trans masc stories other than letting those stories be seen and told. Instead of implying that a character is transgender through interpretive signs or vague dialogue that can be written off as having an entirely different meaning, confirm to the audience that the character is transgender. Confirmation is important, since there are many people out there who would love to see themselves represented to feel less alone and normalizes being transgender to a wider audience. Others, like myself, may get the chance to figure out something about themselves.

However, this divide is more visible in the news. When trans issues are discussed in the news, the arguments around the issues mostly pertain to trans women. For example, when discussing trans athletes in sports, the stories being reported are almost always regarding trans women athletes. When googling the phrase “Trans men in sports” and going to the “News” tab, eight out of the ten stories that appeared on the first page were about trans women in sports and the other two were about all trans people in sports.

In the infamous bathroom argument, most who are against letting trans people use the correct bathroom will say something along the lines of “[We] can’t let men into women's bathrooms” yet they never say “[We] can’t let women into men’s bathrooms”.

Media outlets seem to be blind to this inequality of arguments with its lack of reporting. When researching for this article, I had hoped to find evidence from a news source about the false equivalency of the bathroom argument but could find zero

21 articles after thirty minutes of searching. That alone speaks volumes on the issue, more so than any article could.

When thinking about the stereotype of a trans person you likely think of a flamboyant man in heavy makeup and terrible drag who thinks they’re passing.

Although you see the person you’re picturing as a man, they identify as a woman, you’re still thinking about a trans woman. You may also imagine the stereotype of a non binary person, but can you picture a stereotype of a trans man? Even in the negative aspects of visibility and representation, trans men are forgotten. More people are becoming aware of the lack of representation in creative media, but are less aware of the lack of visibility in real life. This invisibility causes harm to both trans mascs and trans femmes. By ignoring the existence of trans men, incredibly harmful stereotypes are perpetuated. Trans masc erasure can promote ideas that trans women are just men who are stealing opportunities away from women because they believe it’s easier to be a woman. This in turn perpetuates even more stereotypes about sexism and misogyny.

An article by LGBTQ History theorizes that cisgendered people have a better time understanding why a woman would want to be a man due to the privilege it grants them, but have a significantly harder time understanding why someone would want to give it up to be a woman (Lgbtq History).

Compared to a decade ago, trans representation has become more prominent and seen in less of a negative light. We have come a long way and should be proud of that, yet still have a long way to go. News sources need to make big changes on how they depict trans people by shining a light on trans issues on more than a surface level and stopping the focus on stories that sensationalize trans women to an audience

22 whose only exposure to them is via the news. Only then can trans people be truly treated as equals in the public eye.

23 Work Cited Lgbtq history. “LGBTQ History Month Week 1: Transmasculinity (Invisibility & Illumination).” lgbtqhistory.org, lgbtqhistory.org, https://lgbtqhistory.org/lgbtq-history-month-week-1-transmasculinity-invisibility-i llumination/#:~:text=Transmasculine%20individuals%20have%20struggled%20fo r,on%20transfeminine%20people%20and%20experiences. Accessed 21 January 2025.

24 The Rise of the WNBA

Addison Chalmers

The Podcast

25 The Sound of Inclusion: Bringing Deaf Theatre to the Spotlight

Kylah Gallagher

When you think of musicals, what comes to mind? Is it the singing, the costumes, the acting, the sets? What is it that you think of when you are on your way to see a fun production for a night out on the town? Well, for 1.3 million Canadians, or five percent of the population, their thoughts are likely focused on whether they will be able to follow the story, as they are hard of hearing (Statistics Canada). Movies and TV shows get captions, but what are deaf individuals to do if they want to experience the joy of live theatre? The answer is simple: producing productions with singing and signing actors to make the theatre accessible to those 1.3 million Canadians who are just as deserving to have access to these performances.

Fortunately, there is already a phenomenal layer of groundwork that has been laid by the American group Deaf West. They are an organization that has been

26 dedicated to producing musicals and plays that incorporate signing actors since 1990, and their work spans from regional theatres to the iconic stages of Broadway (Deaf West Theatre). Through their commitment to accessibility, Deaf West has proven that inclusion and artistry can exist in tandem. Their innovative work offers a model for accessible productions that other theatre companies can easily follow.

One such production that took off was their 2015 Broadway revival of Spring

Awakening, a dark, edgy, and often controversial musical based on Frank Wedekind's 1891 play about a group of young teens’ sexual awakenings (Franklin). This version of

Spring Awakening was groundbreaking not just for its aesthetic choices but for the innovative way it incorporated accessibility into its storytelling. There were Deaf actors signing throughout the show who had hearing counterparts speak and sing alongside them. This dual casting technique allowed the production to fully integrate American Sign Language (ASL) into the performance, rather than treating it as an afterthought or a secondary element.

Critics and audiences alike praised the production for its creativity and its ability to elevate the story through ASL. The visual beauty of signing added an emotional depth that resonated with all viewers, regardless of their hearing ability. As one Deaf theatregoer noted in a testimony shared with The Guardian: “As a Deaf person sitting in the audience, it meant everything to see the dialogue on stage as it was intended, and not read from a dimly lit script on [their] lap” (Epstein). This single testimony highlights the transformative power of accessible productions, showing how they can make theatre truly magical for everyone.

27 Deaf West's work extends beyond Spring Awakening. They are now gearing up for a 2025 production of American Idiot, a rock musical by Green Day that explores themes of disillusionment, identity, and rebellion (Cohn). The production promises to once again fuse ASL and spoken performance, providing a new layer of intensity and meaning to the show’s raw energy. By tackling these iconic works and making them accessible to the Deaf community, Deaf West not only breaks barriers but also redefines what inclusive theatre can look like on a global scale.

These accessible productions also carry a broader cultural significance. There is always the possibility that somebody may argue that productions of this nature are too niche or distracting for hearing audience members. Deaf West’s productions challenge this uninformed notion that accessibility compromises artistry and storytelling. On the contrary to any criticism about the incorporation of ASL in shows, they demonstrate how inclusion can enhance creativity, allowing artists to experiment with new forms of expression. Moreover, such productions foster empathy and understanding, bringing diverse communities together under the shared experience of live theatre.

Deaf West’s work is vital in bridging the gap to allow accessibility in live theatre for hard of hearing people, but no matter their efforts, this is not a task they can accomplish alone. More theatre companies and individuals have to recognize the potential and crucial nature these productions have as a means of spreading equality. It may seem like a daunting task, but any form of support—following a deaf performer, supporting hard of hearing arts organizations—is a step in the right direction. It is the responsibility of producers, performers, and patrons alike to ensure that Deaf West’s

28 quest for accessibility is not in vain. With enough of Canada on board, we have the power to transform the musical theatre industry as it is today, and ensure that the magic of theatre is no longer withheld from a select few.

29 Works Cited Cohn, Gabe. “A Deaf West ‘American Idiot’ Captures Rage and Rebellion in ASL.” The

New York Times, 14 Oct. 2024, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/14/theater/american-idiot-asl-los-angeles-de af-west.html. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Epstein, Kayla, and Alex Needham. “Spring Awakening on Broadway: Deaf Viewers Give Their Verdict.” The Guardian, 29 Oct. 2015, https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2015/oct/29/spring-awakening-broadway-d eaf-viewers-give-verdict. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Franklin, Marc J. “Spring Awakening Returns to Broadway in Sign Language.” Playbill, 27 Sept.

2020, https://playbill.com/article/celebrate-deaf-west-theatres-2015-spring-awakeningbroadway-revival. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Genzlinger, Neil. “Broadway Revival of ‘Spring Awakening’ Returns in Sign Language.”

NPR, 13 Oct. 2015, https://www.npr.org/2015/10/13/448379000/spring-awakening-returns-to-broad way-in-sign-language. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

30 “Production History.” Deaf West Theatre, https://www.deafwest.org/production-history.

Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Statistics Canada. “The Daily—Hearing Loss in Canada.” Statistics Canada, 18 Feb. 2019, https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11-627-m/11-627-m2019025-eng.htm.

Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

31 Fatal Fashion – The Deadly Allure of Scheele’s Green

Eeva Moss

The Podcast

32 The Colosseum of Virtue Signaling: The Unspoken Elitism in Classical

Literature Circles

Claire Wang

I did not enjoy The Stranger, by Albert Camus. The story did not resonate with me personally and was not my preferred storyline. Yet, the first time I read the book and was left unsatisfied, my first instinct was to question my own intelligence. Was I too shallow to appreciate it? It’s a classic, so people must love it. Did I miss something profound? This reaction, as I would come to realize, wasn’t entirely my fault: it is a product of a culture that equates classical literature with intellectualism, and that dismisses other genres as less worthy of attention.

For centuries, reading has been a symbol of class, intelligence, and culture.

Historically, only the socially privileged few could afford to send their children to school, thus literate people were highly regarded as refined and intelligent. Today, however, we live in an age where 86.3% of the global population is literate (that is

33 more the majority!) (World Population Review Contributors). Simply being able to read is no longer a reliable hierarchical indicator of fineness and intelligence, so people have shifted to genres as the new evaluation benchmark.

The genre of the books you read is now more than just a marker of personal taste; it is representative of your character. Science fiction, horror, romance, and adventure have different attributes and stereotypes attached to their readers, some worse than others (Cavannagh). Among all the groups, readers of one particular genre deserve to be crowned ‘most insufferable’: classical literature.

A classic is “a story that has stood the test of time, remained critically acclaimed, and consistently culturally relevant” (Lombardi). Originally, the classical literature community comprised primarily of academics studying old-school writings (Manuel et al.). In recent years, however, thanks to the internet and social media, the classics circle skyrocketed both in numbers and ego. The classic readers have banded together and synthesized into a bizarre online “fandom” defined by hostility and pretentiousness.

They are under the impression that the literary canon makes them smarter, more cultured, and of better taste than the average man (Morais). Many scorn upon readers and writers of other genres, particularly modern commercial fiction, fantasy, and romance. The main argument is that the simplicity of the content makes those books “junk fiction”, and not “real literature”.

Within the online literary community, one will be bashed and shamed if any negative opinions on the popular classics are expressed because of the cult-like idolization of these dead authors. A simple “that book wasn’t for me” will garner you dozens of people shaming you for being lacking in depth of thought. This culture exists

34 in a constant competition of who can project the greater image of intellectual superiority. Before we tear each other down in this Colosseum of Virtue Signaling, we should pause and question: who even established the literary canon in the first place?

The formalized literary canon was created in 19th-century Europe, reflecting the values of the educated upper class—primarily wealthy white men. The process of selection was extremely biased. The bulk of works were dismissed or censored for reasons such as the author’s socioeconomic class, ethnic background, gender, challenging ideology, and everything else we think of as unreasonable today. Only the texts that were in line with the worldview of the academic aristocrats were allowed to be elevated on the shelves of “classics” (Miller). That this retrospective look into history allows us to see that the works we revere come from a highly biased rating system, and should not be the sole standard for literary quality.

I am not implying that classic literature does not deserve its praise – the majority of classics are extremely well-written, compelling stories with complex themes and offer revolutionary perspectives. “Classics are classics for a reason”, as they say. What annoys me is the fact that the reading community of today bases so much of their opinions regarding a piece of literature based on the “classic” label. Perhaps it is our tendency to romanticize the past. It is the idea that works of the past were better in the present. There is some truth to that statement, the literature landscape of today is flooded with unoriginal, mediocre works because money-hungry publishing corporations care more about profit than quality. Still, that is far from the ubiquitous truth. Many sophisticated contemporary works are ignored or looked down upon

35 simply because of their recency of publication. So, no, reading Tolstoy and Jane Austen does not make you cleverer or more special than the girl who enjoys her romantasy YA novel.

The veneration of classics and disregard for different genres as well as the dismissal of opinions in this community is toxic for meaningful intellectual engagement and discourages readers from experiencing the full spectrum of literary creativity.

Instead, we should be diversifying our horizons by reading from a variety of genres, eras, and cultures. Explore works from different countries, browse bookshelves of genres about which you are unfamiliar, and give a shot to the newly published small writers at the local convention. Moral of the story? If we only draw from the limited classical literature of our past, we are depriving ourselves of discovering the masterpieces that could potentially shape our future.

​

36 Works Cited According to Alina. “The problem with 'the classics vs. BookTok’ debate.” YouTube, 14 January 2024, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H39qXxRsvJM. Accessed 20 January 2025.

Block, Lawrence, and Percival Everett. “How do I articulate the differences between literature and genre books? : r/literature.” Reddit, 26 September 2021, https://www.reddit.com/r/literature/comments/pvzexo/how_do_i_articulate_the_ differences_between/. Accessed 20 January 2025.

Boakye, Jeffrey. “The big idea: do we need to dismantle the literary canon?” The

Guardian, 12 June 2023, https://www.theguardian.com/books/2023/jun/12/the-big-idea-do-we-need-to-d ismantle-the-literary-canon. Accessed 18 January 2025.

Cavannagh, Martin. “The Ultimate List of Book Genres: 35 Popular Genres, Explained.”

Reedsy Blog, 29 December 2020, https://blog.reedsy.com/book-genres/.

Accessed 20 January 2025.

Lombardi, Esther. “How Do You Identify a Literary Classic?” ThoughtCo, 22 October 2019, https://www.thoughtco.com/concept-of-classics-in-literature-739770.

Accessed 20 January 2025.

Manuel, Jurgen, et al. “Formation of classical literature | Thought Thinkers.” Medium, 18 January 2024, https://medium.com/thought-thinkers/how-literary-canon-is-formed-3e07aca3e7 f4. Accessed 20 January 2025.

37 Miller, Laura. “Is the literary world elitist?” Salon, 7 February 2014, https://www.salon.com/2014/02/07/is_the_literary_world_elitist/. Accessed 20 January 2025.

Morais, Richard C. “The Levels of Genre-Snobbery – Never Not Reading.” Never Not

Reading, 19 April 2020, https://nevernotreadingblog.wordpress.com/2020/04/19/the-levels-of-genre-sn obbery/. Accessed 20 January 2025.

Sanders, Harriet. “What makes a classic?” Pan Macmillan, 26 April 2023, https://www.panmacmillan.com/blogs/classics/what-are-classic-books. Accessed 20 January 2025.

World Population Review Contributors. “Literacy Rate by Country 2024.” World

Population Review, 2024, https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/literacy-rate-by-country.

Accessed 19 January 2025.

38 How the Government Controls Citizens Through Food

Lily Gorski

When we think of " government control, " surveillance cameras, military enforcement, and repressive legislation encompass everything that comes to mind.

However, what if I told you they have access to a more subtle weapon: food?

Throughout history, the government has influenced individuals by controlling food availability, distribution, and manufacturing. This approach is still in use today and has a frightening impact on society that many people are unaware of.

Power has traditionally been associated with food. Ancient civilizations like Rome utilized the “bread and circuses” tactic to please their people by offering free grain and entertainment to divert attention from governmental corruption and inequality. Khan, M. H. (2012). "Political Economy of Corruption." In today's world, authoritarian governments like Mao’s China and Stalin’s Soviet Union monopolized the food supply to suppress disagreement, guarantee devotion, and maintain power.

39 Hunger crises can happen not just because of poor management or natural disasters.

Sometimes, leaders or groups intentionally create food shortages to achieve specific goals. It’s important to understand that there are deeper reasons behind hunger, not just mistakes or accidents.

The government's control of food has become more subtle in contemporary democracies, particularly in North America. Food expenses are a significant factor in population control, particularly for low-income households more vulnerable to price shifts. Through taxes and legislation, the government can influence the availability of particular foods, raising the cost of healthier options, which discourages people from choosing nutrient-dense foods. Fast and processed meals are sometimes more straightforward and economical than healthy, whole foods. This creates a vicious cycle whereby low-income, unhealthy foods lead to long-term health problems that strain the healthcare system and uphold economic disparity.

The regulation and amount of chemicals used in food production is another critical area of lack of government control over food. Many chemicals, preservatives, and pesticides are prohibited in other countries because of passion; e-health hazards are permitted in the United States and Canada. For instance, even though they are illegal in the European Union and other countries, chemicals like rBGH (recombinant bovine growth hormone) come in artificial colours, and pesticides like chlorpyrifos are usually found in North American food products. Why the United States still allows these substances is still a mystery. The food industry’s stronghold and close ties to government regulatory agencies, which put profit ahead of public health, are frequently the root of the problem.

40 ​

The careless lack of food regulations in North America results from substantial

advocacy campaigns by agricultural companies. These campaigns significantly influence strict limits that would raise food costs and hurt competition, so they advocate for “weaker” rules. Consequently, the typical American consumer is frequently exposed to various chemicals and artificial components without fully comprehending the implications to their long-term health.

Another important factor in government control is the promotion of unhealthy foods. The government indirectly promotes growing industrial crops like grain, soy, and other essential processed food components by offering subsidies and tax breaks.

Fast-food menus and grocery store shelves are dominated by high-calorie, low-nutrient foods made with these inexpensive fillers. In the meantime, many consumers are still unable to afford organic and healthier options, which maintain eating patterns that lead to diabetes, obesity, and other chronic illnesses. ​

Food insecurity is another government control mechanism. When individuals are

uncertain about where their next meal will come from, they are less inclined to focus on more significant social or political matters. This uncertainty and anxiety cause disadvantaged communities to continue relying on government assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), which, while providing essential support, also limit their access to government-approved foods. Regulations' impacts extend beyond personal health.

When someone is malnourished, they are prone to falling ill, become less productive, more reliant on healthcare, and are less likely to take up activism or seek structural change. Therefore, food is used to enforce social and economic boundaries

41 and keep things as they are. Citizens must think critically about food regulation before consuming food to prevent any health issues the government imposes. By supporting local and sustainable food sources, calling for stricter regulations on hazardous chemicals, and pushing for more transparency in food labelling, consumers may bypass dietary restrictions imposed by the government.

Ultimately, food is more than just nourishment; it is a potent instrument governments employ to affect economic stability, health, and behaviour. Although it might not be as apparent as military force or surveillance, food management is equally effective in preserving power relations and forming society. The first step to recovering the right to consume affordable, chemical-free, healthful foods is to take action in response to this influence.

42 Works Cited "Food Politics." Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia, Wikimedia Foundation, Inc, 17 Nov. 2024, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Food_politics#:~:text=Government%20policies%20 around%20food%20production,%2C%20wholesalers%2C%20retailers%2 0and%20consumers. Accessed 17 Jan. 2025.

R-CALF USA. "Keynote: The Global War on Farming: Control the Food, Control the People." YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fr8eV5oQyyI. Accessed 17 Jan. 2025.

"Roles and Responsibilities." Queensland Government | Queensland

Government, 7 Feb. 2023, www.qld.gov.au/health/staying-healthy/food-pantry/starting-a-food-busin ess/food-safety-laws/roles-and-responsibilities#:~:text=The%20role%20of %20local%20government,cancellations%20of%20food%20business%20lic ences. Accessed 17 Jan. 2025.

43 Eyeliner

Katie Davidson

The Podcast

44 The Controversy of Art: Understanding Modern and Contemporary Creation

Chloe Xie

The Modern Collection | Art Gallery of Ontario

Modern art has no meaning. Or does it? A subject like no other, the simple mentioning of modern and contemporary art could strike up an everlasting debate. Is there any worth in a fully blue-painted canvas or a banana taped to a wall? This new wave of creation is a spiral of confusion when determining its legitimacy or whether we can even define it as art at all. The principal ingredient of art relies on the recipient. But in today’s public standard, what is art? Dismissing these pieces of modern and contemporary art overlooks the process and story written behind the scenes despite something looking bland, dull, or boring at first glance.

For centuries, art and creative techniques have consistently been evolving, beginning all the way from medieval/ancient periods. Back then, during the Middle Ages up to the early stages of the Renaissance in the 14th century, art included various forms such as architecture and mosaic pieces. The prominent materials used to create

45 these pieces were highly treasured: gold, personal jewelry, delicate glass, aquamarine and so on (“Medieval Art: Characteristics and Influences”). This contributed significantly to the value and meaning of the art or architectural pieces along with their purpose of representing religion—to display in churches and cathedrals—and wealth status.

Different art movements gradually unravelled such as Impressionism, which was pivotal in depicting modern life around the 19th century. With revolutionary uses of colour and the portrayal of lighting effects, Impressionism paved the way for contemporary art with the freedom to express oneself and how one perceives the surrounding world (Samu). The purpose of art had shifted into an era of individualism.

The roots of modern and contemporary art have a flexible definition, enabling artists to explore personal or societal themes for self-expression. It is an investigation of ideas, materials, and experiences that embrace abstraction, conceptualism, and minimalism, which overall challenge the regular protocol of creating art. A major aspect of these styles is to provoke thought and emotion which differs from older, traditional works where all the meanings are spilled onto a blank canvas, extremely clear and understandable to viewers during those periods. The vastly distinct styles and mediums used may not entirely encompass a single subject matter or well-known impressive skill, although the authentic depiction of the pieces opens a new door of possibilities that highly contrasts the strict guidelines of art in earlier periods.

Generally, the concepts of modern and contemporary art face large amounts of backlash. Many individuals who find appreciation in art tend to believe there is no

46 value, let alone any meaning behind it. It is said these newer generations of art lack creativity and originality. A passionate art freshman at MCHS, Yaiza Gomez, argues that “[a] single dot lacks meaning because there is no time put into it and can easily be altered to have a false meaning just so it looks like real effort was put into it. Something so dull and simplistic cannot have any true meaning because it is disconnected from reality” (Ravelo). False meaning and real effort completely defeat the point of modern and contemporary pieces. For reference, unique artworks like Marcel Duchamp’s

Fountain (1917) or Maurizio Cattelan’s Comedian (2019) are both examples of pieces that have pushed the boundaries of what people determine as plain works of art.

What does this say about how society is accustomed to viewing art? Around the world, everyone has inherited this mindset that art needs to be this or art has to be that. When met with something unfamiliar or abstract, people will simply believe that it looks absolutely ridiculous out of habit. Dismissing these pieces of modern and contemporary art overlooks the process and story written behind the scenes despite something looking bland, dull, or boring at first glance. But if observed for a little longer while keeping an open mind, a different and deeper message that is trying to be conveyed will appear (Ravelo).

The future of genuinely appreciating all art starts with realizing what is more valuable at hand: its beauty or aesthetic or the message being presented to us as viewers. “[F]or most people, when they don’t have that experience with abstract [or conceptual] art, they haven’t been around too much art then. They see it, and they go, abstract art is meaningless,” said Ajay Orona, a SAC arts professor. Whether a piece is

47 boldly criticizing societal norms or an honest reflection of personal experiences, these modern and contemporary artworks are not meant to demonstrate subjects that are pretty or perfect to the naked eye but are more about raw and real topics. An artist’s authentic voice is carried through the experiences of navigating this chaotic world and depicting it however relevant. It's about the true drive to connect society together in different ways, expanding boundaries and interpreting a mirror of our world through a piece of creation and design. Modern and contemporary artwork is a whole separate lens that society seemingly isn’t ready to accept.

48 Works Cited Invaluable. “A Guide to Medieval Art: History and Characteristics.” Invaluable, https://www.invaluable.com/blog/medieval-art/?srsltid=AfmBOoowq8yy1eITHT3LbCz Wv4ifp3CcaDE66n409QArGbwQ2W6Pr9dt. Accessed 24 Jan. 2025.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art. “Medieval Manuscript Illumination in Europe.” The

Met’s Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History, https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/imml/hd_imml.htm. Accessed 24 Jan. 2025 Staff Writer. “Why Do So Many People Hate Modern Art?” The Spellbinder, https://thespellbinder.net/9085/ae/why-do-so-many-people-hate-modern-art/#:~:text= While%20many%20people%20adore%20Modern,put%20any%20effort%20into%20it.

Accessed 24 Jan. 2025.

49 Movie Theatres

Sanjana Bassi

The Podcast

50 The Fifth Wave: The Fall of Feminism

Addison Chalmers

(John Olson/The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)

If you are not a feminist, you are a sexist. As a movement created to bring freedoms and justice for women, feminism was supposed to end gender-based hatred and bring equality to men and women alike. With each generation of feminists, women only took leaps toward gender equality. However, through social media, Gen Z has been exposed to the rejection of feminism, resulting in easily influenced young people aligning themselves with the sexist opinions of internet trolls and red pill content creators. Will Generation Z be feminism’s cause of death?

Categorized into four waves, the world has seen feminism rise as women achieve opportunity. With the first wave, suffragettes fought for the United States of America’s nineteenth amendment. The second wave of feminism birthed movements such as Roe v. Wade, The Equal Pay Act, and women in sports, with many thanks to feminists like Gloria Steniem, Betty Friedan, and Billie Jean King. Focused on

51 intersectionality and choice, the third wave of feminism welcomed rebellion and reclamation. With the rise of #MeToo, the rejection of gender-binary, and the criticism of white-feminism, the fourth wave was defined by inclusivity. Now, in 2025, we are believed to still be riding the fourth wave, where women’s voices are heard and equality is within arm’s reach. Though with the rise of #NotAllMen, Gen Z’s dissociation from feminism, and the surge of red pill media, I would argue that the western world is now entering the fifth wave: the fall of feminism. ​

As the eldest daughter to three sisters, I was taught the importance of women’s

rights from an early age; valuing a woman's autonomy has never been a second thought. So, as a lifelong feminist, I considered the ethical shortcomings of sexism and gender-based discrimination to be common sense and, thus, identifying as a feminist was universal. However, when I asked my male friend if he considered himself a feminist, he struggled to respond, claiming it was a controversial topic and did not want to start an argument. Controversial? Perhaps even more frightening, when discussing this with another teenage girl, she quickly stated she was not a feminist because that was cringe. Cringe? As Gen Z teenagers, whose lives have only existed within the fourth wave, why would the topic of feminism cause shivers cold enough to reject not only the identity of ‘feminist’ but even a simple conversation? ​

As a generation raised in the age of technology, Gen Z has grown to live on

social media platforms, and, therefore, has access to vast opinions, experiences, and socio-political views. Empathy was once the forefront of social media, with movements such as body positivity, individualism, and liberal ideologies as the core of Gen Z’s beliefs. As well, the virtual education brought by the internet has led to social protests

52 in support of the LGBTQIA+ community, Black Lives Matter, and climate action.

However, with every positive step forward, backlash from those rooted three steps behind is bound to catch up. ​

Research has shown that Gen Z views the word “feminism” with a negative

connotation, with one in four UK young males believing their experience is harder than a woman’s and one in six believing feminism has done more harm than good (Gen Z Boys and Men). As well, after the popularity and mass support of #MeToo, Gen Z men and boys who have felt called out, turned completely against the movement and onto red pill media with a new hashtag: #NotAllMen. Male influencers pushing an anti-feminist agenda rose to the occasion. As the spokesperson for Gen Z boys against women, influencer and self-proclaimed misogynist, Andrew Tate, once stated, “I'm a realist and when you're a realist, you're sexist. There's no way you can be rooted in reality and not be sexist” (Andrew Tate Detained). With Andrew Tate, a violent sexist with over eight million followers despite accusations of human trafficking, sex crimes, and anti-women gang activity, being the figurehead of red pill content, Gen Z boys are constantly exposed to aggressive misogynistic opinions, shaping toxic and sexist values. ​

Women have been socially conditioned to respect a man’s voice, and even

sometimes placing it above our own. Teenagers are more readily influenced by family and friends, entertainment and politics, and the desire to “fit in”. Gen Z girls are confronted with anti-women propaganda, it is easy to fall victim to complacency and even the rejection of feminism when our classmates, friends, and brothers vocalize their displeasure at our very existence. As a defense mechanism, we hide our true values in

53 an attempt to make the boys around us comfortable, and thus, deem feminism as “cringe”. ​

The fifth wave of feminism is crashing down on Gen Z. With boys feeling

targeted by female activists and girls being afraid to use their voice, the reach for equality has been pushed far beyond sight. To be a feminist means to be in support of gender equality. Social media and red pill influencers have twisted the minds of Gen Z men, creating the perception that feminism is a man-hating movement in support of a matriarchy. I urge young people to take a step back, educate themselves on history, and use the empathy once valued, to unravel the misconceptions of feminism. Young men must recognize feminism is not an attack on their masculinity, but rather, the act of protection for a woman’s right to exist. Young women must remember why the first wave of feminism began in the first place; a woman’s right to autonomy was a topic of debate until feminists advocated for women's choice. The fifth wave of feminism should not be its abolishment, but rather, the final wave: when men and women are equal. Be a feminist. This should not be controversial.

54 Works Cited “Andrew Tate Detained in Romania over Rape and Human Trafficking Case.” BBC News, 30 Dec. 2022, https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-64125045.

“Gen Z Boys and Men More Likely than Baby Boomers to Believe Feminism Harmful, Says Poll.” The Guardian, 1 Feb. 2024,​ https://www.theguardian.com/news/2024/feb/01/gen-z-boys-and-men-more-like ly-than-baby-boomers-to-believe-feminism-harmful-says-poll HISTORY.COM EDITORS. “Feminism.” History, A&E Television Networks, 8 Apr. 2022, www.history.com/topics/womens-history/feminism-womens-history.

History.com Editors. “What Are the Four Waves of Feminism?” History.com, A&E Television Networks, 16 June 2021, www.history.com/news/feminism-four-waves.

55 The Psychology of Music- The Pop Podcast

Lily Gorski

The Podcast

56 The Need For Movie Literacy In North America

Diya Kathuria

(L’avenir (2016), dir. Mia Hansen-Løve. Posted by agnesvardas on Tumblr, 28 Dec. 2020)

Movie literacy in plain terms is defined as understanding complex issues portrayed in films and seeking knowledge beyond surface-level thinking. Movies are an art form that can shed light on various issues, controversial topics, and misunderstood emotions. Recently, I’ve seen in interviews, ratings, and media the lack of movie literacy and shallow entertainment consumption shown specifically in North America.

Superficial engagement with media heavily reduces the impact of a film that aims to challenge current social norms and start progressive conversations. Without film literacy to grasp these concepts, how will we as a society progress?

It is not just the public's fault, but journalists and interviewers who get the chance to initiate these thought-provoking questions yet focus on baseless questions in turn for famous gossip. In the 2010 Iron Man 2, a massive MCU film hit, Scarlett Johansson played Black Widow, a founding member of the Avengers. During the press

57 tour, Johansson was asked countless questions regarding her body, diet, and outfits. In contrast, her male co-stars were asked questions about the future of the Marvel franchise and sincere questions about their characters. The media decided only to ask hypersexualized questions, stripping away the importance of Johansson's character, which was the first female Avengers character. Being an independent and strong role model for all girls and women was only a second thought. Reports and journalists must use their power to enhance the public's literacy and understanding of how characters on screen can impact their audiences.

Movies and TV shows have the potential to shed light on sensitive issues and stigmatized topics that are misunderstood. For example, films like "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" and "Beautiful Boy" offer insights into mental health struggles and substance abuse, humanizing experiences that many face and have faced. These films speak up and break down stigma to build community; however, their true impact is only heard when the audience uses literacy skills to interpret the content critically.

These skills should be reinforced throughout high school curriculums. Young audiences, specifically teenagers, need strong literacy skills to develop moral and emotional compasses. Films can introduce adolescents to complex social issues and varying perspectives that they are unlikely to learn in a traditional educational setting.

Incorporating film adaptations of literature and relevant media into the high school curriculum can improve teaching strategies and enhance student learning.

Incorporating a visual text for each lens (feminism, multicultural, and socioeconomic), students can be encouraged to think about how someone else may see a film and interpret it from a different perspective. These lessons not only encourage critical

58 thinking but also teach empathy. By examining plot development and themes, students can gain insights into and reflect on the material beyond the classroom. This approach deepens their understanding of current world issues and equips them with valuable tools for their life experiences.

In an article called (The Power Of Canadian Film Youth Film Consumption and

Engagement) Reel Canada conducted a 10-minute online survey of 600 high school students and 125 K-12 Teachers across Canada. The project studied how to implement film education and build media literacy skills within the classroom. A drama and English teacher from Kitchener, Ontario said in the article that children’s, “...Identity and a sense of belonging seems to resonate with a lot of them – especially where they can see themselves somehow depicted– whether it’s through culture or whether it’s through values or whether it’s through life experiences” (Feick 5). The primary source of film discovery for teenagers is through 76% of personal networks, whereas from school/in-class, only 28% gathered from the survey (Reel Canada 5). Film recommendations from trusted educators, who know their classroom and the kids they teach, would, without a doubt, spark better connections and conversations in the classroom and the courses. Statistics show that integrating movie literacy into school curriculums positively impacts students' critical thinking and empathy skills. The survey found that educators who incorporate film analysis into their lessons observed an improvement in students' ability to interpret and discuss complex themes. Schools that include media literacy programs also see an increase in student engagement with social issues. By using film as an educational tool, schools provide students with a

59 dynamic way to explore historical events, cultural differences, and ethical questions, preparing them to be more informed and well-rounded citizens.

One of the most valuable impacts of film is its presence, and its ability to make viewers feel less isolated. Seeing characters on screen grapple with similar life struggles provides a sense of comfort. This form of media creates a shared experience, nudging viewers that what they are going through, they don't have to be alone. However, without the literacy to critically interpret the media, the depth of the impact is diminished. To whole-heartedly improve your intellect, critical thinking skills, social skills/behaviours, and overall character–movie literacy is key. We must involve ourselves, start educational initiatives, film and media clubs, and promote literacy in the classroom. Encourage viewers to push past passive consumption and engage with content, to appreciate the artistry of film and its ability to illuminate human life.

Community centres, social media/online platforms, and schools must offer more media literacy resources to help with accessibility. With the promotion of movie literacy, we can empower the younger generation to create a meaningful modern world. Society needs action, not just empty words. Through the lens of art, we can find an informed and compassionate society that can navigate the human experience together.

60 Works Cited REEL CANADA and VICE. White Paper: Analyzing the Impact of Canadian Films on National Identity. Ontario Creates, 2021. PDF download, https://www.ontariocreates.ca/assets/images/research/REEL-CANADA-x-VICE-W hite-Paper_EN_FINAL.pdf.

Kirkhus, Melissa. "Movies in School: When and How to Use Them Meaningfully."

Reading and Writing Haven, 6 Aug. 2018, www.readingandwritinghaven.com/movies-in-school-when-and-how-to-use-them -meaningfully/.

L’avenir (2016), dir. Mia Hansen-Løve. Tumblr, posted by agnesvardas, 28 Dec. 2020, agnesvardas.tumblr.com/post/640193724186558464/lavenir-2016-dir-mia-hanse n-l%C3%B8ve.

L’avenir (2016), dir. Mia Hansen-Løve. Pinterest, uploaded by unknown user, www.pinterest.com/pin/736x/edcf5ddf077590d3518a02a0fe8f114c/

61 Strip mall restaurants - L. Franco Davanzo

The Podcast

62 Missing in Action: The Struggle for Authentic South Asian Representation

in Western TV & Film

Sanjana Bassi

From Never Have I Ever to Bend It Like Beckham, South Asian girls in TV and film have often been portrayed through a narrow lens— as socially awkward misfits with something inherently "wrong" with them, only to miraculously achieve popularity. Take

Never Have I Ever, for instance. At the beginning of the show, Devi is depicted as a nerd with two friends and no boyfriend. While the series captures certain aspects of the brown girl experience with accuracy, it still falls short of truly making us feel seen.

In many cases, South Asian characters in TV and film exist solely for the sake of “cultural representation,” often reduced to tired stereotypes and shallow depictions that miss the mark. These portrayals are typically accompanied by a token, and sometimes borderline offensive, episode centered around their culture—though there

63 are a few exceptions, like The Office’s Diwali episode. A glaring example is Disney’s hit show Jessie, which featured an Indian character named Ravi. Throughout the series, Ravi is depicted with an exaggerated Indian accent, and his entire personality revolves around being the “smart brown kid.” In reality, the actor who played him doesn’t have an accent—he was simply being used as a prop to check a diversity box, reinforcing the idea that representation often serves more as a performative gesture than a meaningful inclusion. It's time to move beyond these surface-level portrayals and push for authentic, meaningful representation that truly reflects the rich diversity of South Asian experiences.

Growing up, seeing minimal to no accurate representation of my culture in Western TV and film led to a profound sense of disconnect and even internalized racism against myself. It felt as though my identity was either invisible or reduced to tired stereotypes that didn't reflect the reality of my experiences. Instead of feeling pride in my heritage, I often found myself questioning where I truly belonged, caught between the culture I was born into and the one I saw on screen. The harmful portrayals not only distorted how others perceived South Asians but also shaped how I viewed myself, reinforcing the idea that I had to conform to Western ideals to be accepted.

Not only that, but South Asian characters are often pigeonholed into roles that reinforce tired stereotypes—the nerdy overachiever, the overbearing parent, or the “exotic” side character. And if they’re not boxed into these clichés, they’re usually portrayed as falling in love with a white person, as if their cultural identity alone isn’t

64 compelling enough to carry a storyline. These portrayals fail miserably at capturing the complexity and diversity of South Asian cultures and identities. Instead of reducing characters to their ethnicity, why not celebrate their individuality—allowing them to exist as fully realized people with their own dreams, struggles, and personalities beyond just their heritage?

These issues also stem from a glaring lack of diversity behind the scenes. When South Asian characters are written by non-South Asian writers, how can they possibly be accurate? Without the insight that comes from lived experiences, it's nearly impossible to capture the complexities of South Asian life with authenticity. Instead, we end up with watered-down, stereotypical depictions that miss the mark entirely. Time and time again, it has been proven that when South Asians are given the opportunity to write their own characters, the result is a richer, more nuanced portrayal that resonates with audiences.

For example, in Never Have I Ever (created by Mindy Kaling), Devi’s cultural identity undergoes significant development. Throughout the series, she gradually sheds her shame and embraces her heritage, forming a deeper connection with her culture. In the very last episode of the show, she acknowledges her love for her culture with a dance at her grandmother’s wedding. She began with a sweet, but relatable joke, “This is for Pati, who thinks I’m a coconut” (“...said goodbye” timestamp) What a surprise—authentic stories come from authentic voices!

To us, real meaningful representation goes beyond surface-level traits to showcase characters with depth - people who have ambitions, struggles, and

65 relationships that aren’t solely defined by their ethnicity. Characters should reflect the diversity within the south-asian community, rather than portraying a monolithic culture.

These experiences can only be authentically portrayed by pushing for more South Asian representation—not just on-screen, but behind the scenes as well.

Increasing opportunities for South Asian writers, directors, and producers is crucial in ensuring that stories are told with accuracy and nuance. Supporting South Asian creators encourages audiences to actively engage with and promote films, TV shows, and content that reflect their realities, fostering a more inclusive media landscape that goes beyond stereotypes and token representation.​ All in all, the main point I’m trying to get across is that we need to embrace a broader definition of representation. Representation isn’t just about having South Asians on screen; it’s about showing them in a variety of roles, genres, and character arcs that reflect the full scope of their lives. The goal should be normalization—where South Asian characters exist without their cultural identity being the focal point of the story.

66 Works Cited Arya, Shikha. “Why the Academic Star Devi Keeps on Asking People’s Approval in “Never Have I Ever.”” Netflix Junkie, Aug. 2022, www.netflixjunkie.com/netflix-news-why-the-academic-star-devi-keeps-on-asking -peoples-approval-in-never-have-i-ever/. Accessed 4 Feb. 2025. “...said goodbye”. Never Have I Ever. Created by Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher, Season 4, Episode 10, Netflix, 2023.

67

Home: Is it a person, place, or thing?

Diya Kathuria

The Podcast

68 “No I won’t make you a sandwich and you’re not funny.” The exponential

growth of misogyny in gaming by the trend of e x .

Ashe Hui

“I’m gonna follow you home tonight.” Boring. Banal. Truly bland and so very uninspiring. This sentence should bring a sense of disgust, of uneasiness. It’s not something you would usually hear someone say. But, for the average woman this isn’t a surprise at all. In fact, the first time I played Valorant was an experience filled with nervousness and discomfort. My biggest fear? My microphone being on. The surplus amount of horror stories I have heard from my fellow sisters left a mark in my head,

69 telling me “You should be careful of talking.” Needless to say, I never disproved this statement.

The rise of gaming is a widely studied subject with an extensive amount of documentary coverage and focus articles on it’s matter. People play for fun of course (unless you’re the not very small minority of people who sweat blood and tears into collecting every achievement known to man) so it’s no surprise that the community grows larger as more varieties spring forth. In fact, it’s estimated that there are 3.32 billion people that actively play video games. The ever growing market of video games normally caters to audiences that already like those genres. For example, a brand new shiny FPS shooter will generally be marketed to those who already play FPS games.

There’s a large generalization that the people who play online multiplayer games are often vocal about their stances on women who are in the same community. But how do games support this kind of behaviour? Many people know that report features are common in online games but do they ever work in favour of the people who experience these terrible experiences? The answer is a very resounding no. It only takes a quick google for complaints about almost any game to surface about each game company’s lack of support for those who go through discomfort everyday due to the lack of action the corporations take.

It’s a known fact that the earliest days of gaming had a largely male dominated community. Games mainly catered to a male audience to garner attention, support and a playerbase. Women were also heavily excluded and were either made fun of and/or bullied out of gaming spaces.

70 The normalization of this behaviour and its expectancy is widespread not only across gaming communities, but in societal circles and everyday life. Mothers tell their daughters to “not go out at night alone”, or how it is dangerous for them. Yet, they do not explain why this widespread horror came to fruition and why it is so normalized for people to care more about giving safety protocols rather than fixing the root of the tree. Actions such as these only serve to worsen future problems with the same structure.

Although the current issue in gaming might not have the same amount of danger that the internalized normalization of misogyny brings to countless women everywhere, it’s still not a small issue and it should be addressed to the majority of people who are indeed a part of the community. Because of this desensitization to disgusting behaviour, a lot of people fail to realize just how disturbing some of these phrases sound. To take this further, people are so indifferent to this that nothing will be done to fix it.

Inactivity to take any action relating to this cause is also largely due to the majority of the community claiming that these experiences are “rare” and “uncommon”, due to experiences for them being extremely low. However, there have been many personal surveys and creator led statistics that report toxicity, misogyny and blatant hate. It’s as people say that “when you're accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression,” (Leonard, 2015). Many turn a blind eye to this behaviour even if they don’t partake in it solely because it doesn’t impact them. Why stop something that doesn’t pose a threat to your own life? It’s extremely true that for someone to

71 empathize and understand a unique situation is that they have to experience it themselves. However, these people will never experience what it feels like to have someone berate them for simply playing a game that they like. They’ll simply dumb down the situation to “it’s just a joke bro”, lessening the seriousness of the words they say.

It’s also not a good counter-argument that a lot of the female representation in video games is extremely sexualized. In fact, most corporations have the mindset that to sell well, women must be flamboyant in sexual features and must retain the image that a male audience would like. It feels extremely uncomfortable and “non-consensual”, as the scenarios that depict the women in compromising and embarrassing situations often have them react in horror. It’s extremely disgusting to admit that a lot of people enjoy this type of content.

Words are often the sharpest weapon, and they leave lasting impacts on those that are affected by them. It is more than unfair that communities aside from women, are affected by the misogyny in things that they are supposed to enjoy. Marginalized communities are also susceptible to the toxicity that women receive due to them not fitting the “masculine” setting that perpetuates the rest of gaming.

Just because it doesn’t affect you, doesn’t mean that you can’t have simple empathy for the women that surround you. The people who spread awareness and speak ill of men don’t always include all men. If a man is offended, it simply means that he is just like those who say disgusting things. Anonymity doesn’t include free hostility in it’s package. And no, “I won’t make you a sandwich.”

72 Works Cited Exploding Topics. "Number of Gamers: Key Gaming Industry Statistics." Exploding Topics, 2023, https://explodingtopics.com/blog/number-of-gamers. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

Leonard, Franklin. "When You're Accustomed to Privilege, Equality Feels Like Oppression."Speech, 2015. Mr. Appliance. "How Much Water Does a Dishwasher Use?" Mr. Appliance, 14 Feb. 2020, https://www.mrappliance.ca/blog/2020/february/how-much-water-does-a-dishw asher-use-/. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

73

The Pearl Necklace

Claire Wang

The Podcast

74 Breaking the Routine: How Gymnastics Culture Harms Mental Health

Faith Provost

At eleven, I was training twenty-four hours a week and counting calories instead of victories. By sixteen, I left gymnastics to save my mind and body. My story isn’t unique—it’s a pattern that has emerged among athletes in a sport where perfection is prized above all else. Gymnastics culture, long admired for its discipline and dedication, hides a darker truth: its impact on mental health can be devastating. This culture has created an environment that fosters silent struggles with anxiety, eating disorders, and depression. It’s time to break the silence and demand change for the sake of athletes everywhere.

75 Gymnastics is synonymous with perfection. From the pointed toes of a balance beam routine to the flawless execution of a floor pass, the sport demands an impossible standard. Athletes, often beginning their careers as young as four or five, are conditioned to chase a perfection that doesn’t exist. The pursuit of perfect scores, combined with the intense scrutiny of judges, coaches, and audiences, creates a breeding ground for anxiety and low self-esteem.

Research supports this troubling reality. According to a study published in the

International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching, gymnasts experience higher rates of anxiety disorders compared to athletes in less aesthetic-focused sports. The constant emphasis on appearance and weight exacerbates these issues. Gymnasts, particularly females, are disproportionately affected by eating disorders. A study by the National Eating Disorders Association found that athletes in judged sports, like gymnastics, are at a higher risk for disordered eating behaviors. This pressure to meet unrealistic body standards is not only damaging but often goes overlooked. Coaches play a significant role in perpetuating these harmful dynamics. Many coaches prioritize performance over well-being, pushing athletes to train through injuries, ignore mental health struggles, or adhere to unhealthy dietary restrictions. While there are undoubtedly coaches who genuinely care about their athletes, the systemic issues within the sport make it easy for harmful practices to persist.

The scandals surrounding USA Gymnastics highlight these systemic failures. The organization’s focus on maintaining a winning reputation came at the expense of athlete safety, both physically and mentally. The Larry Nassar scandal shattered the

76 illusion that gymnastics culture prioritizes athlete welfare. While this is an extreme example, it underscores the broader issue: when institutions fail to address mental health and prioritize well-being, athletes suffer in silence.

The stigma surrounding mental health in gymnastics further compounds the issue. In a culture that rewards toughness and resilience, admitting to mental health struggles is often seen as a sign of weakness. Athletes fear being labeled as uncommitted or incapable, which can prevent them from seeking help. This stigma has persisted for decades, but recent advocacy by high-profile gymnasts has begun to challenge it. Simone Biles’ decision to withdraw from events during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics due to mental health concerns was a watershed moment. Biles faced criticism but also sparked a global conversation about the importance of prioritizing mental well-being over medals. Her bravery highlighted the urgent need to destigmatize mental health struggles and create a culture that supports athletes in seeking help without fear of judgment.

Leaving gymnastics was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made, but it was also the most necessary. I chose recovery over routines and health over victories. My story reflects a growing awareness among athletes who are beginning to speak out and demand change. The path forward requires systemic reform. Governing bodies like USA Gymnastics must implement stricter policies that prioritize mental health, including mandatory education for coaches on recognizing and addressing mental health issues. Coaches must foster supportive environments where athletes feel safe

77 discussing their struggles. Finally, fans and society must shift their expectations, valuing athletes as people rather than machines designed to win medals.

Gymnastics has the power to inspire awe and admiration, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of athletes’ mental health. By breaking the silence and demanding change, we can create a culture where athletes thrive not only in their sport but also in their lives. Let’s rewrite the narrative—for the next generation of gymnasts and for all those who have suffered in silence for too long.

78 Works Cited International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching. "The Prevalence of Anxiety Disorders in Gymnasts Compared to Other Athletes." International Journal of

Sports Science & Coaching, vol. 15, no. 2, 2020, pp. 123-135.

National Eating Disorders Association. "Eating Disorders Among Athletes: Risk Factors and Prevention." NEDA, 2019, www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/athletes-and-eating-disorders.

USA Gymnastics. "Athlete Mental Health and Wellness: A Commitment to Change."

USA Gymnastics, 2021, www.usagym.org/mental-health-commitment.

79

The Worst of Rhythm Games

Ashe Hui

The Podcast

80